For those in Williams Lake - your Williams Lake City Council will be considering the following noteworthy items:
Delegations:
a) Brian Battison (Taseko Mines) on update re: New Prosperity
b) Irene Willsie re: Take Back the Night
c) Bettina Schoen, Suicide & Sudden Death Committee re: 'Suicide Awareness Concert & Gathering' - see more here
Business:
a) Council will receive a report from its' Director of Finance outlining a timetable to address concerns raised this year from the City of WL Auditor concerning Mail Routing, Whistleblower Policy, Solicitation of Gifts, and other items before the end of October. Read her report here
b) Mayor Cook will propose to WL Council that it re-affirm its' support for the 'New Prosperity' mine proposal as follows:
Council confirm support for the New Prosperity mine development, provided that Provincial and Federal environmental standards are met and affected First Nations are adequately consulted; and further, that the Province of BC be requested to ensure all necessary Provincial approvals for the project are granted in a timely manner and the Cariboo Regional District be invited to make the same request of the Province.
Read the report of the CAO here
Editor's Note - given the CRD Board was quite timid about touching this subject earlier this year at the request of CRD Area 'J' Director Roger William, I don't expect the Board to broach this subject once again
c) A number of reports are coming forward regarding the 2013 Budget Process including 30 mins public input at public budget meetings on October 30, November 28 and, if required, November 29. Council will also adopt two recommendations as follows:
1) Staff bring forward a status quo budget with supplementals based on the strategic goals and priorities of Council.
2) Staff bring forward budget scenarios for discussion based on a 0%, 1.5% and 3% tax increase.
You can read the minutes of the Sept 5th Budget Meeting here
d) New Building at 3rd Ave and Cameron Street - read here
e) Mayor Cook will propose the following Resolution to Council concering the redevelopment of the 2nd Floor at Cariboo Memorial Hospital:
Council reaffirm its support for the redevelopment of the Cariboo Memorial Hospital (CMH) as a high priority for the community and request the Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board to pass a similar resolution and the Interior Health Authority and the Minister of Health provide their 60% share of the project funding; and further, that Council facilitate the establishment of a ‘lobbying committee’, including the CCRHD Board, Doctor’s Association, Unions, Seniors and other stakeholders to communicate the need for the CMH redevelopment on behalf of the community
Read the CAO report here
f) In a related matter - Mayor Cook will propose to Council that Williams Lake and the Central Cariboo region remain within Interior Health given the possible upgrade of the 2nd floor at CMH as follows:
Council support Williams Lake and the Central Cariboo remaining in the Interior Health Authority
Read the report of the CAO here
Editor's Note - if the Resolution had said merely Williams Lake only and not Williams Lake and Central Cariboo, it wouldn't necessarily be a problem, from my perspective. I can see CRD Directors' Bischoff, Kemp and Sorley saying "I don't like WL Council presuming to speak for me on the subject of whether or not Central/South Cariboo should receive health services from Interior Health vs Northern Health". Also - the CAO report does not indicate if the CCRHD Chair John Massier was notified of this resolution coming forward. Certainly, if I was Mayor of Williams Lake and I was about to do something that was "off-message" from the key message on this subject at the CCRHD table, namely looking at whether or not the Central/South Cariboo should continue to receive health services from Interior Health or Northern Health, I certainly would advise the CCRHD Chair of my intention to ask my City Council to pass a resolution in support of Williams Lake remaining within Interior Health.
g) 2011-14 Strategic Priorities of Council to be adopted - read here
h) WL Council to send a letter of appreciation to those who cleaned up the 'goose poop' at Scout Island - read here
i) WL Council to allow Troy Weir (resident of Woodland Drive) to connect to City water, against advice of WL City Staff who had recommended that Mr. Weir not be allowed to connect until a common position around Water/Sewer services for Woodland Drive was indentified and agreed to between the City & all Woodland Drive residents - read here
j)
Sunday, September 16, 2012
Quesnel Council Business - Sept 17th
For those in Quesnel - your City Council will be considering the following noteworthy items:
1) In-Camera Procedure - in light of misintrepretations around what business ought to be considered by Quesnel Council behind closed doors... often the 3 so-called "L's" are quoted in Labour, Land and Legal. Quesnel Administrator Byron Johnson writes an excellent report on In-Camera Procedures & the City of Quesnel and notes that Quesnel Council may have closed meetings under 15 different sub-sections of 90(1) of the Community Charter. Should be required reading for candidates running for Quesnel Council and a re-read for currently elected officials - read Mr. Johnson's report here
2) New Freedom of Information Bylaw proposal from Kari Bolton (Director of Finance) - Ms. Bolton will propose that Quesnel Council adopt a new FOI Bylaw. There have been 5 FOI Requests in May, 4 in June, 9 in July and 5 in August which has cost the City of Quesnel $20,000 in unanticipated costs to the end of June 2012. Read Ms. Bolton's report here
3) 2nd Quarter Budget update - read here
4) Byron Johnson will report out on Quesnel City Staff suggestions around Accessible Parking Awareness Month - read here
1) In-Camera Procedure - in light of misintrepretations around what business ought to be considered by Quesnel Council behind closed doors... often the 3 so-called "L's" are quoted in Labour, Land and Legal. Quesnel Administrator Byron Johnson writes an excellent report on In-Camera Procedures & the City of Quesnel and notes that Quesnel Council may have closed meetings under 15 different sub-sections of 90(1) of the Community Charter. Should be required reading for candidates running for Quesnel Council and a re-read for currently elected officials - read Mr. Johnson's report here
2) New Freedom of Information Bylaw proposal from Kari Bolton (Director of Finance) - Ms. Bolton will propose that Quesnel Council adopt a new FOI Bylaw. There have been 5 FOI Requests in May, 4 in June, 9 in July and 5 in August which has cost the City of Quesnel $20,000 in unanticipated costs to the end of June 2012. Read Ms. Bolton's report here
3) 2nd Quarter Budget update - read here
4) Byron Johnson will report out on Quesnel City Staff suggestions around Accessible Parking Awareness Month - read here
Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of Sept 17th - 21st
A number of local governments in the Cariboo-Chilcotin are meeting this week as follows:
Wells - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, Sept 18th at 7:00pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Ave)
Quesnel - Regular Meeting on Monday, Sept 17th at 7:00pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant Street). View the Agenda here
School District #28 (Quesnel) - Regular Meeting on Wednesday, Sept 19th at 7:00pm in the SD #28 Boardroom (401 North Star Rd in Quesnel). View the Agenda here
School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, Sept 18th at 7:00pm in the SD #27 Boardroom (350 North 2nd Ave in Williams Lake). View the Agenda here
Williams Lake - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, Sept 18th at 6:00pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St). View the Agenda here
Wells - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, Sept 18th at 7:00pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Ave)
Quesnel - Regular Meeting on Monday, Sept 17th at 7:00pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant Street). View the Agenda here
School District #28 (Quesnel) - Regular Meeting on Wednesday, Sept 19th at 7:00pm in the SD #28 Boardroom (401 North Star Rd in Quesnel). View the Agenda here
School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, Sept 18th at 7:00pm in the SD #27 Boardroom (350 North 2nd Ave in Williams Lake). View the Agenda here
Williams Lake - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, Sept 18th at 6:00pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St). View the Agenda here
Friday, September 14, 2012
Free SportSmart Workshop - Oct 4th
Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:
The Gibraltar Room will host a free injury prevention workshop next month. The workshop, organized by SportMedBC, is designed to increase injury prevention knowledge among parents, coaches and managers of children and youth ages 5 to 19 who are involved in community sport programs. Through various resources, information and tools, sports leaders can learn how they can successfully apply proven injury prevention and athlete development principles drawn from the best research-based evidence.
In the fast-paced, 90-minute workshop session, SportSmart participants will learn how they can make a difference:
- How to ensure players are properly prepared for activity.
- How to recognize the signs and symptoms of serious injuries, including concussion, administer basic onsite sports first-aid.
- How to set up a safe, enjoyable environment.
- Where to find evidence based advice and guidelines.
- Where to turn in the event of an injury to their children.
SportMedBC has also built an online network that boasts the latest injury prevention information that is essential for parents and coaches. Access to the network is free for workshop attendees. SportMedBC will also be releasing a series of webinars from September through to March that will focus on relevant injury prevention topics.
The workshop will be held on October 4th at 7 p.m. in the Gibraltar Room. The workshop is free, but participants must pre-register. For more information and to register your team, club or community for the workshop, please contact info@sportmedbc.com or Recreation Coordinator Denise Skarra at 250-392-7665.
The Gibraltar Room will host a free injury prevention workshop next month. The workshop, organized by SportMedBC, is designed to increase injury prevention knowledge among parents, coaches and managers of children and youth ages 5 to 19 who are involved in community sport programs. Through various resources, information and tools, sports leaders can learn how they can successfully apply proven injury prevention and athlete development principles drawn from the best research-based evidence.
In the fast-paced, 90-minute workshop session, SportSmart participants will learn how they can make a difference:
- How to ensure players are properly prepared for activity.
- How to recognize the signs and symptoms of serious injuries, including concussion, administer basic onsite sports first-aid.
- How to set up a safe, enjoyable environment.
- Where to find evidence based advice and guidelines.
- Where to turn in the event of an injury to their children.
SportMedBC has also built an online network that boasts the latest injury prevention information that is essential for parents and coaches. Access to the network is free for workshop attendees. SportMedBC will also be releasing a series of webinars from September through to March that will focus on relevant injury prevention topics.
The workshop will be held on October 4th at 7 p.m. in the Gibraltar Room. The workshop is free, but participants must pre-register. For more information and to register your team, club or community for the workshop, please contact info@sportmedbc.com or Recreation Coordinator Denise Skarra at 250-392-7665.
The Future of WL Rural Fire Protection...
This past Wednesday -- the Cariboo Regional District hosted a public meeting on what the Directors' for Areas D, E, F should do post Jan 1, 2013 for Rural Fringe Fire Protection. Read my blog post on this meeting here
In the meantime - the Cariboo Regional District is now collecting survey forms posing the following questions to rural fringe residents' in Areas D, E, F and forms can be submitted until Friday, September 21st at 4:30pm to your local Area Director or the CRD Office in Williams Lake.
You may download the form here
For Area D Rural Fringe Residents:
A) Do you wish to continue to receive fire protection services from the City of Williams Lake at a rate of $140 per $100,000 of residential assessment?
B) Do you wish to receive your fire protection services from the Wildwood Volunteer Fire Department at a rate of $111 per $100,000 of residential assessment?
For Area E Rural Fringe Residents:
A) Do you wish to continue to receive fire protection services from the City of Williams Lake at a rate of $140 per $100,000 of residential assessment?
B) Do you wish to be without fire protection service until we are able to establish a new service to provide fire protection to your area at a rate of approximately $100 per $100,000 of residential assessment? Editor's Note - the Cariboo Regional District indicates in its' FAQ on this subject that the startup of a new Fire Department for Area 'E' could take up to two (2) years to become operational
C) Do you wish to be without fire protection services indefinitely?
For Area F Rural Fringe Residents:
A) Do you wish to continue to receive fire protection services from the City of Williams Lake at a rate of $140 per $100,000 of residential assessment?
B) Do you wish to receive your fire protection services from the 150 Mile House Volunteer Fire at a rate of $68 per $100,000 of residential assessment?
You can also read a FAQ Factsheet produced by the Cariboo RD on this topic here
Finally - see below for the presentation from Wednesday's meeting:
WLFringe Fire ProtectionPP
In the meantime - the Cariboo Regional District is now collecting survey forms posing the following questions to rural fringe residents' in Areas D, E, F and forms can be submitted until Friday, September 21st at 4:30pm to your local Area Director or the CRD Office in Williams Lake.
You may download the form here
For Area D Rural Fringe Residents:
A) Do you wish to continue to receive fire protection services from the City of Williams Lake at a rate of $140 per $100,000 of residential assessment?
B) Do you wish to receive your fire protection services from the Wildwood Volunteer Fire Department at a rate of $111 per $100,000 of residential assessment?
For Area E Rural Fringe Residents:
A) Do you wish to continue to receive fire protection services from the City of Williams Lake at a rate of $140 per $100,000 of residential assessment?
B) Do you wish to be without fire protection service until we are able to establish a new service to provide fire protection to your area at a rate of approximately $100 per $100,000 of residential assessment? Editor's Note - the Cariboo Regional District indicates in its' FAQ on this subject that the startup of a new Fire Department for Area 'E' could take up to two (2) years to become operational
C) Do you wish to be without fire protection services indefinitely?
For Area F Rural Fringe Residents:
A) Do you wish to continue to receive fire protection services from the City of Williams Lake at a rate of $140 per $100,000 of residential assessment?
B) Do you wish to receive your fire protection services from the 150 Mile House Volunteer Fire at a rate of $68 per $100,000 of residential assessment?
You can also read a FAQ Factsheet produced by the Cariboo RD on this topic here
Finally - see below for the presentation from Wednesday's meeting:
WLFringe Fire ProtectionPP
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Winter Carnival Coordinator wanted...
Courtesy of CRD Area 'B' Director Heloise Dixon-Warren:
Quesnel and District Leisure Services
Contract Position – Winter Carnival Coordinator
The Leisure Services Department is seeking an independent contractor to coordinate the Quesnel Winter Carnival for the next three years, The successful proponent will work independently to plan and implement the Carnival, coordinate participation by community groups, businesses, and local organizations, and apply for grants and corporate funding.
The successful proponent will have an outgoing personality with excellent written and oral communication skills and promotes the concept of an active living lifestyle. Ideally, the successful proponent will have previous experience working with committees, planning large events, recruiting and
supervising volunteers, delivering presentations to community groups and working within defined budgets.
Proposals must be submitted to the City of Quesnel, 410 Kinchant Street, Quesnel BC V2J 7J5 or by email to: canderson@quesnel.ca by 4:00 pm Friday, September 14, 2012. For detailed information on submissions see the City of Quesnel Web Site. http://www.quesnel.ca/Jobs.html
NOTE: THE QUESNEL WINTER CARNIVAL IS AN ANNUAL EVENT ORGANISED BY QUESNEL & DISTRICT LEISURE SERVICES WITH FUNDING THROUGH THE NORTH CARIBOO RECREATION & PARKS TAXATION FUNCTION (aka “Sub-Regional Recreation”).
