At a meeting that included the presence of CRD Chair Al Richmond, CRD Directors Deb Bischoff, Bryon Kemp, Joan Sorley, CRD Chief Administrator Janis Bell, Financial Officer Scott Reid and the CRD's Protective Services Manager Rowena Bastien and almost 400 rural fringe residents' - the Cariboo Regional District updated those in attendance on the situation on fire protection for their homes. There will be a future meeting on Tuesday, Feb 12th at 5:30pm in the Gibraltar Room to review survey responses and to get future direction as to what option to pursue. You can complete the online version of the Survey here and review the full presentation by Janis Bell below
Powerpoint presentation - CRD Rural Fringe Fire Protection...
Only City of Williams Lake Councillor Danica Hughes was at the meeting. The meeting could have been more productive, from my perspective, had Mayor Cook and her Acting Administrator (G. Goodall) shown up to answer some questions - a point raised by some residents' and could have lead to a better understanding of both sides of this situation... (again, my own view)
In the meantime, Ms. Bell had a PowerPoint presentation for the roughly 375 residents (one's I counted at the beginning of the meeting) and reviewed the following topics:
a) History
b) Tax Requisition History
c) Comparison of VFD Rates within the Cariboo RD
d) Comparison of Municipal FD Rates to rural fringe areas (Quesnel, WL and 100 Mile House)
e) Comparison of Fire Department costs for Quesnel & Williams Lake
f) Review of Options and pros/cons of those options (Continue legal proceedings, re-negotiate or start new fire department)
g) Manpower requirements - 6 months of training, min 15 volunteers required to maintain certification of fire department
In the subsequent Question and Answer Period, most questions fell within the following:
a) Firm Fire Protection Numbers from City of WL?
b) Who's paying the $15,000 legal fees to date from Cariboo RD -- rural residents
c) 1 Fire Hall/Satellite Fire Halls for New Fire Dept -- 1 Central Fire Hall to serve all locations
d) Let's Fight Williams Lake City Hall... phone your neighbours in Williams Lake and 'educate' them as to what their Williams Lake City Council is doing to us and them...
e) What happens post-April 30th training, legal, etc
Most residents' felt that the City's action were 'dishonourable' and the CRD should continue with legal proceedings and the CRD should start its' own rural fire department for affected residents' in CRD Areas D,E,F
Ms. Bell also informed residents' that the Cariboo RD filed legal documents with, presumably, the BC Supreme Court to seek one of two options:
1) Court order to honour City's pre-referendum commitment of $129 per 100,000 of residential assessment (2012 figure) to a maximum of $147 per 100,000
2) Court order to require City to maintain services until CRD's "Central Cariboo VFD" is up and running
The meeting lasted from 5:30pm until just past 7:00pm
Steve's view:
I personally want to applaud the Cariboo Regional District for being so forthright with its' residents, but I can't say the same for Williams Lake City Council (and why they refuse is beyond me and I think most CRD rural fringe residents')
As I personally review the Oct 26th letter from the City of Williams Lake to the Cariboo Regional District - it appears, on the face of it, that the letter does not constitute an formal offer, however if you "read between the lines" - one could argue that in fact, City of Williams Lake Council Res #468/12 as a whole constitues a formal offer which then the CRD took to their residents' on Nov 24th, 2012
Council Res #468/12 was adopted by the following vote on Oct 23rd:
Yeas - Mayor Cook and Councillors Bourdon, Walters and Zacharias
Nays - Councillor Bonnell, Hughes, and Rathor
It should be noted that Councillors Laurie Walters, Geoff Bourdon and Sue Zacharias were the City's part of the negotiating Committee for a new Fire Protection Agreement with the Cariboo RD but no proposed agreement came forward
Then on Dec 11th of 2012 - the City changes its' stance behind closed doors (and no justification as of this writing) (and I can see where the City could be accused of 'reneged' although Councillor Hughes is adamant that the City did not renege) and passed In-Camera Res #172/12 as follows:
“That Council enter into a 1 year agreement with the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) to provide fire protection to those areas of D, E, and F based on the maximum requisition indicated in the Regional District’s Bylaw and further, prior to the expiration of this agreement, the City and CRD enter into discussions for renewal of fire protection services.”
