Museum of the Cariboo-Chilcotin

Museum of the Cariboo-Chilcotin

Just a quick plug for our local Museum...

Residents of Williams Lake, and also that of the Central Cariboo and Chilcotin should take a moment out of their busy day to visit our local museum.  With 2 floors full of history of our region, for the admission of $2.00, it is very cheap compared to the value of the information that you'll receive once you leave.  The Museum also serves as the BC Cowboy Hall of Fame

Hours of Operation of the Museum are:

* June - August, Monday-Saturday from 10:00am to 4:00pm
* September - June, Tuesday-Saturday from 11:00am to 4:00pm

Costs:

Adults - $2.00
Children under 12 - Free

The location of the Musuem is at the corner of 4th Avenue and Borland Street in Williams Lake

For more information - visit the Musuem's website here

Review of Upcoming Local Gov't Items

In Quesnel:

* Quesnel Staff are proposing a procedure to post expenses online.  See the Staff report here.  I applaud Quesnel Council for looking at this seriously.  It'll be interesting to follow, especially to see the response of both Quesnel Councillors Sushil Thapar and Ron Paull (also rumoured Quesnel Mayor candidate)

Editor's Note:

* I'd like to see full publication of travel expenses for WL Senior City Staff (ie - Brian Carruthers, Geoff Goodall)/WL Council members. Again, residents have a right to know how much money the politicians/staff cost Williams Lake taxpayers

* Also, Quesnel Council will receive a report on their 2011 Strategic Plan.  See that report here

Two Items in the Plan I find interesting and I'd like to see WL Council pursue are:

* Have a full blown "Code of Conduct" to ensure full explanation of roles/responsibilities of Members of Williams Lake Council and City Staff

* More of an aggressive push to work with schools around learning about civic government (both municipal and regional districts), especially in the elementary school stages when they learn about government, typically in Grade 5 (if I remember correctly)


In Williams Lake:

* Council will receive a request, in Committee of the Whole, from the WL Saturday Market Association to allow use of Herb Gardiner Park for a Saturday Farmers' Market.  The requestors have sought letters of support and have secured permission from Royal Bank to use their parking lot on Saturdays for people to park and walk over.  I applaud the individuals for this initiative and sincerely hope that Council will agree to their request.  See their actual request here

* Council will consider a request of the Director of Community Services (G. Paynton) to institute a "trail" dog park up at Comer Park (across from TRU on Western Ave).  As noted - there hasn't been a public push to put this into place but it'll be interesting to see if Council agrees to this and what the official public response is.  See Mr. Paynton's report here

* Also - the City of WL CAO (B. Carruthers) is proposing the City enter into a Community Partnership Agreement (in my opinion - more like a letter of understanding) between the WL Cycling Club and the City.  See more details here. 

* Finally, it was disappointing to listen to City Councillor Geoff Bourdon, filling in for Mayor Cook on the Town Hall radio program this past Thursday, to still justify the roadside patio at New World Cafe on Oliver Street.  He stated although no member of the public has officially complained of safety issues, his business (Woodland Jewellers) would love to have the same opportunity that New World Cafe is able to have that the roadside cafe provides.  Unfortunately - this is an example where Mr. Bourdon chooses to ignore the concerns that residents' have brought forward, by way of letters to the editor in our local newspapers.  Again - I honestly believe residents don't object, in principle, to the idea of a roadside cafe in the downtown area, but would've liked an opportunity to express concerns about it  before Council approved the Bylaw to allow it.  It's the same reason why the community was so upset over Council's decision to prohibit parking on City Boulevards (decide first and consult later)

Local Gov't Meetings in Cariboo-Chilcotin - Week of May 16-20

3 Local Governments are meeting this upcoming week:

Monday, May 16th - City of Williams Lake:

Final Public Consultation Meeting on the new Official Community Plan.  Meeting from 6-8pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St)

Monday, May 16th - City of Quesnel:

Committee of the Whole/Special Council Meeting which starts at 7pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (410 Kinchant St)

See the Agenda/Reports here

Tuesday, May 17th - District of Wells:

Regular Council Meeting which starts at 7:00pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Ave)

Tuesday, May 17th - City of Williams Lake:

Committee of the Whole Meeting which starts at 6:00pm in Committee Room #1 at WL City Hall (450 Mart St)

See the Agenda/Reports here

Thursday, May 19th - City of Williams Lake:

2nd Public Meeting on Regulating Shipping Containers.  Meeting runs from 7-9pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St)

BC Liberal Party Convention Online

If you weren't lucky enough to be a delegate for the BC Liberal Party Convention, then you can watch the Convention online.  The link is here

Life of Independent Politician

Over at his blog - Independent Cariboo-North MLA Bob Simpson reviews what the life of a provincial politician with no political party ties is like

See more here

More Hirings at WL City Hall

Over at CivicInfoBC - they report today that the City of Williams Lake are looking for the following Staff persons:

1) Planning Technician - City has been looking since April.  See the ad here with an expiry date of May 20th

2) Recreation Admin Coordinator - See the ad here with an expiry date of May 27th

Question:

Instead of trying to find a Planning Technician/Recreation Admin Coordinator, why doesn't the City try to make do with the Staff we have now (ie - Do more with less).  Lilliana Dragowska's current role as ICSP Coordinator could be rolled up into Planner once the current process to adopt the new OCP is done.  Also the City could look at its' admin staff needs City-wide and determine how to have an efficient administration.  Just saying....

Update to Cottonwood River Situation in CRD Area 'B'

The Cariboo Regional District's Emergency Operations Centre continues to monitor the Cottonwood River. Yesterday 14 properties in the Quesnel/Hixon Road and Landry Road area were put on evacuation alert while two properties were evacuated. No further alerts or orders have been issued for this area.

Extremely active erosion brought the shoreline within close proximity of the two evacuated homes overnight. It is hoped that ongoing efforts of contractors on site using heavy equipment and placing exceedingly large rocks will be successful in mitigating further damage and loss.

Traffic delays may be experienced in this area as work to protect the properties affected by this event is ongoing, with large equipment, trucks and machinery on the local roads. Current information for main roads throughout the area, and region is available online at www.drivebc.ca

Residents are reminded to use extreme caution at this time of year near on or around waterways as a result of elevated water levels and rapid currents. Rivers, streams and creeks throughout the Region are swollen and should be considered hazardous as high temperatures this weekend could see increased flows.

Further information will be available as the situation develops. For all inquiries, contact the Cariboo Regional District EOC at 250-398-5117 or, visit the CRD website at www.cariboord.bc.ca

Upcoming CRD Board Initiatives

At the May 6th Cariboo Regional District Board meeting - the Board asked their Staff to bring forward the following items:

1) That Local Government Awareness Week be considered as a budget item during budget deliberations for 2012

2) That staff report back to the Board on the current voting procedures of the Cariboo Regional District for electors who wish to attend a voting place to vote but are unable to enter due to a physical disability, impaired mobility, or require assistance as they are unable to mark a ballot due to visual impairment

3) That staff investigate and report back to the Board on the feasibility of implementing a burning bylaw within the Cariboo Regional District, as identified by Darrel Orosz, Cariboo Fire Centre Manager, during his presentation earlier in the meeting.”

4) That staff be authorized to work with the Northern Development Initiative Trust to develop a sustainability plan for the North Cariboo Regional Development account. Further, that the Cariboo Regional District strongly supports this initiative.”

On Items #1 and #2 - I applaud the CRD Board and specifically Area 'F' Director Joan Sorley for these as I think the Board needs to do more on Local Government Awareness and to ensure that all opportunities are expended to ensure all can exercise their opportunity to vote in referendums or elections, no matter their disability

On Item #3 - I understand the Board's desire to respond to this issue on backyard burning and prevention of forest fires, I'm concerned about the practicability & enforcement of it.  Further - I would suggest that it will go over just as well (poorly received) as the Outdoor Wood-fired Boiler Bylaw went over with rural residents

On Item #4  - Based solely on the read of the motion, Director Armstrong must have a strong reason for this motion and I agree with him that the sustainability plan be done to ensure the money is there for future generations to generate economic activity in the North Cariboo

End of Week News - May 13th edition

In Williams Lake:

* Tribune columnist Walt Cobb argues why business in the recreation field should not have to pay recreation taxes to the City who provide the exact same service.  See here

In 100 Mile House:

* 2011 NCLGA (North Central Local Gov't Association) AGM important for 100 Mile House as they play co-host with the Cariboo Regional District for the 2012 NCLGA AGM.  See here

1st Public Consultation Meeting - Regulating Shipping Containers

Last night - Brad McRae (Senior Bylaw Officer) & Geoff Goodall (General Manager of Planning & Ops) held a polite, progressive and thoughtful discussion with 4 members of the public on how to regulate shipping containers in the City of Williams Lake - both for residential and commercial areas. 