Quesnel and District Leisure Services
Contract Position – Winter Carnival Coordinator
The Leisure Services Department is seeking an independent contractor to coordinate the Quesnel Winter Carnival for the next three years, The successful proponent will work independently to plan and implement the Carnival, coordinate participation by community groups, businesses, and local organizations, and apply for grants and corporate funding.
The successful proponent will have an outgoing personality with excellent written and oral communication skills and promotes the concept of an active living lifestyle. Ideally, the successful proponent will have previous experience working with committees, planning large events, recruiting and
supervising volunteers, delivering presentations to community groups and working within defined budgets.
Proposals must be submitted to the City of Quesnel, 410 Kinchant Street, Quesnel BC V2J 7J5 or by email to: canderson@quesnel.ca by 4:00 pm Friday, September 14, 2012. For detailed information on submissions see the City of Quesnel Web Site. http://www.quesnel.ca/Jobs.html
NOTE: THE QUESNEL WINTER CARNIVAL IS AN ANNUAL EVENT ORGANISED BY QUESNEL & DISTRICT LEISURE SERVICES WITH FUNDING THROUGH THE NORTH CARIBOO RECREATION & PARKS TAXATION FUNCTION (aka “Sub-Regional Recreation”).
Use of a local government logo...
In a "head-scratching" moment...
On August 28th - local resident Christine Hornby, an opponent to the 'New Prosperity' and 'Prosperity' Mine proposals, wrote the Federal Review Panel sharing her photos of Fish Lake. Read her letter here
However, the 1st page shows the logo of the Cariboo Regional District which could give the impression that the Cariboo Regional District endorses the letter of Ms. Hornby. I informed the CRD's Manager of Communications, via email, of this information yesterday and has committed to me that she'll be looking into this matter
The Cariboo Regional District Board is taking a more "hands-off" approach with regard to the 'New Prosperity' mine proposal, rather than its' "hands-on" and direct approach with the Prosperity Mine proposal. In the meantime, use of a local government logo for any activity by a private citizen is accepted as a "no-no" unless endorsed by the said local government by way of a passed Resolution (motion)
I'm not sure if this was a lapse in judgement or intentional but I'm sure that this won't be happening again if the Cariboo Regional District has anything to say about it
SBF
Thursday News Wrap...
1) Bob Simpson salutes volunteers in the Cariboo-Chilcotin - read here
2) SD #27 Zone 3 Trustee Patti Baker resigns her seat for new job in Manitoba. SD #27 Board of Education expected to call an mandatory by-election very soon. Read more here
3) Heated debate over new 'Town Square' in 100 Mile House. Read here
2) SD #27 Zone 3 Trustee Patti Baker resigns her seat for new job in Manitoba. SD #27 Board of Education expected to call an mandatory by-election very soon. Read more here
3) Heated debate over new 'Town Square' in 100 Mile House. Read here
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
WL Rural Fringe Fire Protection Public Mtg
 |
| Gibraltar Room |
Present from the City of WL: City Councillors Sue Zacharias and Danica Hughes
Media - Welcome to Williams Lake and WL Tribune
Public - 300+ during majority of meeting
Area 'F' Director Joan Sorley welcomed everyone to the meeting and outlined the Agenda for the meeting which included a technical presentation on the history of rural fringe fire protection and options before residents' with a referendum vote scheduled for November 24th, 2012 and a Open Forum to provide feedback to CRD Directors' present
CRD Administrator Janis Bell explained the history of rural fringe fire protection dating back to the '60s before Regional Districts were established in BC in 1968 and the options moving forward before the residents' were as follows:
Option 1a - Continue service with City of WL Fire Department, as per proposed agreement from the City of Williams Lake
Cost - $130 per $100,000 of assessed value for all properties within Rural Fringe Services Areas (Phase 1 and 2) and those covered by the existing provincial contract (Mile 168 Rd, Esler, Mountview, Fox Mountain)
Option 1b - Split areas between expanded fire service to certain residents' from Wildwood/150 Mile Volunteer FDs with remainder to be serviced by WL Fire Department:
Cost - $140 per $100,000 of assessed value. Covered areas as per Option 1a
Option 2 - Form own "Rural Fire Protection Function"
Cost - $100 per $100,000 of assessed value
Option 3 - No Fire Protection as of Dec 31st, 2012
The CRD also pointed out that similar agreements (Fire protection between CRD Rural Fringe areas & City of Quesnel and District of Wells) resulted in costs of roughly $68 per $100,000 and currently residents' in Williams Lake pay $74 per $100,000 in assessed value for fire protection, recognizing that the WL Council can distribute costs to minimize the impact of fire department costs on residents' where the CRD does not have that ability for its' residents'
An question/answer period there ensued. Questions raised included:
* Service levels of WL Fire Department vs 150 Mile and Wildwood Volunteer Fire Departments
* Impacts on insurance rates of no fire protection vs the options as proposed
* In 2009, how come a petition for Rural Fire Protection (Phase 2) failed but then the CRD went ahead with a referendum anyway?
* How long does a referendum decision last?
* How long can a fire protection service contract last?
The CRD also announced that they need to hear from residents (online response forms were available at the meeting tonight but would be available at http://www.cariboord.bc.ca on Thursday or on the CRD's Facebook page - found here) by Friday, Sept 21st so the referendum question(s) can be formed and decided on so CRD Staff can prepare the necessary bylaws for the Nov 24th vote at the CRD Board's October 4th meeting
For myself - I was dumbfounded that neither the City of Williams Lake Adminstrator Brian Carruthers or the City's Fire Chief Randy Isfeld were not at tonight's meeting as lots of CRD Rural Fringe residents' had plenty of questions that the CRD representatives could not answer as they weren't qualified to do so but either Mr. Carruthers or Mr Isfeld could have answered those questions from rural residents' and made a picture of the November vote much more clearer for those in attendance. There is lots riding what my fellow neighbours in the Regional District decide on fire protection and what impact that may have on Williams Lake taxpayers'. For instance - what if the CRD decides to go without fire protection or worse, the CRD residents' decide to go it alone?
The new WL Fire Hall was built, in part, to service an expanded area including into the CRD Rural Fringe area. Without cost sharing between City and the CRD Rural Fringe areas - how much will City of WL residents' have to dig into their wallets to fund the 100% debt servicing for the City's new fire hall on their own without the CRD contributing?
Note - WL Fire Chief Randy Isfeld attended a similar meeting in 2009 in WL City Council Chambers and made himself available to answer similar questions from CRD Rural Fringe residents' in discussing the CRD Rural Fire Protection (Phase 2) program
This was, in my opinion, a big mistake on the City's part and I feel that the City should have made either Mr. Carruthers or Mr. Isfeld available to answer any/all questions from CRD Rural Fringe residents' at tonight's meeting so that had every piece of information available to them prior to the Nov 24th vote. If Mr. Carruthers' or Mr. Isfeld schedules were too busy to permit them to attend, then making WL City Councillor SPS Rathor available, at the minimum, should have occurred as Mr. Rathor is acutely aware of the history on this topic and certainly would have been able to answer any/all questions relating to this topic, again so CRD residents' would have a full picture going into the November referendum vote
Finally - a big kudos to CRD Area 'F' Director Joan Sorley for the way that she handled moderating tonight's meeting. Well done, Joan!! :)
If you wish to contact your Area D, E or F Director prior to Fri Sept 21st on this topic:
Alternate Area D Director (Bill Carruthers) - Phone 392-392-6763 or via email bcarruthers@caribouroads.com or Area 'D' Director Deb Bischoff at 989-1515 or via email at dbischoff@cariboord.bc.ca
Area E - Director Byron Kemp at 392-5037 or bkemp@cariboord.bc.ca
Area F - Director Joan Sorley at 243-2261 or jsorley@cariboord.bc.ca
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Farmers are the heart of B.C. food production
Op-Ed from the Hon. Norm Letnick - BC's Minister of Agriculture:
In honour of the Third Annual BC Farmers Appreciation Week, I would like to recognize the importance that farmers have to British Columbia’s economy and to the health of everyone who lives here. Farmers are the heart of B.C. food production, and nine out of 10 farms are family owned and operated. Almost 50 per cent of the food consumed in B.C. is produced right here in the province.
Building the local market for B.C. foods is a key component of the government’s agrifoods strategy, a component of the BC Jobs Plan, to lead the agrifoods sector growth into a $14-billion-a-year industry by 2017.
Our agrifoods sector provides more than 61,000 jobs and generates close to $10.5 billion a year in provincial revenues so farmers are critical to the province’s future growth and development.
The B.C. government recently announced that we are investing $2 million to help B.C. farmers and food processors promote local foods. This funding will support government’s clear commitment to build local demand and support for B.C. foods and our farming community.
Government has a record of encouraging British Columbians to support local agriculture by providing funding to organizations including the B.C. Association of Farmers Markets and supporting programs such as ‘Behind the Beef’ which is run by the B.C. Cattlemen’s Association.
This week, please make a special effort to show your appreciation to B.C. growers:
· Stop by your local farmer’s market and buy some local produce.
· When you shop for groceries, look for B.C. foods. If you can’t find the B.C. product you’re looking for, encourage your retailer to bring it in.
· Go to a fall fair and meet your local 4-H members; they are the future of farming. The 4-H program is well known for teaching young British Columbians about agricultural activities and helps young people build life and jobs skills, guiding them to successful careers in agriculture and beyond.
Farmers ensure that food production in B.C. will continue to grow and support valuable jobs and healthy communities for centuries to come. Show your appreciation today.
In honour of the Third Annual BC Farmers Appreciation Week, I would like to recognize the importance that farmers have to British Columbia’s economy and to the health of everyone who lives here. Farmers are the heart of B.C. food production, and nine out of 10 farms are family owned and operated. Almost 50 per cent of the food consumed in B.C. is produced right here in the province.
Building the local market for B.C. foods is a key component of the government’s agrifoods strategy, a component of the BC Jobs Plan, to lead the agrifoods sector growth into a $14-billion-a-year industry by 2017.
Our agrifoods sector provides more than 61,000 jobs and generates close to $10.5 billion a year in provincial revenues so farmers are critical to the province’s future growth and development.
The B.C. government recently announced that we are investing $2 million to help B.C. farmers and food processors promote local foods. This funding will support government’s clear commitment to build local demand and support for B.C. foods and our farming community.
Government has a record of encouraging British Columbians to support local agriculture by providing funding to organizations including the B.C. Association of Farmers Markets and supporting programs such as ‘Behind the Beef’ which is run by the B.C. Cattlemen’s Association.
This week, please make a special effort to show your appreciation to B.C. growers:
· Stop by your local farmer’s market and buy some local produce.
· When you shop for groceries, look for B.C. foods. If you can’t find the B.C. product you’re looking for, encourage your retailer to bring it in.
· Go to a fall fair and meet your local 4-H members; they are the future of farming. The 4-H program is well known for teaching young British Columbians about agricultural activities and helps young people build life and jobs skills, guiding them to successful careers in agriculture and beyond.
Farmers ensure that food production in B.C. will continue to grow and support valuable jobs and healthy communities for centuries to come. Show your appreciation today.
BC Conservative women back John Cummins...
In an increasing sign that BC Conservative party members are beginning to worry about John Cummins' hold as Leader of the BC Conservative Party -- 7 BC Conservative female party members including former BC Conservative Party Port Moody - Coquitlam candidate Christine Clarke all signed a joint public statement backing the leadership of Cummins
Read the statement here
I personally wonder though - if the dissidents' within the BC Conservatives' don't speak for the 'rank and file' of the BC Conservative party members', then why the need for back to back statements of the "Friends of John Cummins"
No, the statements tell me that there is deep seated concern about Cummins' grip on the leadership of the BC Conservative Party and thus the actions of the "Friends of John Cummins"
Meanwhile - the in-fighting of BC Conservatives' surely puts smiles on my fellow BC Liberals and our hard working BC Premier Christy Clark and her Cabinet Ministers :)
SBF
Read the statement here
I personally wonder though - if the dissidents' within the BC Conservatives' don't speak for the 'rank and file' of the BC Conservative party members', then why the need for back to back statements of the "Friends of John Cummins"
No, the statements tell me that there is deep seated concern about Cummins' grip on the leadership of the BC Conservative Party and thus the actions of the "Friends of John Cummins"
Meanwhile - the in-fighting of BC Conservatives' surely puts smiles on my fellow BC Liberals and our hard working BC Premier Christy Clark and her Cabinet Ministers :)
SBF
Bouchie Lk Rec Commission meets next Monday
CRD Area 'B' Director Heloise Dixon-Warren is reporting, on her Facebook page, that the Bouchie Lake Recreation Commission will meet on September 17th at 7pm at the Bouchie Lake Community Hall (1975 Centennial Rd, Quesnel). If you need more information, please don't hesitate to contact Director Dixon-Warren at hdixon-warren@cariboord.bc.ca
SBF
SBF
North Cariboo Recreation Boundary expansion dead?
In late May/early June of this year, North Cariboo residents' were asked to provide input on a possible boundary expansion of the North Cariboo Recreation and Parks Function, given the realities of the population of today
Thus to date -- the proposal has been, for the most part, rejected by those in the North Cariboo that would be affected by the boundary expansion because of how much recreation taxes would potentially rise because of the $30 million (of which taxpayers could be on the hook for half of that amount) North Cariboo Multicentre and the fact those would be potentially on the hook for $15 of the $30 million cost for the North Cariboo Multicentre were not then entitled to a vote on the $15 million taxpayer commitment for the North Cariboo Multicentre in 2008 and thus argue it is "taxation without representation"
Just a reminder that the taxpayer commitment that was approved in November of 2008 will terminate in November of 2013 and should the North Cariboo politicians (CRD Directors' for Areas A, B, C and I & Mayor/Council - City of Quesnel) wish to do so - they would have to get a re-commitment from taxpayers' for this project again to borrow up to $15 million, not necessarily in November of 2013, but could do so at the next local government general elections, currently scheduled for October 18th, 2014
At the North Cariboo Cariboo RD Rural Directors' caucus meeting of Tuesday, June 12th -- North Cariboo resident Magnus Vinje and others appeared before the Caucus and expressed concerns with regard to the proposed expansion to the boundaries of the North Cariboo Parks and Recreation Function. The Caucus then passed the following Resolution:
"That a report on the public consultation and open house meetings regarding the proposed boundary change to the North Cariboo Recreation and Parks taxation area be presented to the North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee with a recommendation that the boundary change not be pursued further at this time.”