Unlike Oct 23rd - there is no indication, at this point, if the above resolution was adopted unanimously or not, but it is likely, in my mind, that one Councillor jumped 'one side' to the 'other side' and likely the City had received legal advice that it was able to pass In-Camera Res #172/12. This after Mayor Cook said on Oct 23rd to Councillor Ivan Bonnell that passing his five recommendations would entail legal implications on the City
The City then informed the Cariboo RD Board on Dec 12th of its' In-Camera Res #IC172/12
The Cariboo RD then launched legal proceedings against the City of Williams Lake on Thurs Dec 20th and a decision by the BC Supreme Court was handed down the following day (Fri Dec 21st) to grant a 120 day (4 months) temporary injunction against the City to continue providing fire protection until April 30th, 2013.
Ms. Bell also informed the audience that it is 'inaccurate' to say that the City of Williams Lake supported the court injunction as no Corporation has ever supported a court proceeding against itself and I agree wholeheartedly with Ms. Bell - The City of Williams Lake should have never made that statement and Mayor Cook, on this, got very poor advice...
Going forward -- I don't see a quick and easy solution given the 'very wide' gap between CRD Staff/Directors' and with my conversations with WL City Councillors Danica Hughes/SPS Rathor. I'm not entirely sure myself that a mediator could bridge the gap between CRD/City of WL on this, if neither side can not agree on a basic set of financial stats on this file. Councillor Rathor is adamant that if anyone is bullying here, it is the Cariboo Regional District. The City however, in my opinion, had ample time to warn off the CRD if they didn't like what they were doing in Sept/Oct 2012 but they chose to do nothing until after the Nov 24th vote and the City (and many rural residents feel the City did this) - chose to attempt to bluff rural residents' and their elected representatives into paying more with zero justification for it but that move backfired on the City. Had we, as a region, started talks way back in 2010, rather than waiting until the '11th hour to resolve this, we, like Quesnel, probably would have already had a signed fire protection agreement. As we saw in the late 90's when it was a 'Mayor' Ivan Bonnell who started a 'piss' fight with the Regional District over recreation and thankfully either side had an 'angel' to get things resolved by way of former Cariboo RD Area 'F' Director Duncan Barnett and former Williams Lake Mayor (then Councillor) Rick Gibson. Fast forward to today - neither side has that 'angel' today as both sides (as I talk with either side) have reason to 'distrust' each other and we still (as I previously noted) have a MOU to re-negotiate yet plus settle a new Management Contract to operate the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex which is wholly owned by the Cariboo Regional District. It is my sincere hope that we are not going back to the old 'petty' fighting days that we saw in 2004-2008 between the City of Quesnel and Cariboo Regional District as I personally saw, at meetings, how that benefited neither side and left a sour taste in everyone's mouth for a number of years...
Finally - CRD Chair Al Richmond expressed hope that both sides can find a resolve to this situation however I am not as confident as he is, given the anger of rural residents and the fact that both sides (City of WL/CRD) have a 'polar opposite' view of the entire situation, as far as a solution goes... and in fact, it is very likely that a BC Supreme Court justice will need to resolve the whole mess him or herself
See below for documents handed out at the meeting:
Friday, January 18, 2013
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Tomorrow's Blog Post re: CRD Rural Fringe Fire Protection
At a meeting that saw roughly 375 residents' turn out tonight - a fair number, each in turn, voice their disgust at the City of Williams Lake over the fight on costs for a new Fire Protection Agreement for the Cariboo RD Rural Fringe Areas
Tomorrow - I'll have an in-depth review of tonight's Cariboo RD meeting which will include documents handed out for your review but I do sympathize and understand the frustrations of Cariboo RD Rural Fringe residents and this whole situation was handled in a way that I wouldn't have done, had I been at the table
Stay tuned...
Greyhound Service Reductions approved...
The Passenger Transportation Board approved the request of Greyhound Canada to reduce Greyhound bus runs in BC. Read the full decision of the Board here
It should be noted many local governments like the City of Kamloops, the Thompson-Nicola Regional District and the City of Quesnel opposed the cutbacks
In fact -- Mayors from Barriere and Clearwater spoke out on today's Board decision and condemned the decision - read here
For myself - I am disappointed with the move as I used Greyhound often to visit family and understand the concern for those who lack a vehicle to travel from rural areas into urban areas
It should be noted many local governments like the City of Kamloops, the Thompson-Nicola Regional District and the City of Quesnel opposed the cutbacks
In fact -- Mayors from Barriere and Clearwater spoke out on today's Board decision and condemned the decision - read here
For myself - I am disappointed with the move as I used Greyhound often to visit family and understand the concern for those who lack a vehicle to travel from rural areas into urban areas
Parcel Tax for Central Cariboo Fire Protection?