Some concerns expressed included how to have a efficient and workable permitting system for shipping containers for residential areas.  According to Mssrs Goodall/McRae - a huge number of local governments are seriously looking at this issue including:

* Kelowna
* Hope
* Cariboo Regional District

Another public meeting on this meeting will be held on Thursday, May 19th from 7-9pm in WL Council Chambers

I've asked for a copy of the PowerPoint Presentation from Mr. McRae and if he is able to give a copy of it to me, I'll update this blog post here with it.

But the issue of regulating shipping containers is serious from the aesthetic point of view for residential areas and I applaud the City for attempting to start a conversation with the community on this subject and find a solution that works for the majority of our community members

HST Information Campaign reaches out to voters

Finance Minister Kevin Falcon introduced an information campaign different from what British Columbians are used to seeing from government. TV, print and online formats feature “stickman”, a character that embodies the current confusion existing around the HST.

The character promotes discussion and prompts viewers to seek out information at HSTinBC.ca, to help inform voters of their forthcoming decision to keep the HST or go back to the two-tax system of the PST and GST.

Current research posted at HSTinBC.ca indicates a great deal of misunderstanding about the HST, as well as a desire by British Columbians to learn more about it. For example:

· 61 per cent of respondents think basic groceries have gone up under the HST – not true.

· About half believe gas prices have gone up due to the HST. In reality, government spends $270 million to keep the tax component the same as before the HST was introduced.

· 48 per cent of respondents think electronics, such as your iPod, have increased after the HST. In reality the tax is exactly the same.

· 34 per cent of people think Prescription drugs have increased – not true.

With the important decision British Columbians have to make this summer, this information campaign encourages them to get the information they need to make the most informed decision they can. This part of the Talking Taxes public engagement process builds on the current HST tele-town hall series, the up-coming public dialogues and the comprehensive voter’s guide, which will be mailed to every household in the province before the referendum.

Quick Facts:

· This information campaign will run from mid-May to early July 2011.

· The information campaign is available at: www.HSTinBC.ca

· The cost of the HST information campaign will not exceed $5 million.

· All ballots must be received by Elections BC or Service BC by July 22, 2011.

Learn More:

For more information about the HST information campaign, visit: www.HSTinBC.ca

You can also follow us on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/hstinbc

Flood Warning for Baker Crk in Quesnel

A flood warning for Baker Creek has been issued by the Ministry of Forest, Land and Natural Resources BC River Forecast Centre due to recent heavy rainfall and warmer weather.

The City is monitoring the creek on a regular basis to ensure public safety while monitoring infrastructure such as roads, trails, and water and sewer lines.

High water flows are expected over at least the next two to three weeks.
The City requests that residents stay away from the banks of the creek as well as the Quesnel and Fraser Rivers. The slopes can become very slippery during high water incidents. That combined with the fast-moving water creates a safety issue. People are urged to keep careful watch over children and pets as well.

The City may need to place safety barriers along portions of the Riverfront Trail. The public is asked to respect those barriers.

For more information, visit www.quesnel.ca/EmergencyPreparedness.html

Community Policing to no longer have onsite profile at Community Corner

The Community Policing Board, with the support of the City of Williams Lake, has made a strategic decision to discontinue its storefront office at the Community Corner at 3rd Avenue and Oliver Street. Having operated at the new location for just over a year, it was determined that there was not sufficient visitation by the general public to justify the volunteer effort required to keep the storefront office open. Community Policing will continue to operate out of Community Corner and will be occupying the existing boardroom for meeting space and storage.

This change will result in a more equitable allocation of space within the Community Corner and will provide more room for the Williams Lake Central Business Improvement Area to conduct their business. The space occupied by the Cariboo Growers Cooperative will remain unchanged.

“I want to assure residents that the core services provided by the Community Policing groups will not be affected by this change,” says Dave Dickson, Safer Community Coordinator. “Community Policing is a volunteer-based group of organizations that have made significant contributions to reducing crime and improving safety in the community and it has been determined by the Board that providing a storefront office is not the most effective use of resources at this time.”

Community Policing can be reached by calling 250-392-8701.

State of Emergency in CRD Electoral Area 'B' - Cottonwood River

The Cariboo Regional District (CRD) has declared a local State of Emergency in Electoral Area B due to rapidly rising waters and erosion of some properties on the Cottonwood River. As a result, the CRD has activated a level two Emergency Operations Centre (EOC).

The area affected is in and around the Quesnel/Hixon and Landry Road area. Two properties within the area are under evacuation order while the remaining properties in the area are now under evacuation alert. Further information will be available as the situation develops.

Residents are reminded to use extreme caution at this time of year near or around waterways as a result of elevated water levels and rapid currents.

For all inquiries, contact the Cariboo Regional District EOC at 250-398-5117 or, visit the CRD website at www.cariboord.bc.ca

Breaking News: CRD/Duncan Barnett settle out of Court

Joint Statement by the Cariboo Regional District and Duncan Barnett

Cariboo Regional District Board Chair Al Richmond and former Electoral Area F Director Duncan Barnett issued a joint statement today announcing the settlement and discontinuance of a lawsuit by Mr. Barnett against the CRD and three individuals. The events in question occurred in 2008 and involved former Director Barnett and certain other Directors and Officers of the District, including the named defendants, who were acting in their official capacities.

Chair Richmond stated: “Having carefully read and considered the April 2009 BC Supreme Court decision of Mr. Justice McKinnon and with the benefit of hindsight, I, on behalf of the CRD, its Directors and Officers, wish to extend an apology to Mr. Barnett.

We accept the decision of the Court and acknowledge that the process which resulted in the resolution of October 2008, and its reaffirmation in December, 2008 gave rise to a situation which may have caused persons to think that Director Barnett must have committed grievous offences, an inference which was never intended.”

Mr. Barnett stated: “I accept the Board’s apology and am pleased that we have now all decided to put this matter behind us. I want to acknowledge that I have learned from this experience: I have also resolved to tread more carefully in the future and I apologize to the Directors and staff members who believed they had cause to think I was unfairly outspoken, critical or too demanding.”

UPDATE: More on this story from Williams Lake Tribune here

Flood Warning for Baker Creek in Quesnel

A flood warning for Baker Creek has been issued by the Ministry of Forest, Land and Natural Resources BC River Forecast Centre due to recent heavy rainfall and warmer weather.

The City is monitoring the creek on a regular basis to ensure public safety while monitoring infrastructure such as roads, trails, and water and sewer lines.

High water flows are expected over at least the next two to three weeks.

The City requests that residents stay away from the banks of the creek as well as the Quesnel and Fraser Rivers. The slopes can become very slippery during high water incidents. That combined with the fast-moving water creates a safety issue. People are urged to keep careful watch over children and pets as well.

The City may need to place safety barriers along portions of the Riverfront Trail. The public is asked to respect those barriers.

For more information, visit www.quesnel.ca/EmergencyPreparedness.html

A Message from the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society

Last week, I informed Leah Selk (Coordinator for the Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society or CCACS) that I had heard concerns that the Central Cariboo Arts Centre was nothing more than a "members only" club and recommended to her that the CCACS might wish to release a clarification that this was untrue and if they (CCACS) wanted – I would place the clarification note, unedited, on my blog for my readers' to read and judge for themselves the true intentions of the CCACS. As I explained to Ms. Selk, I was not a big fan of the Cariboo Regional District's Arts and Culture Function but it is here and I'm willing to do my part to ensure the facts get out there and to provide my opinion on them and have a community wide debate. I still have concerns about the precedent we've set for other groups, like Minor Hockey and Baseball, to ask for similar treatment (establish a Function or Tax for direct financial support for Hockey, Baseball and other groups). In the meantime, I will try to make the Function work the best way that I can – get information out to the public for its consumption and try to ensure that the CCACS operates, in my opinion, in the most transparent way possible, by providing my input to the CCACS from time to time

Note from the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society:

The Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society is a BC registered non-profit society founded in June, 2010. Leah Selk, appointed in March 2011, is the Society's Coordinator and sole employee. The Society's purposes as defined in its constitution are (a) to support artistic and cultural organizations and events in the Central Cariboo, (b) to facilitate, coordinate and assist in the development of arts and culture in the Central Cariboo, (c) to provide strategic advice on arts and culture to local governments and other organizations and (d) to educate the public with respect to arts and culture matters.  The Society also has a contract with the City of Williams Lake to manage the Central Cariboo Arts Centre.

Most effort to date has gone into renovating the Arts Centre and establishing policies for its use. The Society's contract specifies that arts and culture groups or related activities be given preference in the use of the Arts Centre and designated studio space is allocated to three arts groups – the Cariboo Art Society, Cariboo Potters' Guild, and the Williams Lake Spinners, Weavers and Fibre Artists' Guild. However, this is not to say that the Centre is closed to anyone else—far from it.  In fact since the Society took over its management in February 2011, the Great Room of the Centre has been regularly used by a variety of groups for meetings, rehearsals, workshops, fundraisers and community events. And the list of future bookings continues to grow.