The above Resolution was then endorsed by the CRD Board at its' July 13, 2012 meeting
According to a report authored by the CRD Manager of Community Services, Darron Campbell, other reasons for affected residents' not to be a part of the North Cariboo Recreation/Parks Function included:
a) Significant overall cost of recreation services,
b) lack of rural recreation services, and
c) travel and distance to central facilities
I wonder if a possible expansion to the Central Cariboo Recreation Function, as envisioned by CRD Area 'F' Director Joan Sorley to possibly include Horsefly/Likely would meet the same fate, as in the North Cariboo. This possible scenario is something she, Darron Campbell and myself discussed at a previous public meeting for the possible replacement of the Sam Ketchum Pool in Williams Lake
The recommendation from Darron Campbell to be presented at tonight's North Cariboo Joint Committee meeting is:
"That the memo from Darron Campbell, Manager of Community Services dated
September 4, 2012 regarding public consultation on the proposed North Cariboo
Recreation and Parks function taxation boundary change be received. Further, that the
recommendation from the North Cariboo Rural Directors’ Caucus not to pursue a
change in the taxation area at this time be endorsed."
Read Mr. Campbell's report to the Joint Committee here and responses from affected residents' here
Thus to date -- the proposal has been, for the most part, rejected by those in the North Cariboo that would be affected by the boundary expansion because of how much recreation taxes would potentially rise because of the $30 million (of which taxpayers could be on the hook for half of that amount) North Cariboo Multicentre and the fact those would be potentially on the hook for $15 of the $30 million cost for the North Cariboo Multicentre were not then entitled to a vote on the $15 million taxpayer commitment for the North Cariboo Multicentre in 2008 and thus argue it is "taxation without representation"
Just a reminder that the taxpayer commitment that was approved in November of 2008 will terminate in November of 2013 and should the North Cariboo politicians (CRD Directors' for Areas A, B, C and I & Mayor/Council - City of Quesnel) wish to do so - they would have to get a re-commitment from taxpayers' for this project again to borrow up to $15 million, not necessarily in November of 2013, but could do so at the next local government general elections, currently scheduled for October 18th, 2014
At the North Cariboo Cariboo RD Rural Directors' caucus meeting of Tuesday, June 12th -- North Cariboo resident Magnus Vinje and others appeared before the Caucus and expressed concerns with regard to the proposed expansion to the boundaries of the North Cariboo Parks and Recreation Function. The Caucus then passed the following Resolution:
"That a report on the public consultation and open house meetings regarding the proposed boundary change to the North Cariboo Recreation and Parks taxation area be presented to the North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee with a recommendation that the boundary change not be pursued further at this time.”
The above Resolution was then endorsed by the CRD Board at its' July 13, 2012 meeting
According to a report authored by the CRD Manager of Community Services, Darron Campbell, other reasons for affected residents' not to be a part of the North Cariboo Recreation/Parks Function included:
a) Significant overall cost of recreation services,
b) lack of rural recreation services, and
c) travel and distance to central facilities
I wonder if a possible expansion to the Central Cariboo Recreation Function, as envisioned by CRD Area 'F' Director Joan Sorley to possibly include Horsefly/Likely would meet the same fate, as in the North Cariboo. This possible scenario is something she, Darron Campbell and myself discussed at a previous public meeting for the possible replacement of the Sam Ketchum Pool in Williams Lake
The recommendation from Darron Campbell to be presented at tonight's North Cariboo Joint Committee meeting is:
"That the memo from Darron Campbell, Manager of Community Services dated
September 4, 2012 regarding public consultation on the proposed North Cariboo
Recreation and Parks function taxation boundary change be received. Further, that the
recommendation from the North Cariboo Rural Directors’ Caucus not to pursue a
change in the taxation area at this time be endorsed."
Read Mr. Campbell's report to the Joint Committee here and responses from affected residents' here
Monday, September 10, 2012
'Friends of John Cummins' Group formed
Earlier today - the Vancouver Sun ran a story where an informal group of 6 BC Conservative Party Regional Directors including my uncle Alan Forseth from Kamloops issued a formal statement of support for beleaguered BC Conservative Party Leader John Cummins
Meanwhile -- Don Irwin, BC Conservative Regional Director for Peace River made the following interesting statement to the Sun:
He and the other five directors who released the statement were approached because they had expressed their support privately, and Cummins asked them to make it formally known.
In my opinion, Irwin's statement to the Vancouver Sun has diluted the intended effect of the public statement from "We want to show independent support for John Cummins" to "John asked us to" which now makes the statement politically meaningless which now shows a split governing body for the BC Conservatives with just a few months before the BC Conservatives' must have 85 candidates ready (as they've previously indicated they would do for the 2013 BC Election) and as BC Liberal Chilliwack MLA John Les says in the Globe and Mail:
"If there is a real implosion, clearly some of those people who have notionally parked their support with the B.C. Conservatives, maybe it will make it easier for them to come back to the B.C. Liberal Party.”
Read the Vancouver Sun article here and the Globe and Mail article here
Meanwhile -- Don Irwin, BC Conservative Regional Director for Peace River made the following interesting statement to the Sun:
He and the other five directors who released the statement were approached because they had expressed their support privately, and Cummins asked them to make it formally known.
In my opinion, Irwin's statement to the Vancouver Sun has diluted the intended effect of the public statement from "We want to show independent support for John Cummins" to "John asked us to" which now makes the statement politically meaningless which now shows a split governing body for the BC Conservatives with just a few months before the BC Conservatives' must have 85 candidates ready (as they've previously indicated they would do for the 2013 BC Election) and as BC Liberal Chilliwack MLA John Les says in the Globe and Mail:
"If there is a real implosion, clearly some of those people who have notionally parked their support with the B.C. Conservatives, maybe it will make it easier for them to come back to the B.C. Liberal Party.”
Read the Vancouver Sun article here and the Globe and Mail article here
Fox Mountain Rd paving costs up
In a report from Jeff Bernardy, the City of Williams Lake's Engineering Technologist going to a Special Meeting of Council tomorrow - he will inform WL City Council that the City's portion to pave Fox Mountain Rd (as part of Fox Mountain Rd is within City boundaries) is going up to $194,391.22 to pave 1.1 kms of road, up from $150,000 as an initial estimate
Mr. Bernardy will also tell Council:
The Ministry of Transportation has advised that a 5% increase over the tendered price may be necessary depending on the field conditions encountered
The Staff Recommendation going to Council is:
That Council approve the adjusted paving costs and proceed with entering into an agreement with the Ministry of Transportation.
Read his full report here
Mr. Bernardy will also tell Council:
The Ministry of Transportation has advised that a 5% increase over the tendered price may be necessary depending on the field conditions encountered
The Staff Recommendation going to Council is:
That Council approve the adjusted paving costs and proceed with entering into an agreement with the Ministry of Transportation.
Read his full report here
Pat Bell's Top Ten - Sept 10th
1. In the last year BC created 51,700 new jobs. In the #2 spot was Alberta with 43,300 and in a distant 3rd Quebec was 24,500.
2. Last month alone there were 14,900 new jobs in BC which brought our unemployment rate down to 6.7%.
3. Youth unemployment has been significantly reduced in the last year as well dropping from 16% to 11.7%, again the most significant reduction in the country.
4. Youth wages are also going up significantly. In the past year they have gained 6.6% to an average of $13.87 per hour.
5. The big winner in terms of job gains was the mining/forestry cluster adding 10,500 jobs in the past year for a gain of 28%.
6. Other sector gains in the past month included Transportation 12,500, Utilities 1,700, Accommodation and Food Services 3,700 and Agriculture 1,800.
7. Another significant area of job growth over the past year has been the Manufacturing sector with the addition of 17,800 jobs since August of 2011.
8. One of the most exciting pieces of information was the fact that Prince George is now at 51,800 jobs, that’s up from last month 50,600 and one of only half a dozen months in our history where we have exceeded 50,000 jobs.
9. Kamloops was another strong growth area with and additional 800 jobs as was Vernon (800) and Kelowna (1,200).
10. In the last year Canada has added 176,600 jobs meaning that BC has accounted for 29% of all Canadian job growth.
2. Last month alone there were 14,900 new jobs in BC which brought our unemployment rate down to 6.7%.
3. Youth unemployment has been significantly reduced in the last year as well dropping from 16% to 11.7%, again the most significant reduction in the country.
4. Youth wages are also going up significantly. In the past year they have gained 6.6% to an average of $13.87 per hour.
5. The big winner in terms of job gains was the mining/forestry cluster adding 10,500 jobs in the past year for a gain of 28%.
6. Other sector gains in the past month included Transportation 12,500, Utilities 1,700, Accommodation and Food Services 3,700 and Agriculture 1,800.
7. Another significant area of job growth over the past year has been the Manufacturing sector with the addition of 17,800 jobs since August of 2011.
8. One of the most exciting pieces of information was the fact that Prince George is now at 51,800 jobs, that’s up from last month 50,600 and one of only half a dozen months in our history where we have exceeded 50,000 jobs.
9. Kamloops was another strong growth area with and additional 800 jobs as was Vernon (800) and Kelowna (1,200).
10. In the last year Canada has added 176,600 jobs meaning that BC has accounted for 29% of all Canadian job growth.
Art Classes at Bouchie Lake
Courtesy of CRD Area 'B' Director Heloise Dixon-Warren:
Art for Adults & Youth at Bouchie Lake Hall.
This is a new course offered during after school hours at the Bouchie Lake Hall led by local artist Sybille Muschik. Parents and children can learn and create together. The course will be project oriented with different media used, covering drawing, printmaking, collage, and acrylic painting. Ages 6 and up. All material included. Create memories.
Instructor: Sybille Muschik
Thursday, Sept 20 - Oct. 25
3:30 pm to 5:30Pm
$140/for one adult and one child
$80/$100 for one adult
$60/$75 for one child
The 1st price quoted is for those families / people who have a RECREATION PASS (through paying into the North Cariboo Arts & Recreation taxation function or by purchasing a RECREATION PASS).
All art supplies are included. Eventually if these classes continue, we can stock an art supply shelf at Bouchie Lake Hall with basic supplies and people can bring some of their own.
To register, please contact the Quesnel Arts & Recreation Centre.
Art for Adults & Youth at Bouchie Lake Hall.
This is a new course offered during after school hours at the Bouchie Lake Hall led by local artist Sybille Muschik. Parents and children can learn and create together. The course will be project oriented with different media used, covering drawing, printmaking, collage, and acrylic painting. Ages 6 and up. All material included. Create memories.
Instructor: Sybille Muschik
Thursday, Sept 20 - Oct. 25
3:30 pm to 5:30Pm
$140/for one adult and one child
$80/$100 for one adult
$60/$75 for one child
The 1st price quoted is for those families / people who have a RECREATION PASS (through paying into the North Cariboo Arts & Recreation taxation function or by purchasing a RECREATION PASS).
All art supplies are included. Eventually if these classes continue, we can stock an art supply shelf at Bouchie Lake Hall with basic supplies and people can bring some of their own.
To register, please contact the Quesnel Arts & Recreation Centre.
My submission on Sign Amendment Bylaw #2165
At the Special Meeting of WL Council on Sept 5th - WL Council, with Councillor Geoff Bourdon opposed, agreed to give 3 Readings to Sign Amendment Bylaw #2165 of 2012 and that the public be given an opportunity to speak to Bylaw #2165 prior to adoption at WL Council's Sept 18th meeting (process same as speaking to a Development Permit or Development Variance Permit). Council also agreed to advertise this information with a request that the public may write to Council with their thoughts on Bylaw #2165 prior to September 18th. You can read how to do that here
Meanwhile - prior to indicating my own thoughts on the Bylaw, I think a brief history on this topic would be helpful:
Feb 14th Committee of the Whole meeting - Staff were directed to engage the public with respect to upcoming changes to the City's new Sign Bylaw. Also at this meeting, WL Council received a report from its' Bylaw Review Advisory Committee on the new Sign Bylaw as well - read more here
March 27th/March 29th - WL City Staff engaged both Real Estate agents and the general public as to the contents of the new Sign Bylaw
April 24th - WL City Staff report on the March 27th/29th Public Engagement Sessions for Sign Bylaw #2153, 2012. Read more here
May 8th - WL Council gives 1st, 2nd and 3rd Reading to Sign Bylaw #2153, 2012 - Councillor Danica Hughes was opposed
May 22nd - WL Council adopts Sign Bylaw #2153, 2012 - no member of WL Council opposed
August 28th City of WL Mayor Kerry Cook recieves complaint, via email, on August 21st from Kerry Gustafson questioning need to comply with 'Cariboo Theme' as a sign requirement as per term of Sign Bylaw #2153 and the City's new OCP. Read the Staff report here. As a result of the report, Council directed its' Staff to bring forward an amendment to Sign Bylaw #2153 as it relates to the 'Cariboo Theme' and signage in Development Permit areas, mandated 'voluntary compliance'. It should be noted that WL City Councillors Ivan Bonnell, Geoff Bourdon and Sue Zacharias voted to retain Sign Bylaw #2153 as it is presently written with City of WL Mayor Kerry Cook and Councillors Danica Hughes, Surinderpal Rathor and Laurie Walters opposed
Sept 5th - WL Council gives 3 readings to Sign Amendment Bylaw #2153 with Councillor Geoff Bourdon opposed.
