I'm going to try and provide an update on Monday and Friday, after the nomination period closes for those whom are seeking office.
As of 11:40am, Monday. The following individuals are confirmed as seeking office for Williams Lake and the Cariboo Regional District:
CRD
Electoral Area Director
Area A - Ted Armstrong (has filed papers) - no challenger
Area B - 1 person has filed papers, Incumbent Ken Falloon has not filed his papers yet
Area C - No nomination
Area D - No nomination
Area E - No nomination
Area F - Steve Forseth and Charlene Hays (100 Mile District Councillor) have both filed papers'
Area G - No nomination
Area H - Art Dumaresq (has filed papers, Incumbent) - no challenger
Area I - No nomination
Area J - No nomination
Area K - No nomination
Area L - Bruce Rattray has filed his papers - no other nominations
City of WL
Mayor
Paul French
Kerry Cook
Councillor
Laurie Walters
Tom Barr
I will post the full list of candidates as soon as practical on Friday afternoon of all candidates for both City of WL + CRD
Monday, October 6, 2008
Friday, October 3, 2008
WL Civic Election News
Hello all:
I thought I would update you all on those of us seeking local government office:
Cariboo Regional District: (As of Thursday, Oct 2nd)
Electoral Area Director:
Area D - Sue Zacharias (Incumbent). Rumoured to be running in Williams Lake City Councillor race. No papers filed for this Area
Area E - Brandy Dickey (Incumbent). No papers filed for this area
Area F - Duncan Barnett (Incumbent). Director Barnett has not filed his papers as of Thursday, Oct 2. Steve Forseth (Challenger) has filed his papers as of Tuesday, September 30th. District of 100 Mile House Councillor Charlene Hays is supposedly looking at running in this Area
City of WL: (As of Friday, Oct 3/08 at 5:30pm)
Mayor:
Councillor Paul French - papers are filed with City Hall
Kerry Cook - papers are filed with City Hall
Councillor:
Councillor Tom Barr
Laurie Walters
*** A Reminder that anyone seeking Local Government Office must have their papers filed with either SD #27, City Hall (City of Williams Lake) or the Cariboo Regional District by 4:00pm on Friday, October 10th, 2008 ***
I thought I would update you all on those of us seeking local government office:
Cariboo Regional District: (As of Thursday, Oct 2nd)
Electoral Area Director:
Area D - Sue Zacharias (Incumbent). Rumoured to be running in Williams Lake City Councillor race. No papers filed for this Area
Area E - Brandy Dickey (Incumbent). No papers filed for this area
Area F - Duncan Barnett (Incumbent). Director Barnett has not filed his papers as of Thursday, Oct 2. Steve Forseth (Challenger) has filed his papers as of Tuesday, September 30th. District of 100 Mile House Councillor Charlene Hays is supposedly looking at running in this Area
City of WL: (As of Friday, Oct 3/08 at 5:30pm)
Mayor:
Councillor Paul French - papers are filed with City Hall
Kerry Cook - papers are filed with City Hall
Councillor:
Councillor Tom Barr
Laurie Walters
*** A Reminder that anyone seeking Local Government Office must have their papers filed with either SD #27, City Hall (City of Williams Lake) or the Cariboo Regional District by 4:00pm on Friday, October 10th, 2008 ***
Update to AAP Process - Arts and Culture Function for Central Cariboo
There is a recommendation going to the CRD Board on October 10th recommending the new date for completion of the AAP or Counter-Petition process be November 30th. I will keep you all informed if this recommendation is approved
WL Council Highlights - Sept 30
Delegations:
1) Leeyann Allan from the Canadian Cancer Society invited Council to attend an upcoming cancer
workshop taking place Oct 18th at TRU. The day-long forum will include Key Note Speaker,
Dr. Lynda Belneaves
2) Steve Griffiths of the Timberwolves organization introduced himself to Council and is eager to get started with the marketing of the team. A corporate season ticket drive is currently
underway. Corporate tickets are $380 and $320 for General tickets which includes 30 home
games
3) Council was shown the CRD's "Welcome to the Cariboo-Chilcotin" DVD. This project was jointly completed by the City of Quesnel, Williams Lake, Cariboo-Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association, and the Soda Creek Indian Band. Council members were pleased with the DVD. This DVD was also shown at Canada House during the Beijing Olympics
Business:
1) A letter from the Community Policing Committe advised that they are seeking a new location for the Community Policing office as the existing location does not adequately serve the public.
The Committee requested Council consider the exiting Firehall upon relocation to a new Firehall. Councillor O’Neill suggested that the high cost of having moved several times is using a large portion of their budget and a permanent home needs to be located for them
2) Council authorized entering into an agreement with the Board of Education - School District No 27 which will allow Williams Lake Emergency Social Services to use School District buildings in the event of a large scale emergency
3) L&M Engineering was awarded the contract for the engineering design contract of Cameron
Street from the cul-de-sac east of 5th Avenue N. to 3rd Ave N. in the amount of $33,880
4) The No Parking zone located at 402 Pearkes Drive will be changed from the west side of the
street to the east side of the street. The block located at 402 Pearkes Drive is a short
and narrow section of road. This section of road serves as the entrance to Sun Ridge Gardens.
City staff have had problems in this area with respect to snow removal and maintenance of the
sidewalk. Staff was instructed to notify residences prior to implementing the changes
5) Council approved the deactivation of all water and mechanical systems in Cariboo Lodge at a
cost of $35,000. The system for Heritage House will remain operational
6) Development Permit application was received which will see the upgrade of the local Safeway
Store. Staff was directed to negotiate the incorporation of natural building materials
such as wood, rock, stone or brick into the exterior in order to suit the downtown façade
program. This is a $3 million project
7) The contract for this year’s winter road salt was awarded to McTar Divison of Lafarge Canada
for the tendered price of $162.64 per metric tonne. The City uses approximately 1,200 tons
per season
8) An agreement with First Choice Marketing (Margaret Lipke) Group will be entered into for
a term of five years for the maintenance and sale of advertising panels on the City bus
shelters
9) The following proclamations were made by
Council:
“Waste Reduction Week” - Oct 19th to 25th.
“Restorative Justice Week - Nov 16th to 23rd.
“Foster Family Month will be October of 2008.
“Small Business Week" - Oct 19th to 25th
10) At the invitation of Councillor Mary Sjostrom of Quesnel. A member of staff and one Councillor was approved to attend the Measuring Up the North Project Reception on Oct 2nd in Prince George
11) Councillors Ed Mead and Jon Wolbers informed Council that they would not be seeking reelection in November. Both expressed their sincerest thanks to the city staff and fellow
Council members. Mayor Nelson thanked them both for their hard work and wished them well
in their future endeavors
Next Council Meeting: October 14th, 2008 in Council Chambers (450 Mart Street)
1) Leeyann Allan from the Canadian Cancer Society invited Council to attend an upcoming cancer
workshop taking place Oct 18th at TRU. The day-long forum will include Key Note Speaker,
Dr. Lynda Belneaves
2) Steve Griffiths of the Timberwolves organization introduced himself to Council and is eager to get started with the marketing of the team. A corporate season ticket drive is currently
underway. Corporate tickets are $380 and $320 for General tickets which includes 30 home
games
3) Council was shown the CRD's "Welcome to the Cariboo-Chilcotin" DVD. This project was jointly completed by the City of Quesnel, Williams Lake, Cariboo-Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association, and the Soda Creek Indian Band. Council members were pleased with the DVD. This DVD was also shown at Canada House during the Beijing Olympics
Business:
1) A letter from the Community Policing Committe advised that they are seeking a new location for the Community Policing office as the existing location does not adequately serve the public.
The Committee requested Council consider the exiting Firehall upon relocation to a new Firehall. Councillor O’Neill suggested that the high cost of having moved several times is using a large portion of their budget and a permanent home needs to be located for them
2) Council authorized entering into an agreement with the Board of Education - School District No 27 which will allow Williams Lake Emergency Social Services to use School District buildings in the event of a large scale emergency
3) L&M Engineering was awarded the contract for the engineering design contract of Cameron
Street from the cul-de-sac east of 5th Avenue N. to 3rd Ave N. in the amount of $33,880
4) The No Parking zone located at 402 Pearkes Drive will be changed from the west side of the
street to the east side of the street. The block located at 402 Pearkes Drive is a short
and narrow section of road. This section of road serves as the entrance to Sun Ridge Gardens.
City staff have had problems in this area with respect to snow removal and maintenance of the
sidewalk. Staff was instructed to notify residences prior to implementing the changes
5) Council approved the deactivation of all water and mechanical systems in Cariboo Lodge at a
cost of $35,000. The system for Heritage House will remain operational
6) Development Permit application was received which will see the upgrade of the local Safeway
Store. Staff was directed to negotiate the incorporation of natural building materials
such as wood, rock, stone or brick into the exterior in order to suit the downtown façade
program. This is a $3 million project
7) The contract for this year’s winter road salt was awarded to McTar Divison of Lafarge Canada
for the tendered price of $162.64 per metric tonne. The City uses approximately 1,200 tons
per season
8) An agreement with First Choice Marketing (Margaret Lipke) Group will be entered into for
a term of five years for the maintenance and sale of advertising panels on the City bus
shelters
9) The following proclamations were made by
Council:
“Waste Reduction Week” - Oct 19th to 25th.
“Restorative Justice Week - Nov 16th to 23rd.
“Foster Family Month will be October of 2008.
“Small Business Week" - Oct 19th to 25th
10) At the invitation of Councillor Mary Sjostrom of Quesnel. A member of staff and one Councillor was approved to attend the Measuring Up the North Project Reception on Oct 2nd in Prince George
11) Councillors Ed Mead and Jon Wolbers informed Council that they would not be seeking reelection in November. Both expressed their sincerest thanks to the city staff and fellow
Council members. Mayor Nelson thanked them both for their hard work and wished them well
in their future endeavors
Next Council Meeting: October 14th, 2008 in Council Chambers (450 Mart Street)
Thursday, October 2, 2008
CRD Board Highlights - Sept.19
Delegations - None
Business:
1) The CRD adopted several bylaws which will provide for fire protection in the Interlakes area and an expansion of the Forest Grove Fire Protection boundary to encompass Canim Lake residents. In addition, Horse Lake and Canim Lake water systems bylaws received final approval by the Board
2) Ruth Lake Road residents in the Forest Grove area of the South Cariboo could soon be included in the Forest Grove Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) protection boundary. The CRD has received expressions of interest from Ruth Lake Road residents and will proceed to a formal petition proposal which, if approved, will allow the expansion of fire protection services in the area
3) The Board endorsed an updated version of the CRD’s Strong Regions Grow Strong Sustainable Communities report as a discussion paper for senior government during next week’s Union of BC Municipalities Convention. Minor revisions to the document will be incorporated into the final draft for presentation to a future Board meeting
4) The Board approved a recommendation from the North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee to present a zero percent requisition increase budget for the North Cariboo Recreation and Parks budget
5) The CRD will be hosting a public meeting on September 30, 2008 to provide
6) Changes to recycling programs in the south Cariboo are underway to make recycling more effective. The recycling bins currently located at Save-On Foods and Safeway will be removed and residents will soon be directed to the Gold Trail recycling facility on Exeter Road. Funds currently used to cover transportation costs will be used to expand recycling in the south Cariboo to include tin and glass on a trial basis. A public education program will be launched to ensure that residents are aware of the new recycling opportunities. Watch for further details in local newspapers and on the Regional District website in coming weeks
7) The CRD Board toured the new Quesnel Branch Library construction project on September 18, 2008. The new Library, being constructed in the John Ernst/City Hall building by Vachon Construction Limited of Quesnel, is approximately 80 percent complete. Completion of construction is estimated to occur at the end of October, with the existing Library relocating at that time. The project remains within the original budget allocated for this project
8) CRD Board members will be travelling to Penticton for the annual Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) convention on September 22 to 26. Board members will be meeting with various Ministers to discuss issues of local concern including the impact of the carbon tax on northern regions, expansion of the Cariboo Connector, sewerage system regulations, and others
9) The next Finance/Budget Committee Meeting of the Cariboo Regional District is Thursday, October 9th, 2008 at 6:00pm in the CRD Boardroom with the CRD Board meeting being held on Friday, October 10, 2008 in the CRD Board room in Williams Lake
Business:
1) The CRD adopted several bylaws which will provide for fire protection in the Interlakes area and an expansion of the Forest Grove Fire Protection boundary to encompass Canim Lake residents. In addition, Horse Lake and Canim Lake water systems bylaws received final approval by the Board
2) Ruth Lake Road residents in the Forest Grove area of the South Cariboo could soon be included in the Forest Grove Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) protection boundary. The CRD has received expressions of interest from Ruth Lake Road residents and will proceed to a formal petition proposal which, if approved, will allow the expansion of fire protection services in the area
3) The Board endorsed an updated version of the CRD’s Strong Regions Grow Strong Sustainable Communities report as a discussion paper for senior government during next week’s Union of BC Municipalities Convention. Minor revisions to the document will be incorporated into the final draft for presentation to a future Board meeting
4) The Board approved a recommendation from the North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee to present a zero percent requisition increase budget for the North Cariboo Recreation and Parks budget
5) The CRD will be hosting a public meeting on September 30, 2008 to provide
6) Changes to recycling programs in the south Cariboo are underway to make recycling more effective. The recycling bins currently located at Save-On Foods and Safeway will be removed and residents will soon be directed to the Gold Trail recycling facility on Exeter Road. Funds currently used to cover transportation costs will be used to expand recycling in the south Cariboo to include tin and glass on a trial basis. A public education program will be launched to ensure that residents are aware of the new recycling opportunities. Watch for further details in local newspapers and on the Regional District website in coming weeks
7) The CRD Board toured the new Quesnel Branch Library construction project on September 18, 2008. The new Library, being constructed in the John Ernst/City Hall building by Vachon Construction Limited of Quesnel, is approximately 80 percent complete. Completion of construction is estimated to occur at the end of October, with the existing Library relocating at that time. The project remains within the original budget allocated for this project
8) CRD Board members will be travelling to Penticton for the annual Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) convention on September 22 to 26. Board members will be meeting with various Ministers to discuss issues of local concern including the impact of the carbon tax on northern regions, expansion of the Cariboo Connector, sewerage system regulations, and others
9) The next Finance/Budget Committee Meeting of the Cariboo Regional District is Thursday, October 9th, 2008 at 6:00pm in the CRD Boardroom with the CRD Board meeting being held on Friday, October 10, 2008 in the CRD Board room in Williams Lake
Local Government Election News
Seeing as the nomination period for those who seek Local Government Offices has now commenced, I thought it appropriate to review those seeking office throughout the Cariboo:
City of Quesnel
Mayor - 1 to be elected
Nate Bello - incumbent, confirmed
Mary Sjostrom - challenger, confirmed
Councillor: (6 to be elected)
Sushil Thapar - incumbent, confirmed
City of WL:
Mayor: (1 to be elected)
Paul French - confirmed and has filed papers
Kerry Cook - confirmed and has filed papers
Councillor: (6 to be elected)
Surinderpal Rathor - confirmed
Tom Barr - confirmed and has filed his papers
Judy O'Neill - will announce shortly
Sheila Mortensen - confirmed
Chuck Pearson - confirmed
Geoff Bourdon - confirmed
Laurie Walters - confirmed and has filed her papers at City Hall
Sue Zacharias - rumoured to be running, presently CRD Area 'D' Director
District of Wells - Mayor/Council Candidates unknown at this time
District of 100 Mile House
Mayor - 1 to be elected
Mitch Campsall
Spence Henderson
Councillor - 4 to be elected
Unknown at this time
Cariboo Regional District - 12 Electoral Area Directors to be elected
Area A - Ted Armstrong - incumbent, confirmed/has filed papers
Area B - Unknown - challenger, confirmed/has filed papers
Area C - Seat is open as Incumbent Ronda Wilkins is retiring on December 1st
Area F - Duncan Barnett - incumbent/has not filed papers although his challenger, Steve Forseth is confirmed/has filed papers, District of 100 Mile Councillor Charlene Hays rumoured to be running in this Electoral Area
Area G - Al Richmond - incumbent/has not filed papers
Area H - Art Dumaresq - incumbent/has filed papers
Area I - Seat is open as Incumbent Mary Glassford is retiring on December 1st
Area J - Alex Bracewell - Incumbent/has not filed papers
Area K - Rick Mumford - Incumbent/has not filed papers
Area L - Seat is open as Incumbent Maureen Pinkney is retiring on December 1st, Bruce Rattray has filed his papers for the Area L seat
SD #27 - No individuals have filed for any of the 7 Trustee seats
As always, I will keep you appraised of any news with respect to the above
City of Quesnel
Mayor - 1 to be elected
Nate Bello - incumbent, confirmed
Mary Sjostrom - challenger, confirmed
Councillor: (6 to be elected)
Sushil Thapar - incumbent, confirmed
City of WL:
Mayor: (1 to be elected)
Paul French - confirmed and has filed papers
Kerry Cook - confirmed and has filed papers
Councillor: (6 to be elected)
Surinderpal Rathor - confirmed
Tom Barr - confirmed and has filed his papers
Judy O'Neill - will announce shortly
Sheila Mortensen - confirmed
Chuck Pearson - confirmed
Geoff Bourdon - confirmed
Laurie Walters - confirmed and has filed her papers at City Hall
Sue Zacharias - rumoured to be running, presently CRD Area 'D' Director
District of Wells - Mayor/Council Candidates unknown at this time
District of 100 Mile House
Mayor - 1 to be elected
Mitch Campsall
Spence Henderson
Councillor - 4 to be elected
Unknown at this time
Cariboo Regional District - 12 Electoral Area Directors to be elected
Area A - Ted Armstrong - incumbent, confirmed/has filed papers
Area B - Unknown - challenger, confirmed/has filed papers
Area C - Seat is open as Incumbent Ronda Wilkins is retiring on December 1st
Area D - Incumbent Sue Zacharias is rumoured to be running in City of WL Election for Councillor so the seat may be open by next week
Area E - Brandy Dickey - incumbent/has not filed papersArea F - Duncan Barnett - incumbent/has not filed papers although his challenger, Steve Forseth is confirmed/has filed papers, District of 100 Mile Councillor Charlene Hays rumoured to be running in this Electoral Area
Area G - Al Richmond - incumbent/has not filed papers
Area H - Art Dumaresq - incumbent/has filed papers
Area I - Seat is open as Incumbent Mary Glassford is retiring on December 1st
Area J - Alex Bracewell - Incumbent/has not filed papers
Area K - Rick Mumford - Incumbent/has not filed papers
Area L - Seat is open as Incumbent Maureen Pinkney is retiring on December 1st, Bruce Rattray has filed his papers for the Area L seat
SD #27 - No individuals have filed for any of the 7 Trustee seats
As always, I will keep you appraised of any news with respect to the above
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
WL Arts Council Public Consulting - CRD Bylaw #4420 (Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Function)
A friendly reminder that the Central Cariboo Arts Council is hosting an "Open House" at Heritage House (across from Kiwanis Park) on CRD Bylaw #4420, 2008 tomorrow (Thurs. Sept 18) (Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Function - Financial Contribution). It starts at 4pm and runs until 7pm
If you didn't make the 1st Public Meeting on the above on Sept 10th at the Gibraltar Room and if you have any questions on CRD Bylaw #4420, then I encourage you to go this meeting and ask your questions on this Bylaw as the AAP (Alternative Approval Process - counter-petition) process is slated, at this point, to get underway in October. Again, I intend with my family to vote against this Function as I don't think it is responsible use of taxpayers' dollars and Arts & Culture funding is not a local taxpayer responsibility, but provincial/federal gov't one.