Leah's office is located in the basement of the Arts Centre. She is generally onsite from Monday to Friday during regular business hours, unless otherwise posted. She is also available via email at info@centralcaribooarts.com or by phone at 778-412-9044. If you would like to discuss how you could make use of the Arts Centre or the Society's services or if you would simply like a tour of the facilities, please do not hesitate to contact Leah.

Poll Question - What ssues will matter to you during the Local Gov't Election in November

This past week - I've been running a poll question on the following - What Issues matter to you during the Local Government Election in November?

Here are the results out of 22 total votes cast:

Ethics at WL City Hall - 13 votes or 61% of all votes cast
Crime - 7 votes or 33% of all votes cast
Fire Hall Budget Overrun - 6 votes or 28% of all votes cast
Local Economy - 4 votes or 19% of all votes cast
Move of Station House Gallery - 3 votes or 14% of all votes cast
Property Taxes - 1 vote or 4% of all votes cast

Thanks to all who participated in this weekly poll however I was quite surprised about so many voting for Ethics at WL City Hall being a major election issue during this fall's municipal vote.  However, I was not surprised to see Crime and the Fire Hall Budget Overrun issues still being top of mind for local voters as Crime has been a campaign issue since the 2002 civic election.  On the Fire Hall Budget Overrun, most residents' that I run into have deep concerns about how that was handled, given we should have budget lessons from the Tourism Discovery Centre project.

Next week's Poll Question will be:

Who will you be supporting for Mayor of Williams Lake on November 19th:

a) Kerry Cook (Incumbent)
b) Walt Cobb
c) Scott Nelson
d) None of the above

Email to the Provincial Inspector of Muncipalities (Updated)

Earlier today - I blogged on the fact that all local governments must hand in their 2010 Audited Financial Statements not later than Monday, May 15th as per Section 167(4) of the Community Charter. 

The following local governments in the Cariboo-Chilcotin have either recieved or receive/adopt their 2010 Audited Financial Statements:

1) District of Wells - recieve/adopt
2) City of Quesnel - recieve/adopt
3) District of 100 Mile House - recieve only
4) Cariboo Regional District Board - recieve/adopt

In light of the fact that the City of Williams Lake has not, as of this writing, received its' 2010 Audited Financial Statements but yet was able to adopt the 2011 Budget/5-Year Financial Plan, I sent Mike Furey - the Province's Inspector of Muncipalities the following email re: extension of time to submit the 2010 Audited Financial Statements from the City of WL and I'll let you know when I get a response:

Good day, Mr. Furey:


My name is Steve Forseth and I reside in Williams Lake. I’m a local political blogger reporting on local, provincial and federal political matters. In accordance with Section 167(4) of the Community Charter, a local government (municipal council/regional district board) is required to file, by May 15th, with your office a copy of the following:


1) Annual Financial Statement
2) Tax Levy Bylaw
3) Annual Budget/5-Year Financial Plan Bylaw


It is the requirement of the filing of the audited financial statement that is of concern to me. As of this writing, the City of Quesnel, Districts of 100 Mile House & Wells and the Cariboo Regional District Board have either adopted or received their 2010 Audited Financial Statements and would be in a position to file them in accordance with the Community Charter. The City of Williams Lake, again as of this writing, as not had its’ 2010 Financial Statements (Audited) before its’ Council for ratification and submission to the Office of the Inspector of Municipalities


One question I have is – can a local government request an extension to the May 15th deadline to file the annual audited financial statements or is the May 15th a “drop-dead” date and it must be met


Any information you can provide, via email, is greatly appreciated. If a response to this could be expedited ASAP, that too would be greatly appreciated


Cheers,


Steve Forseth
Williams Lake, BC


Email – sforseth@shaw.ca or sforseth000@hotmail.com

UPDATE - Response from the Ministry of Community, Sport and Culture:

May 15 is a date set in legislation so there is no ability to grant an extension. However, each year there are a few local governments that are unable to meet this deadline for a variety of reasons. The Office of the Inspector works with the local governments who have not met the deadline to ensure that they are working towards completion of the required financial information and make it available to the Inspector and for public inspection as soon as possible

Local Gov't Audited Financial Statements Due May 13th

Over at CivicInfoBC - a website for all things local government, they advise that all local governments must  have their Audited Financial Statements for the previous year submitted to Victoria (Inspector of Muncipalities) not later than Friday, May 13th, in accordance with Sections 167(4) of the Community Charter and Section 814(3) of the Local Government Act

So far - The City of Quesnel, the Districts of 100 Mile House/Wells and the Cariboo Regional District have received and Quesnel, Wells, and the CRD Board have adopted last year's (2010) financial statements and 100 Mile, Quesnel, Wells and the Cariboo Regional District are in a position to submit their 2010 Audited Financial Statements per the requirements of the Community Charter/Local Government Act

Questions - WL Council has not received, as of this writing, the 2010 Audited Financial Statements so has Williams Lake City Staff asked for an extension to the deadline of May 13th?  If not, why not?  And how would the Inspector of Muncipalities respond to such a request for filing the 2010 Audited Financial Statements late?

Public Consultation on City of WL New OCP May 16th

The City of Williams Lake will hold a public consultation session on the new Official Community Plan (OCP) on Monday, May 16, from 6 to 8 p.m. in City Council Chambers at City Hall.

Council has given first reading to the new OCP, and is scheduled to hold a
final public hearing and could adopt the plan at its June 7th meeting. The May 16th session is to offer another chance for the public to provide its input on the plan, the overarching document for the City that will guide the development of other policies, plans, projects, practices and procedures.

The City has undertaken extensive public consultation for the past two years, through the Imagine Our Future –Integrated Community Sustainability Plan process, and then with the OCP, as the City works with residents to Create Our Future.

What is the Purpose of the OCP?

The OCP serves as a foundation for all policies, regulations, and decisions
pertaining to land use and development in a municipality. The Plan provides
guidance for economic, environmental, physical design and development, and
social considerations. It promotes quality of life, future growth, community
development, economic, environmental and social well-being, provision of
amenities and services, and transportation systems envisioned by the community.

The OCP is intended to provide a degree of certainty for the future of our
community. As a result, it is expected that revisions will not be made on a frequent basis but the Plan must be flexible in responding to changing conditions and values. This version of the OCP is expected to guide the City up to 2016. At that time, the Plan may be reviewed and updated as necessary.

How Can I Read the Draft OCP?

The Draft Official Community Plan can be downloaded from the City’s website at www.williamslake.ca  or you can contact Ken MacInnis at 250-392-8488 to request a hard copy.

Tuesday News Wrap

In the Williams Lake Tribune:

* Tribune names new publisher/sales manager - see here
* Deni House renovation contractor named - see here
* 2 New Mines south of Williams Lake to be in operation by 3rd Quarter of 2013 - see here
* Local residents warns of wood ticks - see here
* $200,000 given to BC Cattleman Association for Predator Control - see here
* BC Premier Clark: The HST will be "fixed" - see here

In the Quesnel Cariboo Observer:

* Quesnel Millionaires ownership group has formally received an offer to move the team to Chilliwack.  See more details here however yesterday afternoon, Quesnel Mayor Mary Sjostrom expressed her sadness that the Millionaires are likely to move however firmly re-doubled her belief that the North-Cariboo Multi-Centre should be built

A Research with the Steelworkers' Union was charged with uttering threats against sitting Vancouver-Mt. Pleasant MLA Jenny Kwan.  See that story here.  I was saddened to read this but hopefully he's learned his lesson that you can have civil/polite disagreement even when your views differ greatly from others without resorting to threats or violence when participating in our democracy - whether local, regional, provincial or federal.  Note - The Steelworkers' Union have directed expressed their "regret" to Ms. Kwan that this incident occured from a Steelworkers' Union staff member and doesn't reflect the views of the Union generally

In Kamloops-area news:

* Ashcroft Council will raise taxes a whopping 20% and residents' are none too happy about it.  See here

In Provincial News:

* Vancouver Sun Political Columnist Vaughn Palmer reviews how Christy Clark's campaign in Vancouver-Pt Grey operating on Cruise Control.  See here  Also, Kamloops BC Conservative Director Alan Forseth looks at the implications of the Vancouver-Pt Grey By-Election for Ms. Clark herself.  See that piece here
*

Monday Wrap

Over at Welcome to Williams Lake:

* Story on autistic boy going missing at Marie Sharpe Elementary - see here
* Story on man who died in upper Boitanio Park, close to Highway #97 South- see here
* Ulkatcho Band elects new Chief - see here

Reminder - That the Canadian Census Form that should have arrived in your mailbox by now and MUST be filled out and mailed off by tomorrow (Tuesday, May 10th).  Failure to do so will earn you a fine of $500 and/or jail time.  The Cities of Williams Lake/Quesnel and the Districts of Wells/100 Mile House and the Cariboo Regional District strongly needs all residents to fill out their paper census form or fill out online at http://www.census2011.gc.ca as the information you provide to Ottawa directly relates to how much grant money each City/District or the CRD Board receives from Ottawa

I filled out my census form online and it took a mere 5-7 mins and I suspect filling out the paper form will take just as long and there should be no cost to send the census form back to Ottawa.