Prior to August 21st, 2012 - no member of the public raised a concern relative to the 'Cariboo Theme' and signage in Development Permit areas that I am aware of
For the record, here is my official submission to Williams Lake City Council as it relates to Sign Amendment Bylaw #2153 and as of midnight on Sept 10th, I have not received a formal reply from any member of Williams Lake City Council:
Mayor/Council:
As requested by Mayor/Council, at its’ Sept 5th Special Meeting, I wish to take a moment to offer my own opinion on Sign Amendment Bylaw #2165 and why it should be immediately withdrawn and my deepest appreciation to Councillor Bourdon for voting no to 1st, 2nd and 3rd reading of Bylaw #2165 and I hope that he will vote no to the adoption of this bylaw, even if his colleagues vote to adopt the Bylaw
Background:
On March 27th/29th – public information meetings were held to discuss the new Sign Bylaw and not once were any concerns raised about complying with the new ‘Cariboo Theme’ raised by anyone. For Mayor Cook and Councillors Walters/Hughes – perhaps you should re-read the information in a City Staff report dated April 12th and presented to WL Council on April 24th at a Committee of the Whole meeting. Nowhere in that report were any concerns raised by the public over compliance with the ‘Cariboo Theme’ in the City’s OCP and Sign Bylaw #2153
Meanwhile – at the August 28th COW Meeting, this topic was brought up by way of an email from local businessman Kerry Gustafson. The minutes from that meeting show that Councillors Bonnell, Bourdon and Zacharias wanted to keep Sign Bylaw #2153 intact while Mayor Cook and Councillors Hughes, Rathor and Walters wished to do otherwise. My deepest thanks to Councillors Bonnell, Bourdon and Zacharias holding true to the principle that one person raising a concern should not warrant changing a major intent of a bylaw – regardless of what that bylaw is
Finally – the City will, over time, have three bylaws coming forward for consideration which includes:
a) Development Procedures Bylaw
b) Development Cost Charges Bylaw
c) Zoning Bylaw
Are Mayor Cook and Councillors Hughes/Walters saying that they’re prepared to change a bylaw(s) on the whim of 1 person?? I hope not because this City is in real governance problems if that is indeed the case
Conclusion:
If Bylaw #2165 passes as proposed – the public will no longer, from my perspective, have any confidence in any consultation process as they’ll see that a majority of WL Council will be prepared to change bylaws, at will on the basis of one complaint. I might feel differently if Council was in receipt of many complaints over the new Sign Bylaw which we haven’t seen to date.
Meanwhile - prior to indicating my own thoughts on the Bylaw, I think a brief history on this topic would be helpful:
Feb 14th Committee of the Whole meeting - Staff were directed to engage the public with respect to upcoming changes to the City's new Sign Bylaw. Also at this meeting, WL Council received a report from its' Bylaw Review Advisory Committee on the new Sign Bylaw as well - read more here
March 27th/March 29th - WL City Staff engaged both Real Estate agents and the general public as to the contents of the new Sign Bylaw
April 24th - WL City Staff report on the March 27th/29th Public Engagement Sessions for Sign Bylaw #2153, 2012. Read more here
May 8th - WL Council gives 1st, 2nd and 3rd Reading to Sign Bylaw #2153, 2012 - Councillor Danica Hughes was opposed
May 22nd - WL Council adopts Sign Bylaw #2153, 2012 - no member of WL Council opposed
August 28th City of WL Mayor Kerry Cook recieves complaint, via email, on August 21st from Kerry Gustafson questioning need to comply with 'Cariboo Theme' as a sign requirement as per term of Sign Bylaw #2153 and the City's new OCP. Read the Staff report here. As a result of the report, Council directed its' Staff to bring forward an amendment to Sign Bylaw #2153 as it relates to the 'Cariboo Theme' and signage in Development Permit areas, mandated 'voluntary compliance'. It should be noted that WL City Councillors Ivan Bonnell, Geoff Bourdon and Sue Zacharias voted to retain Sign Bylaw #2153 as it is presently written with City of WL Mayor Kerry Cook and Councillors Danica Hughes, Surinderpal Rathor and Laurie Walters opposed
Sept 5th - WL Council gives 3 readings to Sign Amendment Bylaw #2153 with Councillor Geoff Bourdon opposed.
Prior to August 21st, 2012 - no member of the public raised a concern relative to the 'Cariboo Theme' and signage in Development Permit areas that I am aware of
For the record, here is my official submission to Williams Lake City Council as it relates to Sign Amendment Bylaw #2153 and as of midnight on Sept 10th, I have not received a formal reply from any member of Williams Lake City Council:
Mayor/Council:
As requested by Mayor/Council, at its’ Sept 5th Special Meeting, I wish to take a moment to offer my own opinion on Sign Amendment Bylaw #2165 and why it should be immediately withdrawn and my deepest appreciation to Councillor Bourdon for voting no to 1st, 2nd and 3rd reading of Bylaw #2165 and I hope that he will vote no to the adoption of this bylaw, even if his colleagues vote to adopt the Bylaw
Background:
On March 27th/29th – public information meetings were held to discuss the new Sign Bylaw and not once were any concerns raised about complying with the new ‘Cariboo Theme’ raised by anyone. For Mayor Cook and Councillors Walters/Hughes – perhaps you should re-read the information in a City Staff report dated April 12th and presented to WL Council on April 24th at a Committee of the Whole meeting. Nowhere in that report were any concerns raised by the public over compliance with the ‘Cariboo Theme’ in the City’s OCP and Sign Bylaw #2153
Meanwhile – at the August 28th COW Meeting, this topic was brought up by way of an email from local businessman Kerry Gustafson. The minutes from that meeting show that Councillors Bonnell, Bourdon and Zacharias wanted to keep Sign Bylaw #2153 intact while Mayor Cook and Councillors Hughes, Rathor and Walters wished to do otherwise. My deepest thanks to Councillors Bonnell, Bourdon and Zacharias holding true to the principle that one person raising a concern should not warrant changing a major intent of a bylaw – regardless of what that bylaw is
Finally – the City will, over time, have three bylaws coming forward for consideration which includes:
a) Development Procedures Bylaw
b) Development Cost Charges Bylaw
c) Zoning Bylaw
Are Mayor Cook and Councillors Hughes/Walters saying that they’re prepared to change a bylaw(s) on the whim of 1 person?? I hope not because this City is in real governance problems if that is indeed the case
Conclusion:
If Bylaw #2165 passes as proposed – the public will no longer, from my perspective, have any confidence in any consultation process as they’ll see that a majority of WL Council will be prepared to change bylaws, at will on the basis of one complaint. I might feel differently if Council was in receipt of many complaints over the new Sign Bylaw which we haven’t seen to date.
Sunday, September 9, 2012
BC Conservatives short of $$$
In an interesting post today - Bernard von Schulmann openly asks if the BC Conservatives will have enough money banked by April 2013 to seriously compete with the BC NDP and BC Liberals. Remember - both the BC NDP/BC Liberals have previously spent millions to battle out the 2009 Provincial Election.
Read that blog post here
In a related matter and will likely re-annoy BC Conservatives - former BC Liberal Party Leader and NDP Cabinet Minister Gord Wilson says that Christy Clark and the BC Liberals can conceivably still win the 2013 Provincial Election. Read the column here
A few days ago, BC Conservatives were annoyed that Mr. Wilson suggested that moves were afoot to dump BC Conservatives' Leader John Cummins in favour of Stockwell Day which led Kamloops/Nicola BC Conservatives' Regional Director (and my uncle) Alan Forseth to write a rebuttal on that topic here
Read that blog post here
In a related matter and will likely re-annoy BC Conservatives - former BC Liberal Party Leader and NDP Cabinet Minister Gord Wilson says that Christy Clark and the BC Liberals can conceivably still win the 2013 Provincial Election. Read the column here
A few days ago, BC Conservatives were annoyed that Mr. Wilson suggested that moves were afoot to dump BC Conservatives' Leader John Cummins in favour of Stockwell Day which led Kamloops/Nicola BC Conservatives' Regional Director (and my uncle) Alan Forseth to write a rebuttal on that topic here
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Review of Local Gov't Bus - Wk of Sept 10-14
As I stated yesterday, the Cities of Quesnel & Williams Lake, the District of 100 Mile House and the Cariboo RD Board are meeting next week. Here's a wrap on the significant items that they'll be considering next week:
Please note any local government in Committee of the Whole (In Committee) can not make a decision but makes a recommendation to that local government , similar to any established Committee within that local government
Quesnel - In Committee of the Whole
a) YouTube video presentation on Parking challenges within the City of Quesnel
b) BC Transit to present information to initiate a Targeted Service Review within Quesnel - read here and here (proposed terms of reference for the service review)
Williams Lake - In Committee of the Whole
a) Continued review of 2011-14 Strategic Priorities with focus on environmental goals - read here. I did have one individual ask if there is any requirement to engage the public on Strategic Priorities prior to adoption of them by WL Council... while WL Council is not required to consult/engage the public with respect to Strategic Priorities, there may be value in annual town halls, similiar to what the City of Terrace has done in the past which could include annual reporting out and what challenges that the City of WL is undergoing and could allow for 2 way annual conversation about our city
b) Western Estates (by WL Seniors' Village on Western Ave) resident raises concern about parkland adjacent to it and the risk of fire - read her letter here
c) Local paramedic Richard Vollo writes WL Council on the severe challenge of parking in Westridge - read his letter here. Staff notes that this issue doesn't just apply to Westridge but to all residential areas in WL and that it should be a Business Plan goal for 2013 to review the off-street parking regulations.
d) Staff response to geese droppings at Scout Island - read here
e) Community Corner Partnership asks for City help to resolve plumbing issue at their building for Cariboo Growers' group - read their letter here
f) Local resident (and Woodland Dr resident) Troy Weil is asking Council for permission to connect to City water system. Read his letter here but Staff are recommending the request be rejected because of the fact that allowing Mr. Weil could dilute the other Woodland Dr residents from connecting to City water and the fact that it could be a case of "divide and conquer" as far as future water/sewer services for Woodland Drive. Also note - Mayor Cook will not be a part of this discussion, given she is a Woodland Drive resident herself
Finally - for the information of those including commentor Jim on the whole issue of the Sign Bylaw & the requirement to comply with the 'Cariboo Theme' requirement. The Aug 28th minutes indicate that WL City Councillors Ivan Bonnell, Geoff Bourdon and Sue Zacharias wanted to keep Sign Bylaw #2153 intact while City of WL Mayor Cook and City Councillors Laurie Walters, Danica Hughes and Surinderpal Rathor rejected this. At the end of the day - Mayor Cook, seconded by Councillor Rathor, moved that Bylaw #2153 be changed to 'voluntary compliance' as far as the 'Cariboo Theme' and signage goes which passed at the Aug 28th COW Meeting (with no recorded no votes) and then become official at the Sept 4th WL Council meeting
Cariboo Regional District - In Committee of the Whole:
a) Chlorination of CRD Water Systems - read here. Interesting that the CRD Staff report indicates that a CRD Director who goes unnamed successfully blocked this initiative. I wonder how long that can go on before Interior Health "orders" the local Regional District to chlorinate water in all CRD Water systems, regardless if a CRD Director(s) personally opposes such an initiative
b) In a move that I suspected would happen - CRD Administrator Janis Bell will propose to the CRD Board that the Agenda Format revert back to its' previous version where Planning items are considered first, then all other business and then In-Camera. Ms. Bell notes challenges for press coverage and staff challenges to insure proper recording staff/equipment for In-Camera meetings. Read her memo to the Board here. If the Board reverts back to its' former Agenda structure, it should make it easier on Chilcotin residents or those from great distances to come and get a decision on their application(s) and then do the rest of their daily business. I sincerely hope the Board agrees to this proposal by Ms. Bell
Update on Sat Sept 8th -- Area 'D' Director Deb Bischoff says that she will ask the CRD Board to have In-Camera meetings first, then Hospital, Planning and then all other business as per the usual CRD Board Agenda. It's a good idea but we'll have to wait and see if her colleagues feels the same as she does
c) CRD Area 'B' Director Heloise Dixon-Warren has requested a discussion on Grants-in-Aide. Staff also note that the Policy/Procedure Committee, chaired by Area 'L' Director Bruce Rattray is looking at this item as well. Read more here
d) CRD Administrator Janis Bell will propose to the Board that CRD tax requisition levels remain the same in 2013 vs 2012, outside of either new or significantly new services. Read her memo to the Board here. With City of WL and their union discussions on-going, there is no official word on what a new collective agreement could look like and that could put enough pressure on the CRD's Central Cariboo Recreation budget that a 0% tax requistion may be out of reach but time will tell but I would bet that CRD Staff are watching the negotiations closely to see what the actual impact may be but by October, if negotiations are not finished, then CRD Staff may have to "pencil" in a number and then revise when the final numbers are available
e) CRD Administrator Janis Bell will propose to the Board a Financial Plan Consultation process in 2013 which could include a Saturday session in Williams Lake to capture those coming to WL from the Chilcotin - read here
Finally - the Board will receive an item from Shelly Burich, CRD Communications Manager, outlining a Terms of Reference for a CRD Volunteer Recognition Program. Read more here. Great to see the CRD wanting to recognize the volunteers of the Cariboo-Chilcotin :)
Please note any local government in Committee of the Whole (In Committee) can not make a decision but makes a recommendation to that local government , similar to any established Committee within that local government
Quesnel - In Committee of the Whole
a) YouTube video presentation on Parking challenges within the City of Quesnel
b) BC Transit to present information to initiate a Targeted Service Review within Quesnel - read here and here (proposed terms of reference for the service review)
Williams Lake - In Committee of the Whole
a) Continued review of 2011-14 Strategic Priorities with focus on environmental goals - read here. I did have one individual ask if there is any requirement to engage the public on Strategic Priorities prior to adoption of them by WL Council... while WL Council is not required to consult/engage the public with respect to Strategic Priorities, there may be value in annual town halls, similiar to what the City of Terrace has done in the past which could include annual reporting out and what challenges that the City of WL is undergoing and could allow for 2 way annual conversation about our city
b) Western Estates (by WL Seniors' Village on Western Ave) resident raises concern about parkland adjacent to it and the risk of fire - read her letter here
c) Local paramedic Richard Vollo writes WL Council on the severe challenge of parking in Westridge - read his letter here. Staff notes that this issue doesn't just apply to Westridge but to all residential areas in WL and that it should be a Business Plan goal for 2013 to review the off-street parking regulations.