I'm going to be at a School Board (Board of Education - SD#27) meeting tomorrow evening at 7pm, asking the Board their view on the Marie Sharpe Elementary (replacement) Project
If you didn't make the 1st Public Meeting on the above on Sept 10th at the Gibraltar Room and if you have any questions on CRD Bylaw #4420, then I encourage you to go this meeting and ask your questions on this Bylaw as the AAP (Alternative Approval Process - counter-petition) process is slated, at this point, to get underway in October. Again, I intend with my family to vote against this Function as I don't think it is responsible use of taxpayers' dollars and Arts & Culture funding is not a local taxpayer responsibility, but provincial/federal gov't one.
I'm going to be at a School Board (Board of Education - SD#27) meeting tomorrow evening at 7pm, asking the Board their view on the Marie Sharpe Elementary (replacement) Project
Central Cariboo/City of Williams Lake Joint Committee Meeting
This evening, members of the Central Cariboo/City of WL Joint Committee met to consider a number of items including the future of solid waste in the Central Cariboo (ie: Recycling, diversion of waste, etc) (Note - Directors R. Mumford / A. Bracewell and Mayor Nelson, Councillor Wolbers not present)
Review of the Solid Waste Plan for the Central Cariboo - Recommendations:
i) Close Wildwood Transfer Station
ii) Have Recycling Depot at Central Cariboo Transfer Station - Area 'F' Director Duncan Barnett is opposed to this and prefers another location for these bins
iii) Have attendants at 150 Mile + Central Cariboo Transfer Station - Councillor Ed Mead wants to ensure that attendants are friendly towards the public and ensure the right material gets to the right bin
iv) Increase Tipping Fees
These recommendations, I'm sure, will be subject to the 2009 Town Hall Meetings. I suspect that the closure of the Wildwood Transfer Site will not sit too well with Area 'D' Residents. I still question Area 'F' Director Duncan Barnett's approach to working with the City of Williams Lake to having a strong "Central Cariboo" Recycling Program. Instead of confrontation, he needs to lower his voice and request Staff to look at different options to ensure Recycling is available to all Area D, E and F residents'. I don't particularly care for his confrontational nature towards Staff especially when he reads something in a newspaper and then waving it at a meeting in a confrontational nature and claim "Why wasn't I consulted". My approach is different - work with Staff behind the scenes when I have a difference with them or when something is in the paper and need clarification on it.
Also - we should see something on Marie Sharpe Elementary next year. A Policy Change from Victoria (Ministry of Education) means some more work on the Marie Sharpe Elementary school project. The 5-year, $750,000 Central Cariboo Joint Committee made to the Board of Education - SD#27 to go towards a community gym is still a go (at this point)
Review of the Solid Waste Plan for the Central Cariboo - Recommendations:
i) Close Wildwood Transfer Station
ii) Have Recycling Depot at Central Cariboo Transfer Station - Area 'F' Director Duncan Barnett is opposed to this and prefers another location for these bins
iii) Have attendants at 150 Mile + Central Cariboo Transfer Station - Councillor Ed Mead wants to ensure that attendants are friendly towards the public and ensure the right material gets to the right bin
iv) Increase Tipping Fees
These recommendations, I'm sure, will be subject to the 2009 Town Hall Meetings. I suspect that the closure of the Wildwood Transfer Site will not sit too well with Area 'D' Residents. I still question Area 'F' Director Duncan Barnett's approach to working with the City of Williams Lake to having a strong "Central Cariboo" Recycling Program. Instead of confrontation, he needs to lower his voice and request Staff to look at different options to ensure Recycling is available to all Area D, E and F residents'. I don't particularly care for his confrontational nature towards Staff especially when he reads something in a newspaper and then waving it at a meeting in a confrontational nature and claim "Why wasn't I consulted". My approach is different - work with Staff behind the scenes when I have a difference with them or when something is in the paper and need clarification on it.
Also - we should see something on Marie Sharpe Elementary next year. A Policy Change from Victoria (Ministry of Education) means some more work on the Marie Sharpe Elementary school project. The 5-year, $750,000 Central Cariboo Joint Committee made to the Board of Education - SD#27 to go towards a community gym is still a go (at this point)
Sunday, September 14, 2008
CRD BBQ + Board Meeting
A friendly reminder, as well, that the CRD Board Northern Directors' will be hosting a Community BBQ in LeBourdais Park in Quesnel from 5-7pm on Thursday, September 18th. The CRD Board of Directors' will be meeting at 9:30am on Friday, September 19th in Quesnel Council Chambers. I would encourage all of you to attend either or both events
Quesnel Council Meeting - Sept 15
A friendly reminder that Quesnel Council will be meeting at 7pm on September 15th in Quesnel Council Chambers
Local Government Elections
This is a friendly reminder, to those who read my Blog, that notwithstanding the current Federal Election, there are going to local government elections in the Fall for the following:
School Boards (SD 27 and 28) - 7 Trustees to be elected
City of Williams Lake - 1 Mayor and 6 Councillors to be elected
City of Quesnel - 1 Mayor and 6 Councillors to be elected
District of 100 Mile House/Wells - 1 Mayor and 4 Councillors to be elected
Cariboo Regional District - 12 Electoral Area Directors from Areas A-L to be elected
It only takes 2 voters from each School Trustee Zone, City of Williams Lake and Quesnel and Districts of 100 Mile House and Wells as well as CRD Electoral Areas A-L to nominate a individual to an office. Chief Election Officers' may take nominations on Tuesday, September 30th at 9:00am until Friday, October 10th, 2008 at 4pm. No further nominations will be accepted after 4pm on Friday, October 10th
Quesnel Local Elections:
We know that 2 Individuals (Mayor Bello and Councillor Mary Sjostrom) will be seeking the Mayors' Chair in Quesnel, 1 SD 28 Trustee (Louise Scott) is retiring and another SD 28 Trustee (Caroline Nielsen - current SD 28 Chair - Board of Education) will seek re-election. Councillor Sushil Thapar will be seeking re-election
Williams Lake Elections:
Councillor Paul French has announced that he wants to become the next Mayor of Williams Lake. It is rumoured that Kerry Cook intends to, at some future point, to announce that she will seek the Mayor's Chair for a unprecedented 4th time. Laurie Walters and Chuck Pearson have both announced that they want to be City Councillors. Incumbents Tom Barr, Surinderpal Rathor and Judy O'Neill have not yet announced that they will be seeking re-election but I expect this to occur in due course but prior to October 10. Also, no one has indicated their intentions with respect to SD#27 Board Trustee Elections. I hope that the current Zone 4 (CRD Area 'F') Trustee and Zone 6 SD#27 Trustee (City of Williams Lake) are both defeated as they have failed to serve their residents and do what their residents' have asked of them and stand up for their respective schools. Also CRD Directors (Incumbents) for Areas D, E and F have not publicly stated their intentions for this fall's elections however, everyone does know I am running to become the next Area 'F' Director. No word about Area D and E elections though
School Boards (SD 27 and 28) - 7 Trustees to be elected
City of Williams Lake - 1 Mayor and 6 Councillors to be elected
City of Quesnel - 1 Mayor and 6 Councillors to be elected
District of 100 Mile House/Wells - 1 Mayor and 4 Councillors to be elected
Cariboo Regional District - 12 Electoral Area Directors from Areas A-L to be elected
It only takes 2 voters from each School Trustee Zone, City of Williams Lake and Quesnel and Districts of 100 Mile House and Wells as well as CRD Electoral Areas A-L to nominate a individual to an office. Chief Election Officers' may take nominations on Tuesday, September 30th at 9:00am until Friday, October 10th, 2008 at 4pm. No further nominations will be accepted after 4pm on Friday, October 10th
Quesnel Local Elections:
We know that 2 Individuals (Mayor Bello and Councillor Mary Sjostrom) will be seeking the Mayors' Chair in Quesnel, 1 SD 28 Trustee (Louise Scott) is retiring and another SD 28 Trustee (Caroline Nielsen - current SD 28 Chair - Board of Education) will seek re-election. Councillor Sushil Thapar will be seeking re-election
Williams Lake Elections:
Councillor Paul French has announced that he wants to become the next Mayor of Williams Lake. It is rumoured that Kerry Cook intends to, at some future point, to announce that she will seek the Mayor's Chair for a unprecedented 4th time. Laurie Walters and Chuck Pearson have both announced that they want to be City Councillors. Incumbents Tom Barr, Surinderpal Rathor and Judy O'Neill have not yet announced that they will be seeking re-election but I expect this to occur in due course but prior to October 10. Also, no one has indicated their intentions with respect to SD#27 Board Trustee Elections. I hope that the current Zone 4 (CRD Area 'F') Trustee and Zone 6 SD#27 Trustee (City of Williams Lake) are both defeated as they have failed to serve their residents and do what their residents' have asked of them and stand up for their respective schools. Also CRD Directors (Incumbents) for Areas D, E and F have not publicly stated their intentions for this fall's elections however, everyone does know I am running to become the next Area 'F' Director. No word about Area D and E elections though
WL Council Highlights - Sept. 9th
Delegations (4):
i) Presentation to Numourous Business/Individuals re: Brahma Bull Statue (by A&W on Highway 97 South)
ii) Presentation to RCMP Cpl Dan Brennan after 20 yrs of service to Williams Lake.
iii) Irene Willsie requested Council for "Take Back the Night" walk and placing decals on City vehicles. Both requests were endorsed
iv) Laurie McKenzie presented to Council a 2500 person petition requesting Council to hire 2 new RCMP Officers'
Business:
1) Council agreed with the Mayor's recommendation to send a letter to IH informing them that they will be charged for RCMP costs unless a detox centre is provided or there are signs that significant reductions in drug/alcohol activity is evident that involves RCMP resources
2) Council gave 1st, 2nd, and 3rd reading to a Revitalization Tax Exemption Bylaw. The tax exemption bylaw allows property owners in the downtown specified area to maintain their current level of City taxes for up to three years based on a minimum investment (improvement) to their property
3) Cariboo Friendship Society's "Supportive Housing" Proposal received 3rd Reading and Adoption, after no one to spoke against the proposal at the Public Hearing held earlier in the evening.
4) The City's 80th Birthday is in March of 2009. Staff were directed to make preparations to recognize this event
5) Aviator Hotel proposal, besides Laughing Loon Pub, received 2nd Reading following favourable comments from the APC. The Public Hearing will be held on this proposal on October 14th, 2008 at 7pm in Council Chambers. If you wish to comment formally on this proposal, that will be the date for you to make your submission to Council
6) Council will send a letter to the Provincial Government encouraging them to provide financial support to Heritage Sites like Barkerville, Hat Creek Ranch and Cottonwood House
Next Council Meeting: September 30th, 2008 at 7:30pm
i) Presentation to Numourous Business/Individuals re: Brahma Bull Statue (by A&W on Highway 97 South)
ii) Presentation to RCMP Cpl Dan Brennan after 20 yrs of service to Williams Lake.
iii) Irene Willsie requested Council for "Take Back the Night" walk and placing decals on City vehicles. Both requests were endorsed
iv) Laurie McKenzie presented to Council a 2500 person petition requesting Council to hire 2 new RCMP Officers'
Business:
1) Council agreed with the Mayor's recommendation to send a letter to IH informing them that they will be charged for RCMP costs unless a detox centre is provided or there are signs that significant reductions in drug/alcohol activity is evident that involves RCMP resources
2) Council gave 1st, 2nd, and 3rd reading to a Revitalization Tax Exemption Bylaw. The tax exemption bylaw allows property owners in the downtown specified area to maintain their current level of City taxes for up to three years based on a minimum investment (improvement) to their property
3) Cariboo Friendship Society's "Supportive Housing" Proposal received 3rd Reading and Adoption, after no one to spoke against the proposal at the Public Hearing held earlier in the evening.
4) The City's 80th Birthday is in March of 2009. Staff were directed to make preparations to recognize this event
5) Aviator Hotel proposal, besides Laughing Loon Pub, received 2nd Reading following favourable comments from the APC. The Public Hearing will be held on this proposal on October 14th, 2008 at 7pm in Council Chambers. If you wish to comment formally on this proposal, that will be the date for you to make your submission to Council
6) Council will send a letter to the Provincial Government encouraging them to provide financial support to Heritage Sites like Barkerville, Hat Creek Ranch and Cottonwood House
Next Council Meeting: September 30th, 2008 at 7:30pm
Outcome of Meetings - Arts and Culture Function & Fire Protection from WL to Fringe Areas
Arts and Culture:
I wanted everyone know that I was in attendance at the Sept 10th meeting on CRD Bylaw 4420 (Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Bylaw). I thought the information that was presented was "amateurish" at best. WL Arts Council didn't make a strong case as to why a local Arts and Culture tax bylaw should be adopted. I still intend to both vote against this bylaw when it comes up for AAP in October and if I get the chance, I fully intend to withdraw the bylaw as it is not in the best interest of Area 'F' resident, in my humble judgement
Fire Protection - Fringe Areas of "Front" side of Fox Mountain (facing Highway 97 North), Esler Subdivision and portions of Dog Creek Rd.
This meeting with residents' took place Thurs evening at 7pm. Facts/figures as to individual property owners was presented. Numourous questions around costs for this service and general comments that it was about time for this service to come were made as well. General consensus was that this service, if ultimately adopted, would be in the best interests of Area D and E residents'. It was also commented that Phase 1 and Phase 2 Zone Fire Protection Contracts with the City of WL were in the process of eventually be merged into 1 Master Fire Protection Contract with the City of Williams Lake. Those who will be benefiting from Phase 2 Fire Protection (Fringe Areas) with the City of Williams Lake, I would urge you and your neighbours to get your formal petition documents in ASAP so this service can commence ASAP. Not only that, you will see a reduction in your house insurance.
I wanted everyone know that I was in attendance at the Sept 10th meeting on CRD Bylaw 4420 (Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Bylaw). I thought the information that was presented was "amateurish" at best. WL Arts Council didn't make a strong case as to why a local Arts and Culture tax bylaw should be adopted. I still intend to both vote against this bylaw when it comes up for AAP in October and if I get the chance, I fully intend to withdraw the bylaw as it is not in the best interest of Area 'F' resident, in my humble judgement
Fire Protection - Fringe Areas of "Front" side of Fox Mountain (facing Highway 97 North), Esler Subdivision and portions of Dog Creek Rd.
This meeting with residents' took place Thurs evening at 7pm. Facts/figures as to individual property owners was presented. Numourous questions around costs for this service and general comments that it was about time for this service to come were made as well. General consensus was that this service, if ultimately adopted, would be in the best interests of Area D and E residents'. It was also commented that Phase 1 and Phase 2 Zone Fire Protection Contracts with the City of WL were in the process of eventually be merged into 1 Master Fire Protection Contract with the City of Williams Lake. Those who will be benefiting from Phase 2 Fire Protection (Fringe Areas) with the City of Williams Lake, I would urge you and your neighbours to get your formal petition documents in ASAP so this service can commence ASAP. Not only that, you will see a reduction in your house insurance.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
BC Liberals Cariboo-Chilcotin Riding Association Golf Tournament on September 19th
Hello all:
Pls note that the September 19th Golf Tournament for the BC Liberals - Cariboo-Chilcotin Riding Association has been cancelled due to lack of registrations
Pls note that the September 19th Golf Tournament for the BC Liberals - Cariboo-Chilcotin Riding Association has been cancelled due to lack of registrations
Meetings - WL Arts Council and Fire Services
1) WL Arts Council
Today (September 10th), from 4-7pm, at the Gibraltar Room, the WL Arts Council will be conducting an Open House on CRD Bylaw #4420, 2008 (Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Service Establishment Bylaw). If you get time, pls come out and tell them what you think on this new Function for 2009.
