Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:
After the recent announcement that Tolko Industries would be closing the Creekside mill, the City wishes to clarify the implications to the City budget.
As a result of an application for a closure allowance for the Creekside operation by Tolko to the BC Assessment Authority, the City’s industrial assessment base will be affected in 2013. The City estimates a loss of $3.5 million in assessment.
It is important to note that this is not an automatic loss of taxation revenue to the City, but a loss in assessment value, which may need to be collected among the remaining assessment classes, or from an increase in the mill rate to the major industrial class. Council will consider tax rates and other items when it deliberates the 2013 budget and five-year financial plan beginning in January.
“Council wants to acknowledge that this closure has been a serious blow to Tolko, its workers, and the community,” says Mayor Kerry Cook. “We lost more than 100 positions when the Creekside operation closed three years ago, and another 22 people lost their jobs when Tolko decided not to re-open.
“It is also important to remember the positive news we’ve had this year – re-investment and West Fraser’s announcement of a new multimillion dollar planer mill.
City Council is committed to working with Tolko, West Fraser, and other forest products companies, as well as the provincial government, to ensure that Williams Lake and the Cariboo region sustain a thriving and beneficial forest industry.
Friday, December 7, 2012
WL Council receives TNG Delegation
Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:
At its December 5th regular Council meeting, Council was honoured to receive a delegation of more than 200 people attending to express their concern over the New Prosperity proposal, the largest delegation in Council Chambers in many years.
Williams Lake Indian Band Chief Ann Louie gave a welcome. Xeni Gwet’in Chief Marilyn Baptiste, Grand Chief Stewart Phillip from the Union of BC Indian Chiefs, and Tl'etinqox Chief Joe Alphonse all addressed Council and voiced their opposition to the mine and to Council’s resolution supporting the mine. Council was also asked not to present to the public hearings that will eventually be scheduled by the federal panel reviewing the mine proposal.
Council’s resolution, passed Sept. 18, 2012, reads: That pursuant to the report of the Chief Administrative Officer dated August 10, 2012, 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 & member municipalities be invited to make the same request of the Province and our MLAs and MP be so advised.
Following the presentation, Mayor Kerry Cook thanked the speakers and the entire delegation, and stated that developing strong, respectful working relationships with First Nations is a top priority of this Council.
“Council and the TNG will have to respectfully agree to disagree when it comes to New Prosperity,” says Mayor Kerry Cook. “Council stands by its resolution. We want a project that can provide much needed economic stimulus and jobs, and that meets environmental standards. We also want First nations and all potentially affected people to have their say and to be consulted.”
“We are grateful to have had such a passionate and engaged delegation Tuesday night, and to have had a respectful conversation during a dinner meeting in mid-November. We believe in open dialogue and in working together. Council will continue to develop strong relationships and partnerships with our First Nations neighbours and will always be open to discussion and debate on issues that affect us all", states Williams Lake Mayor Kerry Cook
At its December 5th regular Council meeting, Council was honoured to receive a delegation of more than 200 people attending to express their concern over the New Prosperity proposal, the largest delegation in Council Chambers in many years.
Williams Lake Indian Band Chief Ann Louie gave a welcome. Xeni Gwet’in Chief Marilyn Baptiste, Grand Chief Stewart Phillip from the Union of BC Indian Chiefs, and Tl'etinqox Chief Joe Alphonse all addressed Council and voiced their opposition to the mine and to Council’s resolution supporting the mine. Council was also asked not to present to the public hearings that will eventually be scheduled by the federal panel reviewing the mine proposal.
Council’s resolution, passed Sept. 18, 2012, reads: That pursuant to the report of the Chief Administrative Officer dated August 10, 2012, 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 & member municipalities be invited to make the same request of the Province and our MLAs and MP be so advised.
Following the presentation, Mayor Kerry Cook thanked the speakers and the entire delegation, and stated that developing strong, respectful working relationships with First Nations is a top priority of this Council.
“Council and the TNG will have to respectfully agree to disagree when it comes to New Prosperity,” says Mayor Kerry Cook. “Council stands by its resolution. We want a project that can provide much needed economic stimulus and jobs, and that meets environmental standards. We also want First nations and all potentially affected people to have their say and to be consulted.”
“We are grateful to have had such a passionate and engaged delegation Tuesday night, and to have had a respectful conversation during a dinner meeting in mid-November. We believe in open dialogue and in working together. Council will continue to develop strong relationships and partnerships with our First Nations neighbours and will always be open to discussion and debate on issues that affect us all", states Williams Lake Mayor Kerry Cook
NDP colludes with BC Fed of Labour to write their 2013 Platform
In his column today -- political columnist Mike Smyth of the Vancouver Province writes on the provincial NDP actively engaging the BC Fed of Labour on what should be in their 2013 Election Platform.
Read more here
Meanwhile - find below the 'Open Discussion' document from the BC Fed of Labour:
B.C. Federation of Labour open discussion summary
Also - Alan Forseth, Kamloops Regional Director of the BC Conservatives' gives his own take on this development which you can read here
Finally - the BC Liberals' have this article on their website "Searching for Dix's Hidden Plan" which you can view here
Unlike the BC Fed of Labour - the BC Liberals' election platform was written by its' own members' which includes BC'ers from many walks of life including business people, ranchers, teachers, etc so we have no need to be holden to one major group like the BC NDP apparently are in the BC Fed of Labour...
SBF
Read more here
Meanwhile - find below the 'Open Discussion' document from the BC Fed of Labour:
B.C. Federation of Labour open discussion summary
Also - Alan Forseth, Kamloops Regional Director of the BC Conservatives' gives his own take on this development which you can read here
Finally - the BC Liberals' have this article on their website "Searching for Dix's Hidden Plan" which you can view here
Unlike the BC Fed of Labour - the BC Liberals' election platform was written by its' own members' which includes BC'ers from many walks of life including business people, ranchers, teachers, etc so we have no need to be holden to one major group like the BC NDP apparently are in the BC Fed of Labour...
SBF
Should local politicians respond to negative news stories?
Yesterday - Prince George Mayor Shari Green responding to an upcoming MacLeans' article which says Prince George is #1 for being the 'Dangerous City in Canada' when StatsCan information says otherwise
Watch a video from CKPG-TV below, read a story from CBC-BC here and one from the Prince George Free Press here and the Prince George Citizen here:
For myself - unless media stories clearly do not have their fact straight, then I don't think locally elected officials should respond to media stories which may put their municipality or electoral area in a bad light.
By doing so - they very well may end up giving the story more credibility and thus more people buy the newspaper/magazine then if the elected official(s) hadn't bother to respond in the first place
SBF
Watch a video from CKPG-TV below, read a story from CBC-BC here and one from the Prince George Free Press here and the Prince George Citizen here:
For myself - unless media stories clearly do not have their fact straight, then I don't think locally elected officials should respond to media stories which may put their municipality or electoral area in a bad light.
By doing so - they very well may end up giving the story more credibility and thus more people buy the newspaper/magazine then if the elected official(s) hadn't bother to respond in the first place
SBF
Time for 'Adult' conversation on Taxes?
In today's The Nelson Daily - columnist Murray Dobbin asks:
Isn't it time to have an 'adult' conversation on taxes?
In his column, he talks about a recent CCPA (Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives) study on taxation and how having a progressive tax regime and quality of life can go hand-in-hand
Read the thought-provoking article here
Isn't it time to have an 'adult' conversation on taxes?
In his column, he talks about a recent CCPA (Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives) study on taxation and how having a progressive tax regime and quality of life can go hand-in-hand
Read the thought-provoking article here
Total Tax Burden on Homeowners' - Cariboo-Chilcotin (2012)
At the Local Government Department - Ministry of Community Services, they keep information on tax rates and other relevant information on municipalities throughout BC
Just recently, they have published information regarding total taxes/charges burden for an average homeowner in all municipalities in BC for 2012 (latest tax year information available)
Read my blog post on the same information in 2011 here
In the Cariboo-Chilcotin Region - 2012 Tax Year:
Wells
House Value - $71,079
School Taxes - $271.00
General Municipal Taxes - $211.00
Cariboo Regional District Taxes - $116.00
Local Regional Hospital District Taxes - $45.00
BC Assessment, Municipal Finance Authority and Other Taxes - $36.00
Parcel Taxes - $474.00
User Fees - $326.00
Total Taxes/Charges burden on average homeowner in Wells - $1,477
Quesnel
House Value - $162,142
School Taxes - $618.00
General Municipal Taxes - $658.00
Cariboo Regional District Taxes - $300.00
Local Regional Hospital District Taxes - $102.00
BC Assessment, Municipal Finance Authority and Other Taxes - $10.00
Parcel Taxes - $169.00
User Fees - $423.00
Total Taxes/Charges burden on average homeowner in Quesnel - $2,280
Williams Lake:
House Value - $196,544
School Taxes - $598.00
General Municipal Taxes - $1,081.00
Cariboo Regional District Taxes - $292.00
Local Regional Hospital District Taxes - $121.00
BC Assessment, Municipal Finance Authority and Other Taxes - $54.00
Parcel Taxes - $124.00
User Fees - $499.00
Total Taxes/Charges burden on average homeowner in Williams Lake - $2,769
100 Mile House
House Value - $170,106
School Taxes - $517.00
General Municipal Taxes - $778.00
Cariboo Regional District Taxes - $247.00
Local Regional Hospital District Taxes - $106.00
BC Assessment, Municipal Finance Authority and Other Taxes - $74.00
Parcel Taxes - $119.00
User Fees - $445.00
Total Taxes/Charges burden on average homeowner in 100 Mile House - $2,286
Just recently, they have published information regarding total taxes/charges burden for an average homeowner in all municipalities in BC for 2012 (latest tax year information available)
Read my blog post on the same information in 2011 here
In the Cariboo-Chilcotin Region - 2012 Tax Year:
Wells
House Value - $71,079
School Taxes - $271.00
General Municipal Taxes - $211.00
Cariboo Regional District Taxes - $116.00
Local Regional Hospital District Taxes - $45.00
BC Assessment, Municipal Finance Authority and Other Taxes - $36.00
Parcel Taxes - $474.00
User Fees - $326.00
Total Taxes/Charges burden on average homeowner in Wells - $1,477
Quesnel
House Value - $162,142
School Taxes - $618.00
General Municipal Taxes - $658.00
Cariboo Regional District Taxes - $300.00
Local Regional Hospital District Taxes - $102.00
BC Assessment, Municipal Finance Authority and Other Taxes - $10.00
Parcel Taxes - $169.00
User Fees - $423.00
Total Taxes/Charges burden on average homeowner in Quesnel - $2,280
Williams Lake:
House Value - $196,544
School Taxes - $598.00
General Municipal Taxes - $1,081.00
Cariboo Regional District Taxes - $292.00
Local Regional Hospital District Taxes - $121.00
BC Assessment, Municipal Finance Authority and Other Taxes - $54.00
Parcel Taxes - $124.00
User Fees - $499.00
Total Taxes/Charges burden on average homeowner in Williams Lake - $2,769
100 Mile House
House Value - $170,106
School Taxes - $517.00
General Municipal Taxes - $778.00
Cariboo Regional District Taxes - $247.00
Local Regional Hospital District Taxes - $106.00
BC Assessment, Municipal Finance Authority and Other Taxes - $74.00
Parcel Taxes - $119.00
User Fees - $445.00
Total Taxes/Charges burden on average homeowner in 100 Mile House - $2,286
Junior 'B' Hockey comes to 100 Mile House
Late yesterday - the 100 Mile House Wranglers' announced this on their Facebook page:
we;'re in! a vote of 15 to 2, we are the newest member of the KIJHL. Thank you everyone!. More soon
Meanwhile - Tom Bachynski of the Wranglers' said, prior to the KIJHL Board of Governors' vote:
“We’ve got all the right components; we’ve got a great backing by business…by the people of 100 Mile House like when they showed last year when we thought we had a team with Revelstoke. We’re just very enthusiastic about it and wanted to share with all the Governors just how enthusiastic we are. We’re ready to go.”