d) Staff response to geese droppings at Scout Island - read here
e) Community Corner Partnership asks for City help to resolve plumbing issue at their building for Cariboo Growers' group - read their letter here
f) Local resident (and Woodland Dr resident) Troy Weil is asking Council for permission to connect to City water system. Read his letter here but Staff are recommending the request be rejected because of the fact that allowing Mr. Weil could dilute the other Woodland Dr residents from connecting to City water and the fact that it could be a case of "divide and conquer" as far as future water/sewer services for Woodland Drive. Also note - Mayor Cook will not be a part of this discussion, given she is a Woodland Drive resident herself
Finally - for the information of those including commentor Jim on the whole issue of the Sign Bylaw & the requirement to comply with the 'Cariboo Theme' requirement. The Aug 28th minutes indicate that WL City Councillors Ivan Bonnell, Geoff Bourdon and Sue Zacharias wanted to keep Sign Bylaw #2153 intact while City of WL Mayor Cook and City Councillors Laurie Walters, Danica Hughes and Surinderpal Rathor rejected this. At the end of the day - Mayor Cook, seconded by Councillor Rathor, moved that Bylaw #2153 be changed to 'voluntary compliance' as far as the 'Cariboo Theme' and signage goes which passed at the Aug 28th COW Meeting (with no recorded no votes) and then become official at the Sept 4th WL Council meeting
Cariboo Regional District - In Committee of the Whole:
a) Chlorination of CRD Water Systems - read here. Interesting that the CRD Staff report indicates that a CRD Director who goes unnamed successfully blocked this initiative. I wonder how long that can go on before Interior Health "orders" the local Regional District to chlorinate water in all CRD Water systems, regardless if a CRD Director(s) personally opposes such an initiative
b) In a move that I suspected would happen - CRD Administrator Janis Bell will propose to the CRD Board that the Agenda Format revert back to its' previous version where Planning items are considered first, then all other business and then In-Camera. Ms. Bell notes challenges for press coverage and staff challenges to insure proper recording staff/equipment for In-Camera meetings. Read her memo to the Board here. If the Board reverts back to its' former Agenda structure, it should make it easier on Chilcotin residents or those from great distances to come and get a decision on their application(s) and then do the rest of their daily business. I sincerely hope the Board agrees to this proposal by Ms. Bell
Update on Sat Sept 8th -- Area 'D' Director Deb Bischoff says that she will ask the CRD Board to have In-Camera meetings first, then Hospital, Planning and then all other business as per the usual CRD Board Agenda. It's a good idea but we'll have to wait and see if her colleagues feels the same as she does
c) CRD Area 'B' Director Heloise Dixon-Warren has requested a discussion on Grants-in-Aide. Staff also note that the Policy/Procedure Committee, chaired by Area 'L' Director Bruce Rattray is looking at this item as well. Read more here
d) CRD Administrator Janis Bell will propose to the Board that CRD tax requisition levels remain the same in 2013 vs 2012, outside of either new or significantly new services. Read her memo to the Board here. With City of WL and their union discussions on-going, there is no official word on what a new collective agreement could look like and that could put enough pressure on the CRD's Central Cariboo Recreation budget that a 0% tax requistion may be out of reach but time will tell but I would bet that CRD Staff are watching the negotiations closely to see what the actual impact may be but by October, if negotiations are not finished, then CRD Staff may have to "pencil" in a number and then revise when the final numbers are available
e) CRD Administrator Janis Bell will propose to the Board a Financial Plan Consultation process in 2013 which could include a Saturday session in Williams Lake to capture those coming to WL from the Chilcotin - read here
Finally - the Board will receive an item from Shelly Burich, CRD Communications Manager, outlining a Terms of Reference for a CRD Volunteer Recognition Program. Read more here. Great to see the CRD wanting to recognize the volunteers of the Cariboo-Chilcotin :)
Friday, September 7, 2012
Back door taxation for rural fringe fire protection...
Yesterday, Welcome to Williams Lake ran a story on next week's Cariboo RD meeting with Area D,E, F fringe residents' who receive fire protection from the City of WL Fire Department. Read the article in question here
The article quoted Deputy Area 'D' Director Bill Carruthers as saying:
“Through a back-door deal with the Provincial Government, the City instituted an increase in rates for people in fringe protection areas which is a great deal higher than city costs,” explained alternate Director Bill Carruthers.
“Since there was no referendum, the CRD needs to get a clear feel for what residents want.”
“Are you prepared to accept the higher costs from the City? Are you prepared to go without fire protection? Are you prepared to organize a volunteer fire department? Are you prepared to pay the higher rates until such time as you can organize a new volunteer fire department in your area?”
“CRD Directors will be present to explain the options to residents, and answer any questions
On the issue of increasing fire rates to CRD Rural Fringe residents' for fire protection - as a City of WL resident, I am completely dumbfounded why the then City elected officials did not see value in, at least, informing the then CRD elected officials of the day (Area D - Deb Bischoff, Area E - Steve Mazur and Area F - Joan Sorley) that the rates would indeed be increasing and the rationale for doing so prior to implementation. If the rate increase was due to increasing costs, I would think that CRD Directors' would accept this, if they felt the justification for the increasing fire protection rates was fair and reasonable
As for the referendum issue -- we need to be clear that there was no formal referendum on the new Fire Hall as former City of WL Mayor Scott Nelson and his Council elected to use a 'counter-petition' process or the Alternative Approval Process (AAP) to get formal authority to borrow funds for the new Fire Hall ($6.5 million) and since CRD fringe residents' were never going to pay for the borrowing directly, it was a strict vote of City of WL residents'. My own view was given, at the time, it was close enough to the general election in 2008, it should have been a formal vote and the cost could have been absorbed into the general election costs
As for the remaining quote from Bill Carruthers over the following:
“Are you prepared to accept the higher costs from the City? Are you prepared to go without fire protection? Are you prepared to organize a volunteer fire department? Are you prepared to pay the higher rates until such time as you can organize a new volunteer fire department in your area?”
I am certain that CRD Directors' with CRD Staff, at next's Wednesday meeting on this topic (7pm Wed at the Gibraltar Room) will explain the pros/cons of the above but in discussing this with Bill Carruthers today -- the options are really two-fold:
1) Get a negotiated agreement with the City of WL to provide fire protection to CRD Area D, E, and F residents'
2) CRD sets up its' own Rural Fringe Fire Protection function
As I've stated before, I think Option 1 is preferable over Option 2 but I think that CRD rural fringe (Areas D-F) residents' are not willing to pay what the City of WL dictates the Cariboo RD must pay for rural fringe fire protection. Give and take is definitely, in my mind, required to come to an agreement here
But with only 2 weeks remaining (Oct 4th) before the Cariboo Regional District must make a decision on rural fire protection for Area D, E, F residents, my own biggest fear is Option 2 will become a reality because of the City's "take it or leave it attitude" and some may indeed go without fire protection for a significant period of time and this option may or may not be acceptable to those who currently receive fire protection from the City of WL Fire Department
Stay tuned!
SBF
The article quoted Deputy Area 'D' Director Bill Carruthers as saying:
“Through a back-door deal with the Provincial Government, the City instituted an increase in rates for people in fringe protection areas which is a great deal higher than city costs,” explained alternate Director Bill Carruthers.
“Since there was no referendum, the CRD needs to get a clear feel for what residents want.”
“Are you prepared to accept the higher costs from the City? Are you prepared to go without fire protection? Are you prepared to organize a volunteer fire department? Are you prepared to pay the higher rates until such time as you can organize a new volunteer fire department in your area?”
“CRD Directors will be present to explain the options to residents, and answer any questions
On the issue of increasing fire rates to CRD Rural Fringe residents' for fire protection - as a City of WL resident, I am completely dumbfounded why the then City elected officials did not see value in, at least, informing the then CRD elected officials of the day (Area D - Deb Bischoff, Area E - Steve Mazur and Area F - Joan Sorley) that the rates would indeed be increasing and the rationale for doing so prior to implementation. If the rate increase was due to increasing costs, I would think that CRD Directors' would accept this, if they felt the justification for the increasing fire protection rates was fair and reasonable
As for the referendum issue -- we need to be clear that there was no formal referendum on the new Fire Hall as former City of WL Mayor Scott Nelson and his Council elected to use a 'counter-petition' process or the Alternative Approval Process (AAP) to get formal authority to borrow funds for the new Fire Hall ($6.5 million) and since CRD fringe residents' were never going to pay for the borrowing directly, it was a strict vote of City of WL residents'. My own view was given, at the time, it was close enough to the general election in 2008, it should have been a formal vote and the cost could have been absorbed into the general election costs
As for the remaining quote from Bill Carruthers over the following:
“Are you prepared to accept the higher costs from the City? Are you prepared to go without fire protection? Are you prepared to organize a volunteer fire department? Are you prepared to pay the higher rates until such time as you can organize a new volunteer fire department in your area?”
I am certain that CRD Directors' with CRD Staff, at next's Wednesday meeting on this topic (7pm Wed at the Gibraltar Room) will explain the pros/cons of the above but in discussing this with Bill Carruthers today -- the options are really two-fold:
1) Get a negotiated agreement with the City of WL to provide fire protection to CRD Area D, E, and F residents'
2) CRD sets up its' own Rural Fringe Fire Protection function
As I've stated before, I think Option 1 is preferable over Option 2 but I think that CRD rural fringe (Areas D-F) residents' are not willing to pay what the City of WL dictates the Cariboo RD must pay for rural fringe fire protection. Give and take is definitely, in my mind, required to come to an agreement here
But with only 2 weeks remaining (Oct 4th) before the Cariboo Regional District must make a decision on rural fire protection for Area D, E, F residents, my own biggest fear is Option 2 will become a reality because of the City's "take it or leave it attitude" and some may indeed go without fire protection for a significant period of time and this option may or may not be acceptable to those who currently receive fire protection from the City of WL Fire Department
Stay tuned!
SBF
Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of Sept 10th - 14th
The following local governments are meeting next week:
Quesnel: Committee of the Whole meeting on Monday, Sept 10th at 7:00pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant Street)
View the Agenda here
Williams Lake: Special Council Meeting on Tuesday, Sept 11th at 6:00pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart Street). There is, at present, no Agenda available for public viewing
Then at 7:00pm on Sept 11th, Council will go into a Committee of the Whole meeting to be held in the Rick Hansen Boardroom
View the Committee of the Whole Agenda here
100 Mile House: Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Sept 11th at 7:00pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Ave)
View the Agenda (when available) here
Cariboo Regional District:
Sept 13th - Committee of the Whole meeting at 12:30pm at the Kersley Community Hall (Arnoldus Road). View the Agenda here
Sept 14th - Regular Board meeting at 9:30am at the Kersley Community Hall (Arnoldus Rd). View the Agenda here. Please note from 5-7pm on Sept 14th, there will be a community BBQ in order to meet the CRD Board Directors' and have a burger...
Editor's Note - On Saturday, I will give my own wrap on items that the City of WL and the CRD Board will be considering next week
Quesnel: Committee of the Whole meeting on Monday, Sept 10th at 7:00pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant Street)
View the Agenda here
Williams Lake: Special Council Meeting on Tuesday, Sept 11th at 6:00pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart Street). There is, at present, no Agenda available for public viewing
Then at 7:00pm on Sept 11th, Council will go into a Committee of the Whole meeting to be held in the Rick Hansen Boardroom
View the Committee of the Whole Agenda here
100 Mile House: Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Sept 11th at 7:00pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Ave)
View the Agenda (when available) here
Cariboo Regional District:
Sept 13th - Committee of the Whole meeting at 12:30pm at the Kersley Community Hall (Arnoldus Road). View the Agenda here
Sept 14th - Regular Board meeting at 9:30am at the Kersley Community Hall (Arnoldus Rd). View the Agenda here. Please note from 5-7pm on Sept 14th, there will be a community BBQ in order to meet the CRD Board Directors' and have a burger...
Editor's Note - On Saturday, I will give my own wrap on items that the City of WL and the CRD Board will be considering next week
BC NDP wrong about BC Team at NGP Hearings...
Courtesy of the BC Gov't Caucus:
The BC NDP need to apologize. In light of today’s ruling at the Northern Gateway Pipeline hearings that B.C. is allowed to question Enbridge about their financial liability for spill response and restoration, the BC NDP obviously were rash in their call to judgement on the legal team representing B.C. at the hearings in Edmonton, said Environment Minister Terry Lake.
“Our government is being responsible and is representing the interests of all British Columbians at the National Energy Board Joint Review Panel hearings in Edmonton. We’re not there to play politics. Our government is putting B.C. first,” said Minister Lake.
Yesterday at the hearings, the Province pursued questioning on financial liability of the Northern Gateway Pipeline proponents, and its partners, for spill response and restoration as well as details regarding liability insurance and plans for full environmental restoration in the event of a spill. This includes the scope of the NGP’s liability and insurance. Although it was interrupted by a procedural question, today it was determined this line of questioning was in scope and this line of questioning is continuing today.
“The BC NDP’s rush to judgement about the Province’s line of questions revealed their complete lack of understanding of the review process, and showed that they are not monitoring the hearings. While the government team is at all the hearings and closely monitoring all exchanges, the BC NDP are sitting at home and speculating. The NDP have demonstrated their preferences for made-up environmental processes with pre-determined outcomes and don’t have a consistent position. We’ve always been consistent, and our government remains committed to exercising its full rights as an intervenor in the hearings and will continue to press for B.C.’s environmental demands to be addressed,” added Lake.
Yesterday, legal counsel for British Columbia began part one of the government’s cross-examination at the Joint Review Panel examining the Northern Gateway Pipeline. They will ensure representation of the five conditions the government has identified that must be met before consideration of any heavy oil pipeline proposal will proceed:
1. Successful completion of the environmental review process. In the case of NGP, that would mean a recommendation by the National Energy Board Joint Review Panel that the project can proceed.
2. World-leading marine oil spill response, prevention and recovery systems for B.C.’s coastline and ocean to manage and mitigate the risks and cost of heavy oil pipelines and shipments.
3. World-leading practices for land oil-spill prevention, response and recovery systems to manage and mitigate the risks and costs of heavy oil pipelines.
4. Legal requirements regarding Aboriginal and treaty rights are addressed, and First Nations are provided with the opportunities, information and resources necessary to participate in and benefit from a heavy oil project.
5. British Columbia receives a fair share of the fiscal and economic benefits of a proposed heavy oil project that reflects the level, degree and nature of the risk borne by the province, the environment and taxpayers.
The BC NDP need to apologize. In light of today’s ruling at the Northern Gateway Pipeline hearings that B.C. is allowed to question Enbridge about their financial liability for spill response and restoration, the BC NDP obviously were rash in their call to judgement on the legal team representing B.C. at the hearings in Edmonton, said Environment Minister Terry Lake.
“Our government is being responsible and is representing the interests of all British Columbians at the National Energy Board Joint Review Panel hearings in Edmonton. We’re not there to play politics. Our government is putting B.C. first,” said Minister Lake.
Yesterday at the hearings, the Province pursued questioning on financial liability of the Northern Gateway Pipeline proponents, and its partners, for spill response and restoration as well as details regarding liability insurance and plans for full environmental restoration in the event of a spill. This includes the scope of the NGP’s liability and insurance. Although it was interrupted by a procedural question, today it was determined this line of questioning was in scope and this line of questioning is continuing today.