2) Fire Services in Area D Fringe vis-a-vis City of Williams Lake
Tomorrow night (September 11th) at 7pm in Council Chambers, the CRD/City of WL will be discussing extending Fire Services to portions of Fox Mountain, Esler and Dog Creek Road with local residents. If you live in either area, pls attend and tell your elected officials whether or not you want this important service and are you willing to pay for it.
Today (September 10th), from 4-7pm, at the Gibraltar Room, the WL Arts Council will be conducting an Open House on CRD Bylaw #4420, 2008 (Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Service Establishment Bylaw). If you get time, pls come out and tell them what you think on this new Function for 2009.
2) Fire Services in Area D Fringe vis-a-vis City of Williams Lake
Tomorrow night (September 11th) at 7pm in Council Chambers, the CRD/City of WL will be discussing extending Fire Services to portions of Fox Mountain, Esler and Dog Creek Road with local residents. If you live in either area, pls attend and tell your elected officials whether or not you want this important service and are you willing to pay for it.
Another Steve Rant
1) Fall Sitting of BC Legislature
Today, Hon. Mike DeJong (Minister of Aboriginal Relations) announced that a Fall Sitting would not take place. The NDP Opposition immediately pounced on the government cancellation of the Fall Sitting. Personally, if there isn't work to do then really it is a judgment call on business to be considered and money used to have the House sit. Obviously the government felt that it wasn't appropriate use of taxpayers' money to have the House sit while the government has no business to propose to the House. 4 Government Bills remain on the Order Paper however the Government has decided that those Bills can wait until Feb of '09.
2) Increasing numbers of Directors sitting on the CRD Board
In today's Quesnel Cariboo Observer, Mayor Bello stated his intention to ask the CRD to increase Quesnel's representation on the CRD Board from 1 to 2. Allow me to pick apart why his logic is flawed. Right now, 16 Directors from Areas A-L (12 Directors) with 4 others from Quesnel, WL, 100 Mile House and Wells (4 Directors) comprise the CRD Board of Directors. The Board has 2 Voting system (Corporate/Stakeholder - Weighted/Unweighted). Unweighted means each Director gets 1 Vote. Weighted Votes are when financial matters are considered. Each Director is assigned a number of weighted votes. The actual formula for weighted votes are: "1 Vote = 2500 persons living in each Electoral Area/Municipality". Therefore, Williams Lake would get 5 Weighted Votes, Quesnel would receive 4 Weighted Votes and the 12 Electoral Areas would be assigned 1-3 weighted votes per Electoral Area, depending on actual population numbers in said Electoral Area. The problem with Mayor Bello's logic is that he complains he is outvoted 4-1 at the Board table, however if he were to work with the Northern Directors and not to act like "Holier than Thou" attitude towards the Directors', I believe that more would get done in the North Cariboo. The same would apply to the Central/South Cariboo regions. At the end of the day, municipal Directors need to work with the rural directors to get things done for their City/District, not increase number of directors at the CRD Board table. The Regional District system of local government works fairly well, although minor tweaking would be a good thing. Also, inviting First Nation Bands' to sit on the CRD Board I think would be a good thing, however that would have to be negotiated with the local First Nations' Bands as to weighted votes, participation in Functions, etc.
Today, Hon. Mike DeJong (Minister of Aboriginal Relations) announced that a Fall Sitting would not take place. The NDP Opposition immediately pounced on the government cancellation of the Fall Sitting. Personally, if there isn't work to do then really it is a judgment call on business to be considered and money used to have the House sit. Obviously the government felt that it wasn't appropriate use of taxpayers' money to have the House sit while the government has no business to propose to the House. 4 Government Bills remain on the Order Paper however the Government has decided that those Bills can wait until Feb of '09.
2) Increasing numbers of Directors sitting on the CRD Board
In today's Quesnel Cariboo Observer, Mayor Bello stated his intention to ask the CRD to increase Quesnel's representation on the CRD Board from 1 to 2. Allow me to pick apart why his logic is flawed. Right now, 16 Directors from Areas A-L (12 Directors) with 4 others from Quesnel, WL, 100 Mile House and Wells (4 Directors) comprise the CRD Board of Directors. The Board has 2 Voting system (Corporate/Stakeholder - Weighted/Unweighted). Unweighted means each Director gets 1 Vote. Weighted Votes are when financial matters are considered. Each Director is assigned a number of weighted votes. The actual formula for weighted votes are: "1 Vote = 2500 persons living in each Electoral Area/Municipality". Therefore, Williams Lake would get 5 Weighted Votes, Quesnel would receive 4 Weighted Votes and the 12 Electoral Areas would be assigned 1-3 weighted votes per Electoral Area, depending on actual population numbers in said Electoral Area. The problem with Mayor Bello's logic is that he complains he is outvoted 4-1 at the Board table, however if he were to work with the Northern Directors and not to act like "Holier than Thou" attitude towards the Directors', I believe that more would get done in the North Cariboo. The same would apply to the Central/South Cariboo regions. At the end of the day, municipal Directors need to work with the rural directors to get things done for their City/District, not increase number of directors at the CRD Board table. The Regional District system of local government works fairly well, although minor tweaking would be a good thing. Also, inviting First Nation Bands' to sit on the CRD Board I think would be a good thing, however that would have to be negotiated with the local First Nations' Bands as to weighted votes, participation in Functions, etc.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Quesnel Council Highlights - September 2nd
Delegations (1) - Council welcomed 2008 Miss Quesnel Royalty to their roles. The Miss Quesnel Royalty will spend the next year being Ambassadors for Quesnel, both inside Quesnel and at out-of-town events. The City of Quesnel provides a Fee-For-Service to help support the Miss Quesnel Self-Development program
Business:
1) Council approved a development permit that will see significant changes to the property at 678 Doherty Dr. (Kwik Kleen). The building will have a second floor added, with a significant change to the roofline and general look of the building. Council was pleased with the reinvestment made by a local business owner and noted how the changes will really enhance the area.
2) Council received a different kind of request for an event in LeBourdais Park. As Homeless Action Week runs Oct. 12 to 19, the Quesnel Shelter and Support Society is hosting a “Spend a Night in the Cold for our Community’s Homeless” in LeBourdais Park from 5 p.m. on Oct. 15 to 9 a.m. on Oct. 16. The event is designed to raise awareness of the extent of homelessness, and the causes and solutions to it.
The society is looking for at least 127 participants, the number of unique clients the new shelter facility has welcomed since it opened on May 12, 2008.
Executive Director Shannon Croy also offered an invitation to Council to attend the ribbon cutting and Open House for the new shelter facility, Seasons House, at 146 Carson Ave. The public is invited to the Open House starting at 11:30 a.m. on Monday Sept. 15.
Council approved the request for use of the park and wished the Society well in its efforts
3) Council reviewed the new Frequently Asked Questions document that has been prepared to help inform the public about the Nov. 15 referendum regarding the proposed Multi-Centre. The Cariboo Regional District and City of Quesnel are holding the referendum to determine the future of the Multi-Centre project. For more information, visit: www.city.quesnel.bc.ca/multi-centre
4) While Quesnel didn’t formally compete in the Communities in Bloom program this year, there’s still a lot of competitive spirit to be found. Once again Council competed in its annual “Council Over a Planter” event, with Councillors arranging a flower planter for display. This year’s winner was Councillor Ron Paull, with Coun. Mary Sjostrom in second and Coun. Peter Couldwell taking third. Council thanked staff for their efforts in maintaining the many annual and perennial beds that beautify the community each year.
5) This Saturday, Sept. 6, sees the first Super Saturday taking place. The event includes Try it Out Day (an opportunity to try your hand at various sports and activities at West Fraser Timber Park), Central Registration at the Arts and Recreation Centre, and a Volunteer Fair at West Park Mall. All the events run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. A full schedule is available on the City’s website at www.city.quesnel.bc.ca.
Important Dates:
September 8 - Committee of the Whole Session at 7pm
September 15 - Regular Council Meeting at 7pm
Business:
1) Council approved a development permit that will see significant changes to the property at 678 Doherty Dr. (Kwik Kleen). The building will have a second floor added, with a significant change to the roofline and general look of the building. Council was pleased with the reinvestment made by a local business owner and noted how the changes will really enhance the area.
2) Council received a different kind of request for an event in LeBourdais Park. As Homeless Action Week runs Oct. 12 to 19, the Quesnel Shelter and Support Society is hosting a “Spend a Night in the Cold for our Community’s Homeless” in LeBourdais Park from 5 p.m. on Oct. 15 to 9 a.m. on Oct. 16. The event is designed to raise awareness of the extent of homelessness, and the causes and solutions to it.
The society is looking for at least 127 participants, the number of unique clients the new shelter facility has welcomed since it opened on May 12, 2008.
Executive Director Shannon Croy also offered an invitation to Council to attend the ribbon cutting and Open House for the new shelter facility, Seasons House, at 146 Carson Ave. The public is invited to the Open House starting at 11:30 a.m. on Monday Sept. 15.
Council approved the request for use of the park and wished the Society well in its efforts
3) Council reviewed the new Frequently Asked Questions document that has been prepared to help inform the public about the Nov. 15 referendum regarding the proposed Multi-Centre. The Cariboo Regional District and City of Quesnel are holding the referendum to determine the future of the Multi-Centre project. For more information, visit: www.city.quesnel.bc.ca/multi-centre
4) While Quesnel didn’t formally compete in the Communities in Bloom program this year, there’s still a lot of competitive spirit to be found. Once again Council competed in its annual “Council Over a Planter” event, with Councillors arranging a flower planter for display. This year’s winner was Councillor Ron Paull, with Coun. Mary Sjostrom in second and Coun. Peter Couldwell taking third. Council thanked staff for their efforts in maintaining the many annual and perennial beds that beautify the community each year.
5) This Saturday, Sept. 6, sees the first Super Saturday taking place. The event includes Try it Out Day (an opportunity to try your hand at various sports and activities at West Fraser Timber Park), Central Registration at the Arts and Recreation Centre, and a Volunteer Fair at West Park Mall. All the events run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. A full schedule is available on the City’s website at www.city.quesnel.bc.ca.
Important Dates:
September 8 - Committee of the Whole Session at 7pm
September 15 - Regular Council Meeting at 7pm
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Another Candidate for WL Council
In today's WL Tribune...
Laurie Walters, longtime City advocate of Arts announces her intention to seek a City Councillor seat
Read more here
Laurie Walters, longtime City advocate of Arts announces her intention to seek a City Councillor seat
Read more here
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Reminder of Upcoming Events
September 2 - Quesnel Council meets' at 7pm in Quesnel Council Chambers. As well, WL Council will be meeting in Committee of the Whole with 2 items for consideration (i) 80th Anniversary of City, ii) Permissive Tax Exemptions for 2009) following a Special Council Meeting, which starts at 6:30pm in Williams Lake Council Chambers, to deal with 1 item (Building Canada Fund - Grant Application)
September 8 - BC Liberals' - Cariboo-North Riding Association are having their AGM and Delegate Selection Meeting for the BC Liberals' Convention at Whistler in late October - early November. AGM Meeting starts at 7:00pm which is being held at Begbies' on Reid Street in Quesnel
September 9 - Public Hearing (City of Williams Lake) starting at 7pm in WL Council Chambers on a development proposal by Cariboo Friendship Society for Transitional Housing, then the Regular Meeting of WL City Council to start at 7:30pm, also being held in WL Council Chambers'
September 13 - BC Liberals' Cariboo-Chilcotin Riding Association are having their AGM and Delegate Selection Meeting for the BC Liberals' Convention in late October - early November. AGM Meeting starts at 1:30pm at Pioneer Complex (351 Hodgson Road). Directions to be emailed out.
September 18 - CRD Board of Directors' are hosting a Community BBQ at Lebourdias Park from 5pm - 7pm. All North Cariboo residents' are invited to attend
September 19 - CRD Board of Directors' are holding their regular meeting in Quesnel Council Chambers', starting at 9:30am.
BC Liberals' are holding their Golf Tournament in 108 Mile Golf Course with the following Schedule:
8am - Registration
9am - Tee-Off
4:30pm - Wrap-up events and Dinner
September 30th at 9:00am - October 10th at 4:00pm - CRD, City of Williams Lake/Quesnel and Boards' of Education (School District #27 + 28) will accept nominations for City Councillors'(Williams Lake/Quesnel), Mayor (Williams Lake/Quesnel), Electoral Area Directors' (CRD) and Trustees (SD#27 + 28). Remember - only 2 electors are necessary to nominate a individual for office. No nominations will be accepted, by CRD, City of Williams Lake/Quesnel and local Boards' of Education (SD #27 and 28) after 4pm on October 10th
September 8 - BC Liberals' - Cariboo-North Riding Association are having their AGM and Delegate Selection Meeting for the BC Liberals' Convention at Whistler in late October - early November. AGM Meeting starts at 7:00pm which is being held at Begbies' on Reid Street in Quesnel
September 9 - Public Hearing (City of Williams Lake) starting at 7pm in WL Council Chambers on a development proposal by Cariboo Friendship Society for Transitional Housing, then the Regular Meeting of WL City Council to start at 7:30pm, also being held in WL Council Chambers'
September 13 - BC Liberals' Cariboo-Chilcotin Riding Association are having their AGM and Delegate Selection Meeting for the BC Liberals' Convention in late October - early November. AGM Meeting starts at 1:30pm at Pioneer Complex (351 Hodgson Road). Directions to be emailed out.
September 18 - CRD Board of Directors' are hosting a Community BBQ at Lebourdias Park from 5pm - 7pm. All North Cariboo residents' are invited to attend
September 19 - CRD Board of Directors' are holding their regular meeting in Quesnel Council Chambers', starting at 9:30am.
BC Liberals' are holding their Golf Tournament in 108 Mile Golf Course with the following Schedule:
8am - Registration
9am - Tee-Off
4:30pm - Wrap-up events and Dinner
September 30th at 9:00am - October 10th at 4:00pm - CRD, City of Williams Lake/Quesnel and Boards' of Education (School District #27 + 28) will accept nominations for City Councillors'(Williams Lake/Quesnel), Mayor (Williams Lake/Quesnel), Electoral Area Directors' (CRD) and Trustees (SD#27 + 28). Remember - only 2 electors are necessary to nominate a individual for office. No nominations will be accepted, by CRD, City of Williams Lake/Quesnel and local Boards' of Education (SD #27 and 28) after 4pm on October 10th
Bits 'n Pieces
1) Recycling Program - Williams Lake and Cariboo Regional District:
At its' August 26th meeting, Williams Lake Council gave its' go-ahead to award a new 5 year contract to Central Cariboo Disposal for the City's Garbage/Recycling program. The City's New Recycling Program will be door-to-door, via City provided bins and residents will be allowed to place all recyclables' in one bin and the Contractor will sort out the different recyclables, which will now make the jointly funded City/CRD Recycle Bins for both Rural/City residents' redundant. According to the WL Tribune, Brian Carruthers (City's General Manager of Community Services) was quoted as saying:
"We have a funding arrangement with the CRD to operate the Transfer Station and they would assume responsibility.”
I was recently informed that starting September 10th from 4-7 at the Gibraltar Room, the Central Cariboo Arts Council will host an "Open House" as to why the "Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Function Bylaw - CRD Bylaw 4420" is necessary. More Open-Houses are planned at their temporary home - Heritage House. Ads for these Open-Houses are set to roll out this week. At this point, I have no information that suggests that the local Arts Council intends to have Open Houses at Miocene, Wildwood, 150 Mile, Horsefly/Likely. In my opinion, that is a big mistake, in terms of open, honest communication for the following three reasons.
1) 4-7pm - most people are still working so you won't get a huge capture of the voters' which may have questions on this new Function including why this is necessary, where other alternatives considered, etc
2) It is far easier for people to drive to their local community hall for various Regional District Initiatives than making them drive from Horsefly/Likely, Miocene, 150 Mile after work back to WL.
3) WL Arts Council Website (http://www.wlarts.ca) - this Website is in its' infancy, yet September 10th is coming up fast and you would think that the local Arts Council would have its' information up as to why the Arts and Culture Function needs to occur
Bottom Line - This Function should be withdrawn and all other options for supporting Arts and Culture should be looked at with a full, consultative process used to ensure residents' have maximum opportunities to state their views on whether or not taxpayers' should/shouldn't support Arts and Culture and other non-profit groups and under what conditions
At its' August 26th meeting, Williams Lake Council gave its' go-ahead to award a new 5 year contract to Central Cariboo Disposal for the City's Garbage/Recycling program. The City's New Recycling Program will be door-to-door, via City provided bins and residents will be allowed to place all recyclables' in one bin and the Contractor will sort out the different recyclables, which will now make the jointly funded City/CRD Recycle Bins for both Rural/City residents' redundant. According to the WL Tribune, Brian Carruthers (City's General Manager of Community Services) was quoted as saying:
"We have a funding arrangement with the CRD to operate the Transfer Station and they would assume responsibility.”
He notes that that is something the City still needs to talk to the CRD about, however, as it is only a suggestion at this point."
Area 'F' Director Duncan Barnett raised a concern (and frankly, he was rather excited) about the above quote, at the CRD Board on Friday, August 29th, and felt Staff/City were rushing ahead without consulting with Central Cariboo Directors and was not respecting CRD Board motions on recycling. Quite frankly, Mr. Barnett should get off his "high-horse" and recognize that the City of Williams Lake has said, with respect to the Recycling Bins, that negotiations will take place around financial responsibility for those bins. Quite rightly, with the City having a door-to-door recycling program, I would expect that the City wouldn't want to continue help paying for the bins, however there may be opportunities to partner with the City on getting cardboard, plastics and other recyclables (if appropriate) to Quesnel, via locally placed recycle bins at all Transfer Stations in Areas D, E and F. So, let's all work together to provide maximum recycling opportunities for all residents, not beat our chest just because of what we read in the local newspapers' and why Staff failed to respect motions, etc. Cooperation is always better than confrontation
I was recently informed that starting September 10th from 4-7 at the Gibraltar Room, the Central Cariboo Arts Council will host an "Open House" as to why the "Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Function Bylaw - CRD Bylaw 4420" is necessary. More Open-Houses are planned at their temporary home - Heritage House. Ads for these Open-Houses are set to roll out this week. At this point, I have no information that suggests that the local Arts Council intends to have Open Houses at Miocene, Wildwood, 150 Mile, Horsefly/Likely. In my opinion, that is a big mistake, in terms of open, honest communication for the following three reasons.