Read more here
Congrats to the Wranglers' for passing a big hurdle. Junior 'B' hockey will be, in my view, a big hit for 100 Mile residents' and outlying residents' and hopefully the South Cariboo will be successful in this new venture for the area
we;'re in! a vote of 15 to 2, we are the newest member of the KIJHL. Thank you everyone!. More soon
Meanwhile - Tom Bachynski of the Wranglers' said, prior to the KIJHL Board of Governors' vote:
“We’ve got all the right components; we’ve got a great backing by business…by the people of 100 Mile House like when they showed last year when we thought we had a team with Revelstoke. We’re just very enthusiastic about it and wanted to share with all the Governors just how enthusiastic we are. We’re ready to go.”
Read more here
Congrats to the Wranglers' for passing a big hurdle. Junior 'B' hockey will be, in my view, a big hit for 100 Mile residents' and outlying residents' and hopefully the South Cariboo will be successful in this new venture for the area
NC Multi-centre denied $$$ by Ottawa
Yesterday - Cariboo-PG Conservative MP Dick Harris reported that a recent application from Quesnel for funds for the $30 million North Cariboo Multi-Centre from the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund was denied as it was for upgrades and repairs to existing facilities and not for new facilities
Harris also re-iterated what he has said many times in the past that he will be first in line when there finally is a funding envelope that fits the project. View more on this story here
With roughly a year before local elected officials must decide whether or not to re-submit an application to local taxpayers' for authority to borrow up to $15 million (or more) for the North Cariboo Multi-Centre - time is running short to secure the other $15 million (Victoria/Ottawa) in order to start the building of the North Cariboo Multi-Centre. Given MP Harris' comments yesterday - even I now doubt if Ottawa will come through with the funds necessary before the 5 year anniversary (Nov 13th, 2013) for the referendum to borrow up to $15 million for the Multi-Centre comes due
Options that Quesnel City Council and Cariboo RD Directors for Areas A (Armstrong), B (Dixon-Warren), C (Massier) and I (Glassford) could consider in advance of Nov 13th, 2013 to get building the Multi-Centre may include:
a) Increase borrowing authority to $20-$25 million and fund rest via donations/provincial funding
b) Divide Multi-Centre in various stages
c) Walkaway from the project (entire Multi-Centre) come Nov 13th, 2013 and look at replacement of the Twin Ice Arena that needs immediate work
SBF
Harris also re-iterated what he has said many times in the past that he will be first in line when there finally is a funding envelope that fits the project. View more on this story here
With roughly a year before local elected officials must decide whether or not to re-submit an application to local taxpayers' for authority to borrow up to $15 million (or more) for the North Cariboo Multi-Centre - time is running short to secure the other $15 million (Victoria/Ottawa) in order to start the building of the North Cariboo Multi-Centre. Given MP Harris' comments yesterday - even I now doubt if Ottawa will come through with the funds necessary before the 5 year anniversary (Nov 13th, 2013) for the referendum to borrow up to $15 million for the Multi-Centre comes due
Options that Quesnel City Council and Cariboo RD Directors for Areas A (Armstrong), B (Dixon-Warren), C (Massier) and I (Glassford) could consider in advance of Nov 13th, 2013 to get building the Multi-Centre may include:
a) Increase borrowing authority to $20-$25 million and fund rest via donations/provincial funding
b) Divide Multi-Centre in various stages
c) Walkaway from the project (entire Multi-Centre) come Nov 13th, 2013 and look at replacement of the Twin Ice Arena that needs immediate work
SBF
Thursday, December 6, 2012
WL Council's support for 'New Prosperity'
As local media reported from Tuesday's Williams Lake City Council meeting - Xeni Gwet'in First Nations Chief Marilyn Baptiste, as part of 3 Speakers from the TNG, called upon WL Council to not present at the upcoming federal public hearing on 'New Prosperity' when it happens
Allow me to explain why Mayor Cook will be, for practical reasons, unable to do that
In September of this year, after Brian Battison of Taseko Mines made a video presentation on 'New Prosperity', Williams Lake Council resolved the following at its' September 18th, 2012 meeting:
That pursuant to the report of the Chief Administrative Officer dated August 10, 2012, 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 & member municipalities be invited to make the same request of the Province and our MLAs and MP be so advised.
So - at this stage, Section 116(2)(g) of the Community Charter says, insofar as Mayor Kerry Cook's role as far as the above WL Council resolution (motion) goes:
(2) In addition to the mayor's responsibilities as a member of council, the mayor has the following responsibilities:
(g) to reflect the will of council...
With all due respect to Chief Baptiste - there is a difference between consulting First Nations over a motion to be dealt with at a local city council meeting and deciding on a land use item that clearly has impacts on First Nations interests. There is no 'case law' or other regulations/laws requiring a municipal council to consult with First Nations over any resolution(s) that a municipal council may decide to pass. On the other hand, there is plenty of 'case law' where a municipal council should/must consult with an adjacent First Nation band, if the local government is going to approve a rezoning, OCP change or approve a DVP or DP (Development Variance Permit/Development Permit) that does affect the land interests/right of the affected First Nation band
In the meantime - as laid out by Section 116(2)(g) of the Community Charter, it is my expectation that Mayor Cook will present at next year's Federal Public Hearing on 'New Prosperity'.
Should Williams Lake Council have done what Marilyn Baptiste requested (no presentation at the Federal Review Panel) - you could almost guarantee that members of the public who support 'New Prosperity' (including WL and District Chamber of Commerce members) would start phoning members of WL Council and asking them to have the 'courage of their convictions' to stand by their previous resolutions on 'Prosperity' and 'New Prosperity'. Failure to do so, by WL City Council, would cause those same individuals to tell members of Williams Lake Council (in my opinion) 'we're going shopping for new members of Williams Lake City Council in 2014', keeping in mind that the next election of Williams Lake City Council is roughly over a year and a half away (Oct 19th, 2014)
At this point - I am expecting that Mayor Cook, on behalf of WL City Council, will continue to support 'New Prosperity' as reflected by the Sept 18th, 2012 WL Council Resolution on 'New Prosperity' and her recent support comments about Taseko Mines being directed by the Federal Review Panel to do a cumulative environmental effects study
Finally - Len Doucette of the 'Say Yes to the Taseko Prosperity Mine Project' Facebook page recently wrote to Taseko Mines' Brian Battison over last week's letters' between Taseko Mines and the Federal Review Panel and Mr. Battison replied as follows:
Last week the federal review panel conducting the environmental assessment of New Prosperity issued an Information Request (IR) to Taseko and advised that further IR’s will be forthcoming.
Regrettably, project opponents were quick to misrepresent the Panel’s request for information suggesting the project was unsound and/or that the project itself had been halted. This false notion was also reflected in some media coverage of the matter.
When “news” of the IR was first reported, many people were deeply concerned that this was somehow the end of the project. I want to assure you this is not the case.
Information requests are a routine and expected part of any panel process. Often panels seek additional information from project proponents on an array of matters. In fact, it is not uncommon for many IR’s to be issued over the course of a panel process.
It will be Taseko’s responsibility to respond to any IR’s issued by the Panel and we will do so.
While we are preparing our response(s) the “clock” which tracks the government time remaining in the 12 month review period is stopped, however, work on the review continues and the clock will be restarted once the panel is satisfied Taseko has provided an adequate response to the IR(s) issued. Again, this is a routine feature of any review panel.