On January 6th of this year - Cariboo RD Area 'E' resident Peter Priestman wrote to the Cariboo Regional District expressing a concern he has on the current situation on rural fringe fire protection which affects those residing in certain parts of CRD Areas D, E and F that border the City of Williams Lake municipal boundaries
You can read his letter in full here
In his letter, Mr. Priestman suggests that fire protection should be funded on the basis of a parcel tax to level the playing field for something as basic as fire protection. This is an idea that should be given consideration, given fire protection is being provided to both City of WL Residents & Cariboo RD Areas D, E, F rural fringe residents from 1 Fire Department -- City of Williams Lake Fire Department and paying for their costs should be divided equally from all who receive the service, regardless of where one lives and what their property assessment is
Mr. Priestman also calls for a review of all services that are provided on a sub-regional basis (pool, ice arenas, etc) and paid for equally - again, regardless of where you live, whether within the City of Williams Lake or CRD Areas D, E, F
Finally - Mr. Priestman, I believe, likely speaks for most, if not, all Cariboo RD Rural Fringe residents' by saying:
AND
I think that this is a frustration of the 'stunt' the City of Williams Lake elected officials pulled between the vote on Nov 24th which enjoyed near-unanimous support to Dec 11th when WL City Council decided to get 'greedy' and see if they could 'bluff' CRD Rural Fringe residents' to pay more, after the referendum, for fire protection - a move I expect to see residents' decry as a 'bully tactic' and I also expect to see residents' call for, in fairly substantive numbers, to say to the CRD Staff/Elected Officials (Directors)"Let's stick it to the City and let's do our own volunteer fire department".
A move, by the way, which could cost the City close to $600-700,000 or an instant 6-7% tax hike before WL Council decides its' final budget for 2013, rather than the $130,000 the City would have lost annually by keeping to the Nov 24th fire protection arrangement
-- SBF
You can read his letter in full here
In his letter, Mr. Priestman suggests that fire protection should be funded on the basis of a parcel tax to level the playing field for something as basic as fire protection. This is an idea that should be given consideration, given fire protection is being provided to both City of WL Residents & Cariboo RD Areas D, E, F rural fringe residents from 1 Fire Department -- City of Williams Lake Fire Department and paying for their costs should be divided equally from all who receive the service, regardless of where one lives and what their property assessment is
Mr. Priestman also calls for a review of all services that are provided on a sub-regional basis (pool, ice arenas, etc) and paid for equally - again, regardless of where you live, whether within the City of Williams Lake or CRD Areas D, E, F
Finally - Mr. Priestman, I believe, likely speaks for most, if not, all Cariboo RD Rural Fringe residents' by saying:
It would appear that the fringe area residents' are being asked to pay for the new (City of Williams Lake) Fire Hall with an almost punitive zeal
AND
They (City of WL) need to be reminded that we work in or near c City boundaries, spend our money in the City, participate and volunteer in the City, express pride and love for our City, even though we live outside the City of WL defined boundaries
I think that this is a frustration of the 'stunt' the City of Williams Lake elected officials pulled between the vote on Nov 24th which enjoyed near-unanimous support to Dec 11th when WL City Council decided to get 'greedy' and see if they could 'bluff' CRD Rural Fringe residents' to pay more, after the referendum, for fire protection - a move I expect to see residents' decry as a 'bully tactic' and I also expect to see residents' call for, in fairly substantive numbers, to say to the CRD Staff/Elected Officials (Directors)"Let's stick it to the City and let's do our own volunteer fire department".
A move, by the way, which could cost the City close to $600-700,000 or an instant 6-7% tax hike before WL Council decides its' final budget for 2013, rather than the $130,000 the City would have lost annually by keeping to the Nov 24th fire protection arrangement
-- SBF
Quesnel Museum/Heritage Comm looks for volunteers
The Quesnel Museum and Heritage Commission is a volunteer board reporting to City
Council. The Commission plays an active role in providing direction and recommending
policy to Council for the operation of the Quesnel Museum & Archives.
The Commission also has a strong mandate for community heritage awareness and conservation.
The Commission consists of one Council member, one CRD Northern Director and eight
members selected at large appointed for a two-year term. There are two one-year vacancies to be filled.
No previous museum experience is required. Of importance is your enthusiasm for local
history and community heritage conservation as well as your interest to help establish policy and a vision for the Quesnel museum. The Commission meets monthly or as business requires.
Letters of interest will be accepted until February 1, 2013. Please include a brief
explanation outlining your specific interest in becoming a member and any applicable
training and experience you have that could be considered beneficial for this position.
For additional information please call Elizabeth Hunter, Museum and Heritage Manager at 250-992-9580.