1) 4-7pm - most people are still working so you won't get a huge capture of the voters' which may have questions on this new Function including why this is necessary, where other alternatives considered, etc
2) It is far easier for people to drive to their local community hall for various Regional District Initiatives than making them drive from Horsefly/Likely, Miocene, 150 Mile after work back to WL.
3) WL Arts Council Website (http://www.wlarts.ca) - this Website is in its' infancy, yet September 10th is coming up fast and you would think that the local Arts Council would have its' information up as to why the Arts and Culture Function needs to occur
Bottom Line - This Function should be withdrawn and all other options for supporting Arts and Culture should be looked at with a full, consultative process used to ensure residents' have maximum opportunities to state their views on whether or not taxpayers' should/shouldn't support Arts and Culture and other non-profit groups and under what conditions
CRD Board Meeting Highlights - Aug 29/08
Delegations (2) -
i) BC Hydro - Dave Conway gave an overview to the CRD Board on the Site C Dam project. Pros/Cons on the Site C Project. The Board was happy to see the information. Chair Wolbers, on behalf on the CRD Board, thanked Mr. Conway for coming
ii) Allison Ruault from Interior Health gave an presentation to the Regional Hospital District Board on IH Activities in 100 Mile/Williams Lake/Chilcotin including Staff, Capital and Operational initiatives. Chair Richmond, on behalf on the Regional Hospital District Board, thanked Ms. Ruault for her presentation on recent IH Initiatives to the Board
Business:
1) The Regional District agreed to support their application to Northern Trust’s Small Community Economic Development Capacity Building Program. To leverage the Northern Trust application, the CRD will access funds from the 2008 South Cariboo Economic Development function
2) The Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation has given $10,000 to the Regional District for to 2008/2009 fiscal year. The funding will be used for Treaty Advisory Committee Chair, Ted Armstrong to participate in treaty negotiations with the Northern Secwempemc te Qeltnucw First Nation
3) The second of two Board-on-the-Road events for 2008 will be held in Quesnel on September 18 and 19. On the evening of Thursday, September 18, a community barbeque in celebration of the CRD’s 40th Anniversary and will take place in Lebourdais Park from 5to 7 p.m. The regular Board meeting on September 19 will take place at 9:30 a.m. in Quesnel City Hall Council Chambers. Everyone is welcome to attend.
4) The Regional District Board announced appointments to the CRD’s new Heritage Committee. Joan Sorley and Jim Gibson were named as representatives for the central Cariboo, while George Atamanenko will sit on the committee as the representative for the Chilcotin.
5) The Williams Lake Fringe OCP took one step forward during the Board meeting as the Directors reviewed comments from the recent public meeting and comments from the Agricultural Land Commission (ALC). The ALC visited Williams Lake on June 24, and met with staff to discuss the OCP and conducted a field trip around the Fox Mountain area. The CRD will now contact rural property owners affected by the ALC requirements and determine support for an Agricultural designation. Information on the Williams Lake OCP is available online at www.cariboord.bc.ca
6) The Cariboo Regional District has agreed to a proposal from School District No. 27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) to move the Cariboo Regional District Library to a portable located at the Likely Elementary School grounds. The two year agreement will be effective immediately with plans for the library to be relocated to this new facility this fall.
i) BC Hydro - Dave Conway gave an overview to the CRD Board on the Site C Dam project. Pros/Cons on the Site C Project. The Board was happy to see the information. Chair Wolbers, on behalf on the CRD Board, thanked Mr. Conway for coming
ii) Allison Ruault from Interior Health gave an presentation to the Regional Hospital District Board on IH Activities in 100 Mile/Williams Lake/Chilcotin including Staff, Capital and Operational initiatives. Chair Richmond, on behalf on the Regional Hospital District Board, thanked Ms. Ruault for her presentation on recent IH Initiatives to the Board
Business:
1) The Regional District agreed to support their application to Northern Trust’s Small Community Economic Development Capacity Building Program. To leverage the Northern Trust application, the CRD will access funds from the 2008 South Cariboo Economic Development function
2) The Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation has given $10,000 to the Regional District for to 2008/2009 fiscal year. The funding will be used for Treaty Advisory Committee Chair, Ted Armstrong to participate in treaty negotiations with the Northern Secwempemc te Qeltnucw First Nation
3) The second of two Board-on-the-Road events for 2008 will be held in Quesnel on September 18 and 19. On the evening of Thursday, September 18, a community barbeque in celebration of the CRD’s 40th Anniversary and will take place in Lebourdais Park from 5to 7 p.m. The regular Board meeting on September 19 will take place at 9:30 a.m. in Quesnel City Hall Council Chambers. Everyone is welcome to attend.
4) The Regional District Board announced appointments to the CRD’s new Heritage Committee. Joan Sorley and Jim Gibson were named as representatives for the central Cariboo, while George Atamanenko will sit on the committee as the representative for the Chilcotin.
5) The Williams Lake Fringe OCP took one step forward during the Board meeting as the Directors reviewed comments from the recent public meeting and comments from the Agricultural Land Commission (ALC). The ALC visited Williams Lake on June 24, and met with staff to discuss the OCP and conducted a field trip around the Fox Mountain area. The CRD will now contact rural property owners affected by the ALC requirements and determine support for an Agricultural designation. Information on the Williams Lake OCP is available online at www.cariboord.bc.ca
6) The Cariboo Regional District has agreed to a proposal from School District No. 27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) to move the Cariboo Regional District Library to a portable located at the Likely Elementary School grounds. The two year agreement will be effective immediately with plans for the library to be relocated to this new facility this fall.
7) The CRD Board reviewed information regarding the new Accord between the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) and the Province regarding the Trade Investment and Labour Mobility Agreement (TILMA). In 2006, the provinces of Alberta and British Columbia signed an agreement to remove barriers to trade, investment and labour mobility between the two provinces. The agreement builds upon the prosperity in both provinces by giving businesses and workers seamless access to a larger range of opportunities in all areas, including energy, transportation, agriculture and investment.
WL Council Meeting - Aug 26/08
Delegations - None
Business:
1) New Fire Hall Borrowing Bylaw was adopted by Council, after 200 electors' filed the necessary form registering their opposition to Council adopting the Bylaw. 775 electors' needed file the necessary form in order to prevent Council from going ahead and adopting the Bylaw.
2) A development variance permit was approved for the Pioneer Family Land Partnership to allow for off-site storm water management for their proposed subdivision (South Lakeside Drive Wal-Mart site ). Council also approved the Advisory Planning Commission’s recommendation to include green space with walking trails and landscaping to encourage public use.
Council also authorized a tender process for the purchase 6000 carts to be funded by self borrowing from the Landfill Closure Reserve and negotiate with the Cariboo Regional District
for assumption of the recycling bins at the Central Cariboo Transfer Station.
5) The Williams Lake Community Arts Council moved into the Heritage House Facility at
Cariboo Lodge in April after vacating Skyline School to accommodate realignment of
Hodgson Road. The agreement provides terms and conditions for their occupancy of Heritage
House for a term ending December 31, 2009. In addition, an in-camera report was made public
which outlined the issues associated with maintaining the Cariboo Lodge building.
Council authorized Staff to investigate feasibility and costs of deactivating the mechanical
systems in the older wings of Cariboo Lodge and establishing a stand-alone central heat and
domestic hot water system for Heritage House.
6) Council concurred with a Committee of the Whole recommendation to accept Staff's recommendations on the implementation of the Water Advisory Committee's Recommendations'
Business:
1) New Fire Hall Borrowing Bylaw was adopted by Council, after 200 electors' filed the necessary form registering their opposition to Council adopting the Bylaw. 775 electors' needed file the necessary form in order to prevent Council from going ahead and adopting the Bylaw.
2) A development variance permit was approved for the Pioneer Family Land Partnership to allow for off-site storm water management for their proposed subdivision (South Lakeside Drive Wal-Mart site ). Council also approved the Advisory Planning Commission’s recommendation to include green space with walking trails and landscaping to encourage public use.
3) Council accepted a rezoning application from Aviator Hotel and Oakdale Mobile Home Park Ltd. and gave first reading for the proposed construction of a 136 Unit hotel which will be
located on the property adjacent to the Loon Hotel. The residence would be removed prior to
building. The proposed hotel would be five stories with underground parking. The application will be forwarded to the Advisory Planning Commission for their comments and recommendations.
4) Central Cariboo Disposal was awarded a 5-year contract for the City's Garbage/Recycling Contract. Rates include:
Garbage – Multi Family Units per year - $70.20
Garbage - Single Family Unit per year - $70.20
Recycling – Single Family Dwellings - $37.56
Recycling – Multi Family Units - $37.56
Civic Facilities $2004.00
located on the property adjacent to the Loon Hotel. The residence would be removed prior to
building. The proposed hotel would be five stories with underground parking. The application will be forwarded to the Advisory Planning Commission for their comments and recommendations.
4) Central Cariboo Disposal was awarded a 5-year contract for the City's Garbage/Recycling Contract. Rates include:
Garbage – Multi Family Units per year - $70.20
Garbage - Single Family Unit per year - $70.20
Recycling – Single Family Dwellings - $37.56
Recycling – Multi Family Units - $37.56
Civic Facilities $2004.00
Council also authorized a tender process for the purchase 6000 carts to be funded by self borrowing from the Landfill Closure Reserve and negotiate with the Cariboo Regional District
for assumption of the recycling bins at the Central Cariboo Transfer Station.
5) The Williams Lake Community Arts Council moved into the Heritage House Facility at
Cariboo Lodge in April after vacating Skyline School to accommodate realignment of
Hodgson Road. The agreement provides terms and conditions for their occupancy of Heritage
House for a term ending December 31, 2009. In addition, an in-camera report was made public
which outlined the issues associated with maintaining the Cariboo Lodge building.
Council authorized Staff to investigate feasibility and costs of deactivating the mechanical
systems in the older wings of Cariboo Lodge and establishing a stand-alone central heat and
domestic hot water system for Heritage House.
6) Council concurred with a Committee of the Whole recommendation to accept Staff's recommendations on the implementation of the Water Advisory Committee's Recommendations'
Thursday, August 28, 2008
WL Arts Council + CRD Bylaw #4420 (A Bylaw to establish a Arts and Culture Function in the Central Cariboo)
In today's WL Tribune, there is a letter from Harry Jennings (President - WL Arts Council) advising residents' about consultation in September re: CRD Bylaw #4420 (Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Service Establishment Bylaw). This is the same group that requested the Central Cariboo Joint Committee to consider establishing this Function.
As I have stated before, Arts and Culture does have a place in our society and it was reported yesterday from a recent Conference Board of Canada report that Arts and Culture, nation wide, was responsible for $84.5 Billion in economic activity.
However, as the old saying goes "The ends can never justify the means"
I'm not saying that establishing a Function shouldn't be considered, but however there needs to be a process to ensuring residents' are consulted early and often to ensure that they (the taxpayers') are completely on-side before the tax comes into being. That means after a request, from voters/groups', comes to either a Area Director(s) or to the Central Cariboo Joint Committee, then the Director(s) needs to raise the subject at the next available Town Hall before a Function establishment Bylaw is granted 3 readings by the Regional Board. This way, residents' can have their say as whether or not they wish to pay for this new Function and what their property taxes will look like overall. Residents' should not have to read about new Functions in the local media, but really, as a matter of leadership, should hear about new Functions from their elected representative directly. Because residents' priorities, may or may not, include supporting local arts and culture from their property taxes. Let's always ask residents', first, if they are willing to pay for a new Function before we proceed to the next step, which is 3 readings of a Function Establishment Bylaw so residents' don't get upset as to why they weren't asked first if they were willing to pay for a new Function, because at the end of the day, Area Director(s) should never impose their views/wishes on their local taxpayers'
As I have stated before, Arts and Culture does have a place in our society and it was reported yesterday from a recent Conference Board of Canada report that Arts and Culture, nation wide, was responsible for $84.5 Billion in economic activity.
However, as the old saying goes "The ends can never justify the means"
I'm not saying that establishing a Function shouldn't be considered, but however there needs to be a process to ensuring residents' are consulted early and often to ensure that they (the taxpayers') are completely on-side before the tax comes into being. That means after a request, from voters/groups', comes to either a Area Director(s) or to the Central Cariboo Joint Committee, then the Director(s) needs to raise the subject at the next available Town Hall before a Function establishment Bylaw is granted 3 readings by the Regional Board. This way, residents' can have their say as whether or not they wish to pay for this new Function and what their property taxes will look like overall. Residents' should not have to read about new Functions in the local media, but really, as a matter of leadership, should hear about new Functions from their elected representative directly. Because residents' priorities, may or may not, include supporting local arts and culture from their property taxes. Let's always ask residents', first, if they are willing to pay for a new Function before we proceed to the next step, which is 3 readings of a Function Establishment Bylaw so residents' don't get upset as to why they weren't asked first if they were willing to pay for a new Function, because at the end of the day, Area Director(s) should never impose their views/wishes on their local taxpayers'
Monday, August 25, 2008
Steve's Political Intentions
As I promised, this morning I had a meeting with the Williams Lake Tribune announcing that I would be filing papers on September 30th challenging Duncan Barnett for the Cariboo Regional District - Area 'F' Directorship
Issues that I would like to deal with are over the next 3 years are:
1) Transit - re-visit the bus route to ensure maximum usage by 150 Mile, Lexington and WL Indian Band residents' and create a Function to get stable funding into this service
2) Encourage Continued High-Speed Internet access into Borland Valley Estates, Pigeon Rd, Frontier Estates and other areas where High-Speed Internet Access is feasible
3) Commence work ASAP on starting the process for the creation of a Regional Growth Strategy from #4 of the CRD Board's Strategic Priorities to #1 or #2
4) Invite City of Williams Lake into CRD Planning Function in order to Williams Lake to have a say on any development(s) that may affect the City's long-term interests
5) Include "Public Consultation Meeting(s)" on OCP Amendment(s) in the CRD's Development Procedures
6) Withdraw CRD Bylaw #4420 (Arts and Culture Contribution Service Bylaw) and refer the Subject-Contents of the Bylaw to the 2009 Area 'F' Town Hall Meeting
7) Establish Full Recycling Opportunities at all Transfer Stations in Area 'F' by 2011
As well, I intend to be a Director that has a "open door" policy to discuss any issue at any time and anyplace. Now, I am being interviewed tomorrow morning at 10am by the News Department of The Rush/The Wolf (local radio station)
The CRD Board of Directors' meets on Friday and we'll wait and see what Duncan Barnett's response to my announcement will be and when I know, I'll post it here
Issues that I would like to deal with are over the next 3 years are:
1) Transit - re-visit the bus route to ensure maximum usage by 150 Mile, Lexington and WL Indian Band residents' and create a Function to get stable funding into this service
2) Encourage Continued High-Speed Internet access into Borland Valley Estates, Pigeon Rd, Frontier Estates and other areas where High-Speed Internet Access is feasible
3) Commence work ASAP on starting the process for the creation of a Regional Growth Strategy from #4 of the CRD Board's Strategic Priorities to #1 or #2
4) Invite City of Williams Lake into CRD Planning Function in order to Williams Lake to have a say on any development(s) that may affect the City's long-term interests
5) Include "Public Consultation Meeting(s)" on OCP Amendment(s) in the CRD's Development Procedures
6) Withdraw CRD Bylaw #4420 (Arts and Culture Contribution Service Bylaw) and refer the Subject-Contents of the Bylaw to the 2009 Area 'F' Town Hall Meeting
7) Establish Full Recycling Opportunities at all Transfer Stations in Area 'F' by 2011
As well, I intend to be a Director that has a "open door" policy to discuss any issue at any time and anyplace. Now, I am being interviewed tomorrow morning at 10am by the News Department of The Rush/The Wolf (local radio station)
The CRD Board of Directors' meets on Friday and we'll wait and see what Duncan Barnett's response to my announcement will be and when I know, I'll post it here
Friday, August 22, 2008
BC Ombudsman to Review Seniors' Care in BC
Yesterday, Kim Carter (BC's Ombudsman) announced that she was initiating an investigation into all forms of seniors' care in BC. She didn't give a deadline as to when her investigation would be complete, but indicated that her investigation would take about 6 months to complete. It will be interesting to see her report on seniors' care in BC. Her counterpart in Ontario effectively slammed the Ontario government on its' handling of seniors' care there with similar problems surfacing there as have been reporting in the media here. No doubt that Ms. Carter's report, one way or the other, will be used during the 2009 Provincial General Election
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Steve's Political Intentions vis-a-vis November's Muncipal Elections'
Due to publishing deadlines of the WL Tribune, I have decided to move up the date of announcing my political intentions for November's local government elections'. Instead of Thursday, August 28th, it will now be Monday, August 25th, following my 9:00am meeting with the Williams Lake Tribune.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
WL City Councillor P.T. French announces he wants to be the next City of Williams Lake Mayor
WL City Councillor P.T French announced in today's Tribune that he wants to be the next Mayor of Williams Lake. He stated why he thinks he would be a good Mayor including pushing for development of Esler Ball Fields, development of the working relationship between the Cariboo Regional District and the City of Williams Lake among others.