It is important to remember the Panel is reviewing thousands of pages of scientific evidence which has been prepared by Taseko and its consultants – over 13,000 pages relating to the first project design and some 6,100 pages relating to “New Prosperity.” With such large volumes of material to consider and digest it is reasonable to anticipate the Panel will have questions or points of clarification they wish to raise with Taseko.
Our company is acutely aware of the very strong community support that exists for this project in the Cariboo and we will continue to help keep you and others informed as the process moves forward.
Allow me to explain why Mayor Cook will be, for practical reasons, unable to do that
In September of this year, after Brian Battison of Taseko Mines made a video presentation on 'New Prosperity', Williams Lake Council resolved the following at its' September 18th, 2012 meeting:
That pursuant to the report of the Chief Administrative Officer dated August 10, 2012, 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 & member municipalities be invited to make the same request of the Province and our MLAs and MP be so advised.
So - at this stage, Section 116(2)(g) of the Community Charter says, insofar as Mayor Kerry Cook's role as far as the above WL Council resolution (motion) goes:
(2) In addition to the mayor's responsibilities as a member of council, the mayor has the following responsibilities:
(g) to reflect the will of council...
With all due respect to Chief Baptiste - there is a difference between consulting First Nations over a motion to be dealt with at a local city council meeting and deciding on a land use item that clearly has impacts on First Nations interests. There is no 'case law' or other regulations/laws requiring a municipal council to consult with First Nations over any resolution(s) that a municipal council may decide to pass. On the other hand, there is plenty of 'case law' where a municipal council should/must consult with an adjacent First Nation band, if the local government is going to approve a rezoning, OCP change or approve a DVP or DP (Development Variance Permit/Development Permit) that does affect the land interests/right of the affected First Nation band
In the meantime - as laid out by Section 116(2)(g) of the Community Charter, it is my expectation that Mayor Cook will present at next year's Federal Public Hearing on 'New Prosperity'.
Should Williams Lake Council have done what Marilyn Baptiste requested (no presentation at the Federal Review Panel) - you could almost guarantee that members of the public who support 'New Prosperity' (including WL and District Chamber of Commerce members) would start phoning members of WL Council and asking them to have the 'courage of their convictions' to stand by their previous resolutions on 'Prosperity' and 'New Prosperity'. Failure to do so, by WL City Council, would cause those same individuals to tell members of Williams Lake Council (in my opinion) 'we're going shopping for new members of Williams Lake City Council in 2014', keeping in mind that the next election of Williams Lake City Council is roughly over a year and a half away (Oct 19th, 2014)
At this point - I am expecting that Mayor Cook, on behalf of WL City Council, will continue to support 'New Prosperity' as reflected by the Sept 18th, 2012 WL Council Resolution on 'New Prosperity' and her recent support comments about Taseko Mines being directed by the Federal Review Panel to do a cumulative environmental effects study
Finally - Len Doucette of the 'Say Yes to the Taseko Prosperity Mine Project' Facebook page recently wrote to Taseko Mines' Brian Battison over last week's letters' between Taseko Mines and the Federal Review Panel and Mr. Battison replied as follows:
Last week the federal review panel conducting the environmental assessment of New Prosperity issued an Information Request (IR) to Taseko and advised that further IR’s will be forthcoming.
Regrettably, project opponents were quick to misrepresent the Panel’s request for information suggesting the project was unsound and/or that the project itself had been halted. This false notion was also reflected in some media coverage of the matter.
When “news” of the IR was first reported, many people were deeply concerned that this was somehow the end of the project. I want to assure you this is not the case.
Information requests are a routine and expected part of any panel process. Often panels seek additional information from project proponents on an array of matters. In fact, it is not uncommon for many IR’s to be issued over the course of a panel process.
It will be Taseko’s responsibility to respond to any IR’s issued by the Panel and we will do so.
While we are preparing our response(s) the “clock” which tracks the government time remaining in the 12 month review period is stopped, however, work on the review continues and the clock will be restarted once the panel is satisfied Taseko has provided an adequate response to the IR(s) issued. Again, this is a routine feature of any review panel.
It is important to remember the Panel is reviewing thousands of pages of scientific evidence which has been prepared by Taseko and its consultants – over 13,000 pages relating to the first project design and some 6,100 pages relating to “New Prosperity.” With such large volumes of material to consider and digest it is reasonable to anticipate the Panel will have questions or points of clarification they wish to raise with Taseko.
Our company is acutely aware of the very strong community support that exists for this project in the Cariboo and we will continue to help keep you and others informed as the process moves forward.
False Water Testing calls in Quesnel
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel website:
Some City residents may have received calls from someone wanting to "test your water."
Residents should note these calls are not being made by the City. They may be coming from a business that offers water filtering products or other services.
The City regularly tests the drinking water it provides our residents. There is no need to go to individual homes to do that testing. To learn more about the City's water testing, click here.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
CFIB 2012 Muni Spending Report
In their 5th Annual "Muncipal Spending Report" - the Canadian Federation of Independent Business or CFIB reports that muncipal spending is getting better but still is a concern for the CFIB
Press Release from the CFIB:
For the first time in ten years, there are signs that some B.C. municipalities are recognizing the need to get spending under control. Nonetheless, municipal spending continues to outpace the responsible benchmark of population growth plus inflation. The latest report from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) analyzes data from 2000 up to 2010.
“It’s a bit like driving off a cliff, but slowly,” said Laura Jones, executive vice-president, CFIB. “It’s certainly a good idea to apply the brakes, but we’re still getting closer to the edge. We like to give credit where it’s due, however, there’s a limit to our optimism.”
Had spending simply kept pace with population and inflation from 2000-2010, British Columbians would have saved $4.26 billion, or $4,251 for a family of four. Instead, B.C.’s real municipal operating spending increased by 49%, nearly four times the growth in population. When adjusted for inflation, spending increased by just one per cent from 2009 to 2010, down from seven per cent between 2008 and 2009
“One year of relatively good behaviour is a promising sign, but it’s much like the early days of a diet – it really could go either way and only time will tell,” said Jones.
B.C.’s Lower Mainland turned in a mixed performance between 2009 and 2010, with several of the larger municipalities demonstrating an improved commitment to fiscal discipline. Chilliwack, Burnaby and Surrey topped the “Most Improved” category when rated according to per capita spending over that period. By contrast, communities further east and north – such as Abbotsford, Pemberton, and the two Langley jurisdictions – turned in the most disappointing performances. Abbotsford per capita spending increased by close to 30 per cent.
To finance the spending increases from 2000-2010, municipal taxes increased 69%, government transfers increased 273% and revenues from sales of services like parking and licenses increased 135%.
CFIB’s B.C. Municipal Spending Watch report is in its fifth year. Small business owners have a particular interest in municipal spending as studies show that they bear a disproportionate share of the municipal tax burden. This year’s report excludes the cost of policing, which is paid by municipalities, but is largely out of the control of municipal decision-makers.
Meanwhile - CFIB reports that in the Kootenay/Cariboo-Chilcotin-Coast region - Williams Lake was the 3rd worst municipal spending being ranked #40 of 153 municipalities surveyed with only New Denver and Slocan ahead of Williams Lake and New Denver/Slocan do have smaller populations/tax base than Williams Lake
For all municipalities within the Cariboo-Chilcotin:
The CFIB has recommended the following:
1. Municipal operating spending increases be limited to the rate of population growth and inflation.
2. In all cases, core services must be identified and core service reviews conducted to ensure effective fiscal management.
3. Public sector compensation should be aligned with the private sector. British Columbia currently has a gap between these sectors of 35.1%, combining wages and benefits.
4. All municipalities support the mandate and abide by the recommendations of BC’s new Municipal Auditor General. CFIB is encouraged that the provincial government has followed through on its commitment to create an independent office of Municipal Auditor General, as recommended in previous iterations of this report. However, the success and effect of this new office will rely on the cooperation and recognition of municipal governments. Therefore, we urge municipalities to commit to working constructively with the Municipal Auditor General to reverse the unsustainable spending trends demonstrated in this report
Williams Lake City Council is on record supporting the Municipal Auditor-General. I'll be looking to see how Williams Lake City Council and their Staff respond to this latest report by the CFIB
Source Documents:
1) Kootenay-Cariboo-Chilcotin-Coast - view here
2) CFIB Municipal Spending website here
3) CFIB Muncipal Spending technical background here
Press Release from the CFIB:
For the first time in ten years, there are signs that some B.C. municipalities are recognizing the need to get spending under control. Nonetheless, municipal spending continues to outpace the responsible benchmark of population growth plus inflation. The latest report from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) analyzes data from 2000 up to 2010.
“It’s a bit like driving off a cliff, but slowly,” said Laura Jones, executive vice-president, CFIB. “It’s certainly a good idea to apply the brakes, but we’re still getting closer to the edge. We like to give credit where it’s due, however, there’s a limit to our optimism.”
Had spending simply kept pace with population and inflation from 2000-2010, British Columbians would have saved $4.26 billion, or $4,251 for a family of four. Instead, B.C.’s real municipal operating spending increased by 49%, nearly four times the growth in population. When adjusted for inflation, spending increased by just one per cent from 2009 to 2010, down from seven per cent between 2008 and 2009
“One year of relatively good behaviour is a promising sign, but it’s much like the early days of a diet – it really could go either way and only time will tell,” said Jones.
B.C.’s Lower Mainland turned in a mixed performance between 2009 and 2010, with several of the larger municipalities demonstrating an improved commitment to fiscal discipline. Chilliwack, Burnaby and Surrey topped the “Most Improved” category when rated according to per capita spending over that period. By contrast, communities further east and north – such as Abbotsford, Pemberton, and the two Langley jurisdictions – turned in the most disappointing performances. Abbotsford per capita spending increased by close to 30 per cent.
To finance the spending increases from 2000-2010, municipal taxes increased 69%, government transfers increased 273% and revenues from sales of services like parking and licenses increased 135%.