CRD Board Highlights - May 6th meeting

Ministry of Forest, Lands & Natural Resource Operations

Gerry MacDougall, Regional Executive Director – Cariboo Region, Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, presented information to the Board about the Ministry of Forest, Lands and Natural Resources. The focus of the presentation was the structure of the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations. MacDougall was joined in the meeting by Darrell Orosz, Manager of the Cariboo Fire Centre, who provided a brief overview of current staffing and equipment levels, the building of relationships within the region and an outlook for the 2011 fire season.

Community Works Funding for McLeese Lake

The Cariboo Regional District will provide up to $30,000 of Community Works Funding to the McLeese Lake Recreation Society for renovations and energy improvements to the McLeese Lake Community Hall. Projects include lighting upgrades, installing insulation to the outside walls and, if possible, any other related minor repairs. The lighting upgrades will improve the energy efficiency of the building, resulting in annual energy savings of approximately 4,800 KWH. The new insulation will increase the R-value of the building envelope, resulting in increased energy efficiency.

Federal Funding Approved for Anahim Lake Airport

Recently the CRD was advised by Transport Canada that its Airport Capital Assistance Program (ACAP) application for up to $171,320 for the purchase of runway sweeping equipment for the Anahim Lake Airport was approved. The runway sweeper is necessary to assist with improved winter maintenance and will result in fewer cancelled flights. Winter maintenance at the airport is provided as part of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure highways contract, currently under agreement with Interior Roads Ltd (IRL). Although the runway sweeper will be operated and maintained by IRL, it will remain a capital asset of the airport. The funding provided by the ACAP program is for 100 percent of the purchase cost of the equipment including delivery to Anahim Lake.

C2C

The CRD Emergency Planning program will be applying to the Union of British Columbia Municipalities’ Community to Community funding program for two forums. The Regional District intends to invite First Nations to initiate dialogue, training and agreements that will facilitate organized and combined responses to emergency events that affect civilians of both First Nations and CRD communities.

BCCFA Comes to 100 Mile House

In celebration of the Cariboo Regional District’s (CRD) 2010-2011 Forest Capital of Canada designation and the new 100 Mile House Community Forest, the District of 100 Mile House and CRD are hosting the 2011 British Columbia Community Forest Association (BCCFA) AGM and Conference, June 9-11, 2011. Over 100 delegates will gather at the 100 Mile House Community Hall for this annual community forest networking and information sharing event.

On The Road Again

On June 16 and 17, 2011, the Cariboo Regional District Board of Directors will be travelling to the 150 Mile House Community Hall for the first of two Board on the Road events for 2011. Residents of Area F will be treated to a community barbecue on Thursday, June 16 from 5 to 7 p.m. while the regularly scheduled Board meeting will take place on Friday morning starting at 9:30am. All residents are welcome to attend.

Incandescent Light Bulbs

Environment Canada (EC) recently announced the incandescent light bulb ban will be delayed for an additional two years to allow further time to address constituent concerns regarding the health and environmental impacts of Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs. The CRD is also taking this issue forward as a resolution to the North Central Local Government Association Conference and AGM being held in Prince Rupert May 11-13, 2011. CRD Director’s will be attending the NCLGA to ensure the Cariboo Chilcotin is represented and has a voice in northern BC and the province. Over 300 delegates representing local governments from 100 Mile House to the Yukon border are expected to attend.

Upcoming Events

Forest Capital of Canada Speaker Series – 7 p.m. nightly

100 Mile House – May 17 – The Lodge (the Valley Room)
Williams Lake - May 18 - Council Chambers
Quesnel - May 19 - Council Chambers

Declarations

Local Government Awareness Week – May 16-22, 2011

Next Board Meeting

Friday, May 27, 2011

Williams Lake Council Races - Mayor and Councillor

With roughly four months to go prior to the official campaigning season for the local government elections in November - I thought I would just take an opportunity to review some of the people who are likely to run in November's election:

Williams Lake Mayor:

3 names floating around:

1) Kerry Cook - incumbent Mayor
2) Scott Nelson - former Mayor and name most mentioned as I walk in town
3) Walt Cobb - also former Mayor, MLA (Cariboo-South) and current President of the local Chamber of Commerce and Williams Lake Tribune columnist

Other Mayoralty candidates may include:

* Jason Ryll - Mr. Ryll could also run for Councillor as well and probably could be elected, given his name recognition in our community
* Dr. Elmer Thiessen - ran in 2005 and came in 3rd out of a 4 person race for Mayor.  I've been assured that Dr. Thiessen does not, at this time, intend to seek election in the 2011 muncipal election

Williams Lake City Councillor:

Using the 2008 General Election List for Councillor candidates as a starting point - here is my suspected list of candidates (again - these are my own thoughts and I haven't necessary discussed same with the listed people)

1) Tom Barr - incumbent (I expect he'll run unless he decides otherwise.  Reasons not to run could include age (Mr. Barr will be 73 this year and in addition, he looks after his own business - Comer Station Pub.  He also lost his wife, Kathy, to cancer last year and may play a part whether or not he decides to soldier on for a 3rd consecutive term)

2) SPS Rathor - incumbent (Bank on the fact he'll seek an 7th term and he'll win and be at the top of the poll for most votes. 

3) Laurie Walters - incumbent.  Although Ms. Walters and I do disagree on a number of things, I suspect she is enjoying her role as City Councillor and pending a mis-read of the voters, she'll run and get a 2nd term on Council

4) Geoff Bourdon - incumbent.  Mr. Bourdon and I do agree on a number of things and he appears to enjoy what he is doing.  I'm counting on him to ask for re-election.  Now - will he be re-elected, depends on what he is seeking re-election for and whether this community will agree with it or not

5) Sue Zacharias - incumbent.  Ms. Zacharias and myself do not agree on a number of things, just like Councillor Walters however Ms. Zacharias is fairly well known in Williams Lake.  If she decides to run for re-election, one issue she'll have to deal with is the throny matter around her company, United Concrete and whether or not she had any involvement with the cement portion of the Mackenzie Avenue Rehab Project.  For the record - I've discussed with her and she absolutely denies any involvement with this matter.  Can she win - again, depends on what she is seeking re-election for and whether or not the community of Williams Lake agrees with her

6) Wayne Reeves - ran in both the 2005/2008 Muncipal elections and I heard suggestions that he is considering doing the same.  Mr. Reeves is a former Constiency assistant to Walt Cobb, when he was the MLA for Cariboo-South for 2001-2005.  It'll be interesting to see if Mr. Reeves decides to run for a 3rd time.  Mr. Reeves would only need to get (assuming 11 Councillor candidates) an additional 95 votes

7) Don Fornwald - ran in the 2008 Muncipal election and lost.  Got 1,104 votes and came in 8th place.  To get elected (assuming 11 Councillor candidates), he'll need to get an additional 104 votes

8) Judy O'Neill/Sheila Mortensen - both have assured me that they have no intention of seeking re-election

9) Chuck Pearson - provincially prohibited from running in this fall's civic election, due to not failing the requirement financial disclosure form by the spring of 2009.  He can run for election in November of 2014

Other possible contenders could include:

* Terry Tyab - ran in 2005, was prohibited in 2008 from running, again didn't fail her financial disclosure form in the spring of 2006

* Richard Kohlen - ran in 2005
* Richard Vollo - ran in 2005
* Steve Forseth - ran in 2005 (City of WL), 2008 (CRD - Area 'F').  I'll be discussing this very possibility this September so stay tuned
* Mike Orr - ran in 2005 (not sure if he's still in our area)
* Julian Morgan - ran in 2005 (currently works for ICBC as a Driver Examiner)
* Dean Fulton - currently is a singer for Soupbone and is a freelance columnist with the Williams Lake Tribune

Meanwhile - over at the Cariboo Regional District:

My read is Electoral Areas A, C, G, H, I, J, K will see acclamations

Area 'B' - current Director is Roberta Faust.  Seems to enjoy what she is doing however with health challenges over the last while - she may decide that the job is too much relative to if her health can stand up for another 3 year term.  Also - former Area 'B' Director Ken Falloon may decide to take another run at her in November.

Area 'D' - current Director is Deb Bischoff.  In my conversations with her - she truly enjoys her role as the Area 'D' Director.  However, at this year's 2011 Town Hall meeting, Area 'D' resident Bobby Lloyd asked some hard hitting questions around the most recent Duncan Barnett court case involving the CRD and Director Bischoff, as a sworn elected official, can not answer these questions.  It is within the realm of possibilities that a Bischoff vs Lloyd fight for the Area 'D' Directorship is possible.  I've also heard, via the grapevine, that others in Wildwood (part of Area 'D') may try to challenge Ms. Bischoff to get her defeated.  Stay tuned - the Area 'D' election might get interesting. 

Pls Note - Area 'D' has had a signficant turn-over of Directors since 2002.