I would certainly request, that anyone that lives in the muncipal boundaries of Williams Lake and can vote in this November's election, to strongly consider Paul French for Mayor. Personally, I find Paul to be both approachable and one that listens' to all sides before making a decision. He is the kind of leader we need at the moment. Also, one of with political (City/CRD) experience that should make the choice for Mayor really easy
Anyhow, the full story is at:
http://www.bclocalnews.com/bc_cariboo/williamslaketribune/news/27119544.html
I would certainly request, that anyone that lives in the muncipal boundaries of Williams Lake and can vote in this November's election, to strongly consider Paul French for Mayor. Personally, I find Paul to be both approachable and one that listens' to all sides before making a decision. He is the kind of leader we need at the moment. Also, one of with political (City/CRD) experience that should make the choice for Mayor really easy
Anyhow, the full story is at:
http://www.bclocalnews.com/bc_cariboo/williamslaketribune/news/27119544.html
Quesnel Council Meeting Highlights - Aug.18/08
Delegations:
None
Business:
1) Quesnel Council agreed to extend hourly Transit along North Fraser Drive along with enhanced service to the Carson Subdivision and North Cariboo Community Campus. The City of Quesnel will also be offering a 2 for 1 student transit pass promotion in early September
2) Quesnel Council approved the awarding of the West Quesnel Sewer Force main replacement to Insituform technologies Ltd. for $626,397.34
3) Quesnel Council reviewed a draft environmental policy statement, with an eye towards developing a final version. The policy will formalize what the City is committed to regarding environmental protection and sustainability, with a goal of becoming a leader in municipal environmental performance.
4) The City of Quesnel will offer an extension of its recycling contract to Northern Recycling Inc. for eight years, with an annual contract cost increase tied to the B.C. Consumer Price Index
5) Quesnel Council authorized the purchase of 1 Dump Truck in the amount of $154,819.06 from IRL International Truck Centre Ltd. out of Kamloops
6) Council continues to address accessibility awareness in Quesnel. Council resolved to recognize and support the Quesnel Accessibility Advisory Committee in its efforts to reach the vision of making Quesnel the most disability-friendly and senior-friendly community in the North. The City will also revise its vision and mission statements to include statements on accessibility, inclusion, and developing an age-friendly and disability-friendly community.
In addition, the Official Community Plan will be amended to use the Committee’s strategic plan as a tool “for improving all means of transportation to people with a disability, seniors and the general public,” and “for improving and promoting accessibility and inclusion in the community.”
7) Council approved ordering materials that will be used to construct the underpass of Hwy. 97 at Racing Road. Council approved a purchase of $75,258.48 for the concrete box culvert that will be used in the construction of the extension of Quesnel’s outstanding trail network. The underpass will provide a safe link for pedestrians and cyclists under Hwy. 97. The project is valued at $1 million and will be built entirely thanks to grant funding from a variety of sources
None
Business:
1) Quesnel Council agreed to extend hourly Transit along North Fraser Drive along with enhanced service to the Carson Subdivision and North Cariboo Community Campus. The City of Quesnel will also be offering a 2 for 1 student transit pass promotion in early September
2) Quesnel Council approved the awarding of the West Quesnel Sewer Force main replacement to Insituform technologies Ltd. for $626,397.34
3) Quesnel Council reviewed a draft environmental policy statement, with an eye towards developing a final version. The policy will formalize what the City is committed to regarding environmental protection and sustainability, with a goal of becoming a leader in municipal environmental performance.
4) The City of Quesnel will offer an extension of its recycling contract to Northern Recycling Inc. for eight years, with an annual contract cost increase tied to the B.C. Consumer Price Index
5) Quesnel Council authorized the purchase of 1 Dump Truck in the amount of $154,819.06 from IRL International Truck Centre Ltd. out of Kamloops
6) Council continues to address accessibility awareness in Quesnel. Council resolved to recognize and support the Quesnel Accessibility Advisory Committee in its efforts to reach the vision of making Quesnel the most disability-friendly and senior-friendly community in the North. The City will also revise its vision and mission statements to include statements on accessibility, inclusion, and developing an age-friendly and disability-friendly community.
In addition, the Official Community Plan will be amended to use the Committee’s strategic plan as a tool “for improving all means of transportation to people with a disability, seniors and the general public,” and “for improving and promoting accessibility and inclusion in the community.”
7) Council approved ordering materials that will be used to construct the underpass of Hwy. 97 at Racing Road. Council approved a purchase of $75,258.48 for the concrete box culvert that will be used in the construction of the extension of Quesnel’s outstanding trail network. The underpass will provide a safe link for pedestrians and cyclists under Hwy. 97. The project is valued at $1 million and will be built entirely thanks to grant funding from a variety of sources
Monday, August 18, 2008
WL Regional Airport resumes Operations
WL Tribune.com reports that the WL Regional Airport was to resume operations at around 8:45pm, according to Williams Lake Mayor Scott Nelson.
It is good to see that the airport security screening system along with Emergency Personnel came together to do its' job, which is to ensure a healthy and safe airline transportation system for the public. Since 9/11, it is always been better to shut down an airport over concerns about one's luggage than to allow said individual to board their flight, lest they be allowed to complete their evil intentions'
It is good to see that the airport security screening system along with Emergency Personnel came together to do its' job, which is to ensure a healthy and safe airline transportation system for the public. Since 9/11, it is always been better to shut down an airport over concerns about one's luggage than to allow said individual to board their flight, lest they be allowed to complete their evil intentions'
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Story from Williams Lake Tribune's Website on Incident at WL Airport
WLTribune.com reports that this morning at 11:00am, WL Airport Staff called 911 after the X-ray scanner detected bomb-making particulate in 1 passenger bags. 1 individual has been detained. All individuals, both passengers and workers, have been moved into a hangar and the WL Airport has been shut down for at least 12 hours. Central Mountain Air (CMA) President, Doug McCrea, reports that 3 more flights from CMA are scheduled to arrive in Williams Lake today and that CMA is monitoring the situation and will respond as the situation warrants it.
Mayor Scott Nelson is at the WL Airport receiving briefings from the RCMP. A Bomb Squad from Vancouver was set to arrive at the WL Airport, around 3:00pm
The full story is at:
http://www.bclocalnews.com/bc_cariboo/williamslaketribune/news/27073094.html
Mayor Scott Nelson is at the WL Airport receiving briefings from the RCMP. A Bomb Squad from Vancouver was set to arrive at the WL Airport, around 3:00pm
The full story is at:
http://www.bclocalnews.com/bc_cariboo/williamslaketribune/news/27073094.html
150 Mile House Transit
The CRD announced on Friday that the start-up date for the WL Transit System Extension to the Fringe Areas outside the City of Williams Lake (150 Mile, Dog Creek, and Commodore Crescent) will be on Monday, August 18th
While we wait and see how the new transit system extensions will work out, I'm already concerned that the bus route to 150 Mile House will be a failure before it starts
As it stands now, the Bus system to 150 Mile House is as follows:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Run from Williams Lake (Morning - 1 Run only)
i) Leave Boitanio Mall at 9:00am
ii) Leave WL Band Office at 9:13am
iii) Leave 150 Mile Store (Marshall's Store) at 9:19am
iv) Leave 150 Mile Mall at 9:23am
Run from 150 Mile House (Morning - 1 Run Only):
i) Leave 150 Mile Mall at 9:23am
ii) Leave WL Band Office at 9:32am
iii) Arrive at Boitanio Mall at 9:50am
Run from Williams Lake (Afternoon x 2):
i) Leave Boitanio Mall at 1:00pm and 4:00pm
ii) Leave WL Band Office at 1:13pm and 4:13pm
iii) Leave 150 Mile Store (Marshall's Store) at 1:19pm and 4:19pm
iv) Leave 150 Mile Mall at 1:23pm and 4:23pm
Run from 150 Mile House (Afternoon x 2)
i) Leave 150 Mile Mall at 1:23pm and 4:23pm
ii) Leave WL Band Office at 1:32pm and 4:32pm
iii) Arrive at Boitanio Mall at 1:50pm and 4:50pm
While I believe that Transit/Handi-DART will eventually be a good thing for Fringe Areas residents and I also believe that buy-in from area residents will need to happen as to route/costs. The present route from 150 Mile House into Williams Lake will be a failure as it is not designed to get maximum buy-in from area residents, in terms of usage
I guess we'll need to see the actual usage numbers to see whether or not my concerns are warranted
While we wait and see how the new transit system extensions will work out, I'm already concerned that the bus route to 150 Mile House will be a failure before it starts
As it stands now, the Bus system to 150 Mile House is as follows:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Run from Williams Lake (Morning - 1 Run only)
i) Leave Boitanio Mall at 9:00am
ii) Leave WL Band Office at 9:13am
iii) Leave 150 Mile Store (Marshall's Store) at 9:19am
iv) Leave 150 Mile Mall at 9:23am
Run from 150 Mile House (Morning - 1 Run Only):
i) Leave 150 Mile Mall at 9:23am
ii) Leave WL Band Office at 9:32am
iii) Arrive at Boitanio Mall at 9:50am
Run from Williams Lake (Afternoon x 2):
i) Leave Boitanio Mall at 1:00pm and 4:00pm
ii) Leave WL Band Office at 1:13pm and 4:13pm
iii) Leave 150 Mile Store (Marshall's Store) at 1:19pm and 4:19pm
iv) Leave 150 Mile Mall at 1:23pm and 4:23pm
Run from 150 Mile House (Afternoon x 2)
i) Leave 150 Mile Mall at 1:23pm and 4:23pm
ii) Leave WL Band Office at 1:32pm and 4:32pm
iii) Arrive at Boitanio Mall at 1:50pm and 4:50pm
While I believe that Transit/Handi-DART will eventually be a good thing for Fringe Areas residents and I also believe that buy-in from area residents will need to happen as to route/costs. The present route from 150 Mile House into Williams Lake will be a failure as it is not designed to get maximum buy-in from area residents, in terms of usage
I guess we'll need to see the actual usage numbers to see whether or not my concerns are warranted
Congrats to CRD Area 'J' Director on Grand Opening of Tatlayoko Wilderness Trails
Last Saturday (August 9th), CRD Area 'J' Director Alex Bracewell along with Tatlayoko Community Association Members, members from Measuring Up the North and others were in attendance as the 2 kms of accessible wilderness trails were opened.
I know that Director Bracewell has been working at this for a period of time and I'm glad to see that the fruits of his labour are coming to fruition. I know, though, that this is a small example of his eventual goal of 210 kms of accessible, to all, wilderness trails by 2010
I know that Director Bracewell has been working at this for a period of time and I'm glad to see that the fruits of his labour are coming to fruition. I know, though, that this is a small example of his eventual goal of 210 kms of accessible, to all, wilderness trails by 2010
Thursday, August 14, 2008
WL Council Highlights - August 12th
Delegations - None
Business:
1) OCP/Rezoning Bylaws for a Supportive Housing Complex from the Cariboo Friendship Society passed 2nd Reading following favourable comments from the City's APC (Advisory Planning Commission) on this application. This application will be scheduled for a Public Hearing on Tuesday, September 9th
2) Pioneer Family Land Partnership has applied to the City for a DVP (Development Variance Permit) to vary a section of the City's Development Procedures bylaw to allow for a off-site storm management was received/referred to the City's APC for recommendation(s)/comments and a future date will be set as to time/date when Council will formally consider this DVP
3) Council also received an application from Lakeview Point Development for a DVP to vary the Zoning Bylaw with respect to setback of lots lines (front and rear). This DVP was referred to the City's APC for recommendation/comments. A future time/date will be established as to when Council will formally consider this item
4) Council awarded winter sand contract to Lake Excavating for 2500 cubic metres of sand for a price of $30, 625
5) Mayor Nelson to issue a letter of support from UNBC's application to the Canada West
Universities Athletic Association (CWUAA)
6) Council endorsed the allocation of $40,000 from the City’s general surplus funds to help
fund RCMP overtime shifts until the end of the year. The focus will be on additional foot
patrols, drug enforcement and investigation and the Prolific Offender Program. Councillor
Ed Mead also indicated the possibility of an additional two officers for 2009
Reminder:
Candidate packages for Offices of Councillor + Mayor will be available on Friday, August 22nd
Next WL Council Meeting - Tuesday, August 26th
Business:
1) OCP/Rezoning Bylaws for a Supportive Housing Complex from the Cariboo Friendship Society passed 2nd Reading following favourable comments from the City's APC (Advisory Planning Commission) on this application. This application will be scheduled for a Public Hearing on Tuesday, September 9th
2) Pioneer Family Land Partnership has applied to the City for a DVP (Development Variance Permit) to vary a section of the City's Development Procedures bylaw to allow for a off-site storm management was received/referred to the City's APC for recommendation(s)/comments and a future date will be set as to time/date when Council will formally consider this DVP
3) Council also received an application from Lakeview Point Development for a DVP to vary the Zoning Bylaw with respect to setback of lots lines (front and rear). This DVP was referred to the City's APC for recommendation/comments. A future time/date will be established as to when Council will formally consider this item
4) Council awarded winter sand contract to Lake Excavating for 2500 cubic metres of sand for a price of $30, 625
5) Mayor Nelson to issue a letter of support from UNBC's application to the Canada West
Universities Athletic Association (CWUAA)
6) Council endorsed the allocation of $40,000 from the City’s general surplus funds to help
fund RCMP overtime shifts until the end of the year. The focus will be on additional foot
patrols, drug enforcement and investigation and the Prolific Offender Program. Councillor
Ed Mead also indicated the possibility of an additional two officers for 2009
Reminder:
Candidate packages for Offices of Councillor + Mayor will be available on Friday, August 22nd
Next WL Council Meeting - Tuesday, August 26th
2 Dates to Consider
Hello all:
For those of you read my blog on a constant basis, here's 2 dates to keep in mind:
Thursday, August 28th, 2008 - This is the date I intend to reveal my political intentions for the November 15th, 2008 Local Government Elections (both here and I hope the Tribune will be in a position to publish my political intentions for November simultaneously)
Monday, September 8th, 2008 - The BC Liberal Cariboo North Riding Association will be holding their AGM and Delegate Selection Meeting at Begbies (500 Reid Street - Quesnel, BC)
For those of you read my blog on a constant basis, here's 2 dates to keep in mind:
Thursday, August 28th, 2008 - This is the date I intend to reveal my political intentions for the November 15th, 2008 Local Government Elections (both here and I hope the Tribune will be in a position to publish my political intentions for November simultaneously)
Monday, September 8th, 2008 - The BC Liberal Cariboo North Riding Association will be holding their AGM and Delegate Selection Meeting at Begbies (500 Reid Street - Quesnel, BC)
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
CRD Bylaw #4420 (Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Service Establishment)
At its' meeting of July 18th - The Cariboo Regional District Board of Directors' gave 1st, 2nd and 3rd Reading to Bylaw #4420 of 2008 (Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Service Establishment)
This bylaw will now be the subject of Public Consultation Meeting or Meetings in September to be lead by the Central Cariboo Arts Council. Depending upon the outcome of this Public Consultation Meetings, Bylaw #4420 could proceed to AAP (Alternative Approval Process) or counter-petition in October
As I recently stated in a letter to the Editor - I believe people will support Arts and Culture, where asked and people have an ability to do so, but at the same time, I don't think taxpayers' want to go down the road of supporting non-profit groups because they can't fundraise enough to support their programs. The only exception I make in this case would be for the local community halls, they are essentially to those who chose to live in rural areas. Otherwise, if you can't get the necessary revenue for your programs, then I guess you have some budgetary decisions to make. I guess the other thing is that it doesn't appear that other options were considered including:
1) Increasing the budget for Grants-in-Aides
2) Look at Fee-for-Service for the Local Arts Groups in the Central Cariboo
3) Increase Budget for individual Electoral Areas Opportunity Funds
Finally, I have a philosophical problem with a group that will be the beneficiaries of a new Function leading Public Consultation, this in my opinion is a blatant conflict of interest. Finally, as I already stated, farmers told CRD Directors' at their July 18th meeting that they can't afford any new taxes. For Director Duncan Barnett (Area 'F') to state publicly that he is sympathetic to their concerns and then agree to 3 readings of Bylaw #4420, given the local economic climate and especially given the fact that Director Barnett is a farmer himself, is at the absolute height of hypocrisy.
The only acceptable option for the Electors' of CRD Areas D, E, F and the City of Williams Lake is to request that this Bylaw be sent to Town Hall meetings in Areas D, E,F and the Joint Town Hall meeting in Williams Lake in January and February of 2009 so that people have a big picture of what their property taxes will look like come July 1st, 2009
This bylaw will now be the subject of Public Consultation Meeting or Meetings in September to be lead by the Central Cariboo Arts Council. Depending upon the outcome of this Public Consultation Meetings, Bylaw #4420 could proceed to AAP (Alternative Approval Process) or counter-petition in October
As I recently stated in a letter to the Editor - I believe people will support Arts and Culture, where asked and people have an ability to do so, but at the same time, I don't think taxpayers' want to go down the road of supporting non-profit groups because they can't fundraise enough to support their programs. The only exception I make in this case would be for the local community halls, they are essentially to those who chose to live in rural areas. Otherwise, if you can't get the necessary revenue for your programs, then I guess you have some budgetary decisions to make. I guess the other thing is that it doesn't appear that other options were considered including:
1) Increasing the budget for Grants-in-Aides
2) Look at Fee-for-Service for the Local Arts Groups in the Central Cariboo
3) Increase Budget for individual Electoral Areas Opportunity Funds
Finally, I have a philosophical problem with a group that will be the beneficiaries of a new Function leading Public Consultation, this in my opinion is a blatant conflict of interest. Finally, as I already stated, farmers told CRD Directors' at their July 18th meeting that they can't afford any new taxes. For Director Duncan Barnett (Area 'F') to state publicly that he is sympathetic to their concerns and then agree to 3 readings of Bylaw #4420, given the local economic climate and especially given the fact that Director Barnett is a farmer himself, is at the absolute height of hypocrisy.