CFIB’s B.C. Municipal Spending Watch report is in its fifth year. Small business owners have a particular interest in municipal spending as studies show that they bear a disproportionate share of the municipal tax burden. This year’s report excludes the cost of policing, which is paid by municipalities, but is largely out of the control of municipal decision-makers.
Meanwhile - CFIB reports that in the Kootenay/Cariboo-Chilcotin-Coast region - Williams Lake was the 3rd worst municipal spending being ranked #40 of 153 municipalities surveyed with only New Denver and Slocan ahead of Williams Lake and New Denver/Slocan do have smaller populations/tax base than Williams Lake
For all municipalities within the Cariboo-Chilcotin:
Municipality
|
Real Operating Spending Growth between 2000-2010 (%)
|
Pop. Growth between 2000-2010 (%)
|
Real Operating Spending Growth, per capita (%)
|
Overall Provincial Rank (#1 as Worst with #153 as Best)
|
Wells
|
34
|
16
|
15
|
47
|
Quesnel
|
10
|
-5
|
15
|
111
|
Williams Lake
|
42
|
-6
|
51
|
40
|
100 Mile House
|
15
|
5
|
10
|
72
|
The CFIB has recommended the following:
1. Municipal operating spending increases be limited to the rate of population growth and inflation.
2. In all cases, core services must be identified and core service reviews conducted to ensure effective fiscal management.
3. Public sector compensation should be aligned with the private sector. British Columbia currently has a gap between these sectors of 35.1%, combining wages and benefits.
4. All municipalities support the mandate and abide by the recommendations of BC’s new Municipal Auditor General. CFIB is encouraged that the provincial government has followed through on its commitment to create an independent office of Municipal Auditor General, as recommended in previous iterations of this report. However, the success and effect of this new office will rely on the cooperation and recognition of municipal governments. Therefore, we urge municipalities to commit to working constructively with the Municipal Auditor General to reverse the unsustainable spending trends demonstrated in this report
Williams Lake City Council is on record supporting the Municipal Auditor-General. I'll be looking to see how Williams Lake City Council and their Staff respond to this latest report by the CFIB
Source Documents:
1) Kootenay-Cariboo-Chilcotin-Coast - view here
2) CFIB Municipal Spending website here
3) CFIB Muncipal Spending technical background here
Local School News....
Yesterday, a 16 year old girl was struck in the crosswalk by Marie Sharpe Elementary. Inspector Warren Brown with the local RCMP that the accident was not speed-related. View more here
Meanwhile - Sydney Goward from Columneetza Senior Secondary told Welcome to Williams Lake that students', like herself, was disappointed to learn that only Mark Thiessen (SD #27 Superintendent) was present at a "Student Voices" meeting at 150 Mile Elementary. She reports that none of the six elected School Trustees were present at this meeting. Read more here
With a wrap on the public consultation meetings into the 'Initial Options' report -- the Board of Education for SD #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) will receive a synopsis of the public submissions received to date on Dec 11th, 2012 with the intention to make final decision on January 22nd, 2013 in Williams Lake and according to Zone 4 Trustee Jackie Austin, a separate Board meeting is hoped for in 100 Mile House to make decisions around 'Initial Options' and possible school closures in the 100 Mile area
My own view is that the Board will vote to close the 5 schools identified in the 'Initial Options' report with Glendale, Kwaleen and Wildwood Elementary in Williams Lake being determined for closure & Buffalo Creek and 100 Mile Jr Secondary being determined for closure in 100 Mile House
Meanwhile - Sydney Goward from Columneetza Senior Secondary told Welcome to Williams Lake that students', like herself, was disappointed to learn that only Mark Thiessen (SD #27 Superintendent) was present at a "Student Voices" meeting at 150 Mile Elementary. She reports that none of the six elected School Trustees were present at this meeting. Read more here
With a wrap on the public consultation meetings into the 'Initial Options' report -- the Board of Education for SD #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) will receive a synopsis of the public submissions received to date on Dec 11th, 2012 with the intention to make final decision on January 22nd, 2013 in Williams Lake and according to Zone 4 Trustee Jackie Austin, a separate Board meeting is hoped for in 100 Mile House to make decisions around 'Initial Options' and possible school closures in the 100 Mile area
My own view is that the Board will vote to close the 5 schools identified in the 'Initial Options' report with Glendale, Kwaleen and Wildwood Elementary in Williams Lake being determined for closure & Buffalo Creek and 100 Mile Jr Secondary being determined for closure in 100 Mile House
South Lakeside Dr upgrade unwarranted
Recently - Peter Epp Sr of Williams Lake sent the following "Letter to the Editor" to various media outlets concerning a plan by the City to upgrade South Lakeside Drive in 2013. I agree with Mr. Epp, Sr that upgrading South Lakeside Dr would only serve to make an already bad situation into a worse one on a road that was never designed for municipal-level traffic counts, given South Lakeside Dr was built to a standard consisting with roads in the Cariboo RD (note - South Lakeside Drive area was annexed into the City in 1996). I'd like to see the City do the upgrade that Mr. Epp, Sr has suggested
Mr. Epp, Sr.'s letter below:
The traffic flow from South Lakeside Drive to Highway 20, before the fire hall was built and the changes to the road were made, was at a maximum for safety.
This was before the traffic light and road changes were made at the South Lakeside intersection. It worked like a four-way stop before the traffic light was installed.
From the light on South Lakeside Drive and Hodgson Road, for the next tenth of a kilometre there are eight possible left-hand turns into businesses; only one has a left turn signal light. All B-Trains, chip trucks, high-boys, flat deck trucks must stop on the roadway to wait for traffic to clear to make a left hand turn, piling up traffic behind them. The more traffic into Walmart will mean a longer wait time to turn left. This is unworkable.
Trucks delivering steel to Bea-Mac must stop traffic in both directions to allow the trucks to enter and leave. Traffic coming off of Highway 20 from the west to Canadian Tire or Super Store turn-off must cross three lanes of traffic, cutting all other drivers off from right to left.
Fuel tankers, hi-boys, low-buoys, etc., also cut off all traffic on three lanes from right to left going into the Super Store or Canadian Tire. When snow covers all the painted lines because there is no proper alignment of road lanes, this is a major traffic accident waiting to happen.
South Lakeside Drive was never designed to handle traffic from Pioneer Development. All traffic in and out of the Walmart site was designed to go in and out at the four-way stop and the curb and gutter is already in place to exit in and out below the Pioneer Office complex.
Building a road where it was originally designed to go into the Walmart site and exit the Walmart site would give two ways into and out of South Lakeside, a major safety factor. As well, it would remove all traffic from South Lakeside Drive back to its original flow before Walmart was open. When the Pioneer site is fully developed there will be three times more commercial traffic, plus 250 to 350 residential properties, plus there is more undeveloped land – all inside City limits. There is no way you can move that much more traffic through South Lakeside Drive, no matter how much money you spend, aside from a road out of Walmart to Highway 20. If, in the future, an upgrade was needed to South Lakeside Drive, traffic could be detoured to allow more efficient construction at less cost.
I met with Councillors' (Surinderpal) Rathor and (Ivan) Bonnell several times this summer to discuss and observe obvious problems at the intersection lights, observing and discussing traffic flows and safety issues in the event of an accident. I also met with Mayor Cook at City Hall several times, and also Geoff Goodall - Acting CAO/GM of Planning and Operations. Mr. Goodall informed me I was the only person in Williams Lake that was unhappy with the upgrade. Mr. Goodall said he had no intention of even considering the original plan out of the Walmart site.
All the changes and money already spent on South Lakeside Drive have not made the road safer or faster. Money would have been better spent on the exit in the original design. Also, the City has a new plan to spend more money on a road that cannot possibly handle more traffic than that that is using the road each day now.
I do not believe I am the only person using Highway 20 and South Lakeside Drive that is unhappy with this intersection. Now is the time to voice your opinion. If this situation is not remedied soon, Lakeside residents will be facing traffic jams morning and evening, 365 days a year. Please fax, email or phone City Hall at 250 392-2311 and let them know your opinion.
Mr. Epp, Sr.'s letter below:
The traffic flow from South Lakeside Drive to Highway 20, before the fire hall was built and the changes to the road were made, was at a maximum for safety.
This was before the traffic light and road changes were made at the South Lakeside intersection. It worked like a four-way stop before the traffic light was installed.
From the light on South Lakeside Drive and Hodgson Road, for the next tenth of a kilometre there are eight possible left-hand turns into businesses; only one has a left turn signal light. All B-Trains, chip trucks, high-boys, flat deck trucks must stop on the roadway to wait for traffic to clear to make a left hand turn, piling up traffic behind them. The more traffic into Walmart will mean a longer wait time to turn left. This is unworkable.
Trucks delivering steel to Bea-Mac must stop traffic in both directions to allow the trucks to enter and leave. Traffic coming off of Highway 20 from the west to Canadian Tire or Super Store turn-off must cross three lanes of traffic, cutting all other drivers off from right to left.
Fuel tankers, hi-boys, low-buoys, etc., also cut off all traffic on three lanes from right to left going into the Super Store or Canadian Tire. When snow covers all the painted lines because there is no proper alignment of road lanes, this is a major traffic accident waiting to happen.
South Lakeside Drive was never designed to handle traffic from Pioneer Development. All traffic in and out of the Walmart site was designed to go in and out at the four-way stop and the curb and gutter is already in place to exit in and out below the Pioneer Office complex.
Building a road where it was originally designed to go into the Walmart site and exit the Walmart site would give two ways into and out of South Lakeside, a major safety factor. As well, it would remove all traffic from South Lakeside Drive back to its original flow before Walmart was open. When the Pioneer site is fully developed there will be three times more commercial traffic, plus 250 to 350 residential properties, plus there is more undeveloped land – all inside City limits. There is no way you can move that much more traffic through South Lakeside Drive, no matter how much money you spend, aside from a road out of Walmart to Highway 20. If, in the future, an upgrade was needed to South Lakeside Drive, traffic could be detoured to allow more efficient construction at less cost.