2002-2005 - Tim Pennell
2005-2008 - Sue Zacharias
2008-2011 - Deb Bischoff

Area 'E' - current Director is Steve Mazur.  Mr. Mazur, from what I can observe, throughly enjoys his role as the Area 'E' Director and although there was the throny issue around issuing a DVP (Development Variance Permit) for Lee Bunce at the Flett Subdivision, which according to Flett subdivision residents has a "residential-only" convenant, he has done a decent job since then and may get acclaimed in November.  But the possibility of an election does exist if Flett subdivision decide they want to make an election issue over the DVP issueance. 

Area 'F' - current Director is Joan Sorley.  Ms. Sorley, from a field of 3 candidates, was elected earlier this year in a by-election.  I would be very surprised if Ms. Sorley were to be challenged this November.  At the end of the day - I believe Area 'F' residents desire to give Ms. Sorley a chance to govern for another 3 year term, plus the remainder of Mr. Barnett's elected term of 2008-2011 before passing judgement on whether or not she's been a good representative of Area 'F'.  No - there'll be no election here, in my opinion

Area 'L' - current Director is Bruce Rattray.  Very progressive Director, runs his own website at http://www.brucerattray.ca and let's his voters' know what is going on in Area 'L' and what is coming up at the Cariboo Regional District.  Mr. Rattray has been busy with development proposals in his Area in addition to resolving the issue of an OCP (Official Community Plan) for Green Lake (which half is in his Electoral Area and half is in Area 'E' of the Thompson-Nicola Regional District)

However, former Area 'L' Director Maureen Pinkey is back in 100 Mile serving as a Director for the South Cariboo Chamber of Commerce.  Could Ms. Pinkey decide to seek the Area 'L' Directorship once again??  Possible, but we'll have to wait and see what happens. 

Stay informed as the local government elections throughout the Cariboo Chilcotin will be interesting to follow and hopefully everyone will be engaged as candidates come to your door for support.  Don't forget to ask them the tough questions that may be on your mind including crime, property taxes, local jobs, spending at your muncipal hall or the Cariboo Regional District

Local Gov't Meetings in Cariboo-Chilcotin - Week of May 9-13

With all local governments in the Cariboo-Chilcotin attending the NCLGA (North-Central Local Gov't Association) AGM this upcoming week (see the NCLGA AGM Agenda here), May 11-13, in Prince Rupert, it'll be a pretty quiet scene for local government meetings

Monday, May 9th - City of Quesnel:

Public Hearing/Delegation Session and Special Council Meeting which all starts at 7pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (410 Kinchant St)

See the Agenda/Reports here

Thursday, May 12th - City of Williams Lake

Public Consultation Meeting #1 (Steel Shipping Containers) which goes from 7-9pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St)

Friday, May 13th - Cariboo Regional District

Local author D'Arcy Christensen will visit the CRD Williams Lake Library (180 North 3rd Avenue - across from WL and District Credit Union) at 7pm - see here for more details

Two Final Points:

1) At an event I was attending last night, I was asked for an update to the Duncan Barnett vs CRD Court Case #2 and I wanted to advise my blog readers that I have learned that the court case has been moved into mediation for resolution so hopefully the CRD/Mr. Barnett can settle out of court and thereby saving CRD taxpayers' money for legal fees, etc

2) For a period of time - the local Board of Education for School District #27 has been at the beginning of their meetings acknowledging the fact that they (Board of Education) are meeting on the traditional territory of the Shuswap people or Secwepemc.  Yesterday - I emailed Williams Lake Mayor Kerry Cook and suggested that WL Council should do the same at its' Regular/Special Council Meetings as a form of respect to our First Nations neighbours.  Pls Note - the City of Williams Lake has included a chapter on First Nations in our new OCP (Official Community Plan).  Yesterday afternoon, I received the following response:

Hi Steve,

this is something that we have put in the OCP. I agree wholeheartedly on the importance.

Thanks for your comments.

Unfortunately - this was not quite the answer I was looking for.  This doesn't require a change to any City of WL Bylaw except the Mayor agreeing that she will do this at the beginning of all future WL Council meetings for the remainder of the current term.  If she needs time to consult with the Northern Shuswap Tribal Council (NSTC), then go and consult with them but I can't reasonably see how the NSTC would be opposed to this.  Hopefully - she'll have a change of heart between now and May 24th (next regularly scheduled WL Council meeting)

But I congratulate the local Board of Education for signifying respect to local First Nations that they are meeting on their traditional territory and both WL Council/CRD Board should do the same at its' meetings' as a sign of respect to our First Nation neighbours

Public Consultation to discontinue flouride to start this summer

Editor's Note - see below for press release from the City.  However, when will the City ever learn that on a topic so serious as this (continue to put flouride in City of WL's water) and controversial, it should do the consultations in the fall (Sept - Nov) and just put the question on the ballot for November's civic election.  This in light of the fact that during the summer - Williams Lake residents' minds will be at the beach and campsite and certainly not on matters pertaining to City operations....Just sayin'

A report from the City’s Water Advisory Committee, received by council at the May 2 council meeting, recommends that the municipality investigate whether Williams Lake should continue to inject hydrofluorisilisic acid (fluoride) into the City’s water system. This follows a report from the World Health organization last summer that recommends the same examination by municipalities, as the public receives fluoride in the form of food, drink, and oral hygiene products such as toothpaste and mouthwash. Some studies have also shown that municipalities that inject fluoride into their water systems can have a significant reduction in the number of cavities in children than those communities that do not fluoridate their water supply.

In order to discontinue fluoridation of the City’s water, the Fluoride Bylaw, passed in 1969 by referendum, must be repealed either by referendum or by ministerial order. The City will embark on the communication and public consultation strategy in order to fully inform residents about fluoridation in Williams Lake before a referendum or application to the provincial Minister of Health.

At the May 3 meeting, Council authorized staff to retain the services of Communication Services Inc. to develop a communication and public consultation strategy regarding the discontinuation of the fluoridation of the city’s water system. Council authorized up to $33,000 plus disbursements to be paid from the Water Fund.

“This is an issue we expect will generate a lot of public interest and debate, and there is a lot of information to share,” says Mayor Kerry Cook. “We want to ensure we know exactly what Williams Lake residents want to know, and we want to hear from residents before any decisions are made.”
Until 2005, the City of Williams Lake injected fluoride out of 45 gallon drums into the water system. The City does not currently inject fluoride into the water system, due to the City having to upgrade the fluoride handling and dispensing facilities.

When the City upgraded its fluoride room at its Scout Island Well Field to meet with WCB standards, it was designed for 1,100 litre totes, which the municipality purchased as part of this upgrade. During the upgrade of the Fluoride room, the City’s current supplier of fluoride no longer refills 1,100 liter totes in British Columbia and the City’s purchasing department is unable to locate any other supplier in the province that will supply fluoride in this manner for this type of container. The cost of ordering totes from the current supplier in Manitoba totals $94,400 per year. The City currently budgets $22,246 for fluoridation.

It is expected public consultation will begin this summer.

Sobering Centre for Williams Lake?

Rush reporter Greg Fry asked Williams Lake Mayor Kerry Cook about the possibility of a "sobering centre" for alcoholics in Williams Lake?

See her answer here

However, as one City taxpayer, I have some questions which include:

1) Who pays for the Staff/Operations of this centre?
2) What kind of supports will be available at this centre?
3) Where will this centre be located?
4) Will Interior Health or the Provincial Gov't help with the funding or operations of this centre?

This item has been discussed for a number of years locally but until the above question can be answered plus more and given Interior Health's previous rejection of a drug/alcohol centre here in the Central Cariboo - I believe more homework/lobbying needs to take place before a "sobering" centre becomes reality. 

City of WL taxpayers, alone, should not bear 100% costs for such a centre

Increased Parking Ticket Fines in City of WL

The City of Williams Lake would like to inform residents that parking tickets with increased fines will begin to be issued in the coming weeks.

The Bylaw sets the fines for parking violations at $75, with Class A and Class B violations reduced to a $25 fine if paid within five calendar days. These violations include overparking in one- or two-hour zones, parking for over 48 hours, and parking more than 12 inches from the curb.

The increased fines were adopted by Council on April 5 in order to encourage the prompt payment of parking tickets. 60 per cent of parking tickets go unpaid, creating the unnecessary burden of having to pursue unpaid tickets.

When a ticket goes unpaid, the costs associated with processing a ticket largely outweigh the costs of the initial ticket, and this increase for failing to pay a ticket (within the allotted time) is meant to cover paperwork costs and court time officers spend waiting in court to prosecute these unpaid fines.

Residents can still challenge the ticket and proceed with all the previous steps of appeal if they feel the
ticket was given in error.

City of WL Public Consultation Meeting on Shipping Containers next week

The City of Williams Lake will hold public consultation sessions May 12 and May 19 to discuss regulating the use of metal shipping containers within City limits.

The sessions, from 7 to 9 p.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall, will provide an opportunity for property owners to learn about and provide input to proposed amendments to Zoning Bylaw No. 1825 with regards to the use of metal shipping containers in residential, commercial, and industrial zones.