The only acceptable option for the Electors' of CRD Areas D, E, F and the City of Williams Lake is to request that this Bylaw be sent to Town Hall meetings in Areas D, E,F and the Joint Town Hall meeting in Williams Lake in January and February of 2009 so that people have a big picture of what their property taxes will look like come July 1st, 2009
WL Council Highlights - July 22nd
Delegations:
1) The Owners' of 3 Amigos Racing Kennels appeared before Council to thank them for their financial and moral support over the years. They are moving to Manitoba to further their dog racing career
2) Certificate of Merit - Mayor Nelson presented a Certificate of Merit to Jason Wright, who saved Riley Timmerman from drowning in Chimney Lake on June 28th of this year
Business:
1) Council agreed to give 3rd Reading to Bylaws #2060/2061 (Rezoning/OCP Amendment Bylaws). These bylaws would permit the use of a "indoor storage facility" on Pioneer Family Land Partnership held lands. Nearby neighbours at Terra Ridge were fiercely opposed to this application during the Public Hearing, held earlier in the evening. The City's APC (Advisory Planning Commission) had also recommending that this application be rejected. As a result of 3rd Reading of Bylaws #2060/2061 - Council requested Staff to, within 60 days, put a gate across Hutchison Road barring regular public traffic and still allowing City Staff to access the City's Water Tower on Hutchison Rd. Further, Council authorized Staff to begin the legal process of shutting down Hutchison Road (process takes about 1 year to complete)
2) Council adopted a Recommendation from Committee of the Whole which requests Staff, within 60 days, to prepare a report for Council's consideration to implement all recommendations of the Water Advisory Committee including formation of a new permanent Water Advisory Committee.
3) Council adopted a Recommendation from Committee of the Whole which request Staff to prepare a report for Council's consideration at a future Committee of the Whole meeting with regards to a new Industrial Tax Exemption Zone with Financial implications
1) The Owners' of 3 Amigos Racing Kennels appeared before Council to thank them for their financial and moral support over the years. They are moving to Manitoba to further their dog racing career
2) Certificate of Merit - Mayor Nelson presented a Certificate of Merit to Jason Wright, who saved Riley Timmerman from drowning in Chimney Lake on June 28th of this year
Business:
1) Council agreed to give 3rd Reading to Bylaws #2060/2061 (Rezoning/OCP Amendment Bylaws). These bylaws would permit the use of a "indoor storage facility" on Pioneer Family Land Partnership held lands. Nearby neighbours at Terra Ridge were fiercely opposed to this application during the Public Hearing, held earlier in the evening. The City's APC (Advisory Planning Commission) had also recommending that this application be rejected. As a result of 3rd Reading of Bylaws #2060/2061 - Council requested Staff to, within 60 days, put a gate across Hutchison Road barring regular public traffic and still allowing City Staff to access the City's Water Tower on Hutchison Rd. Further, Council authorized Staff to begin the legal process of shutting down Hutchison Road (process takes about 1 year to complete)
2) Council adopted a Recommendation from Committee of the Whole which requests Staff, within 60 days, to prepare a report for Council's consideration to implement all recommendations of the Water Advisory Committee including formation of a new permanent Water Advisory Committee.
3) Council adopted a Recommendation from Committee of the Whole which request Staff to prepare a report for Council's consideration at a future Committee of the Whole meeting with regards to a new Industrial Tax Exemption Zone with Financial implications
CRD Board Highlights - July 18th
Delegations:
1) A group of farmers' from the North, Central and South Cattlemen Associations' presented several concerns they had to the Board, who were quite sympathetic to their plight and ensured the Delegation that the Board would do what it could at this fall's UBCM Convention to raise their concerns with the appropriate Cabinet Ministers
Business:
1) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Reading to Bylaw #4420 (Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Service Establishment). This bylaw is the final product of discussions from the Central Cariboo Joint Committee and the local Arts Council regarding lack of funding vis-a-vis local Arts programming. (Note: I will expand on this topic further in another post)
2) Aug 9 - Director Alex Bracewell (Area 'J') will be at the grand opening of new Wheelchair-Accessible Wilderness Trails at Tatlayoko Lakes (about a 3.5 hour drive west of Williams Lake). This project is part of Director Bracewell's ulitmate vision of 210 kms of wheelchair-accessible wilderness trails by 2010.
3) Recycling at 150 Mile House - Recycling Bins have now been added at the 150 Mile House Transfer Station and depending upon the outcome of this trial project, more recycling bins may be added to other transfer stations throughout the Regional District
1) A group of farmers' from the North, Central and South Cattlemen Associations' presented several concerns they had to the Board, who were quite sympathetic to their plight and ensured the Delegation that the Board would do what it could at this fall's UBCM Convention to raise their concerns with the appropriate Cabinet Ministers
Business:
1) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Reading to Bylaw #4420 (Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Service Establishment). This bylaw is the final product of discussions from the Central Cariboo Joint Committee and the local Arts Council regarding lack of funding vis-a-vis local Arts programming. (Note: I will expand on this topic further in another post)
2) Aug 9 - Director Alex Bracewell (Area 'J') will be at the grand opening of new Wheelchair-Accessible Wilderness Trails at Tatlayoko Lakes (about a 3.5 hour drive west of Williams Lake). This project is part of Director Bracewell's ulitmate vision of 210 kms of wheelchair-accessible wilderness trails by 2010.
3) Recycling at 150 Mile House - Recycling Bins have now been added at the 150 Mile House Transfer Station and depending upon the outcome of this trial project, more recycling bins may be added to other transfer stations throughout the Regional District
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
WL Committee of the Whole Proceedings - July 15th
Delegations:
1) Dr. Elmer Thiessen (Chair, Water/Waste Water Advisory Committee) - Dr. Thiessen formally presented the Committee's report to Council and undertook to answer Councils' questions' and where he couldn't answer a question, members of the Water/Waste Water Advisory Committee helped answer Councils' questions. Staff to bring back a report to implement all recommendations from the Water/Waste Water Advisory Committee in 60 Days
2) Gian Sandhu / Rick Jones from Jackpine Forest Products came before the Committee to request that Council considered implementing a tax-exemption zone for properties owned by Jackpine for future expansion over a 5-year period. Council, generally speaking, was prepared to favourably consider the request. Staff requested to bring forward a report at the next Committee of the Whole with Financial Implications on implementing Mssrs. Jones and Sandhu's request.
Business:
1) Council agreed to deny request of Williams Lake Curling Club for waiving Water/Sewer Fees during the summer as it may set a dangerous precedent for other non-profit clubs. Council also agreed to send an application form to the WL Curling Club to apply for a Grant-in-Aide for 2009 Budget year.
2) Council adopted all Staff Recommendations concerning An Affordable Housing Policy in Williams Lake. Staff to work on Recommendations flowing from their report on this subject
3) Council agreed to waive its' Strata Policy, following a request from Pal Nijjar for his property at 1000 Maple Street
4) Letter from Tyler Bronowski (request to turn former Poplar Glade property into a bike park) to be referred to Central Cariboo Recreation Commission for consideration
1) Dr. Elmer Thiessen (Chair, Water/Waste Water Advisory Committee) - Dr. Thiessen formally presented the Committee's report to Council and undertook to answer Councils' questions' and where he couldn't answer a question, members of the Water/Waste Water Advisory Committee helped answer Councils' questions. Staff to bring back a report to implement all recommendations from the Water/Waste Water Advisory Committee in 60 Days
2) Gian Sandhu / Rick Jones from Jackpine Forest Products came before the Committee to request that Council considered implementing a tax-exemption zone for properties owned by Jackpine for future expansion over a 5-year period. Council, generally speaking, was prepared to favourably consider the request. Staff requested to bring forward a report at the next Committee of the Whole with Financial Implications on implementing Mssrs. Jones and Sandhu's request.
Business:
1) Council agreed to deny request of Williams Lake Curling Club for waiving Water/Sewer Fees during the summer as it may set a dangerous precedent for other non-profit clubs. Council also agreed to send an application form to the WL Curling Club to apply for a Grant-in-Aide for 2009 Budget year.
2) Council adopted all Staff Recommendations concerning An Affordable Housing Policy in Williams Lake. Staff to work on Recommendations flowing from their report on this subject
3) Council agreed to waive its' Strata Policy, following a request from Pal Nijjar for his property at 1000 Maple Street
4) Letter from Tyler Bronowski (request to turn former Poplar Glade property into a bike park) to be referred to Central Cariboo Recreation Commission for consideration
Sub-Regional Services and Muncipalities/Regional Districts
For the last 2 years, a group called the Quesnel Technics Club (local gymnastics club) has sought the help of the North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee or NCJPC for a new building. The NCJPC membership consists of the CRD (Cariboo Regional District) Directors' for Areas A, B, C and I as well as the entire Quesnel Council. The NCJPC passed a resolution, in October of 2006, to work jointly (CRD + City of Quesnel) to come up with $1,000,000 of capital funding for a new building for the Quesnel Technics Club. This particular issue has been an irritant between the CRD Northern Directors' and Quesnel City Council. The particular issue has been that the City of Quesnel has found its' $500,000 and wants the CRD to do the same without using money inside of the NCRP (North Cariboo Recreation and Parks) Function, which is funded on a 70-30 (City of Quesnel - CRD) split. Now, the CRD Northern Directors' wanted the City of Quesnel to have Quesnel Technics Club funding through NCRP. Quesnel Council considered the request at their Committee of the Whole meeting on June 23rd and made a motion to recommend to Quesnel Council that the request of the CRD Northern Directors on this subject be rejected. Quesnel Council met on July 14th to adopt their motion from their June 23rd Committee of the Whole meeting. Mayor Bello then informed his Council of a conversation he had with Quesnel City Manager Charles Hamilton and CRD Directors Ted Armstrong (Area 'A') and Ronda Wilkins (Area 'C'). Both Directors Armstrong and Wilkins indicated to Mayor Bello and Mr. Hamilton their willingness to increase the CRD's contribution from $500,000 to $750,000 provided that the Quesnel Technics Club was funded through NCRP. Councillors' Thapar and Paull suggested that Council reject the new offer to which Quesnel Council agreed to turn down the request, on the basis that it wasn't in the best interest of Quesnel taxpayers'.
I think sometimes municipal politicians, when discussing funding of sub-regional services, like Recreation, tend to put the "me-first" attitude, rather than the "region first" attitude when it comes to Sub-Regional Services. Having the "region-first" attitude when it comes to Recreation Budgets truly serves both the taxpayers' interest, rather than rural/urban politicians fighting each other over who funds what. I would obviously encourage, strongly, the City of Quesnel Council members to keep this in mind when considered future Sub-Regional Recreation Budgets with the rural CRD Northern Directors. Playing petty politics on this issue really does a disservice to the taxpayers' in both the City of Quesnel and to those who reside in Electoral Areas A, B, C, and I.
I think sometimes municipal politicians, when discussing funding of sub-regional services, like Recreation, tend to put the "me-first" attitude, rather than the "region first" attitude when it comes to Sub-Regional Services. Having the "region-first" attitude when it comes to Recreation Budgets truly serves both the taxpayers' interest, rather than rural/urban politicians fighting each other over who funds what. I would obviously encourage, strongly, the City of Quesnel Council members to keep this in mind when considered future Sub-Regional Recreation Budgets with the rural CRD Northern Directors. Playing petty politics on this issue really does a disservice to the taxpayers' in both the City of Quesnel and to those who reside in Electoral Areas A, B, C, and I.
Saturday, June 7, 2008
CFIB Report - BC Municipal Government Spending
Hello all:
Earlier this week, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business released a report on "out-of-control" spending by BC local governments. In this report, they suggest that spending by municipal governments is double that of inflation and population growth. Now, I know my fellow "blogger" Langley Township Councillor Jordan Bateman reads my blog regularly and is likely to agree with me that municipal government spending isn't really out of control as opposed to municipal governments spending money on services/infrastructure that residents want. Here in Williams Lake, RCMP costs cover about 30% of the City of Williams Lake's budget and the rest goes towards other services that people expect including Recreation Services, improvements to infrastructure, and so on. While I appreciate the opinion of the CFIB, I don't think they appreciate the voters' appetite for basic services (fire, police, etc) in their local communities. I'm sure Councillor Bateman has been approached by Langley Township residents for many requests, but as the old saying goes, "There is one taxpayer and he/she has so much money to give to governments". The challenge here is how to wean municipal governments off of relying on property taxes for a substantive majority of their budgets. This is especially true in Metro Vancouver communities where demand for services including transit is high.
Earlier this week, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business released a report on "out-of-control" spending by BC local governments. In this report, they suggest that spending by municipal governments is double that of inflation and population growth. Now, I know my fellow "blogger" Langley Township Councillor Jordan Bateman reads my blog regularly and is likely to agree with me that municipal government spending isn't really out of control as opposed to municipal governments spending money on services/infrastructure that residents want. Here in Williams Lake, RCMP costs cover about 30% of the City of Williams Lake's budget and the rest goes towards other services that people expect including Recreation Services, improvements to infrastructure, and so on. While I appreciate the opinion of the CFIB, I don't think they appreciate the voters' appetite for basic services (fire, police, etc) in their local communities. I'm sure Councillor Bateman has been approached by Langley Township residents for many requests, but as the old saying goes, "There is one taxpayer and he/she has so much money to give to governments". The challenge here is how to wean municipal governments off of relying on property taxes for a substantive majority of their budgets. This is especially true in Metro Vancouver communities where demand for services including transit is high.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Another Steve Rant - Various Political Events
Last night, City Council met and with Councillors Jon Wolbers (CRD Chair), Surinder Rathor, Tom Barr at FCM (Federation of Canadian Muncipalities) in Quebec City and Councillor Judy O'Neill in the Dominican Republic representing the City of Williams Lake, the meeting adjourned just past 8pm due to a lack of quorum (Mayor Nelson and Councillors Paul French/Ed Mead in attendance). Several delegations were in attendance including Audrey MacLise (WL Seniors Advisory Council) asking Council to make Williams Lake a "Age Friendly Community" along with making June 7th Access Awareness Day. Members of WL Council in attendance expressing their support for this and will formally deal with this and other items on the May 27th Agenda at a future date. Council members present were also introduced to the WL Stampede Queen contestants (3).
Recently, Mayor Nelson floated an idea that would have seen the Carbon Tax portion of the City's fuel purchases would be placed into a seperate account to demonstrate to the Provincial Government the actual impact on local government budgets. After having a "frank" phone call with the Provincial Minister of Finance (Hon. Carole Taylor), Mayor Nelson nixed the idea as he said that Victoria would not be moved to give considerations to Northern Communities with respect to the Carbon Tax. On May 26th, Charlie Wyse (NDP MLA for Cariboo-South) issued a press release and was quoted on the radio with the following:
1) We (NDP MLA's Bob Simpson + Charlie Wyse) will continue to stand up for northern communities with respect to the Carbon Tax after the astonishing flip-flop by Mayor Scott Nelson
I must say that it is rich for the NDP to accuse a BC-Liberal friendly Mayor of Williams Lake of a flip-flop on this issue. In this case, Mayor Nelson had an idea, had the support of CRD Chair Jon Wolbers and Mayor Nate Bello, and had a discussion with the Minister of Finance (Hon. Carole Taylor) and decided that it was not in the public interest to continue with this idea. Let's compare to this to the NDP record which consisted of flip-flops and picking fights with others, like Ottawa, over Nanoose Bay, which ended up costing this province money for this land. Or how about telling local governments in 1996, after the 1996 Provincial General Election, that there was no way local governments were going to lose their grants and then in the 1997 Budget, those local government grants were completely chopped away, causing local governments to scramble to ensure their budgets remained balanced, which in turn, caused local governments to raise taxes. Besides which, Mayor Nelson has a strong record of standing up for his community, even at the expense of making Victoria not happy with some of his stances of local issues. I'll be writing a "letter-to-the-editor" on this topic for publication, I hope, by next week.
Now, onto matters in Quesnel which deserve comment from me. Recently, Quesnel Council confirmed/re-confirmed its' decision with respect to the local Gymnastics group giving $500,000 to them and calling/re-calling on the CRD Northern Directors' to do the same. Quesnel Council has suggested that a motion from the Fall of 2007 suggested that the Northern Joint Committee agreed to contribute $500,000 from both City of Quesnel and the Cariboo Regional District to the Quesnel Technics Group (local Gymnastics club). However, the actual wording is "jointly work together to raise $1,000,000". However in the meantime, Director Ted Armstrong has proposed that this item be funded through the local Sub-Regional Recreation Budget. The City of Quesnel has rejected this idea on the basis that it would cost City of Quesnel taxpayers' more than it would cost Quesnel Rural Taxpayers'. I believe this idea is worth of support on the basis that gymnastics falls, in my opinion, under the guise of recreation. Soccer should also be considered for funding underneath the Sub-Regional Recreation Function. In the meantime, the battle continues. I would urge Quesnel Council to consider the regional aspect when taking stands on this issues.