I met with Councillors' (Surinderpal) Rathor and (Ivan) Bonnell several times this summer to discuss and observe obvious problems at the intersection lights, observing and discussing traffic flows and safety issues in the event of an accident. I also met with Mayor Cook at City Hall several times, and also Geoff Goodall - Acting CAO/GM of Planning and Operations. Mr. Goodall informed me I was the only person in Williams Lake that was unhappy with the upgrade. Mr. Goodall said he had no intention of even considering the original plan out of the Walmart site.
All the changes and money already spent on South Lakeside Drive have not made the road safer or faster. Money would have been better spent on the exit in the original design. Also, the City has a new plan to spend more money on a road that cannot possibly handle more traffic than that that is using the road each day now.
I do not believe I am the only person using Highway 20 and South Lakeside Drive that is unhappy with this intersection. Now is the time to voice your opinion. If this situation is not remedied soon, Lakeside residents will be facing traffic jams morning and evening, 365 days a year. Please fax, email or phone City Hall at 250 392-2311 and let them know your opinion.
Censure debate in District of Sechelt
In light of censure motions or inappropriate disclosure of confidential information in the Township of Langley, Fort St John, Quesnel and Prince George - the District of Sechelt has become the latest community to have to deal with the issue of inappropriate disclosure by an elected official and a Motion of Censure
The issue here is, the forewarning to a staff person working for the District of Sechelt that they might be terminated, by District of Sechelt Councillor Alice Lutes. View an article from the Coast Reporter here
Meanwhile - the District of Sechelt Council has agreed to release its' two legal opinions on the matter here while you can view the Resolution which authorizes the release of the two legal opinions here
With the recent court decision of (PG City Councillor Brian) Skakun v. Prince George (City) and given the number of communities going through either inappropriate disclosure of confidential information or censure motion proceedings - Victoria may want to revisit both the Local Government Act and Community Charter to provide for measures where an elected official could be disqualified from office for releasing confidential information contrary to law, the number of censure motions that may be applied against an elected official before that official is disqualified from office or where that elected official has been convicted of a serious criminal offence (ie: drinking and driving, murder, assault, etc)
SBF
The issue here is, the forewarning to a staff person working for the District of Sechelt that they might be terminated, by District of Sechelt Councillor Alice Lutes. View an article from the Coast Reporter here
Meanwhile - the District of Sechelt Council has agreed to release its' two legal opinions on the matter here while you can view the Resolution which authorizes the release of the two legal opinions here
With the recent court decision of (PG City Councillor Brian) Skakun v. Prince George (City) and given the number of communities going through either inappropriate disclosure of confidential information or censure motion proceedings - Victoria may want to revisit both the Local Government Act and Community Charter to provide for measures where an elected official could be disqualified from office for releasing confidential information contrary to law, the number of censure motions that may be applied against an elected official before that official is disqualified from office or where that elected official has been convicted of a serious criminal offence (ie: drinking and driving, murder, assault, etc)
SBF
My view of the Dec 4th WL Council Mtg
 |
| Packed WL City Council Chambers |
I was also disappointed that Mayor Cook didn't allow an opportunity to have a 'question period' where City Councillors could ask questions in a public setting. Other than that, I'm not sure what the TNG really accomplished, other than perhaps 'blowing off steam'. At this point, we still have the 'divide' between those who support 'New Prosperity' and those who don't while we had Joe Alphonse saying the greater "Cariboo-Chilcotin community" needs to come together and heal from this division in order to move the region forward and with that statement, I wholeheartedly agree with him
After the TNG Delegation - Council settled back into its' business starting with Council appointments for 2013. Mayor Cook's practice of withholding the report outlining the appointments until just before the Council meeting is one I profoundly disagree with. Previous Mayors' were able to make the appointments and have them on the Regular Agenda on the Friday before the scheduled Council meeting
Meanwhile - Mayor Cook proposed to establish the following 5 Standing Committees:
a) Executive
b) Finance
c) Community Services
d) General Governance
e) Planning and Operations
She also eliminated Chairs at the 5 aforementioned Committees and instead, a "Champion" will be designated as items are referred to Committees. Like Councillor Bourdon, I'm not sure if this is the best way to go. The previous practice of designated Chairs of Committees should have been done.
Finally - Councillor Ivan Bonnell proposed that the previously rejected Blue Fins Swim Club be referred back to the Central Cariboo Joint Committee for reconsideration. But as Councillor Geoff Bourdon said (and I agree with him), if it didn't pass a review prior to consideration for a Grant-in-Aide for 2013 because it didn't fit the new Grant-in-Aide policy, why reconsider it? If the Joint Committee recommends a Grant-in-Aide for the Blue Fins, then the Joint Committee should simply, at that point, rip up the policy and return to the old "dog and pony" show and simply horse trade applications until you spend your proposed Grant-in-Aide budget of $50,000 ($35,000 City and $15,000 CRD)
According to acting City Administrator Geoff Goodall - the procedural reason the Blue Fins application failed is because a majority of WL City Council supported it, while the remaining CRD Directors in Joan Sorley (Area F) and Byron Kemp (Area E) split in support so the resolution to approve was defeated while Area D Director Deb Bischoff has made the decision not to attend Joint Committee meetings. Council has now requested the CRD Directors' for Areas D-E-F to attend Joint Committee meetings or in the alternative, that their respective Alternate Directors' attend in order to satisfy quorum issues
The final meeting of Williams Lake City Council will be on Dec 18th at 6:00pm in Williams Lake Council Chambers. The 2013 Provisional Budget will be presented for Council endorsement at this meeting. I encourage the public to attend this meeting and observe what Council will be approving as the public in the New Year, as I understand it, will get further opportunities for input prior to final adoption of the 2013 City of WL Budget by May 15th, 2013
WL Council Highlights - Dec 4th mtg
Present - Mayor Cook and Councillors Bonnell, Bourdon, Hughes, Rathor, Walters and Zacharias
Staff Present:
Geoff Goodall - Acting CAO/GM of Planning and Ops
Cindy Bouchard - Manager of Legislative Services
Ken MacInnis - Communications Coordinator
Tom Chung - IT Manager
Anne Burill - Manager of Social Development
Meeting called to order at 6:10pm
Agenda (with 5 Late In-Camera reports) approved
Minutes of Nov 20th WL Council approved
Delegations:
1)Tsilhqot'in National Government Chiefs appeared before Council to discuss 'New Prosperity' with the following occurring:
a) TNG Drummers
b) Welcome by Cecil Grinder
c) Welcome by Chief Ann Louie, T'exelc
d) Speaker #1 - Chief Marilyn Baptiste, Xeni Gwet'in First Nations Government
e) Speaker #2 - Grand Chief Stewart Phillip of the BC Union of Indian Chiefs'
e) Speaker #2 - TNG Tribal Chair and Chief Joe Alphonse of Tl'etinqox-t'in
2) Mark Thiessen (SD #27 Superintendent) along with SD #27 Trustees Jackie Austin, Sheila Boehm and Dr. Doug Neufeld appeared before Council to discuss the 'Initial Options' report
Business:
1) Council established its' 2013 Meeting schedule as follows:
2) Council received for information Mayor Cook's Council appointments for 2013 - read the appointment list here
3) Council re-appointed Mayor Cook as Cariboo RD Director for Williams Lake with Councillor Sue Zacharias as the Alternate Director
4) Council set its' 2013 Acting Mayor schedule as follows:
5) Council proclaimed January 2nd, 2013 as 'Wrestling Day' in the City of Williams Lake, as per City Policy #115
Opposed: Councillor Hughes
6) Council received the Cheque Listings for the periods ending Nov 22/29, 2012
7) Council adopted the 2013 Central Cariboo Joint Committee meeting schedule
8) Council received/approved 2013 Grants-in-Aide as follows:
Canadian Mental Health Association = $1,000
Williams Lake Saturday Market Association = $333
Cariboo Direct Farm Market Association = $367
Williams Lake Central Business Improvement Area Association = $8,000
Royal Canadian Legion = $16,299
TOTAL = $25,999
apportioned equally between Electoral Areas D, E, and F in the amount of $7,799.70, to be combined with a contribution from the City of Williams Lake in the amount of $18,199.30 pursuant to Section 4(a) of Schedule A5 - Grant in Aid Agreement to the Memorandum of Understanding between the Cariboo Regional District and the City of Williams Lake
9) Council agreed to refer back to Central Cariboo Joint Committee a Grant-in-Aide application by the Blue Fins Swim Club for reconsideration
Opposed - Councillor Bourdon
10) Council agreed to request CRD Directors' to attend Central Cariboo Joint Committee meetings, or in the alternative, that their Alternate do so in order to satisfy quorum requirements of the Joint Committee
Opposed - Councillor Bourdon
11) Council authorized Staff ro proceed with renewal of the current HVAC Maintenance service contract with Horizon Climate Controls for an additional one (1) year at a cost of $14,330.75.