“The BC NDP’s rush to judgement about the Province’s line of questions revealed their complete lack of understanding of the review process, and showed that they are not monitoring the hearings. While the government team is at all the hearings and closely monitoring all exchanges, the BC NDP are sitting at home and speculating. The NDP have demonstrated their preferences for made-up environmental processes with pre-determined outcomes and don’t have a consistent position. We’ve always been consistent, and our government remains committed to exercising its full rights as an intervenor in the hearings and will continue to press for B.C.’s environmental demands to be addressed,” added Lake.
Yesterday, legal counsel for British Columbia began part one of the government’s cross-examination at the Joint Review Panel examining the Northern Gateway Pipeline. They will ensure representation of the five conditions the government has identified that must be met before consideration of any heavy oil pipeline proposal will proceed:
1. Successful completion of the environmental review process. In the case of NGP, that would mean a recommendation by the National Energy Board Joint Review Panel that the project can proceed.
2. World-leading marine oil spill response, prevention and recovery systems for B.C.’s coastline and ocean to manage and mitigate the risks and cost of heavy oil pipelines and shipments.
3. World-leading practices for land oil-spill prevention, response and recovery systems to manage and mitigate the risks and costs of heavy oil pipelines.
4. Legal requirements regarding Aboriginal and treaty rights are addressed, and First Nations are provided with the opportunities, information and resources necessary to participate in and benefit from a heavy oil project.
5. British Columbia receives a fair share of the fiscal and economic benefits of a proposed heavy oil project that reflects the level, degree and nature of the risk borne by the province, the environment and taxpayers.
And the hits keep on comin'...
A number of continuing letters to the editor (Quesnel Cariboo Observer) keep pummelling Quesnel City Council.
First one from former Quesnel Human Resources Advisor Muriel Wild who says Quesnel Mayor/Council sold out Quesnel taxpayers' by way of the new arrangement with new Quesnel City Manager Byron Johnson. Read her letter here and then read Mr. Johnson's contract for yourself here and then decide if you think Quesnel Council sold the taxpayers' of Quesnel out
Second one is from Quesnel resident Robert Wayne who asks why former Quesnel City Manager John Stecyk got such a high severance if he resigned from his position... read his letter here
I can't recall a time in either Wells, Quesnel, Williams Lake, 100 Mile, Cariboo Regional District or School Districts 27 or 28 where residents' really take exception to decisions made by a local government, and that goes back to the days of former Mayors Steve Wallace (Quesnel) and Ray Woods (Williams Lake). I don't think it can get much worse for Quesnel Council.... and we still have a year and a half before campaigning starts for the next election in October 2014.
Will Muriel Wild run for Quesnel Council.... with her letters to the editor, I wonder if she is thinking about having her name on the ballot for Quesnel Council in 2014
Will Muriel Wild run for Quesnel Council.... with her letters to the editor, I wonder if she is thinking about having her name on the ballot for Quesnel Council in 2014
SBF
Implosion of the BC Conservatives'
Over the last few days and weeks - the public has observed an "internal fight" within the BC Conservatives' become a public battle with the latest revelation that BC Conservative MLA John van Dongen saying at a recent BC Conservative 'In-Camera' Board of Directors' meeting that he no longer supports John Cummins as Leader of the BC Conservatives
Read more from the Vancouver Province here
Before the internal strife became public - it was almost unthinkable that the BC Conservatives' would have internal issues become public. In discussing this matter with some here in Williams Lake, they think the time remaining before the next provincial election is so short that it would be impratical for the BC Conservatives' to hold a Leadership Race, given it would put a great strain on their finances, especially at a time when they are (or should be) preparing for a general election next May
For BC Liberals and their suppporters' - I am certain these public battles of BC Conservatives' are putting smiles on their faces and warming their political hearts...
For BC Conservatives and their supporters - they must wonder what it'll take to resolve the internal strife and move on to preparing for a general election battle with the BC Liberals, BC NDP and BC Greens
In a related matter - my uncle and BC Conservative Kamloops Regional Director Alan Forseth looks at comments made by former BC Liberal Leader and NDP Cabinet Minister Gordon Wilson who says moves are afoot to try and have Stockwell Day made Leader of the BC Conservatives
Read that blog post here
Read more from the Vancouver Province here
Before the internal strife became public - it was almost unthinkable that the BC Conservatives' would have internal issues become public. In discussing this matter with some here in Williams Lake, they think the time remaining before the next provincial election is so short that it would be impratical for the BC Conservatives' to hold a Leadership Race, given it would put a great strain on their finances, especially at a time when they are (or should be) preparing for a general election next May
For BC Liberals and their suppporters' - I am certain these public battles of BC Conservatives' are putting smiles on their faces and warming their political hearts...
For BC Conservatives and their supporters - they must wonder what it'll take to resolve the internal strife and move on to preparing for a general election battle with the BC Liberals, BC NDP and BC Greens
In a related matter - my uncle and BC Conservative Kamloops Regional Director Alan Forseth looks at comments made by former BC Liberal Leader and NDP Cabinet Minister Gordon Wilson who says moves are afoot to try and have Stockwell Day made Leader of the BC Conservatives
Read that blog post here
Mike Klassen: BC Liberals will win 4th term
From the Huffington Post (BC Edition) -- former CityCaucus.com blogger Mike Klassen makes a very bold prediction that the BC Liberals will win a 4th term by citing electoral wins in Quebec and Alberta and in BC and the old saying of "Trust the Devil you know then the one you do not"
A very good read - click here
A very good read - click here
Area 'B' Newsletter - Sept edition
Find below a copy of this month's Cariboo RD Area 'B' Newsletter. In it, you'll find the following:
a) Greetings from me to You,
b) Area B Community Meetings / Open Houses,
c) Your Recreation Commissions Need You,
d) Two Mile Flat Fire Protection Open House,
e) Share Your Photos of What's Happening in Electoral Area B,
f) Zoning & Rural Land Use Bylaws in the North Cariboo
g) LakeKeepers Course
Also - Area 'B' Director Dixon-Warren makes the following request to Area 'B' and Area 'C' residents:
YOUR RECREATION COMMISSIONS NEED YOU!
There are 2 Recreation Commissions within Area B & 1 in Area C—they oversee the management of Bouchie Lake Hall & Recreation Grounds, Parkland Community Hall & Kostas Cove, and Barlow Creek Hall & Ranger Ball Park respectively.
All Recreation Commissions are governed by a CRD Bylaw and work closely with the community they represent. For information on becoming a Commissioner, please contact me at hdixon-warren@cariboord.bc.ca or Director Massier (Area C) at jmassier@cariboord.bc.ca
Finally - there are 2 Open Houses coming up in Area 'B' in October as follows:
PARKLAND COMMUNITY CENTRE: Sunday, October 14th, 1-5 pm
BOUCHIE LAKE HALL: Saturday. October 20th, 1-5 pm
Potential Meeting Items include:
Potential Topics: Rural Recreation, Taxation Overview, Quesnel Community Foundation, Grants for Assistance, Online Presence, Invasive Plants, CRD Programs, Zoning / Bylaw Overview, etc.
September Area 'B' Newsletter:
a) Greetings from me to You,
b) Area B Community Meetings / Open Houses,
c) Your Recreation Commissions Need You,
d) Two Mile Flat Fire Protection Open House,
e) Share Your Photos of What's Happening in Electoral Area B,
f) Zoning & Rural Land Use Bylaws in the North Cariboo
g) LakeKeepers Course
Also - Area 'B' Director Dixon-Warren makes the following request to Area 'B' and Area 'C' residents:
YOUR RECREATION COMMISSIONS NEED YOU!
There are 2 Recreation Commissions within Area B & 1 in Area C—they oversee the management of Bouchie Lake Hall & Recreation Grounds, Parkland Community Hall & Kostas Cove, and Barlow Creek Hall & Ranger Ball Park respectively.
All Recreation Commissions are governed by a CRD Bylaw and work closely with the community they represent. For information on becoming a Commissioner, please contact me at hdixon-warren@cariboord.bc.ca or Director Massier (Area C) at jmassier@cariboord.bc.ca
Finally - there are 2 Open Houses coming up in Area 'B' in October as follows:
PARKLAND COMMUNITY CENTRE: Sunday, October 14th, 1-5 pm
BOUCHIE LAKE HALL: Saturday. October 20th, 1-5 pm
Potential Meeting Items include:
Potential Topics: Rural Recreation, Taxation Overview, Quesnel Community Foundation, Grants for Assistance, Online Presence, Invasive Plants, CRD Programs, Zoning / Bylaw Overview, etc.
September Area 'B' Newsletter:
Thursday, September 6, 2012
WL Rural Fringe Fire Protection Mtg - Wed Sept 12th
Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:
The Cariboo Regional District is hosting a public meeting to inform residents of the current situation concerning fire protection in the Williams Lake Fringe area. The Regional District is seeking input as negotiations between the City of Williams Lake (the City) and the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) move forward.
Date: Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Time: 7 p.m
Location: The Gibraltar Room - Cariboo Memorial Complex, 525 Proctor Street, Williams Lake
Who Should Attend: All residents within the Williams Lake Fringe Fire Protection Areas of Electoral Areas D, E and F.
For further information contact your Electoral Area Director:
Area D – Alternate Director G. W. (Bill) Carruthers
(250) 392-6763 or bcarruthers@caribouroads.com
Area E – Director Byron Kemp
(250) 392-5037 or bkemp@cariboord.bc.ca
Area F – Director Joan Sorley
(250) 243-2261 or jsorley@cariboord.bc.ca
The Cariboo Regional District is hosting a public meeting to inform residents of the current situation concerning fire protection in the Williams Lake Fringe area. The Regional District is seeking input as negotiations between the City of Williams Lake (the City) and the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) move forward.
Date: Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Time: 7 p.m
Location: The Gibraltar Room - Cariboo Memorial Complex, 525 Proctor Street, Williams Lake
Who Should Attend: All residents within the Williams Lake Fringe Fire Protection Areas of Electoral Areas D, E and F.
For further information contact your Electoral Area Director:
Area D – Alternate Director G. W. (Bill) Carruthers
(250) 392-6763 or bcarruthers@caribouroads.com
Area E – Director Byron Kemp
(250) 392-5037 or bkemp@cariboord.bc.ca
Area F – Director Joan Sorley
(250) 243-2261 or jsorley@cariboord.bc.ca
OCP Consultation Mtg - 1912 Renner Road
Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:
Also note -- the City has called another Special Meeting of Council next Tuesday at 6pm in WL Council Chambers, followed by a Committee of the Whole Meeting
BL2163 Public Consult Notice
Also note -- the City has called another Special Meeting of Council next Tuesday at 6pm in WL Council Chambers, followed by a Committee of the Whole Meeting
BL2163 Public Consult Notice
Lt-Gov comes to Cariboo & BC Liberal MLA's Abandoning Ship?
In her latest weekly column - Williams Lake Mayor Kerry Cook talks about:
* Lieutenant-Governor Steven Point going to the Stone Reserve to open a new library
* More HandyDART hours in October
* Cook meets with Brian Battison of Taseko Mines
On the meeting with Battison - I wonder if she will be allowed to share with the public what was discussed given Taseko was embarrassed, I'm certain, over the draft EIS it shared with the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency which was then made public
Read Mayor Cook's column here
Meanwhile - Ind. Cariboo-North MLA Bob Simpson looks at the vast number of BC Liberal MLA's retiring from BC Politics and what the implications of that might be for the populace of BC
Read MLA Simpson's column here
* Lieutenant-Governor Steven Point going to the Stone Reserve to open a new library
* More HandyDART hours in October
* Cook meets with Brian Battison of Taseko Mines
On the meeting with Battison - I wonder if she will be allowed to share with the public what was discussed given Taseko was embarrassed, I'm certain, over the draft EIS it shared with the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency which was then made public
Read Mayor Cook's column here
Meanwhile - Ind. Cariboo-North MLA Bob Simpson looks at the vast number of BC Liberal MLA's retiring from BC Politics and what the implications of that might be for the populace of BC
Read MLA Simpson's column here
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Special WL Council Mtg - Sept 5th
Present: Mayor Cook and Councillors Bonnell, Bourdon, Hughes, Rathor and Walters
Absent: Councillor Sue Zacharias
Staff Present - Brian Carruthers - CAO
Meeting called to order at 6pm
Agenda Adopted
Council agreed to the following motion:
That the report of the Planning Technician dated September 4, 2012 be received and Council give three readings to "City of Williams Lake Sign Amendment Bylaw No. 2165, 2012"; and further, that the public be offered the opportunity to speak for or against the amendment bylaw prior to adoption on September 18, 2012
Opposed - Councillor Geoff Bourdon
Council also made it clear that it welcomed hearing input on Bylaw #2165 (read the bylaw here) prior to September 18th, either by writing City Hall directly or by emailing Mayor/Council
To write Mayor/Council via letter:
Mayor and Council
City of Williams Lake
450 Mart St
Williams Lake, BC
V2G 1N3
Or to email Mayor/Council on Bylaw 2165:
Mayor Kerry Cook - here
Councillor Ivan Bonnell - here
Councillor Geoff Bourdon - here
Councillor Danica Hughes - here
Councillor Surinderpal Rathor - here
Councillor Laurie Walters - here
Councillor Sue Zacharias - here
Meeting adjourned at 6:05pm
Absent: Councillor Sue Zacharias
Staff Present - Brian Carruthers - CAO
Meeting called to order at 6pm
Agenda Adopted
Council agreed to the following motion:
That the report of the Planning Technician dated September 4, 2012 be received and Council give three readings to "City of Williams Lake Sign Amendment Bylaw No. 2165, 2012"; and further, that the public be offered the opportunity to speak for or against the amendment bylaw prior to adoption on September 18, 2012
Opposed - Councillor Geoff Bourdon
Council also made it clear that it welcomed hearing input on Bylaw #2165 (read the bylaw here) prior to September 18th, either by writing City Hall directly or by emailing Mayor/Council
To write Mayor/Council via letter:
Mayor and Council
City of Williams Lake
450 Mart St
Williams Lake, BC
V2G 1N3
Or to email Mayor/Council on Bylaw 2165:
Mayor Kerry Cook - here
Councillor Ivan Bonnell - here
Councillor Geoff Bourdon - here
Councillor Danica Hughes - here
Councillor Surinderpal Rathor - here
Councillor Laurie Walters - here
Councillor Sue Zacharias - here
Meeting adjourned at 6:05pm
WL Council meets tonight - Amend Sign Bylaw
A Special Meeting of Willams Lake City Council has been called for this evening at 6pm to consider Sign Amendment Bylaw #2165, 2012. The meeting takes place in Williams Lake Council Chambers
There is, at the moment, no Agenda posted online so I can't tell you what is contemplated in Sign Amendment Bylaw #2165, 2012
SBF
There is, at the moment, no Agenda posted online so I can't tell you what is contemplated in Sign Amendment Bylaw #2165, 2012
SBF
Williams Creek Gold Ltd gives $$$ to NC Mulicentre
From the City of Quesnel:
Williams Creek Gold Ltd. announced today it is contributing $15,000 in support of the North Cariboo Multi-Centre.