That's it for now - I promise to continually update this blog as often as I can
Steve
Recently, Mayor Nelson floated an idea that would have seen the Carbon Tax portion of the City's fuel purchases would be placed into a seperate account to demonstrate to the Provincial Government the actual impact on local government budgets. After having a "frank" phone call with the Provincial Minister of Finance (Hon. Carole Taylor), Mayor Nelson nixed the idea as he said that Victoria would not be moved to give considerations to Northern Communities with respect to the Carbon Tax. On May 26th, Charlie Wyse (NDP MLA for Cariboo-South) issued a press release and was quoted on the radio with the following:
1) We (NDP MLA's Bob Simpson + Charlie Wyse) will continue to stand up for northern communities with respect to the Carbon Tax after the astonishing flip-flop by Mayor Scott Nelson
I must say that it is rich for the NDP to accuse a BC-Liberal friendly Mayor of Williams Lake of a flip-flop on this issue. In this case, Mayor Nelson had an idea, had the support of CRD Chair Jon Wolbers and Mayor Nate Bello, and had a discussion with the Minister of Finance (Hon. Carole Taylor) and decided that it was not in the public interest to continue with this idea. Let's compare to this to the NDP record which consisted of flip-flops and picking fights with others, like Ottawa, over Nanoose Bay, which ended up costing this province money for this land. Or how about telling local governments in 1996, after the 1996 Provincial General Election, that there was no way local governments were going to lose their grants and then in the 1997 Budget, those local government grants were completely chopped away, causing local governments to scramble to ensure their budgets remained balanced, which in turn, caused local governments to raise taxes. Besides which, Mayor Nelson has a strong record of standing up for his community, even at the expense of making Victoria not happy with some of his stances of local issues. I'll be writing a "letter-to-the-editor" on this topic for publication, I hope, by next week.
Now, onto matters in Quesnel which deserve comment from me. Recently, Quesnel Council confirmed/re-confirmed its' decision with respect to the local Gymnastics group giving $500,000 to them and calling/re-calling on the CRD Northern Directors' to do the same. Quesnel Council has suggested that a motion from the Fall of 2007 suggested that the Northern Joint Committee agreed to contribute $500,000 from both City of Quesnel and the Cariboo Regional District to the Quesnel Technics Group (local Gymnastics club). However, the actual wording is "jointly work together to raise $1,000,000". However in the meantime, Director Ted Armstrong has proposed that this item be funded through the local Sub-Regional Recreation Budget. The City of Quesnel has rejected this idea on the basis that it would cost City of Quesnel taxpayers' more than it would cost Quesnel Rural Taxpayers'. I believe this idea is worth of support on the basis that gymnastics falls, in my opinion, under the guise of recreation. Soccer should also be considered for funding underneath the Sub-Regional Recreation Function. In the meantime, the battle continues. I would urge Quesnel Council to consider the regional aspect when taking stands on this issues.
That's it for now - I promise to continually update this blog as often as I can
Steve
Lack of Posts since November of 2007
As was the case with the blog of the CAO (Administrator) for the City of Williams Lake, I apologize for the lack of posts since November of last year. I admit I've gotten a little lazy, but I'm back and I promise to do better with my posts.
My thanks to the City of Quesnel's Communication Supervisor - Matt Wood for reminding me to update my blog
My thanks to the City of Quesnel's Communication Supervisor - Matt Wood for reminding me to update my blog
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Steve's Political Rant #4
1) City of Quesnel Long-Term Debt
Over the last number of years, the City of Quesnel has borrowed money for various projects supported by residents including City Hall, the Johnston Bridge, the local Soccer Facility with a total of $11 million for these projects. Now, Quesnel Council is looking into investing taxpayers dollars for 2 other projects: 1) Quesnel Museum and 2) Multi-Centre. While the Multi-Centre has been discussion at length for some time, the Museum project is a relatively new project being discussed publicly, for funding via long-term debt as 1 option for funding. The Multi-Centre referendum is slated to proceed in May of 2008. My concern is that given the current economic climate, now may not be the time to go further in long-term debt even though, the Multi-Centre & Quesnel Museum are most worthy of taxpayer support. I hope that taxpayers' in Quesnel will consider this going forward from now until the local goverment election in November of 2008. I can confirm that the City of Quesnel along with other muncipal gov'ts do have a formula that they can not exceed and it is: No more then 25% of a local government revenue can go towards payment of long-term debt. If a local government exceeds this formula, then the appropriate loan authorization by-law will not be approved by Victoria.
2) Electoral Boundary Commission Act (Amendment Act), 2007
Hon. Mike DeJong (Government House Leader + Minister of Aboriginal Affairs) informed the House that this Bill won't proceed unless there is consensus on both sides to move it forward. The NDP, at this time, don't support this Bill. This Bill will die as the House will rise for its' Christmas break at 6:30pm tonight (Thursday, November 29th, 2007). This will be a shame, of course, as the interim report of the Electoral Boundary Commission was decried by the NDP as unacceptable for rural people and their right to representation in the Legislature. It appears that the present ridings are here to stay for the immediate future including the next provincial election of 2009.
Over the last number of years, the City of Quesnel has borrowed money for various projects supported by residents including City Hall, the Johnston Bridge, the local Soccer Facility with a total of $11 million for these projects. Now, Quesnel Council is looking into investing taxpayers dollars for 2 other projects: 1) Quesnel Museum and 2) Multi-Centre. While the Multi-Centre has been discussion at length for some time, the Museum project is a relatively new project being discussed publicly, for funding via long-term debt as 1 option for funding. The Multi-Centre referendum is slated to proceed in May of 2008. My concern is that given the current economic climate, now may not be the time to go further in long-term debt even though, the Multi-Centre & Quesnel Museum are most worthy of taxpayer support. I hope that taxpayers' in Quesnel will consider this going forward from now until the local goverment election in November of 2008. I can confirm that the City of Quesnel along with other muncipal gov'ts do have a formula that they can not exceed and it is: No more then 25% of a local government revenue can go towards payment of long-term debt. If a local government exceeds this formula, then the appropriate loan authorization by-law will not be approved by Victoria.
2) Electoral Boundary Commission Act (Amendment Act), 2007
Hon. Mike DeJong (Government House Leader + Minister of Aboriginal Affairs) informed the House that this Bill won't proceed unless there is consensus on both sides to move it forward. The NDP, at this time, don't support this Bill. This Bill will die as the House will rise for its' Christmas break at 6:30pm tonight (Thursday, November 29th, 2007). This will be a shame, of course, as the interim report of the Electoral Boundary Commission was decried by the NDP as unacceptable for rural people and their right to representation in the Legislature. It appears that the present ridings are here to stay for the immediate future including the next provincial election of 2009.
CRD Board - Meeting Highlights - November 9th, 2007
Delegations:
1) Gord Rattray from the Barkerville Heritage Trust appeared before the Board to present information on options for a Barkerville Circle Tour Connector Route. The Board ultimately resolved to support the Purden Lake Route.
2) Ken Day from the UBC Alex Fraser Research Forest and Cathy Koot, Research Coordinator
from the Alex Fraser Research Forest, gave the CRD Board an overview of the UBC Alex Fraser Research Forest sites and programs. UBC has two research sites in the Cariboo. The Gavin Lake site, 6,315 hectares, is adjacent to Beaver Valley near Quesnel Lake and the Knife Creek site, 3,487 hectares, is near 150 Mile House.
Business:
1) The Cariboo Regional District, the City of Williams Lake and the Northern Shuswap Tribal Council (NStQ) are hosting a Community to Community (C2C) workshop on December 5 and 6, 2007 in Williams Lake. The C2C forums provide elected official and staff opportunities to build
partnerships and share best practices. Funding for the forums is provided by UBCM.
2) The Regional District Board discussed the dramatic increase in wood waste volumes in its landfill sites throughout the Cariboo Chilcotin resulting from the clean-up of beetle killed
trees. For example, the Sheridan Lake landfill site has experienced significant increases over the past year. In 2006, a total of 8,638 cubic metres of wood waste accumulated, increasing to 28,000 cubic metres in 2007. This resulted in disposal costs of $51,401 and $172,550 respectively. CRD Chair Jon Wolbers and staff have requested a meeting with the Ministers of Environment and Forestry & Range at the earliest opportunity to discuss financial assistance to deal with the inflow of wood waste resulting from the Mountain Pine Beetle epidemic. During that meeting, the CRD will also request that the Ministries relax environmental regulations to allow burning of wood waste on a more frequent basis.
1) Gord Rattray from the Barkerville Heritage Trust appeared before the Board to present information on options for a Barkerville Circle Tour Connector Route. The Board ultimately resolved to support the Purden Lake Route.
2) Ken Day from the UBC Alex Fraser Research Forest and Cathy Koot, Research Coordinator
from the Alex Fraser Research Forest, gave the CRD Board an overview of the UBC Alex Fraser Research Forest sites and programs. UBC has two research sites in the Cariboo. The Gavin Lake site, 6,315 hectares, is adjacent to Beaver Valley near Quesnel Lake and the Knife Creek site, 3,487 hectares, is near 150 Mile House.
Business:
1) The Cariboo Regional District, the City of Williams Lake and the Northern Shuswap Tribal Council (NStQ) are hosting a Community to Community (C2C) workshop on December 5 and 6, 2007 in Williams Lake. The C2C forums provide elected official and staff opportunities to build
partnerships and share best practices. Funding for the forums is provided by UBCM.
2) The Regional District Board discussed the dramatic increase in wood waste volumes in its landfill sites throughout the Cariboo Chilcotin resulting from the clean-up of beetle killed
trees. For example, the Sheridan Lake landfill site has experienced significant increases over the past year. In 2006, a total of 8,638 cubic metres of wood waste accumulated, increasing to 28,000 cubic metres in 2007. This resulted in disposal costs of $51,401 and $172,550 respectively. CRD Chair Jon Wolbers and staff have requested a meeting with the Ministers of Environment and Forestry & Range at the earliest opportunity to discuss financial assistance to deal with the inflow of wood waste resulting from the Mountain Pine Beetle epidemic. During that meeting, the CRD will also request that the Ministries relax environmental regulations to allow burning of wood waste on a more frequent basis.
WL Council - Meeting Highlights - Nov 6/07
Delegations:
1) Bruce Young from Jack Gawthorn Memorial Dog Sled Race encouraged Council to participate in this race. Mayors Nelson, Bello and Vermette along with CRD Chair J. Wolbers will be participating in this race
Business:
1) Fee-for-Service for '08 - A total of $145,000 was handed out for Fee-for-Service for different organizations in Williams Lake for 2008
2) Council will forward a cheque of rougly $4300 to the CRD to support their Promotional Tourism DVD. Money to come for Round 2 of the UBCM Community Tourism Funding
3) Final approval was also given to amend the Official Community Plan and Zoning Amendment
Bylaws for the Pioneer Family Partnership project.
1) Bruce Young from Jack Gawthorn Memorial Dog Sled Race encouraged Council to participate in this race. Mayors Nelson, Bello and Vermette along with CRD Chair J. Wolbers will be participating in this race
Business:
1) Fee-for-Service for '08 - A total of $145,000 was handed out for Fee-for-Service for different organizations in Williams Lake for 2008
2) Council will forward a cheque of rougly $4300 to the CRD to support their Promotional Tourism DVD. Money to come for Round 2 of the UBCM Community Tourism Funding
3) Final approval was also given to amend the Official Community Plan and Zoning Amendment
Bylaws for the Pioneer Family Partnership project.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Steven's Political Rant #3
1) The NDP and the BC Legislature Speaker
Earlier this week, the House Speaker (Hon. Bill Barisoff) ruled that Carole James's Private Member Bill M-214 (Minimum Wage Fairness Act, 2007) was out of order on the basis that it infringed on the Crown Prerogative respecting creation of new programs or increased expenditures on the Provincial Treasury and only the Governing Party, at present - the BC Liberals' can introduce such a Bill upon the recommendation of the Lt-Governor to the Legislature. Hours later, BC New Democrats issued a press release called "B.C. Liberals Cut Off Minimum Wage Debate".
However, if one looks at Hansard, on Monday, October 22nd, 2007 during the morning sitting of the House. The Government House Leader (Hon. Mike DeJong), nor any other member (NDP/BC Liberal) raised a point of order re: M-214. The Speaker, on his own initiative, ruled Bill M-214 out of order. It is deeply disheartening that the NDP would choose to politicize the Speaker's decision as one based on politics, rather than one based upon a review of the bill and whether or not the bill conforms to the rules of the House. Standing Order #9 in part says:
"No decision shall be subject to an appeal to the House.
Which, in English, means that when a ruling by the Speaker is made, it is final and that members should move on. The Speaker is a independent servant of the House and in the case of Bill M-214, the Speaker exercised his authority in a fair way and the NDP shouldn't pout like a little child because it didn't get its' way. The Office of the Speaker must, at all times, remain above political rhetoric to ensure that all members are treated fairly and further ensure that the Speaker is not perceived to be favouring either the Government or Opposition side of the House.
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October 23rd, 2007 Meeting of North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee:
During this meeting, the Gary Young report was discussed by the CRD Directors' for Areas A, B, C and I and Quesnel City Council. During the meeting, Mayor Bello suggested that all recreational facilities such as parks, trails, etc should be equally paid for by all taxpayers - rural and city.
The part I find most unfortunate is that Mayor Bello likes to do double-speak. He successfully had himself appointed as Quesnel Council's rep. to the CRD Board and continues to pontificate to the CRD Northern Directors' as to what they should be paying for. Certainly, I would strongly encourage him to follow the lead of WL Council.
He needs to consult with CRD Directors prior to creation of new services that may be regional in nature and other services that benefit all residents' (rural and city) and do it with an air of respect that makes it clear that he won't be directing CRD Directors' as to what they should be paying for and how much and that he seeks to have a harmonious relationship with his CRD Director counterparts. The Cariboo Regional District has gone to great lengths and then some to help out Quesnel Council with their fiscal challenges in regards to Quesnel services that are used by regional residents like:
1) Soccer
2) Airport
3) Transit
I would like to think that he should be grateful, given the economic conditions of the region. In fact, it was commented at this meeting that several of the new bylaws that would allow for contributions from rural taxpayers' to the City of Quesnel for their Airport, Transit and Soccer are in danger of being defeated. But, the actions of Mayor Bello are a long line of actions since 2004 and if wants a harmonious relationship with Directors Armstrong, Falloon, Wilkins and Glassford, then I would suggest that he seek the advice of Mayor Nelson and take his advice when he seeks it. CRD Directors in the Central Region (Zacharias, Dickey, Barnett, Bracewell and Mumford) have consented to a contribution towards the operation of the Cariboo Chilcotin Museum among other areas that are of concern between CRD Directors' for Areas D, E, F, J, K and the City of Williams Lake Council. I believe that the relationship between the CRD Central Directors and the City of Williams Lake Council is one that Quesnel Council must emulate in order to deliver high quality services in the North Cariboo. This can be done by rolling up the shelves and not pontificating to CRD Directors' but working in partnership with them for the betterment of all residents, rural and urban.
Earlier this week, the House Speaker (Hon. Bill Barisoff) ruled that Carole James's Private Member Bill M-214 (Minimum Wage Fairness Act, 2007) was out of order on the basis that it infringed on the Crown Prerogative respecting creation of new programs or increased expenditures on the Provincial Treasury and only the Governing Party, at present - the BC Liberals' can introduce such a Bill upon the recommendation of the Lt-Governor to the Legislature. Hours later, BC New Democrats issued a press release called "B.C. Liberals Cut Off Minimum Wage Debate".
However, if one looks at Hansard, on Monday, October 22nd, 2007 during the morning sitting of the House. The Government House Leader (Hon. Mike DeJong), nor any other member (NDP/BC Liberal) raised a point of order re: M-214. The Speaker, on his own initiative, ruled Bill M-214 out of order. It is deeply disheartening that the NDP would choose to politicize the Speaker's decision as one based on politics, rather than one based upon a review of the bill and whether or not the bill conforms to the rules of the House. Standing Order #9 in part says:
"No decision shall be subject to an appeal to the House.
Which, in English, means that when a ruling by the Speaker is made, it is final and that members should move on. The Speaker is a independent servant of the House and in the case of Bill M-214, the Speaker exercised his authority in a fair way and the NDP shouldn't pout like a little child because it didn't get its' way. The Office of the Speaker must, at all times, remain above political rhetoric to ensure that all members are treated fairly and further ensure that the Speaker is not perceived to be favouring either the Government or Opposition side of the House.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
October 23rd, 2007 Meeting of North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee:
During this meeting, the Gary Young report was discussed by the CRD Directors' for Areas A, B, C and I and Quesnel City Council. During the meeting, Mayor Bello suggested that all recreational facilities such as parks, trails, etc should be equally paid for by all taxpayers - rural and city.
The part I find most unfortunate is that Mayor Bello likes to do double-speak. He successfully had himself appointed as Quesnel Council's rep. to the CRD Board and continues to pontificate to the CRD Northern Directors' as to what they should be paying for. Certainly, I would strongly encourage him to follow the lead of WL Council.
He needs to consult with CRD Directors prior to creation of new services that may be regional in nature and other services that benefit all residents' (rural and city) and do it with an air of respect that makes it clear that he won't be directing CRD Directors' as to what they should be paying for and how much and that he seeks to have a harmonious relationship with his CRD Director counterparts. The Cariboo Regional District has gone to great lengths and then some to help out Quesnel Council with their fiscal challenges in regards to Quesnel services that are used by regional residents like:
1) Soccer
2) Airport
3) Transit
I would like to think that he should be grateful, given the economic conditions of the region. In fact, it was commented at this meeting that several of the new bylaws that would allow for contributions from rural taxpayers' to the City of Quesnel for their Airport, Transit and Soccer are in danger of being defeated. But, the actions of Mayor Bello are a long line of actions since 2004 and if wants a harmonious relationship with Directors Armstrong, Falloon, Wilkins and Glassford, then I would suggest that he seek the advice of Mayor Nelson and take his advice when he seeks it. CRD Directors in the Central Region (Zacharias, Dickey, Barnett, Bracewell and Mumford) have consented to a contribution towards the operation of the Cariboo Chilcotin Museum among other areas that are of concern between CRD Directors' for Areas D, E, F, J, K and the City of Williams Lake Council. I believe that the relationship between the CRD Central Directors and the City of Williams Lake Council is one that Quesnel Council must emulate in order to deliver high quality services in the North Cariboo. This can be done by rolling up the shelves and not pontificating to CRD Directors' but working in partnership with them for the betterment of all residents, rural and urban.