12) CRD Staff will be requested to give a presentation at the January 23, 2013 Joint Committee Meeting on the changes in tipping fees that will occur over the next few years at the Central Cariboo Transfer Station and how increases to these fees will contribute to full cost recovery of solid waste handling
13) Council will send a letter to the CRD Board advising that it supports the 2% tipping fee increase at the Central Cariboo Transfer Station
14) Council received an update on 'Urgent or Life/Safety Upgrades for the Sam Ketchum Pool' as put forward by PERC Consulting as well as an update on the Pool Task Force and Councillor Walters noted that the final report of the Pool Task Force will be handed in at the special Dec 12th Central Cariboo Joint Committee meeting at 5:00pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom
15) Council adopted several Committee of the Whole recommendations as follows:
a) The report of the Director of Municipal Services dated November 9, 2012 regarding ?City of Williams Lake Regional Airport Fees Bylaw No. 2161? be brought forward for the required readings and Staff be directed to create a reserve policy for the Williams Lake Regional Airport; and further, that the respective community stakeholders be notified of the proposed changes and consulted with prior to adoption and that "City of Williams Lake Regional Airport Fees Bylaw No. 2161" be introduced and read three times
b) Council approve the 2013 Fee for Service contracts and funding levels proposed for 2013 as follows:
NOOPA (Boys & Girls Club) - $15,000
Williams Lake Stampede Association (Queens) - 5,000
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Williams Lake - 15,000
Cariboo Chilcotin Hospice Palliative Care Society - 16,900
Scout Island Nature Centre - 12,500
Social Planning Council - 5,000
Youth for Christ - 5,000
Williams Lake Stampede Association - 25,000
Cariboo Chilcotin Conservation Society (Water) - 38,600
Cariboo Chilcotin Conservation Society (Solid Waster) - 24,500
Tourism Discovery Centre - 155,000
Community Policing Committee - 15,000
TOTAL - $332,500
c) The Finance Committee review the Fee for Service Policy and contract template in January 2013 and bring any recommendations back to Committee of Whole Council
d) Council support the Cariboo Regional District Solid Waste Management Plan in principle with the understanding that any financial implications contemplated from the implementation of any strategies within the plan that will affect the City will require approval from City Council; and further, that through the Central Cariboo / City of Williams Lake Joint Committee, a steering committee be formed consisting of Councillors Zacharias/Bonnell for the City of Williams Lake, two (2) elected representatives for the Cariboo Regional District and two (2) members of Staff for each local government body to assist in the implementation of the objectives of the Solid Waste Management Plan
16) Council received the Minutes of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting held November 21st, 2012
17) Council received a letter from the Williams Lake Community Band dated November 26, 2012 requesting the waiving of the janitorial service fee for their use of the Council Chambers on December 14, 2012 for their annual Christmas concert, pursuant to Policy No. 96, and the $50 janitorial fee will be waived
18) Council received a follow-up letter from Kim Herdman dated November 21, 2012 regarding the placement of a speed reader board on Third Avenue fronting Marie Sharpe be received and Ms. Herdman will be advised that the intent of placing the speed reader board is to gather data which will be brought back to Council in the Spring for further consideration.
19) Council brought forward from In-Camera 4 items as follows:
a) Harm Reduction Strategy - Executive Committee of Council to develop and report back to Council
b) Access to Dairy Fields - Staff to develop strategy to restrict vehicle access
c) Re-instate CourtWatch program through Community Policing
d) Prolific Offender Program - meet with both Provincial/Federal Crown Counsels and also the Federal and Provincial Justice Ministers with regards to funding
20) Council received the 'Council Information Package' as follows:
• November 12, 2012 - Ministry of Community, Sport & Cultural Development re Woodland Drive Infrastructure and Aging Recreation Facility Grant Opportunities Discussed at UBCM;
• November 20, 2012 - Gold Fields Horsefly Exploration Fall 2012 Community Newsletter;
• November 20, 2012 - Letter from Fort St. John re Canada Post's Proposed Community Mail Box Installation Fees;
• November 21, 2012 - Pitch-In BC re Pitch-In BC Week 2012 & Municipal Patron Registration Information;
• November 26, 2012 - CRD News Release re Williams Lake Fringe Fire Protection Referendum Results
• November 26, 2012 - Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure re South Lakeside Drive Widening Project.
After a brief recess, Council resumed its' In-Camera meeting and the public meeting of Council adjourned at 8:55pm
Staff Present:
Geoff Goodall - Acting CAO/GM of Planning and Ops
Cindy Bouchard - Manager of Legislative Services
Ken MacInnis - Communications Coordinator
Tom Chung - IT Manager
Anne Burill - Manager of Social Development
Meeting called to order at 6:10pm
Agenda (with 5 Late In-Camera reports) approved
Minutes of Nov 20th WL Council approved
Delegations:
1)Tsilhqot'in National Government Chiefs appeared before Council to discuss 'New Prosperity' with the following occurring:
a) TNG Drummers
b) Welcome by Cecil Grinder
c) Welcome by Chief Ann Louie, T'exelc
d) Speaker #1 - Chief Marilyn Baptiste, Xeni Gwet'in First Nations Government
e) Speaker #2 - Grand Chief Stewart Phillip of the BC Union of Indian Chiefs'
e) Speaker #2 - TNG Tribal Chair and Chief Joe Alphonse of Tl'etinqox-t'in
2) Mark Thiessen (SD #27 Superintendent) along with SD #27 Trustees Jackie Austin, Sheila Boehm and Dr. Doug Neufeld appeared before Council to discuss the 'Initial Options' report
Business:
1) Council established its' 2013 Meeting schedule as follows:
January 8 & 22 July 2 & 16
February 5 & 19 August 13 & 27
March 5 & 19 September 10 & 24
April 9 & 23 October 8 & 22
May 7 & 21 November 5 & 19
June 4 & 18 December 3 & 17
2) Council received for information Mayor Cook's Council appointments for 2013 - read the appointment list here
3) Council re-appointed Mayor Cook as Cariboo RD Director for Williams Lake with Councillor Sue Zacharias as the Alternate Director
4) Council set its' 2013 Acting Mayor schedule as follows:
January - Councillor Ivan Bonnell July - Councillor Ivan Bonnell
February - Councillor Geoff Bourdon August - Councillor Geoff Bourdon
March - Councillor Danica Hughes September - Councillor Danica Hughes
April - Councillor Surinderpal Rathor October - Councillor Surinderpal Rathor
May - Councillor Laurie Walters November - Councillor Laurie Walters
June - Councillor Sue Zacharias December - Councillor Sue Zacharias
5) Council proclaimed January 2nd, 2013 as 'Wrestling Day' in the City of Williams Lake, as per City Policy #115
Opposed: Councillor Hughes
6) Council received the Cheque Listings for the periods ending Nov 22/29, 2012
7) Council adopted the 2013 Central Cariboo Joint Committee meeting schedule
8) Council received/approved 2013 Grants-in-Aide as follows:
Canadian Mental Health Association = $1,000
Williams Lake Saturday Market Association = $333
Cariboo Direct Farm Market Association = $367
Williams Lake Central Business Improvement Area Association = $8,000
Royal Canadian Legion = $16,299
TOTAL = $25,999
apportioned equally between Electoral Areas D, E, and F in the amount of $7,799.70, to be combined with a contribution from the City of Williams Lake in the amount of $18,199.30 pursuant to Section 4(a) of Schedule A5 - Grant in Aid Agreement to the Memorandum of Understanding between the Cariboo Regional District and the City of Williams Lake
9) Council agreed to refer back to Central Cariboo Joint Committee a Grant-in-Aide application by the Blue Fins Swim Club for reconsideration
Opposed - Councillor Bourdon
10) Council agreed to request CRD Directors' to attend Central Cariboo Joint Committee meetings, or in the alternative, that their Alternate do so in order to satisfy quorum requirements of the Joint Committee
Opposed - Councillor Bourdon
11) Council authorized Staff ro proceed with renewal of the current HVAC Maintenance service contract with Horizon Climate Controls for an additional one (1) year at a cost of $14,330.75.
12) CRD Staff will be requested to give a presentation at the January 23, 2013 Joint Committee Meeting on the changes in tipping fees that will occur over the next few years at the Central Cariboo Transfer Station and how increases to these fees will contribute to full cost recovery of solid waste handling
13) Council will send a letter to the CRD Board advising that it supports the 2% tipping fee increase at the Central Cariboo Transfer Station
14) Council received an update on 'Urgent or Life/Safety Upgrades for the Sam Ketchum Pool' as put forward by PERC Consulting as well as an update on the Pool Task Force and Councillor Walters noted that the final report of the Pool Task Force will be handed in at the special Dec 12th Central Cariboo Joint Committee meeting at 5:00pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom
15) Council adopted several Committee of the Whole recommendations as follows:
a) The report of the Director of Municipal Services dated November 9, 2012 regarding ?City of Williams Lake Regional Airport Fees Bylaw No. 2161? be brought forward for the required readings and Staff be directed to create a reserve policy for the Williams Lake Regional Airport; and further, that the respective community stakeholders be notified of the proposed changes and consulted with prior to adoption and that "City of Williams Lake Regional Airport Fees Bylaw No. 2161" be introduced and read three times
b) Council approve the 2013 Fee for Service contracts and funding levels proposed for 2013 as follows:
NOOPA (Boys & Girls Club) - $15,000
Williams Lake Stampede Association (Queens) - 5,000
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Williams Lake - 15,000
Cariboo Chilcotin Hospice Palliative Care Society - 16,900
Scout Island Nature Centre - 12,500
Social Planning Council - 5,000
Youth for Christ - 5,000
Williams Lake Stampede Association - 25,000
Cariboo Chilcotin Conservation Society (Water) - 38,600
Cariboo Chilcotin Conservation Society (Solid Waster) - 24,500
Tourism Discovery Centre - 155,000
Community Policing Committee - 15,000
TOTAL - $332,500
c) The Finance Committee review the Fee for Service Policy and contract template in January 2013 and bring any recommendations back to Committee of Whole Council
d) Council support the Cariboo Regional District Solid Waste Management Plan in principle with the understanding that any financial implications contemplated from the implementation of any strategies within the plan that will affect the City will require approval from City Council; and further, that through the Central Cariboo / City of Williams Lake Joint Committee, a steering committee be formed consisting of Councillors Zacharias/Bonnell for the City of Williams Lake, two (2) elected representatives for the Cariboo Regional District and two (2) members of Staff for each local government body to assist in the implementation of the objectives of the Solid Waste Management Plan
16) Council received the Minutes of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting held November 21st, 2012
17) Council received a letter from the Williams Lake Community Band dated November 26, 2012 requesting the waiving of the janitorial service fee for their use of the Council Chambers on December 14, 2012 for their annual Christmas concert, pursuant to Policy No. 96, and the $50 janitorial fee will be waived
18) Council received a follow-up letter from Kim Herdman dated November 21, 2012 regarding the placement of a speed reader board on Third Avenue fronting Marie Sharpe be received and Ms. Herdman will be advised that the intent of placing the speed reader board is to gather data which will be brought back to Council in the Spring for further consideration.