The proposed amendments will allow shipping containers on residential property on a temporary basis only, and will require a permit. Commercial and industrial properties would be permitted to have the containers on a temporary or permanent basis, but they must be screened from view in the case of a permanent container.

“Consultation is crucial any time the City looks at changing a bylaw,” says Senior Bylaw Officer Brad McRae. “I encourage everyone with an interest to attend and offer their input.”

Provincial News - April 6th edition

* Vancouver Province political columnist Mike Smyth blasts judges salary demands - see here

* Vancouver Sun political columnist Vaughn Palmer reviews what the outcome of a vote to turf the HST later this year could mean for the Province and it isn't good for the Province's reputation on tax policy - see here

* Globe and Mail reporter Ian Bailey reports that BC Premier Christy Clark is looking at ways to lessen the impact of the HST on families - see here

* Vancouver Sun columnist Don Cayo asks: Does BC sell itself short on natural gas? - see here

Local Gov't News - April 6th edition

1) Local Gov't Awareness Week - May 16-22

At Tuesday's WL Council meeting, the City of WL CAO (B. Carruthers) announced, upon a question from WL City Councillor SPS Rathor, that this year's Local Gov't Awareness events at WL City Hall would be solely limited to hosting a meeting with candidates for this November's civic election.

This saddens me greatly as we have dropped an opportunity to teach the younger generation about local government, as the City did last year.  In times past, even before the emphasis on local gov't awareness, there was always a meeting with candidates around local government election law and what to do and not do.  Hopefully we'll return in 2012 to the practice around showing the youth how local government works and how it affects them and their parents.

Given the Cariboo Regional District is a "local government" for the rural areas, I'd like to see a partnership between the CRD and School Districts #27 + 28 around showing how the CRD Board affects them and their parents, given students come from a huge portion of the Cariboo Regional District, outside of Wells, Quesnel, Williams Lake, and 100 Mile House and that a tour of some sort at the CRD Boardroom with CRD Staff/Chair be done in 2012 or 2013

Also - UBCM released its 4th version for a guide to Local Government in BC - see here

Finally - last Friday (April 29th) - CUPE workers in Courtenay rejected an agreement with Courtenay City Council and set to strike.  In a "war of words" - CUPE put out an information sheet with circumstances similiar to our own here (City Managers getting double-digit increases).  See their "Financial Facts" here with the CUPE press release here

Question - With the 20% wage hike for certain City Managers in Williams Lake, will the local City workers union (IUOE) try the same trick, as CUPE, to get wage fairness for their workers in 2012?  I wouldn't be surprised.  I wonder by approved these double-digit wage increase for City Staff, what the current City Council have set us up for next year's negotations with IUOE (International Union of Operating Engineers). Guess we'll find out in about a year...the collective agreement expires July 1st, 2012

2) Building Permit Numbers (Year-end comparison) - City of Williams Lake:

The Cariboo Regional District reports to the end of March 2010, the City of Williams Lake had total construction value of $5,072,600.  However, in March 2011 - the City saw a drop in construction value to $1,923,000 or a drop of 38% in construction value 2010 vs 2011.  Obviously, you won't see the City promoting this in the run-up to November's election

3) 2010 Tax Burden in the Cariboo-Chilcotin

Recently - the Ministry of Community, Sport and Culture released its figures on the 2010 tax burden for an average home.  From bigger to least - here is the average tax burden (Property Taxes & Fees/Charges)on an home in Wells/Quesnel/Williams Lake and 100 Mile House;

1) Williams Lake - $2,616
2) 100 Mile House - $2,284
3) Quesnel - $2,164
4) Wells - $1,378

Local Newswrap - April 6th edition

In Quesnel:

* Deal to sell Quesnel Millionaires appears likely - see here
* Review of May 3rd Quesnel Council Meeting - see here

In Williams Lake:

* Alkali Lk Indian Band moves to a different form of housing for its' members - see here
* Following a Public Hearing, WL Council moves to adopt the Secondary Suite Bylaws which regulates Secondary Suites in R-1 (Single Family Homes) with an additional 20% water/sewer fees for R-1 homes with secondary suites - see here
* Former Williams Lake Tribune Publisher Lorne Doerksen says his official goodbye to Tribune readers - see here (Note - Mr. Doerksen now works at Cariboo GM as its' Sales Manager)
* Independent Cariboo-North MLA Bob Simpson reviews how the legislative process at the BC Legislature could engage the public more effectively - see here

In 100 Mile House:

* 100 Mile Council reviews its' 2010 Financial Statements - see here
* 100 Mile Councillor wants to promote 100 Mile House during local soccer tourney - see here
* Changes proposed for the CRD Interlakes OCP (Official Community Plan) - see here
* Clancy's Restaurant fire cause undetermined but owners' plan to rebuild - see here
* Cdn Federation of Indp. Business offers wish list to BC Premier Christy Clark - see here

City of Quesnel applauds Rotary Club donation

The ongoing development of West Fraser Timber Park continues with news of a generous contribution to the City of Quesnel from the Rotary Club of Quesnel. The $22,000 donation will result in the installation of five, outdoor ENERGI stations in West Fraser Timber Park, designed to provide stretching, strengthening, balancing and conditioning exercises. The stations are located near the children's playground, bordering the Babe Ruth ball diamond outfield fence.

The funds had been set aside for some time by the Rotary Club for specific development of a youth and activity oriented project. The 2010 Rotary Radio-TV auction added to the available funding, making for an even better project.

The donation covers the cost of the equipment as well as concrete pouring and finishing. The City provided site preparation and equipment installation. The equipment will be on display during Move for Health Day on Saturday May 7, with an official opening ceremony set for 1:45 p.m. A fitness leader will be on site between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to demonstrate safe use of the equipment.

"This club has done so much to improve accessibility and active lifestyles through their generous donations to the City. On behalf of City Council I thank them for the many hours of volunteer service to our community," said Quesnel Mayor Mary Sjostrom. "I am pleased with the ongoing development of the West Fraser Timber Park under the stewardship of our dedicated West Fraser Timber Park Advisory Committee and its chair Coun. Peter Couldwell. This new exercise equipment has the capacity to greatly improve the health and wellness of its users, while adding yet another feature to this beautiful park."

"The Rotary Club of Quesnel is proud to continue to support community investments such as this one," said Club President John Havens. "Improving physical activity levels, especially amongst our youth and seniors, is a worthy goal. We're happy to have worked with the City of Quesnel on this rewarding project."

Union Bay Improvement District sues local blogger

In an interesting development, the Vancouver Sun reports that the Union Bay Improvement District, near Courtenay, on Vancouver Island, and with a operating surplus of $208,000 has spent $118,000 in legal fees to sue a local blogger for the following:

* A caricature that portrayed the board's chairman as Barney Fife, the bumbling deputy sheriff in the sleepy southern town of Mayberry, from the early 1960s television comedy The Andy Griffith Show

* Comments about whether the romantic relationship between a trustee on the improvement district board and an executive from a development company (the couple eventually wed) that was negotiating with the district created a conflict of interest.

* Accusations that board members put themselves in an apparent conflict of interest by publicly supporting a developer's plans while serving on the board that was negotiating arrangements essential to the developer obtaining zoning approval.

* The gadfly's mocking of an email from the board, which told the blogger she was being treated as respectfully as any other landowner, but to which had inadvertently been appended a note to other trustees that included a derogatory comment about the blogger's intelligence

It'll be interesting to follow the Court's ruling on this lawsuit and what effect it'll have on local bloggers', like myself and others, throughout BC

See the story here

Wrap on May 3rd WL Council Meeting

A number of issues were greatly perused at last night's WL Council Meeting:

1) DVP #3-2011

A fair bit of discussion on this item but Councillor Barr had it right when he suggested that the DVP be referred back to the City's Advisory Planning Commission (APC)for review, given it didn't have quorum when this matter was reviewed by the APC at its' April 26th meeting and might have had a different result, had the City's APC its' full 6 members available to discuss this item.  Council can, at its' pleasure, refer an item (DVP/Bylaw) back to Staff or an Advisory Committee if it so wishes for reasons expressed by Council.  In fact, Director Bischoff did the same on an Agriculture Land Commission (ALC) application with the Area 'D' APC because new information came to light and the Area 'D' Director wanted to ensure that, given the new information, the Area 'D' APC was still comfortable with this recommendation to approve the ALC application. Interesting that Councillor Zacharias stood by City Staff, which is fine in most cases, however Council has the moral duty to take all (public, APC, Staff)input and then make an appropriate decision.  Staff, like anyone else, is not always correct

2) Secondary Suites

Given the comments on my blog regarding the 20% utility fee for secondary suites, Councillor Natalie Hebert said the following while discussing adopting the Secondary Suites Bylaws:

It's only another $8.50 a month while water meters are $400"

Nice of her to say that while she's not sticking around for November's civic elections.  If the City makes new home construction include water meters then old homes should also include water meters at City expense.  Let's call it for what it is - a money grab under the file of "Safety". 