"Quesnel is a central service provider for our current and planned operations," said Williams Creek Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Michael R. Sonnenreich. "The North Cariboo Multi-Centre is an important part of the future of Quesnel, as a community building and as a means to attract top level employees to our business."
"On behalf of the residents of Quesnel and the North Cariboo, I thank Williams Creek Gold Ltd. for their contribution," said Mayor Mary Sjostrom. "This is an exciting way to kick off our corporate fundraising efforts."
With this contribution, a three-year funding agreement, Williams Creek Gold Ltd. will have their business name located in the Orchestra Pit in the Performing Arts Theatre.
"This is a great start to the North Cariboo Multi-Centre Corporate Fundraising program," stated Cariboo Regional District Vice-Chair Ted Armstrong. "The donation from Williams Creek Gold Ltd. is a testament of their dedication to the North Cariboo and its residents."
"We are very pleased with the contribution made by Williams Creek Gold and thank them for participating in our sponsorship program," noted Chair of the Corporate Fundraising Committee, Carol Pitkin. "The Quesnel Community and Economic Development Corporation has been working with local and national corporations on fundraising efforts for the North Cariboo Multi-Centre, and we look forward to more announcements in the future."
Contribution packages and additional information is available by contacting April Goffic, Economic Development Officer at 250-992-3522 or email agoffic@quesnelinfo.com.
The North Cariboo Multi-Centre will be a modern facility designed to replace the 62-year-old arena and aging theatre infrastructure. It will feature a 1,600 seat NHL-sized arena, a 450-seat performing arts theatre and accompanying event and assembly area.
Williams Creek Gold Ltd. announced today it is contributing $15,000 in support of the North Cariboo Multi-Centre.
"Quesnel is a central service provider for our current and planned operations," said Williams Creek Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Michael R. Sonnenreich. "The North Cariboo Multi-Centre is an important part of the future of Quesnel, as a community building and as a means to attract top level employees to our business."
"On behalf of the residents of Quesnel and the North Cariboo, I thank Williams Creek Gold Ltd. for their contribution," said Mayor Mary Sjostrom. "This is an exciting way to kick off our corporate fundraising efforts."
With this contribution, a three-year funding agreement, Williams Creek Gold Ltd. will have their business name located in the Orchestra Pit in the Performing Arts Theatre.
"This is a great start to the North Cariboo Multi-Centre Corporate Fundraising program," stated Cariboo Regional District Vice-Chair Ted Armstrong. "The donation from Williams Creek Gold Ltd. is a testament of their dedication to the North Cariboo and its residents."
"We are very pleased with the contribution made by Williams Creek Gold and thank them for participating in our sponsorship program," noted Chair of the Corporate Fundraising Committee, Carol Pitkin. "The Quesnel Community and Economic Development Corporation has been working with local and national corporations on fundraising efforts for the North Cariboo Multi-Centre, and we look forward to more announcements in the future."
Contribution packages and additional information is available by contacting April Goffic, Economic Development Officer at 250-992-3522 or email agoffic@quesnelinfo.com.
The North Cariboo Multi-Centre will be a modern facility designed to replace the 62-year-old arena and aging theatre infrastructure. It will feature a 1,600 seat NHL-sized arena, a 450-seat performing arts theatre and accompanying event and assembly area.
New BC Cabinet...
Earlier today - BC Premier Christy Clark unveiled her new Cabinet (and the one that goes into next year's provincial election)
I thought Margaret McDiarmid as Health Minister was excellent, given she is a physician as well as Mike De Jong as Finance Minister giving he can be an excellent communication on tough files. De Jong was also appointed as Gov't House Leader. Local MLA Donna Barnett retains her role as Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Communities while Bill Bennett (East Kootenay) returns to his former role as Local Gov't Minister
Finally - making Rich Coleman as Deputy Premier was a bold move as Coleman is referred to often as "Mr. Fixit". Hopefully - he can help us BC Liberals get a 4th term... :)
Last word goes to BC Premier Christy Clark:
“Our government is delivering for British Columbians. This new cabinet brings a renewed commitment to our priorities. That means staying focused on jobs and fiscal discipline and continuing our efforts to make life more affordable for B.C. families. I have directed each minister to stay focused on these priorities.”
For the record - here is the list of the new Cabinet and Parliamentary Secretaries:
Cabinet:
· Premier – Hon. Christy Clark
· Minister of Energy, Mines and Natural Gas and Minister Responsible for Housing and Deputy Premier- Hon. Rich Coleman
· Minister of Finance and Gov't House Leader – Hon. Mike de Jong
· Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation – Hon. Ida Chong
· Minister of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology and Minister Responsible for Multiculturalism – Hon. John Yap
· Minister of Agriculture – Hon. Norm Letnick
· Minister of Children and Family Development – Hon. Stephanie Cadieux
· Minister of Citizens’ Services and Open Government – Hon. Ben Stewart
· Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development – Hon. Bill Bennett
· Minister of Education – Hon. Don McRae
· Minister of Environment – Hon. Terry Lake
· Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations – Hon. Steve Thomson
· Minister of Health – Hon. Margaret MacDiarmid
Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour – Hon. Pat Bell
· Minister of Justice and Attorney General – Hon. Shirley Bond
· Minister of Social Development – Hon. Moira Stilwell
· Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure – Hon. Mary Polak
· Minister of State for Seniors – Hon. Ralph Sultan
· Minister of State for Small Business – Hon. Naomi Yamamoto
Parliamentary Secretaries:
Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier – Doug Horne
Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Communities to the Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development – Donna Barnett
Parliamentary Secretary for Asia Pacific to the Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training – Richard Lee
Parliamentary Secretary for Forestry to the Minister of Forests, Land and Natural Resource Operations – John Rustad
Parliamentary Secretary for Independent Schools to the Minister of Education – Marc Dalton
Parliamentary Secretary for Student Support and Parent Engagement to the Minister of Education – Jane Thornthwaite
Parliamentary Secretary for Non-Profit Partnerships to the Minister of Social Development – Gordon Hogg
Parliamentary Secretary for Innovation & Technology to the Minister of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology – Ron Cantelon
Parliamentary Secretary for the Northeast to the Minister of Energy, Mines, and Natural Gas – Pat Pimm
I thought Margaret McDiarmid as Health Minister was excellent, given she is a physician as well as Mike De Jong as Finance Minister giving he can be an excellent communication on tough files. De Jong was also appointed as Gov't House Leader. Local MLA Donna Barnett retains her role as Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Communities while Bill Bennett (East Kootenay) returns to his former role as Local Gov't Minister
Finally - making Rich Coleman as Deputy Premier was a bold move as Coleman is referred to often as "Mr. Fixit". Hopefully - he can help us BC Liberals get a 4th term... :)
Last word goes to BC Premier Christy Clark:
“Our government is delivering for British Columbians. This new cabinet brings a renewed commitment to our priorities. That means staying focused on jobs and fiscal discipline and continuing our efforts to make life more affordable for B.C. families. I have directed each minister to stay focused on these priorities.”
For the record - here is the list of the new Cabinet and Parliamentary Secretaries:
Cabinet:
· Premier – Hon. Christy Clark
· Minister of Energy, Mines and Natural Gas and Minister Responsible for Housing and Deputy Premier- Hon. Rich Coleman
· Minister of Finance and Gov't House Leader – Hon. Mike de Jong
· Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation – Hon. Ida Chong
· Minister of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology and Minister Responsible for Multiculturalism – Hon. John Yap
· Minister of Agriculture – Hon. Norm Letnick
· Minister of Children and Family Development – Hon. Stephanie Cadieux
· Minister of Citizens’ Services and Open Government – Hon. Ben Stewart
· Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development – Hon. Bill Bennett
· Minister of Education – Hon. Don McRae
· Minister of Environment – Hon. Terry Lake
· Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations – Hon. Steve Thomson
· Minister of Health – Hon. Margaret MacDiarmid
Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour – Hon. Pat Bell
· Minister of Justice and Attorney General – Hon. Shirley Bond
· Minister of Social Development – Hon. Moira Stilwell
· Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure – Hon. Mary Polak
· Minister of State for Seniors – Hon. Ralph Sultan
· Minister of State for Small Business – Hon. Naomi Yamamoto
Parliamentary Secretaries:
Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier – Doug Horne
Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Communities to the Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development – Donna Barnett
Parliamentary Secretary for Asia Pacific to the Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training – Richard Lee
Parliamentary Secretary for Forestry to the Minister of Forests, Land and Natural Resource Operations – John Rustad
Parliamentary Secretary for Independent Schools to the Minister of Education – Marc Dalton
Parliamentary Secretary for Student Support and Parent Engagement to the Minister of Education – Jane Thornthwaite
Parliamentary Secretary for Non-Profit Partnerships to the Minister of Social Development – Gordon Hogg
Parliamentary Secretary for Innovation & Technology to the Minister of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology – Ron Cantelon
Parliamentary Secretary for the Northeast to the Minister of Energy, Mines, and Natural Gas – Pat Pimm
Rathor awarded Queen's Diamond Jubilee Award...
As well - local seniors' advocates Audrey MacLise and Bill Reid were awarded the same honour
The Queen's Diamond Jubilee Award is in recognition of Her Majesty's 60th year on the Throne and is awarded to those who make a significant impact in their communities
I believe the community should congratulate these 3 people for their dedication to Williams Lake and area
See below for a video I took of MP Harris awarding the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal to Rathor:
Editor's Note - I apologize in advance for the poor quality but couldn't keep a steady hand...
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
We deserve the politicians we elect...
In his column today - Vancouver Province columnist Gordon Clark argues for reasons why the public should accept the very politicians we elect.
A hard-hitting quote from the column:
Politics, which once at least tried to be about public service and developing good policies for fellow citizens, is now a blood sport played by far too many career politicians, often with few academic or real-world accomplishments and beholden to special-interest backers.
And so we have a premier who didn't finish university, an opposition leader who's had almost no work life outside politics and a justice/finance minister with a community college diploma. No one better qualified - or actually qualified - wants the job
View the full column here
A hard-hitting quote from the column:
Politics, which once at least tried to be about public service and developing good policies for fellow citizens, is now a blood sport played by far too many career politicians, often with few academic or real-world accomplishments and beholden to special-interest backers.
And so we have a premier who didn't finish university, an opposition leader who's had almost no work life outside politics and a justice/finance minister with a community college diploma. No one better qualified - or actually qualified - wants the job
View the full column here
Business Case for living in the North...
In today's Business in Vancouver -- Joel McKay, the Director of Communications for the Northern Development Initiative Trust argues in his column why people in Vancouver and indeed Metro Vancouver and to a lesser extent, the urban centres of BC (Kamloops, Kelowna, Victoria) should move to BC's North
Read the excellent column here
Meanwhile - I ran into a old YouTube video promoting the City of Quesnel which is narrated by current City of Quesnel Communications Supervisor Matt Wood. An excellent video in my view.
Watch below:
Read the excellent column here
Meanwhile - I ran into a old YouTube video promoting the City of Quesnel which is narrated by current City of Quesnel Communications Supervisor Matt Wood. An excellent video in my view.
Watch below:
Monday, September 3, 2012
Labour Day Message
Courtesy of the Hon. Margaret McDiarmid:
“It is with great sadness that I reflect upon the last year and note that not every worker went home safely at the end of their working day. The deaths and injuries experienced, including those in the mill explosions in Burns Lake and Prince George, were terrible tragedies and the impact on the families, friends and communities of the victims and the injured continues. No legislation, findings or penalties can ever compensate survivors or bring their loved ones back; however, we must look at and learn from every tragedy and take action where more work needs to be done.
“In respect of sawmill safety, our government acted quickly to bring together industry representatives to create a task force that encouraged regular public disclosure of updates on inspections and timely alerts to industry on possible hazards discovered through the course of WorkSafeBC’s investigations. I am looking forward to seeing the final investigation reports so we can see what further actions must be taken.
“Over the last year we have also made a number of legislative and regulatory changes that improve the working environment in B.C.
“This spring, we made significant changes to the Workers Compensation Act to ensure our workers’ compensation system remains responsive to both workers and employers. These changes provide compensation for mental-health disorders caused by significant workplace stressors, including bullying and harassment – a change that was supported by the Canadian Mental Health Association B.C. Division. The legislation also included changes for injured apprentices and learners so that workers’ compensation better reflects their actual wage loss.
“We also passed the Emergency Intervention Disclosure Act this spring, which gives emergency workers the ability to access information about potential exposure to disease. This act is an important piece of legislation that gives peace of mind to our province’s first responders.
“Not all changes were made solely by legislation. In May, British Columbia’s general minimum wage was raised to $10.25 and is now among the highest minimum wages in Canada – ensuring that workers in minimum-wage positions bring in a fair salary for the hard work they do, and can continue to support their families. With the three increases implemented since May 2011, workers earning minimum wage will have up to $4,000 extra in their pockets every year.
“As well, we made another change that will see the second Monday in February become the newest statutory holiday in B.C. We received input from thousands of British Columbians on Family Day, a process that signaled a major change in how people interact with their government. In fact, people have never had so many opportunities to engage on issues that matter to them. I anticipate these opportunities will increase in the coming months and years, as we look to citizens for more input on how we can ensure our workplace legislation keeps up with the pace of change.
“Today’s workforce and business environment is different from years past. Indeed, much of the work done in British Columbia today is fast-paced, technologically complex and necessarily service-oriented. Even resource-based industries like manufacturing and forestry have evolved and responded to new technologies and processes. The 21st-century workplace is quickly evolving and we need to ensure government is working to create and maintain an environment where workers and businesses alike can prosper and ultimately families can benefit.
“On this day, we honour and salute all working British Columbians for their efforts and thank them for making this a better province.”
“It is with great sadness that I reflect upon the last year and note that not every worker went home safely at the end of their working day. The deaths and injuries experienced, including those in the mill explosions in Burns Lake and Prince George, were terrible tragedies and the impact on the families, friends and communities of the victims and the injured continues. No legislation, findings or penalties can ever compensate survivors or bring their loved ones back; however, we must look at and learn from every tragedy and take action where more work needs to be done.