19) Council brought forward from In-Camera 4 items as follows:
a) Harm Reduction Strategy - Executive Committee of Council to develop and report back to Council
b) Access to Dairy Fields - Staff to develop strategy to restrict vehicle access
c) Re-instate CourtWatch program through Community Policing
d) Prolific Offender Program - meet with both Provincial/Federal Crown Counsels and also the Federal and Provincial Justice Ministers with regards to funding
20) Council received the 'Council Information Package' as follows:
• November 12, 2012 - Ministry of Community, Sport & Cultural Development re Woodland Drive Infrastructure and Aging Recreation Facility Grant Opportunities Discussed at UBCM;
• November 20, 2012 - Gold Fields Horsefly Exploration Fall 2012 Community Newsletter;
• November 20, 2012 - Letter from Fort St. John re Canada Post's Proposed Community Mail Box Installation Fees;
• November 21, 2012 - Pitch-In BC re Pitch-In BC Week 2012 & Municipal Patron Registration Information;
• November 26, 2012 - CRD News Release re Williams Lake Fringe Fire Protection Referendum Results
• November 26, 2012 - Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure re South Lakeside Drive Widening Project.
After a brief recess, Council resumed its' In-Camera meeting and the public meeting of Council adjourned at 8:55pm
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Enhanced Police Service in WL?
In today's Williams Lake Tribune - Williams Lake Mayor Kerry Cook said the following, with regards to addressing the recent crime spike in Williams Lake (in parts):
With the recent attention to crime, we (WL Council) authorized City Staff to coordinate with the RCMP to start some community meetings about awareness, education, and going to the community to see if they (residents' of Williams Lake) are prepared to pay more money to have an enhanced police service
Either this community will accept the status quo or we're going to have to bite the bullet and put some more money into further crime reduction. The meetings are to start in January 2013. I think we'll get far more response from the community because what the RCMP want is a target team of 4 or 5 people & that will cost an additional $400,000 - $500,000 to Williams Lake taxpayers'
As one taxpayer - I would think that one of the primary issues that residents' will look for is:
Will I see what I'm paying for (ie: will the half-million to be spent show a physical (actual) reduction in crime in Williams Lake)?
I would say no as some of the underlying issues relate to substance abuse issues (drug/alcohol) and require a multi-disciplined approach (City working with RCMP and Interior Health). I wonder if the City looked seriously at using the same $400-500,000 to fund an alcohol rehab facility in Williams Lake, if the crime rate might look a little different. Also - given the high concentration of First Nations surrounding Williams Lake, we should look to them to help fund and/or coordinate crime reduction activities...
Over to you, Williams Lake.... status quo or spend up to $500,000 for further crime reduction stratagies
Mayor Cook also says an In-Camera Report from a meeting between Mayor/Council & Inspector Warren Brown will come forward at tonight's WL City Council meeting
SBF
With the recent attention to crime, we (WL Council) authorized City Staff to coordinate with the RCMP to start some community meetings about awareness, education, and going to the community to see if they (residents' of Williams Lake) are prepared to pay more money to have an enhanced police service
Either this community will accept the status quo or we're going to have to bite the bullet and put some more money into further crime reduction. The meetings are to start in January 2013. I think we'll get far more response from the community because what the RCMP want is a target team of 4 or 5 people & that will cost an additional $400,000 - $500,000 to Williams Lake taxpayers'
As one taxpayer - I would think that one of the primary issues that residents' will look for is:
Will I see what I'm paying for (ie: will the half-million to be spent show a physical (actual) reduction in crime in Williams Lake)?
I would say no as some of the underlying issues relate to substance abuse issues (drug/alcohol) and require a multi-disciplined approach (City working with RCMP and Interior Health). I wonder if the City looked seriously at using the same $400-500,000 to fund an alcohol rehab facility in Williams Lake, if the crime rate might look a little different. Also - given the high concentration of First Nations surrounding Williams Lake, we should look to them to help fund and/or coordinate crime reduction activities...
Over to you, Williams Lake.... status quo or spend up to $500,000 for further crime reduction stratagies
Mayor Cook also says an In-Camera Report from a meeting between Mayor/Council & Inspector Warren Brown will come forward at tonight's WL City Council meeting
SBF
Walt Cobb calls out the Federal Review Panel
With the series of letters flying back and forth between Taseko Mines Ltd & the Federal Review Panel concerning Taseko's "New Prosperity" mine proposal over a cumulative environmental study - former Williams Lake Mayor, Cariboo-South MLA and WL and District Chamber of Commerce President Walt Cobb wrote a letter to the Panel with a copy being given to current BC Liberal MLA Donna Barnett and Cariboo-PG Member of Parliament Richard (Dick) Harris as follows:
Thank you for the update but would like to say this is totally ridiculous. You, they and everyone else know this is just a stall tactic in hopes that everyone will go away. Not going to happen.
First if the panel would read the previous information as they were paid to do they would realize the information, for what can be given, is in the original submission as there were no changes to the areas of concern.
As per accumulative effect what the panel is asking for is the proponent to look say 100 years ahead at an area, and or situation that cannot possibly be modeled with any sensibility or reality.
This region needs the development now and not what may be 100 years from now, or better yet to get us to the next 100 years. If we have another pine beetle epidemic there will be nothing in this area unless "man" does something and disturbs mother nature to do it. So much for unknown accumulative affect.
Also no one can predict what may or may not happen in the area as it pertains to logging. Mature timber must be cut down or it decays and rot or worse yet allow insects to destroy any hope of any economic benefits.
It would appear the panel is grasping for straws to find ways to reject the project with little consideration for the people it will help and sustain over its life of the project.
It is obviously listening to the many naysayers that have nothing to do but follow such events or are using the scare tactics to raise funds to sustain their life style
As I'm certain the TNG (Chilcotin National Gov't) Chiefs have people monitoring the document bank at the Can. Environmental Assessment Agency Document Bank for 'New Prosperity' -- I wonder if the Chiefs will use this information at today's Williams Lake Council delegation session at 6:00pm...? In the meantime, I don't think 'New Prosperity' supporters, like Williams Lake Council and WL and District Chamber of Commerce and other like-minded individuals, will be swayed by what the TNG Delegation will tell WL Council and the opposite is true as well.... stay tuned as 2013 will be rocky when a public hearing is held on 'New Prosperity'
SBF
Thank you for the update but would like to say this is totally ridiculous. You, they and everyone else know this is just a stall tactic in hopes that everyone will go away. Not going to happen.
First if the panel would read the previous information as they were paid to do they would realize the information, for what can be given, is in the original submission as there were no changes to the areas of concern.
As per accumulative effect what the panel is asking for is the proponent to look say 100 years ahead at an area, and or situation that cannot possibly be modeled with any sensibility or reality.
This region needs the development now and not what may be 100 years from now, or better yet to get us to the next 100 years. If we have another pine beetle epidemic there will be nothing in this area unless "man" does something and disturbs mother nature to do it. So much for unknown accumulative affect.
Also no one can predict what may or may not happen in the area as it pertains to logging. Mature timber must be cut down or it decays and rot or worse yet allow insects to destroy any hope of any economic benefits.
It would appear the panel is grasping for straws to find ways to reject the project with little consideration for the people it will help and sustain over its life of the project.
It is obviously listening to the many naysayers that have nothing to do but follow such events or are using the scare tactics to raise funds to sustain their life style
As I'm certain the TNG (Chilcotin National Gov't) Chiefs have people monitoring the document bank at the Can. Environmental Assessment Agency Document Bank for 'New Prosperity' -- I wonder if the Chiefs will use this information at today's Williams Lake Council delegation session at 6:00pm...? In the meantime, I don't think 'New Prosperity' supporters, like Williams Lake Council and WL and District Chamber of Commerce and other like-minded individuals, will be swayed by what the TNG Delegation will tell WL Council and the opposite is true as well.... stay tuned as 2013 will be rocky when a public hearing is held on 'New Prosperity'
SBF
Monday, December 3, 2012
Taseko ordered to do Cumulative Effects Study of New Prosperity
Last week, a series of letters flew back and forth between Taseko Mines and the Federal Review Panel in regards to a cumulative effect study which the Panel says it needs to determine, as part of a wider study, if the EIS or Environmental Impact Statement is sufficient to take to Public Hearing in 2013 which Taseko Mines argues that the Panel already has the required information. Read my blog post on this here
Late last Thursday - the Federal Review Panel sent another letter to Taseko Mines and in essence orders Taseko Mines to complete the cumulative effects study of New Prosperity on the local environment or the Panel considers the EIS that was submitted for New Prosperity insufficient. The Panel goes on to say that Taseko narrowed the scope of its cumulative effects assessment in a manner that is inconsistent with the EIS Guidelines and the new Canadian Environmental Assessment Act
Next steps for Taseko Mines could include going to the Federal Minister of Environment (Hon. Peter Kent) and seek relief from the Panel's directive for a cumulative effects study for New Prosperity or to complete the cumulative effects study that the Panel has asked for.
Should Taseko Mines go the "political" route - it could open a "can of worms" for Taseko, especially from those with grave concerns with the New Prosperity mine proposal. We should see Taseko's response to this letter sometime early this week - probably by Monday or Tuesday, I would think...