Secondary Suites Policy in Williams Lake + Affordable Housing + WL Council = Hypocrisy

3) Public Information Day (May 7th) + Mayor Cook

WL City Hall recently published a change to its' meeting schedule, namely moving the May 10th WL Council meeting to last night.  However, I was approached by an individual who was upset that the City didn't advertise this "outside" of WL City Hall (ie: Local Media/City's webpage).  I informed this invididual that I had suggested previously to Mayor Cook that all notices of Council meetings (Regular, Closed or In-Camera and Joint Committee) should be published either in the local papers and on the City website.  While Regular Meeting dates are currently posted on the local papers, changes to the meeting dates are not as widely advertised as they could, Joint Committee Meetings are not advertised and neither is In-Camera Meetings.  Also, Mayor Cook, in her typical "I don't care" fashion, skipped "Roundtable Comments" as laid out in the City's Procedure Bylaw.  If she wanted to skip it, she only  needed to ask for a motion to set aside that portion of the Agenda. 

Does Mayor Cook think she's above the law (Procedure Bylaw)?

Given Public Information Day in the City of Williams Lake is on May 7th - Mayor Cook should re-dedicate herself to the following and this could be done before the end of the term and may get her new supporters prior to November's election but I sincerely doubt she will do this:

1) Publish Dates of All Regular Meetings of WL Council/Central Cariboo Joint Committee and any changes thereto in the local papers, City Website and at WL City Hall

2) Publish In-Camera Agendas (City of Castlegar does this already and has done for a number of years)

WL Council Highlights - May 3rd Meeting

Present:

Mayor Cook and Councillors’ Barr, Bourdon, Hébert, Rathor, Walters and Zacharias

Staff Present:

Brian Carruthers – CAO
Geoff Goodall – GM of Planning and Operations
Cindy Bouchard – Manager of Legislative Services
Lilliana Dragowska – Planner
Annie McKitrick – A/Manager of Social Development
Pat Higgins – Director of Finance
Cindy Walters – Planning Clerk

Meeting called to order at 6:04pm
Minutes of April 19th WL Council meeting adopted

Delegations:

1) Mayor Cook presented Beeotcheese (Local Business), Potters Guild and Hospital Ladies Auxiliary with “Community Spirit Certificates”
2) Abbi Taylor/Ana Lomatavu, from the Junior Council, updated Council on its’ activities
3) Trevor Barnes/Bettina Schoen, from the local Mental Health Association, updated Council on a Suicide/Sudden Death Postvention Protocol. See the protocol here

Business:

1) After an oral review from the City Planner – Council gave 1st Reading to OCP Bylaw #2140. The bylaw will be now reviewed on May 17th by the City’s Advisory Planning Commission. A Public Open House on the OCP will be held on Monday, May 16th

Councillor Walters declared a conflict of interest on the next item as the applicant is related to her family

2) Council gave 2nd reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw #2132 (Ry-Ty Holdings)

Councillor Walters returned to Council Chambers

Council recessed at 7pm for the Public Hearing on Bylaws #2130,2131 and 2134 (Secondary Suites
Council resumed its’ meeting at 7:30pm

3) After receiving 5 delegations and debating whether or not to refer DVP #3-2011 back to the City’s Advisory Planning Commission for further review – Council rejected DVP #3-2011 with Councillor Sue Zacharias only being in favour of the DVP

4) Council gave 1st Reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw #2134 (Retirement Concepts Ltd) with the following conditions to be met prior to adoption:

a) hosting a public consultation outlining the future conversion plans to the community between first and second reading; (stay tuned here for the actual date of the public consultation meeting)
b) providing the City with a Code analysis from a professional architect on the Phase 3 - 85 unit assisted living units prior to final adoption
c) providing the City with additional parking spaces specifically for the market rental housing at the rear of the building and providing signage for 2 hour visitor parking at the front of the building; and,
d) entering into a restrictive covenant to ensure that all conversions from the existing senior family residential use to apartment or congregate housing be subject to approval through the building permit process

5) Council received for information a report from City Staff advising, based on funding available, that the following streets will be paved in 2011:

• Oliver St – from Mart St (intersection of Oliver St/3rd Avenue) to Mackenzie Ave
• Toop Rd – Centennial Drive to Highway #97
• 11th Avenue – from Smedley Street to Highway #97
• 2nd Avenue South – from Oliver Street to Mackenzie Avenue
• 3rd Avenue South – Barnard St to Mackenzie Avenue

6) Council approved the Memorandum of Agreement with the Williams Lake and Area Social Planning Council and agreed to receive funds from the Thompson Nicola Cariboo United Way for the Williams Lake and Area Social Planning Council subject to the accountability terms in the Memorandum of Agreement.
7) Council approved the Stampede Association's request for the addition of a storage shed at the Stampede Grounds.
8) Council gave approval for the 2011 KidSport Run Classic on June 26th. Mayor Cook or her designate will be at the event officially starting the run
9) Council adopted a number of Bylaws as follows:

• Bylaw #2124 – Road Closure Bylaw after a public input session where no one spoke on this bylaw
• Bylaw #2134 – 2011 Tax Rates (Councillor Rathor opposed)
• Bylaws #2130, 2131, and 2134 (Secondary Suites) - A number of people spoke to these bylaws including former WL Mayor Scott Nelson (Councillor Rathor opposed)

10) Council adopted 4 Committee of the Whole Recommendations as follows:

a) Council approved a Policy regarding requests for Letters of Support
b) The report from the Water Advisory Committee was received and Staff were authorized to retain the services of Communications Solutions Inc. in the amount not exceeding $33,000 plus disbursements to be paid from the Water Fund in order to develop a communication and public consultation strategy regarding discontinuing fluoridation of the City’s water system
c) Council approved the criteria as outlined in the report of the Manager of Water and Waste dated April 8, 2011 for allowing residents of the City of Williams Lake to apply and receive monies to change old wasteful toilets to more water efficient models.
d) Council repealed Special Occasion Liquor License Approval Process Policy No. 56 and approval be given for the proposed Special Event Application Process Policy and Application Form

11) Council gave approval for the 2011 Grad Parade Route at the request of the 2011 Grad Committee (Parade Committee)
12) Mayor and Council, along with the Junior Council, were encouraged to attend the 2011 BC Rural Network AGM/Workshop being held here at the TRU Campus from May 23rd – 25th. Mayor Cook or her designate will officially open the event on May 24th
13) Council gave approval for the 2011 Aboriginal Day Celebrations/Parade at the request of the Northern Shuswap Tribal Council
14) Council gave approval to five proclamations, as follows:

May 2011 – National Missing Children Month
May 2011 – Hearing and Speech Month
May 7th – Public Information Day
May 15th -22nd – Local Government Awareness Week
May 25th – Missing Children’s Day

15) Council received In-Camera Report #2-2011 (Dissolution of Housing Affordability Committee)
16) Council received the “Council Information Package” as at May 3rd, 2011, as follows:

April 8, 2011 - Letter from Citizenship and Immigration Canada re Canada's Citizenship Award – 2011 – see here
April 15, 2011 - Letter from FortisBC Energy Inc. re Franchise Fee Payment. – see here
April 19, 2011 - Seniors BC Newsletter – see here
April 20, 2011 - Letter from City of Pitt Meadows re Local Government Issues/Interests on the First Nations Commercial and Industrial Development Act – see here
April 20, 2011 - Cariboo Regional District Board Highlights – see here
April 21, 2011 - Information from UBCM re Local Government Elections Legislation (no changes until 2014 Civic Election) – see here
April 22, 2011 - Letter from University of Northern British Columbia RE: UNBC 2011 Brochure – see here

Meeting adjourned at 8:45pm with Council resume meeting In-Camera

*** Reminder, the regularly scheduled May 10th Council Meeting has been cancelled with the next regularly scheduled WL Council meeting on May 24th at 6pm***

Quesnel Council Highlights - May 3rd Meeting

Tax Bylaw finalized

Council gave final approval to its Five Year Financial and Tax Rates bylaws. There will be a total average municipal tax increase of 4.1% to most classes, including residential. That increase is $25.04 for the municipal portion for the average house assessed at $164,260. This is based upon the average assessment increase in Quesnel of 4.3%. If a home's assessment increased by more than the average, the tax increase is more than the average; if it is less, the tax increase is less.
This year, however, due to the provincial government's introduction of a new $200 northern and rural homeowners' benefit, the average house, whose assessment increased by the average amount, will see a decrease to their total property tax bill.
Council also reviewed a document showing the 2010 taxes paid in communities with populations ranging from 6,000 to 50,000. Quesnel residents, based on an average house, paid the least taxes (both total property taxes and general municipal taxes) of 50 communities according to figures provided by the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development.
The City will mail out property tax notices in mid May.

Paving plan approved

Council approved five paving projects valued at approximately $350,000 to come from the Quesnel Works: Capital Reinvestment Program in 2011.

The five projects approved are:
Johnston Avenue, from Lawlor Drive to Lambert Street.
Gardner Street, from Johnston Avenue to Graham Avenue.
North Fraser Drive, from Elliott Street to Early Avenue
Baker Drive, from Sugar Loaf Park to Tingley Drive
Valhalla road, south of Jason Place.