WL Council Highlights - October 16th
Public Hearing at 6:30pm :
Bylaws for WL Seniors Village & Pioneer Family Land Partnership were considered
1 person spoke in favour of rezoning & OCP amendment bylaws for WL Seniors' Village and 1 person spoke about Rezoning & OCP Amendment bylaws for Pioneer Family Land Partnership re: Traffic Flow on Highway 20 & South Lakeside Drive and Infrastructure concerns
All bylaws that were before the Public Hearing were accordingly referred back to the Council Meeting later on for consideration of 3rd Reading.
Meeting adjourned at 7:07pm
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Council Meeting - 7:30pm
Delegates:
1) WL RCMP Detachment Commander, Staff-Sgt. Grant Martin, discussed Crime Stats from Jan.1 - Oct. 15
2) Kevin Brown presented overview for Barkerville Circle Tour. His report was referred to Council's Committee of the Whole for further consideration
3) Councillor Mead gave an overview of his trip to China with Mayor Nelson. His Council report was referred to the Economic Development Portfolio for further consideration
Business:
1) Bylaw #'s: 2007, 2021 (Pioneer) and 2032, 2034 (WL Seniors' Village) were all given 3rd Reading. Bylaws #'s 2032, 2034 were then adopted. Bylaws 2007 and 2021 were referred to the Ministry of Transportation for their approval prior to adoption
2) October 2007 has been proclaimed as Foster Family Month, Community Living Month and Autism Awareness Month
3) Council approved the tender for the purchase of four new GMC ¾ ton pick‐up trucks at a cost of $122,223 to Cariboo GM.
4) In September, Mayor Nelson and CAO Alberto DeFeo had the opportunity to meet with Chief Willy Alphonse and Band Councillor Heather McKenzie to discuss a number of ways to further common interests between the City and WL Indian Band. In last evening’s Council meeting, staff was directed to initiate collaboration with the Williams Lake Indian Band to address overlapping land use issues as well as water and sewer needs.
5) Council has directed Staff to prepare expressions of interest for several projects to the Federal Government Mountain Pine Beetle Community Economic Diversification Initiative. The projects include:
a) Industrial Rail Spur
b) Highway 20 Corridor Project
c) Event Centre,
d) North End Grey Water System
e) Community Forest Business Plan
f) Cariboo Economic Development Capacity
g) Stampede Park Upgrade.
Bylaws for WL Seniors Village & Pioneer Family Land Partnership were considered
1 person spoke in favour of rezoning & OCP amendment bylaws for WL Seniors' Village and 1 person spoke about Rezoning & OCP Amendment bylaws for Pioneer Family Land Partnership re: Traffic Flow on Highway 20 & South Lakeside Drive and Infrastructure concerns
All bylaws that were before the Public Hearing were accordingly referred back to the Council Meeting later on for consideration of 3rd Reading.
Meeting adjourned at 7:07pm
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Council Meeting - 7:30pm
Delegates:
1) WL RCMP Detachment Commander, Staff-Sgt. Grant Martin, discussed Crime Stats from Jan.1 - Oct. 15
2) Kevin Brown presented overview for Barkerville Circle Tour. His report was referred to Council's Committee of the Whole for further consideration
3) Councillor Mead gave an overview of his trip to China with Mayor Nelson. His Council report was referred to the Economic Development Portfolio for further consideration
Business:
1) Bylaw #'s: 2007, 2021 (Pioneer) and 2032, 2034 (WL Seniors' Village) were all given 3rd Reading. Bylaws #'s 2032, 2034 were then adopted. Bylaws 2007 and 2021 were referred to the Ministry of Transportation for their approval prior to adoption
2) October 2007 has been proclaimed as Foster Family Month, Community Living Month and Autism Awareness Month
3) Council approved the tender for the purchase of four new GMC ¾ ton pick‐up trucks at a cost of $122,223 to Cariboo GM.
4) In September, Mayor Nelson and CAO Alberto DeFeo had the opportunity to meet with Chief Willy Alphonse and Band Councillor Heather McKenzie to discuss a number of ways to further common interests between the City and WL Indian Band. In last evening’s Council meeting, staff was directed to initiate collaboration with the Williams Lake Indian Band to address overlapping land use issues as well as water and sewer needs.
5) Council has directed Staff to prepare expressions of interest for several projects to the Federal Government Mountain Pine Beetle Community Economic Diversification Initiative. The projects include:
a) Industrial Rail Spur
b) Highway 20 Corridor Project
c) Event Centre,
d) North End Grey Water System
e) Community Forest Business Plan
f) Cariboo Economic Development Capacity
g) Stampede Park Upgrade.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
CRD Board Meeting Highlights - October 12th
Cariboo-Chilcotin Hospital District Board:
Delegates: None
Business:
1) Various press releases were received from Interior Health and Northern Health
2) The CCRHD resolved to grant $140,000.00 towards the pallitive care project being run by the Quesnel & District Pallative Care Association furnishing, fixtures and finishing of the palliative care unit in Quesnel
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CRD Board of Directors' Meeting:
Delegates:
1) Bob Simpson (Cariboo-North MLA) and Charlie Wyse (Cariboo-South MLA) appeared before the Board to discuss various matters including TILMA, the Electoral Boundary Commission Report
Business:
1) Various Planning Bylaws were granted 1st and 2nd Readings and now they will be referred to the various Electoral Area APC's and Public Hearings for further consideration prior to the Board's consideration of 3rd Reading of these bylaws
2) Hennigar/Arnoldus - The Board approved a deferral of 30 days on this application, upon the recommendation of Director Ted Armstong (Area 'A' Director)
3) The Board declared November 18th to 25th, 2007 Restorative Justice Week in the Cariboo Regional District
4) The Board also declared October 15th to October 21st, 2007 Waste Reduction week in the Cariboo Regional District
5) The CRD's Library Report for 2006 was received. A copy of this report can be found at http://www.cln.bc.ca/
6) The Board resolved to pursue various funding opportunities for the Phase II project at CNC (College of New Calendonia). The money being requested is $1.2 Million
Delegates: None
Business:
1) Various press releases were received from Interior Health and Northern Health
2) The CCRHD resolved to grant $140,000.00 towards the pallitive care project being run by the Quesnel & District Pallative Care Association furnishing, fixtures and finishing of the palliative care unit in Quesnel
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CRD Board of Directors' Meeting:
Delegates:
1) Bob Simpson (Cariboo-North MLA) and Charlie Wyse (Cariboo-South MLA) appeared before the Board to discuss various matters including TILMA, the Electoral Boundary Commission Report
Business:
1) Various Planning Bylaws were granted 1st and 2nd Readings and now they will be referred to the various Electoral Area APC's and Public Hearings for further consideration prior to the Board's consideration of 3rd Reading of these bylaws
2) Hennigar/Arnoldus - The Board approved a deferral of 30 days on this application, upon the recommendation of Director Ted Armstong (Area 'A' Director)
3) The Board declared November 18th to 25th, 2007 Restorative Justice Week in the Cariboo Regional District
4) The Board also declared October 15th to October 21st, 2007 Waste Reduction week in the Cariboo Regional District
5) The CRD's Library Report for 2006 was received. A copy of this report can be found at http://www.cln.bc.ca/
6) The Board resolved to pursue various funding opportunities for the Phase II project at CNC (College of New Calendonia). The money being requested is $1.2 Million
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
WL Council Meeting - October 2nd, 2007
Delegations:
1) Geoff Wagner, on behalf on both EPCOR and the United Way made award and monetary presentations to the local Wresting Club, individual youth and the WL Social Planning Council for various initiatives.
2) The local Conservation Council made a presentation to Council requesting the Waterwise program be funded on a "fee-for-service" basis. Council resolved to refer the issue to the 2008 Budget Process
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Business:
1) Stop signs on Soda Creek Road /Frizzi Road will be switched to "Yield" signs while a more permanent solution can be found to the traffic issue for those who want to cross the rail line from Soda Creek Road onto Frizzi Road.
2) Several Revitalization Tax Exemption applications were approved by Council. These agreements see the Municipal portion of their tax bill deferred provided that renovations are completed in a section of the downtown area that was designated by Council, earlier this year by bylaw. A reminder: the deadline to apply for this program is October 31st, 2007.
3) A letter was received from the Assitant Deputy Attorney-General regarding Council's open letter in the form of a full-page ad. The letter, in short, described the actions that the Province has taken to date and how Council can address their issues with the appropriate Federal Cabinet Minister. Mayor Nelson suggested that this letter was "fluff". Councillors Mead/Rathor along with Mayor Nelson will phone Attorney-General Wally Oppal to discuss their concerns with this letter
4) Several UBCM Awards were presented during Council's meeting.
*** A Reminder - October 16th, 2007 in Council Chambers, Public Hearings for WL Seniors' Village expansion and Pioneer Family Land Partnership re: Wal-Mart type development will start at 6:30pm. If you want to state your opposition/support of these development proposals, then please come out and do so. I'm not able to do so myself, as I'm Deputy Chair of the Advisory Planning Commission and since I spoke to these applicants at the APC level, I'm barred by bylaw to speak to these applications, at the Public Hearing stage ***
1) Geoff Wagner, on behalf on both EPCOR and the United Way made award and monetary presentations to the local Wresting Club, individual youth and the WL Social Planning Council for various initiatives.
2) The local Conservation Council made a presentation to Council requesting the Waterwise program be funded on a "fee-for-service" basis. Council resolved to refer the issue to the 2008 Budget Process
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Business:
1) Stop signs on Soda Creek Road /Frizzi Road will be switched to "Yield" signs while a more permanent solution can be found to the traffic issue for those who want to cross the rail line from Soda Creek Road onto Frizzi Road.
2) Several Revitalization Tax Exemption applications were approved by Council. These agreements see the Municipal portion of their tax bill deferred provided that renovations are completed in a section of the downtown area that was designated by Council, earlier this year by bylaw. A reminder: the deadline to apply for this program is October 31st, 2007.
3) A letter was received from the Assitant Deputy Attorney-General regarding Council's open letter in the form of a full-page ad. The letter, in short, described the actions that the Province has taken to date and how Council can address their issues with the appropriate Federal Cabinet Minister. Mayor Nelson suggested that this letter was "fluff". Councillors Mead/Rathor along with Mayor Nelson will phone Attorney-General Wally Oppal to discuss their concerns with this letter
4) Several UBCM Awards were presented during Council's meeting.
*** A Reminder - October 16th, 2007 in Council Chambers, Public Hearings for WL Seniors' Village expansion and Pioneer Family Land Partnership re: Wal-Mart type development will start at 6:30pm. If you want to state your opposition/support of these development proposals, then please come out and do so. I'm not able to do so myself, as I'm Deputy Chair of the Advisory Planning Commission and since I spoke to these applicants at the APC level, I'm barred by bylaw to speak to these applications, at the Public Hearing stage ***
Steve's Political Rant #2
From the "bad news" department:
1) Carole James and the BC NDP have published information about complaints re: Seniors' Care at facilities in Victoria/Williams Lake, dating back to 2002 and going forward as far as 2005. These facilities are owned by Retirement Concepts. I personally got a tour of the Williams Lake facility prior to its' opening, while I was a member of Williams Lake's Health Advisory Committee. I'm also aware of a complaint that came out of Williams Lake Seniors' Village in 2004 and while I can't discuss the particulars of the complaint due to the fact it was discussed at an In-Camera meeting of the Health Advisory Committee, I can absolutely say that the Williams Lake Seniors' Village is well run/managed as of late. I understand that this isn't necessarily the case at Retirement Concepts' Victoria facility. I'm sure that there will also be complaints on how one is treated at a health care facility, be it a hospital or even a Seniors' Care facility. I think the process is important here: the complaint needs to be investigated in a neutral-based manner by the local Health Authority Staff and if the complaint is legitimate, then corrective action is taken to resolve the complaint. Simple, really. No politics involved. Figure out the problem then solve it, working together with Health Authority Staff, family members and on-site staff. So, the NDP needs to understand that rehashing old complaints from 2003-2005 and proclaiming it as a "pattern of ignored complaints" by a "uncaring" government is a little far fetched, given that there hasn't been any complaints about seniors care in Williams Lake, in any event, for the last year. I understand that this isn't the case at Retirement Concepts facility in Victoria and they will have to solve the problems at that facility there. When the NDP ran publicly funded and staffed senior care facilities, even those facilities were the subject of complaints. And just as life isn't perfect, taking care of seniors', given their medical state, can be challenging at times.
2) In the October 3rd, 2007 edition of the Cariboo Observer (local Williams Lake newspaper)
Carole James wrote an letter to the editor proclaiming "there is widespread agreement that the time is right for a minimum wage increase, over 30 municipal councils' have passed resolutions calling on the Province to increase the minimum wage to $10.00/hour".
While wages in Metro Vancouver have proved challenging to those living there, increasing the minimum wage won't help to solve the issue around those who struggle to pay the bills. But instead, we need to focus on training those in minimum wage jobs and upgrade their skills so they can provide a better life for themselves and their families. Also, 30 municipal councils out of 150 municipal councils Province-wide who support an increase to the minimum wage is not, in my view, "wide spread". In fact, the percentage of municipal councils who support a call for an increase to the minimum wage is actually 20%. I would suggest those municipal councils' who want to see an increase in the minimum wage are in the minority.
In the "good news" department:
Act Now BC Minister of State Gordon Hogg will be in Williams Lake on Friday to promote the Act Now BC Program. Then on Saturday, Premier Campbell along with Ministers Pat Bell (Minister of Agriculture & Lands), Shirley Bond (Minister of Education/Deputy Premier
Claude Richmond (Minister of Income Assistance) along with John Rustad (Northern MLA's Caucus Chair and MLA for Prince George-Omenica) will all be attending a BC Liberal Party's Regional Conference for all 3 Prince George ridings', along with both Cariboo ridings, the 2 Kamloops ridings and Yale-Lillioet in Williams Lake. Topics for discussion include Health Care, Forestry and Transportation issues in these ridings. As well, Premier Campbell will give a speech to the party faithful present. I will discuss the proceedings of this conference in a future post. I'm very much looking forward to this weekend. There is a chance that Kevin Krueger (Minister of State - Mining) will attend this conference, but is subject to his calendar being open for this event this Saturday.
- SBF
1) Carole James and the BC NDP have published information about complaints re: Seniors' Care at facilities in Victoria/Williams Lake, dating back to 2002 and going forward as far as 2005. These facilities are owned by Retirement Concepts. I personally got a tour of the Williams Lake facility prior to its' opening, while I was a member of Williams Lake's Health Advisory Committee. I'm also aware of a complaint that came out of Williams Lake Seniors' Village in 2004 and while I can't discuss the particulars of the complaint due to the fact it was discussed at an In-Camera meeting of the Health Advisory Committee, I can absolutely say that the Williams Lake Seniors' Village is well run/managed as of late. I understand that this isn't necessarily the case at Retirement Concepts' Victoria facility. I'm sure that there will also be complaints on how one is treated at a health care facility, be it a hospital or even a Seniors' Care facility. I think the process is important here: the complaint needs to be investigated in a neutral-based manner by the local Health Authority Staff and if the complaint is legitimate, then corrective action is taken to resolve the complaint. Simple, really. No politics involved. Figure out the problem then solve it, working together with Health Authority Staff, family members and on-site staff. So, the NDP needs to understand that rehashing old complaints from 2003-2005 and proclaiming it as a "pattern of ignored complaints" by a "uncaring" government is a little far fetched, given that there hasn't been any complaints about seniors care in Williams Lake, in any event, for the last year. I understand that this isn't the case at Retirement Concepts facility in Victoria and they will have to solve the problems at that facility there. When the NDP ran publicly funded and staffed senior care facilities, even those facilities were the subject of complaints. And just as life isn't perfect, taking care of seniors', given their medical state, can be challenging at times.
2) In the October 3rd, 2007 edition of the Cariboo Observer (local Williams Lake newspaper)
Carole James wrote an letter to the editor proclaiming "there is widespread agreement that the time is right for a minimum wage increase, over 30 municipal councils' have passed resolutions calling on the Province to increase the minimum wage to $10.00/hour".
While wages in Metro Vancouver have proved challenging to those living there, increasing the minimum wage won't help to solve the issue around those who struggle to pay the bills. But instead, we need to focus on training those in minimum wage jobs and upgrade their skills so they can provide a better life for themselves and their families. Also, 30 municipal councils out of 150 municipal councils Province-wide who support an increase to the minimum wage is not, in my view, "wide spread". In fact, the percentage of municipal councils who support a call for an increase to the minimum wage is actually 20%. I would suggest those municipal councils' who want to see an increase in the minimum wage are in the minority.
In the "good news" department:
Act Now BC Minister of State Gordon Hogg will be in Williams Lake on Friday to promote the Act Now BC Program. Then on Saturday, Premier Campbell along with Ministers Pat Bell (Minister of Agriculture & Lands), Shirley Bond (Minister of Education/Deputy Premier
Claude Richmond (Minister of Income Assistance) along with John Rustad (Northern MLA's Caucus Chair and MLA for Prince George-Omenica) will all be attending a BC Liberal Party's Regional Conference for all 3 Prince George ridings', along with both Cariboo ridings, the 2 Kamloops ridings and Yale-Lillioet in Williams Lake. Topics for discussion include Health Care, Forestry and Transportation issues in these ridings. As well, Premier Campbell will give a speech to the party faithful present. I will discuss the proceedings of this conference in a future post. I'm very much looking forward to this weekend. There is a chance that Kevin Krueger (Minister of State - Mining) will attend this conference, but is subject to his calendar being open for this event this Saturday.
- SBF
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