View the letter below from the Federal Review Panel to Taseko Mines:
Letter from Federal Review Panel to Taseko Mines re: EIS
Late last Thursday - the Federal Review Panel sent another letter to Taseko Mines and in essence orders Taseko Mines to complete the cumulative effects study of New Prosperity on the local environment or the Panel considers the EIS that was submitted for New Prosperity insufficient. The Panel goes on to say that Taseko narrowed the scope of its cumulative effects assessment in a manner that is inconsistent with the EIS Guidelines and the new Canadian Environmental Assessment Act
Next steps for Taseko Mines could include going to the Federal Minister of Environment (Hon. Peter Kent) and seek relief from the Panel's directive for a cumulative effects study for New Prosperity or to complete the cumulative effects study that the Panel has asked for.
Should Taseko Mines go the "political" route - it could open a "can of worms" for Taseko, especially from those with grave concerns with the New Prosperity mine proposal. We should see Taseko's response to this letter sometime early this week - probably by Monday or Tuesday, I would think...
View the letter below from the Federal Review Panel to Taseko Mines:
Letter from Federal Review Panel to Taseko Mines re: EIS
Sunday, December 2, 2012
WL Council Business - Dec 4th
For those in Williams Lake - your City Council will have a full Agenda and deal with the following noteworthy items;
Delegations:
a) TNG Chiefs appear before Council re: Support for 'New Prosperity' at Fish Lake. Watch for Mayor Cook and Council to politely say they sympatize for TNG's concerns but the resolution of support from September stands. Also watch for a packed Council Chambers of TNG Chief supporters
b) SD #27 appears before Council to discuss the "Initial Options" report which calls for 3 schools in Williams Lake area (Glendale, Kwaleen and Wildwood) to close
c) Interior Health gives an update on local health services
Business:
a) Council to ratify a resolution to confirm Mayor Cook and Councillor Zacharias as the CRD Director and Alternate respectively for Williams Lake. Watch for Councilor Bonnell to oppose this resolution
b) Council will adopt its' meeting calendar for 2013, its' Acting Mayor list for 2013, Mayor Cook's Council appointments for 2013. I don't expect any changes in Councillor assignments and finally to proclaim Jan 2nd, 2013 as "Wrestling Day" in Williams Lake
c) Update on Pool Task Force and recommendations from the consultant to urgent upgrades to the Sam Ketchum Pool
d) No changes to Fee for Service agreements with various groups in Williams Lake in 2013
e) Council will inform Ms. Kim Herdman that the intent of placing the speed reader board is to gather data which will be brought back to Council in the Spring for further consideration. This is in response to an another letter from Ms. Herdman expressing concern about 'lack of action' over speeding throughout Williams Lake
f) Finally - Council will receive a letter from BC Transportation Minister Mary Polak indicating that her Ministry has no funds to help with the South Lakeside Upgrade Protection, scheduled to occur in 2013 - read her letter here. Meanwhile - in a letter I agree with -- Peter Epp Sr in last week's Williams Lake Tribune asked Council to revisit the upgrade project. I think South Lakeside would be in a mess if not for two things:
a) Access to Prosperity Ridge (WalMart,etc) should have been via Hutchinson Dr and Highway 20
b) Pinnicle Pellet Plant should have been built in Glendale area (traditional industrial area of Williams Lake)
Future Meetings:
a) Tues Dec 11th - Committee of the Whole in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (WL City Hall basement)
b) Wed Dec 12th - Special Central Cariboo Joint Committee meeting to receive final Pool Task Force report. Meeting in the Rick Hansen Boardroom
c) Tues Dec 18th - Final WL Council meeting for 2012 in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St)
You can view all the items described above here
SBF
Delegations:
a) TNG Chiefs appear before Council re: Support for 'New Prosperity' at Fish Lake. Watch for Mayor Cook and Council to politely say they sympatize for TNG's concerns but the resolution of support from September stands. Also watch for a packed Council Chambers of TNG Chief supporters
b) SD #27 appears before Council to discuss the "Initial Options" report which calls for 3 schools in Williams Lake area (Glendale, Kwaleen and Wildwood) to close
c) Interior Health gives an update on local health services
Business:
a) Council to ratify a resolution to confirm Mayor Cook and Councillor Zacharias as the CRD Director and Alternate respectively for Williams Lake. Watch for Councilor Bonnell to oppose this resolution
b) Council will adopt its' meeting calendar for 2013, its' Acting Mayor list for 2013, Mayor Cook's Council appointments for 2013. I don't expect any changes in Councillor assignments and finally to proclaim Jan 2nd, 2013 as "Wrestling Day" in Williams Lake
c) Update on Pool Task Force and recommendations from the consultant to urgent upgrades to the Sam Ketchum Pool
d) No changes to Fee for Service agreements with various groups in Williams Lake in 2013
e) Council will inform Ms. Kim Herdman that the intent of placing the speed reader board is to gather data which will be brought back to Council in the Spring for further consideration. This is in response to an another letter from Ms. Herdman expressing concern about 'lack of action' over speeding throughout Williams Lake
f) Finally - Council will receive a letter from BC Transportation Minister Mary Polak indicating that her Ministry has no funds to help with the South Lakeside Upgrade Protection, scheduled to occur in 2013 - read her letter here. Meanwhile - in a letter I agree with -- Peter Epp Sr in last week's Williams Lake Tribune asked Council to revisit the upgrade project. I think South Lakeside would be in a mess if not for two things:
a) Access to Prosperity Ridge (WalMart,etc) should have been via Hutchinson Dr and Highway 20
b) Pinnicle Pellet Plant should have been built in Glendale area (traditional industrial area of Williams Lake)
Future Meetings:
a) Tues Dec 11th - Committee of the Whole in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (WL City Hall basement)
b) Wed Dec 12th - Special Central Cariboo Joint Committee meeting to receive final Pool Task Force report. Meeting in the Rick Hansen Boardroom
c) Tues Dec 18th - Final WL Council meeting for 2012 in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St)
You can view all the items described above here
SBF
Quesnel Council Bus - Dec 3rd
For those in Quesnel - your City Council will be considering the following items at its' Monday meeting:
a) Inaugural Speeches for 2013 term from Mayor Sjostrom and Councillor Briscoe, Coleman, Roodenburg, Elliot, Thapar, and Cave
b) Selection of Quesnel's Cariboo RD Director and Alternate Director until Nov 2014. Likely to remain Mayor Sjostrom and Councillor Roodenburg
c) Selection of appointee & alternate to Regional Advisory Committee to the NDIT (Northern Development) Board
d) Appointments to Museum Commission (read here) and new sign for local Museum (read here)
e) Letter from NCLGA re: 2013 AGM in Quesnel - read here
Future Meetings:
Mon Dec 10th - Committee of the Whole
Monday Dec 17th - Last Quesnel Council Meeting in 2012
Both above meetings in Quesnel Council Chambers at 7:00pm
a) Inaugural Speeches for 2013 term from Mayor Sjostrom and Councillor Briscoe, Coleman, Roodenburg, Elliot, Thapar, and Cave
b) Selection of Quesnel's Cariboo RD Director and Alternate Director until Nov 2014. Likely to remain Mayor Sjostrom and Councillor Roodenburg
c) Selection of appointee & alternate to Regional Advisory Committee to the NDIT (Northern Development) Board
d) Appointments to Museum Commission (read here) and new sign for local Museum (read here)
e) Letter from NCLGA re: 2013 AGM in Quesnel - read here
Future Meetings:
Mon Dec 10th - Committee of the Whole
Monday Dec 17th - Last Quesnel Council Meeting in 2012
Both above meetings in Quesnel Council Chambers at 7:00pm
Bob Simpson on School Closure in SD #27
This past Thursday - the Board of Education for School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) with affected parents of Wildwood Elementary which saw roughly 35 individuals
Bob Simpson, Ind MLA for Cariboo-North also attended and he noted:
“well I think it’s patently unfair that as MLA’s we get to be involved in a budget that’s allowed to be in deficit, right now it’s $1.5 billion in deficit, when School Trustees are responsible for always managing to a balanced budget.”
He also had criticism for the local Board of Education as well:
"he felt it’s unfair for the Board to push parents to find alternatives to the Initial Options Report and says the Trustees should be presenting working models from other Districts for parents to work with"
I agree with MLA Simpson in the fact that it is a "double standard" that school boards must have yearly balanced budgets but Victoria/Ottawa can run deficits. This should remain you of the old saying "Do as I say, but not as I do". I would argue that, within set criteria, that there are times when a school board or local government (regional district or municipal council) should be permitted to run a temporary deficit
Such criteria could include expenditures that would require running a temporary deficit in order to protect property or health/safety of residents' with an action plan to bring the books into balance within a 2-3 year period
SBF
Bob Simpson, Ind MLA for Cariboo-North also attended and he noted:
“well I think it’s patently unfair that as MLA’s we get to be involved in a budget that’s allowed to be in deficit, right now it’s $1.5 billion in deficit, when School Trustees are responsible for always managing to a balanced budget.”
He also had criticism for the local Board of Education as well:
"he felt it’s unfair for the Board to push parents to find alternatives to the Initial Options Report and says the Trustees should be presenting working models from other Districts for parents to work with"
I agree with MLA Simpson in the fact that it is a "double standard" that school boards must have yearly balanced budgets but Victoria/Ottawa can run deficits. This should remain you of the old saying "Do as I say, but not as I do". I would argue that, within set criteria, that there are times when a school board or local government (regional district or municipal council) should be permitted to run a temporary deficit
Such criteria could include expenditures that would require running a temporary deficit in order to protect property or health/safety of residents' with an action plan to bring the books into balance within a 2-3 year period
SBF
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