The projects are selected on several criteria, including: having a good base; underground utilities in good shape and not in need of immediate repair; fair to heavy traffic use; and the asphalt is near or at the end of its life. The City also attempts to mix residential streets with commercial/arterial streets.

City auction scheduled

A silent auction will be held at the Quesnel and District Twin Arenas on May 17, 18 and 19 to dispose of surplus items in the City's possession. A large number of items, including bicycles, electronic equipment, tools, jewelry, clothing, sporting goods and office supplies will be available. Notice of the sale will be posted in the Quesnel Cariboo Observer. There will be on-site viewing opportunities, with all items sold in as-is condition.

Other news

Open fires are restricted in the Cariboo Fire Centre's jurisdiction as of May 2. The restriction will be in place until Sept. 30 or until further notice. It prohibits fires larger than one metre by one metre, burning stubble or grass, or using fireworks or burn barrels. City residents, however, are restricted year round to fires of one half-metre by one half-metre in a safe, backyard fire pit.

Council received notice of an exciting development at Quesnel River Pulp. The Mill manager advised of plans to replace three heat exchangers with new, high-efficiency models. The goal is to reduce the mill's reliance on fossil fuels while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The Quesnel Quilters Guild presented 10 handmade quilts to be sent to Shiraoi as part of the tsunami relief effort. The Guild, which has about 50 members, gives away 50 quilts per year for various causes.

Members of the Shiraoi Twinning Society presented City Council with official documents commemorating the 30th anniversary of Quesnel and Shiraoi's twinning relationship.

Important Dates

May 7 - Friends of the Museum, Book Sale
May 7 - Move for Health Day

Proclamations

May - Vision Health Month
May - Child Care Month

Future Quesnel Council/Joint Committee Meeting

Next Delegation Meeting: Monday May 9
Next Committee of the Whole Meeting: Monday May 16
Next North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee Meeting: Tuesday May 17
Next Regular Council Meeting: Tuesday May 24

New KidSport Classic Run Route

The KidSport Classic ½ Marathon, Relay and 10km Walk and Run is scheduled for Sunday, June 26 with a new route which starts and finishes in Boitanio Park. CN Rail has graciously allowed the City of Williams Lake a one-time permit to use the service road along the lane between the RC Cotton lands and Dutch Point Road for this event. Since the permit is only for the day of the race, no training along the tracks before the race will be permitted.

The KidSport Classic raises money for the Williams Lake and Area KidSport chapter. KidSport provides funds to cover the costs of sport registration for kids who might not otherwise get the chance to play sports. The statistics are clear: a child involved in sport is likely to be a better student, is less likely to be a burden to the social justice system and will develop life-long physical activity habits which reduce health care costs. The benefits to the child are immeasurable.

The beautiful lake-hugging route will be similar to the original Dave Jacobs Classic route. Participants will turn off of Highway 20 onto Bagshaw Road and follow the tracks to Dutch Point Road. They will turn onto South Lakeside Drive and then head onto the trails for a couple of kilometres. Distances for this race will be a Half Marathon, 10 kilometre walk or run and a 21 kilometre 2-4 person relay. Refreshments, entertainment, awards and draw prizes will be part of this family centered event.

“We’re very grateful to CN for allowing participants to run or walk along the access road close to the lake and enjoy its beauty,” says Councillor Surinderpal Rathor, Chair of the Community Services Committee. “This will be an added bonus for the people who come out to help support the important work KidSport does in our community.”

Designer medals will be awarded to the top three competitors in the ½ Marathon and 10km Event. Categories include Men 40 & Over, Women 40 & Over, Men 39 & under, and Women 39 & under. Relay categories include: Elementary School, High School, 19 – 39, 40 & Over, Family and Corporate. The top three team members in each relay will also receive medals for their achievement. In addition, local sponsors have donated an excellent selection of draw prizes and grand draw prizes which will be drawn at the event for participants and volunteers.

For more information or to register or volunteer contact the Cariboo Memorial Complex at (250) 398-7665. Maps, race information and entry forms are available at the Complex or at http://activewilliamslake.com

North Cariboo receives $4 million for Multi-Centre

The North Cariboo Multi-Centre is one step closer to reality after the Northern Development Initiative Trust announced that the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) has been approved for a $2 million grant and a $2 million loan to go towards construction of the facility. The funds are approved in principle, conditional on the CRD and City of Quesnel securing the balance of funding needed from other sources, such as senior levels of government.

The $2 million grant comes from the North Cariboo Allocation of the Cariboo- Chilcotin/Lillooet Regional Development account and could be used to reduce the amount local taxpayers will have to provide to pay for construction. The $2 million loan would count as part of the $15 million local voters approved borrowing in the November 2008 referendum.

"Northern Development is supporting Quesnel's efforts to acquire the funding to build the Multi-Centre and increase sports and cultural tourism revenues in the North Cariboo economy," said Evan Saugstad, Chair of the Northern Development Initiative Trust.

"We would like to thank the board of the Northern Development Trust for supporting this important project for our North Cariboo Residents," said CRD Chair Al Richmond. "Our collaboration with Quesnel City Council, in lobbying senior levels of government to secure funding for the Multi-Centre is just one more example of what can be accomplished when local governments work together. Our collective voice is being heard and through these efforts we will continue building communities together."

"This is exciting news, a catalyst for more great things to come as we take another step towards making this long planned project a reality," added Quesnel Mayor Mary Sjostrom. "From the City's perspective, we've developed a great partnership with the CRD, who have made the Multi-Centre their top-priority capital project. Combine that with working with our friends on the Northern Development Initiative Trust Board, and its rewarding for the entire community."

The City and CRD will work with Northern Development staff and the District of Wells to develop a sustainability plan for the North Cariboo Allocation of the Northern Development Initiative Trust. The long-term goal would be to replenish the North Cariboo allocation through investment interest and other sources.

The North Cariboo Multi-Centre will be a modern facility designed to replace aging infrastructure. It features a 1,600 NHL-sized arena, a 450-seat performing arts theatre and accompanying event and assembly space.

For further details, contact:

Cariboo Regional District
Shelly Burich
Manager of Communications
T: 250-392-3351
Toll Free: 1-800-665-1636
sburich@cariboord.bc.ca
www.cariboord.bc.ca

Northern Development Initiative Trust
Janine North
Chief Executive Officer
T: 250-561-2525
info@northerndevelopment.bc.ca
www.northerndevelopment.bc.ca

City of Quesnel
Matt Wood
Communications Supervisor
T: 250-991-7475
mwood@quesnel.ca
www.quesnel.ca

My Take on the 41st Federal General Election

As of early Tuesday morning, the Federal Conservatives, under Stephen Harper, were awarded by Canadians with a slim majority of 166 of the 308 seats in the Federal House of Commons.  The NDP, in its history, was awarded with "Official Opposition" status (103 seats) with the Federal Liberals with 34 seats (stunning defeat since 1984 election of 40 seats) and the Bloc Quebecois with just 3 seats, not enough for Official Party Status in the House of Commons.  The Green Party was awarded with its 1st seat from Saanich-Gulf Islands and believe Elizabeth May will add to the debate in Ottawa. 

Bloc Quebecois Leader Gilles Duceppe, upon being defeated in his own riding of Laurier-St Marie, resigned as Leader of the Bloc Quebecois.  And I believe that Micheal Ignatieff, after losing his seat in Etobicoke-Lakeshore, will be under tremendous pressure to do the same in order to allow the Federal Liberals to "re-generate" into something newer/better to challenge the Federal Conservatives

In local election races -  both Dick Harris from Cariboo-PG and Cathy MacLeod from Thompson-Kamloops-Cariboo are both going back to Ottawa.  Mr. Harris took 56% of the vote while Ms. MacLeod bested her opponent, Micheal Crawford of the NDP, by 9,000 votes

I believe the end result speaks of Canadians' desire for a stable government over the next 4 years.  And once again - I was disappointed by some on Facebook stating that a Federal Conservative win was a "loss for Canada".  The voters' spoke and let's respect the result that has occured, but to suggest Canada lost is a bit much.  This reminds me of the 2008 Election when the local Federal Liberal candidate suggested that the win by Dick Harris then was "disturbing"

Now with the Federal Election now done, it's time for Ottawa to get back to work.  With future elections coming up which includes:

a) Possible Provincial Election this fall - September 2011?
b) Mandatory Civic (Local) Election in November 19th, 2011

While I hope the provincial politicians hold off on any election until the Spring of 2012, I hope voters in the Cariboo-Chilcotin pay attention to their civic elections, especially in Williams Lake, where a lack of leadership/ethics at WL City Hall seems to be a concern, given the poll question I'm running at the moment with 3 people in the last couple of days stating that Ethics at WL City Hall will be a campaign issue for them in November.   The poll question will remain active until next Tuesday.  The poll question can be found at the top of this blog page

SF