“In respect of sawmill safety, our government acted quickly to bring together industry representatives to create a task force that encouraged regular public disclosure of updates on inspections and timely alerts to industry on possible hazards discovered through the course of WorkSafeBC’s investigations. I am looking forward to seeing the final investigation reports so we can see what further actions must be taken.
“Over the last year we have also made a number of legislative and regulatory changes that improve the working environment in B.C.
“This spring, we made significant changes to the Workers Compensation Act to ensure our workers’ compensation system remains responsive to both workers and employers. These changes provide compensation for mental-health disorders caused by significant workplace stressors, including bullying and harassment – a change that was supported by the Canadian Mental Health Association B.C. Division. The legislation also included changes for injured apprentices and learners so that workers’ compensation better reflects their actual wage loss.
“We also passed the Emergency Intervention Disclosure Act this spring, which gives emergency workers the ability to access information about potential exposure to disease. This act is an important piece of legislation that gives peace of mind to our province’s first responders.
“Not all changes were made solely by legislation. In May, British Columbia’s general minimum wage was raised to $10.25 and is now among the highest minimum wages in Canada – ensuring that workers in minimum-wage positions bring in a fair salary for the hard work they do, and can continue to support their families. With the three increases implemented since May 2011, workers earning minimum wage will have up to $4,000 extra in their pockets every year.
“As well, we made another change that will see the second Monday in February become the newest statutory holiday in B.C. We received input from thousands of British Columbians on Family Day, a process that signaled a major change in how people interact with their government. In fact, people have never had so many opportunities to engage on issues that matter to them. I anticipate these opportunities will increase in the coming months and years, as we look to citizens for more input on how we can ensure our workplace legislation keeps up with the pace of change.
“Today’s workforce and business environment is different from years past. Indeed, much of the work done in British Columbia today is fast-paced, technologically complex and necessarily service-oriented. Even resource-based industries like manufacturing and forestry have evolved and responded to new technologies and processes. The 21st-century workplace is quickly evolving and we need to ensure government is working to create and maintain an environment where workers and businesses alike can prosper and ultimately families can benefit.
“On this day, we honour and salute all working British Columbians for their efforts and thank them for making this a better province.”
Sunday, September 2, 2012
Bob Simpson: Show us the proof!
Bob Simpson, the Independent MLA for Cariboo-North challenged Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett to show the public the proof that there is ample timber supply to feed local mills over the next 15-20 years as Barnett herself noted after the Special Committee on the Mid-Term Timber Supply published their final report in mid-August
For her part, Barnett says she can't share those projections as they are being updated
Read more here
For her part, Barnett says she can't share those projections as they are being updated
Read more here
United Local Opposition to Draft Federal Boundaries...
Last week, it was Cariboo RD Chair and Area 'G' Director Al Richmond lashing out against moving his Electoral Area 'G' and the South Cariboo from the federal riding of Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo to Chilliwack-Fraser Canyon.
Now you can add both current 100 Mile Mayor Mitch Campsall and provincial Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett to those who are opposed to the changes. Mayor Campsall called the move "bad for democracy" while MLA Barnett says "I hope common sense prevails". Both Barnett and Campsall will address the Federal Electoral Boundary Commission at its' meeting in Kamloops on October 11th while Richmond will address the Commission at its' meeting in Prince George on September 17th
Read here (Campsall) and here (Barnett) for more information on the story
Now you can add both current 100 Mile Mayor Mitch Campsall and provincial Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett to those who are opposed to the changes. Mayor Campsall called the move "bad for democracy" while MLA Barnett says "I hope common sense prevails". Both Barnett and Campsall will address the Federal Electoral Boundary Commission at its' meeting in Kamloops on October 11th while Richmond will address the Commission at its' meeting in Prince George on September 17th
Read here (Campsall) and here (Barnett) for more information on the story
Saturday, September 1, 2012
WL Council meets Tuesday...
Update -- Former WL City Councillor Tom Barr left me the following comment on the issue of compliance of the 'Cariboo Theme' requirement in the Sign Bylaw:
The right decision was made re Chrysler sign debate. Great to see council overide CAO recommendation with common sense solution. Indicates they have best interest of taxpayer in mind. Vast majority of local business will be happy to co-operate with sign bylaw intentions
Original Blog Post:
Of the 5 Local Governments in the Cariboo-Chilcotin, only the City of Williams Lake is meeting next Tuesday at 6pm. The full Agenda can be viewed here
On the Agenda:
Delegations:
1) Dick Harris MP to present Queen Jubilee Award to WL City Councillor Surinderpal Rathor
2) IHA Acute Health Services Administrator Deb Runge to give update
Business:
1) Expansion of HandyDART coming for October - read here
2) Test conversion of City vehicles to propane - read here
3) After receiving a City Staff report outlining a complaint over compliance for the new 'Cariboo Theme' requirement from local businessman Kerry Gustafson, Committee of the Whole (Council) will recommend that the new Sign Bylaw be amended to require "voluntary" compliance with the Cariboo Theme requirement as contained in the new City of WL OCP Bylaw - read here
Editor's Note -- I imagine that commentor "Jim" will be none too pleased with this development. I too am surprised at this recommendation as I don't know how you can have voluntary compliance other than simply saying "We ask that you comply to the Sign Bylaw requirements but if you can't, that is ok with the City..."
4) Use of WL Council for commercial purposes at the request of local author Sage Birchwater- read here
Editor's Note -- Based on the request of Mr. Birchwater, I think Council should allow the request as I believe it would not offend the intent of the policy relating to after-hours use of Council Chambers
The right decision was made re Chrysler sign debate. Great to see council overide CAO recommendation with common sense solution. Indicates they have best interest of taxpayer in mind. Vast majority of local business will be happy to co-operate with sign bylaw intentions
Original Blog Post:
Of the 5 Local Governments in the Cariboo-Chilcotin, only the City of Williams Lake is meeting next Tuesday at 6pm. The full Agenda can be viewed here
On the Agenda:
Delegations:
1) Dick Harris MP to present Queen Jubilee Award to WL City Councillor Surinderpal Rathor
2) IHA Acute Health Services Administrator Deb Runge to give update
Business:
1) Expansion of HandyDART coming for October - read here
2) Test conversion of City vehicles to propane - read here
3) After receiving a City Staff report outlining a complaint over compliance for the new 'Cariboo Theme' requirement from local businessman Kerry Gustafson, Committee of the Whole (Council) will recommend that the new Sign Bylaw be amended to require "voluntary" compliance with the Cariboo Theme requirement as contained in the new City of WL OCP Bylaw - read here
Editor's Note -- I imagine that commentor "Jim" will be none too pleased with this development. I too am surprised at this recommendation as I don't know how you can have voluntary compliance other than simply saying "We ask that you comply to the Sign Bylaw requirements but if you can't, that is ok with the City..."
4) Use of WL Council for commercial purposes at the request of local author Sage Birchwater- read here
Editor's Note -- Based on the request of Mr. Birchwater, I think Council should allow the request as I believe it would not offend the intent of the policy relating to after-hours use of Council Chambers
Lakekeepers Course - Sept 29/30
Courtesy of CRD Area 'B' Director Heloise Dixon-Warren:
LakeKeepers Course – September 29-30th
FREE OF CHARGE
Thanks to the support of the Ministry of Environment and BC Lakes Stewardship Society, Baker Creek Enhancement Society (BCES) and Bouchie Lake Stewardship Committee for bringing this course to you!
The LakeKeepers course is an information-packed 2-day workshop taught by a qualified instructor. A variety of topics will be covered, including:
• Lake Ecology
• How to tell if there are ecological issues with your lake and some potential actions to take,
• Differences between lakes in the area,
• What makes good habitat for fish, invertebrates, and birds,
• Recreational uses of lakes and their impacts,
• Whatever interests you! The course will be dictated by the questions you ask and what you want to learn about your lake.
This course will provide tools and resources to participants that can be used to: monitor the health of their lakes; provide relevant observations to agencies responsible for the management of your lake; and teach family, visitors, and other community members about your lake.
Locations: Sept 29: Bouchie Lake Hall and Sept 30: 2167 Barker Road (shoreline and on the water).
Contact BCES for more information or to register: 250 992 5833; bces@telus.net
LakeKeepers Course – September 29-30th
FREE OF CHARGE
Thanks to the support of the Ministry of Environment and BC Lakes Stewardship Society, Baker Creek Enhancement Society (BCES) and Bouchie Lake Stewardship Committee for bringing this course to you!
The LakeKeepers course is an information-packed 2-day workshop taught by a qualified instructor. A variety of topics will be covered, including:
• Lake Ecology
• How to tell if there are ecological issues with your lake and some potential actions to take,
• Differences between lakes in the area,
• What makes good habitat for fish, invertebrates, and birds,
• Recreational uses of lakes and their impacts,
• Whatever interests you! The course will be dictated by the questions you ask and what you want to learn about your lake.
This course will provide tools and resources to participants that can be used to: monitor the health of their lakes; provide relevant observations to agencies responsible for the management of your lake; and teach family, visitors, and other community members about your lake.
Locations: Sept 29: Bouchie Lake Hall and Sept 30: 2167 Barker Road (shoreline and on the water).
Contact BCES for more information or to register: 250 992 5833; bces@telus.net
Rural Recreation -- North Cariboo
This morning -- CRD Area 'B' Director Heloise Dixon-Warren posted the following on her Facebook page:
Working on a REPORT ON RURAL RECREATION which I will be presenting to the Directors of Northern Caucus (Areas A, B, C & I) on Sept. 11th. The report primarily provides a look at how our RECREATION COMMISSIONS fit into the larger formula of NORTH CARIBOO RECREATION & PARKS and will include the following:
I. Overview
II. Management
III. NCRP Funding for Rural Recreation
IV. Limitations Imposed by Bylaws
V. Ownership
VI. Benefits to residents of being In or Out of the NCRP Taxation Function
I congratulate Director Dixon-Warren for this initiative and I personally look forward to the report, when available.
Too often - I believe the CRD focuses too much on Recreation in the Municipalities (ie: Quesnel, Williams Lake and 100 Mile) and not enough in the Rural Areas... I personally would like to see the Central Directors (Bischoff, Kemp and Sorley) do a similar report to the Central Cariboo Caucus/Joint Committee on this topic and redirect more focus for recreation opportunities into rural areas - North, Central and South... to truly allow sustainable and healthy communities :)
SBF
Working on a REPORT ON RURAL RECREATION which I will be presenting to the Directors of Northern Caucus (Areas A, B, C & I) on Sept. 11th. The report primarily provides a look at how our RECREATION COMMISSIONS fit into the larger formula of NORTH CARIBOO RECREATION & PARKS and will include the following:
I. Overview
II. Management
III. NCRP Funding for Rural Recreation
IV. Limitations Imposed by Bylaws
V. Ownership
VI. Benefits to residents of being In or Out of the NCRP Taxation Function
I congratulate Director Dixon-Warren for this initiative and I personally look forward to the report, when available.
Too often - I believe the CRD focuses too much on Recreation in the Municipalities (ie: Quesnel, Williams Lake and 100 Mile) and not enough in the Rural Areas... I personally would like to see the Central Directors (Bischoff, Kemp and Sorley) do a similar report to the Central Cariboo Caucus/Joint Committee on this topic and redirect more focus for recreation opportunities into rural areas - North, Central and South... to truly allow sustainable and healthy communities :)
SBF
John Cummins -- Missing in Action...
Whenever there is an opportunity to critique or slam the BC Liberals - John Cummins, Leader of the BC Conservatives makes time for media like Global BC and CBC - British Columbia as examples. However, with dissent in the BC Conservative camp, John Cummins is mysteriously nowhere to be found
Meanwhile - BC's Aboriginal Affairs Minister and Langley MLA Mary Polak speaks to this item saying that Cummins has surrounded himself with the wrong people and it is turning potential supporters away...
View the Global BC video below:
Meanwhile - BC's Aboriginal Affairs Minister and Langley MLA Mary Polak speaks to this item saying that Cummins has surrounded himself with the wrong people and it is turning potential supporters away...
View the Global BC video below:
Concerned Citizens For British Columbia
Earlier this year - former Finning and CanFor CEO Jim Shepherd and other unnamed individuals formed a new society called the Concerned Citizens For British Columbia
Vancouver Sun political columnist Vaughn Palmer looked at it in his column on June 12th which you can read here
Meanwhile, Shepherd was in Prince George this past Thursday to "reignite the free-enterprise spirit"
Shepherd also says:
The B.C. Conservatives had hopes of forming government, he said, but their support has leaked away, much of it back to the B.C. Liberals, based on conversations he was having with those previous supporters, and now the fringe party's main role in the coming election would be perhaps to split the vote and let NDP MLAs win in a few ridings, perhaps even enough to win government.
AND
"I'm going to step out as a private citizen and share what I've seen...I have worked with the NDP in government and with the B.C. Liberals in government, so I have an up-close view of both," he said. "Everyone can ask, are we better off after the B.C. Liberals' 10 years in government, or after the NDP's 10 years in government? I can tell you that we went from being an economic powerhouse to, under the NDP, an economic basketcase that had to accept hand-out cheques from Ottawa as a have-not province, then back to being economically back on track and prospering again even in extremely difficult times."
Read the Prince George Citizen article here
Vancouver Sun political columnist Vaughn Palmer looked at it in his column on June 12th which you can read here
Meanwhile, Shepherd was in Prince George this past Thursday to "reignite the free-enterprise spirit"
Shepherd also says:
The B.C. Conservatives had hopes of forming government, he said, but their support has leaked away, much of it back to the B.C. Liberals, based on conversations he was having with those previous supporters, and now the fringe party's main role in the coming election would be perhaps to split the vote and let NDP MLAs win in a few ridings, perhaps even enough to win government.
AND
"I'm going to step out as a private citizen and share what I've seen...I have worked with the NDP in government and with the B.C. Liberals in government, so I have an up-close view of both," he said. "Everyone can ask, are we better off after the B.C. Liberals' 10 years in government, or after the NDP's 10 years in government? I can tell you that we went from being an economic powerhouse to, under the NDP, an economic basketcase that had to accept hand-out cheques from Ottawa as a have-not province, then back to being economically back on track and prospering again even in extremely difficult times."
Read the Prince George Citizen article here
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