Submit applications to the attention of Jeff Norburn, General Manager Community
Services at City of Quesnel, 410 Kinchant Street, Quesnel, BC, V2J 7J5, by fax to 250-992-2206, or by e-mail to jnorburn@quesnel.ca
Council. The Commission plays an active role in providing direction and recommending
policy to Council for the operation of the Quesnel Museum & Archives.
The Commission also has a strong mandate for community heritage awareness and conservation.
The Commission consists of one Council member, one CRD Northern Director and eight
members selected at large appointed for a two-year term. There are two one-year vacancies to be filled.
No previous museum experience is required. Of importance is your enthusiasm for local
history and community heritage conservation as well as your interest to help establish policy and a vision for the Quesnel museum. The Commission meets monthly or as business requires.
Letters of interest will be accepted until February 1, 2013. Please include a brief
explanation outlining your specific interest in becoming a member and any applicable
training and experience you have that could be considered beneficial for this position.
For additional information please call Elizabeth Hunter, Museum and Heritage Manager at 250-992-9580.
Submit applications to the attention of Jeff Norburn, General Manager Community
Services at City of Quesnel, 410 Kinchant Street, Quesnel, BC, V2J 7J5, by fax to 250-992-2206, or by e-mail to jnorburn@quesnel.ca
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
City of WL ups "Ante" on Cariboo RD Rural Fire Protection
Earlier today - the City of Williams Lake issued another press release on the "tiff" over Cariboo RD Rural Fringe Fire Protection. One statement that leaves me and likely rural residents' and maybe even City of WL residents' scratching our collective heads was:
Why then, if this is true, would the Cariboo RD Board then submit something the Board itself did not support and then waste close to $10,000 on a referendum and ask residents' to vote on something that their (Cariboo RD Directors') elected representatives did not support themselves... It certainly doesn't make sense to me.... Also - Cariboo RD Chair (and Area 'G' Director) Al Richmond repeated his Christmas statement that the Cariboo Regional District has a written offer by the City of Williams Lake for rural fringe fire protection at the cost of $129 per $100,000 which was then endorsed by CRD Rural Fringe Area D, E, F residents' on Nov 24th, 2012 by a ratio of 97-3
Meanwhile - Thursday's Fire Protection Meeting, hosted by the Cariboo Regional District, at 5:30pm in the Gibraltar Room will be an interesting meeting to observe
City of Williams Lake press release:
The City has received numerous inquiries from both City and rural residents, the most common of which involves the continuation of rural fire protection services after Jan. 1, 2013.
The process of finding an equitable solution to rural fire protection services has been a complex and challenging one. Negotiations with the Cariboo Regional District were difficult and inconclusive. There was extensive deliberation and debate by Council, and decisions were not unanimous. Consistent among all members of Council was the intent to continue the service, and ensure residents were not without fire protection.
The City made an offer to the CRD within the bounds of the costs outlined in the referendum question, which the CRD did not accept. This left the City unable to offer the service without an agreement in place, due to significant insurance concerns and liability risk. The Dec. 21 Supreme Court of B.C. injunction allows the service to continue to April 30 without a long-term agreement.
“The City’s relationship with the Cariboo Regional District is very important, and we want to have a positive, constructive one,” says Mayor Kerry Cook. “The City and CRD have important business to do together, and the City is committed to find ways to do that business in a respectful manner. I’m confident that it can happen on this issue as well.”
The City made an offer to the CRD within the bounds of the costs outlined in the referendum question, which the CRD did not accept
Why then, if this is true, would the Cariboo RD Board then submit something the Board itself did not support and then waste close to $10,000 on a referendum and ask residents' to vote on something that their (Cariboo RD Directors') elected representatives did not support themselves... It certainly doesn't make sense to me.... Also - Cariboo RD Chair (and Area 'G' Director) Al Richmond repeated his Christmas statement that the Cariboo Regional District has a written offer by the City of Williams Lake for rural fringe fire protection at the cost of $129 per $100,000 which was then endorsed by CRD Rural Fringe Area D, E, F residents' on Nov 24th, 2012 by a ratio of 97-3
Meanwhile - Thursday's Fire Protection Meeting, hosted by the Cariboo Regional District, at 5:30pm in the Gibraltar Room will be an interesting meeting to observe
City of Williams Lake press release:
The City has received numerous inquiries from both City and rural residents, the most common of which involves the continuation of rural fire protection services after Jan. 1, 2013.
The process of finding an equitable solution to rural fire protection services has been a complex and challenging one. Negotiations with the Cariboo Regional District were difficult and inconclusive. There was extensive deliberation and debate by Council, and decisions were not unanimous. Consistent among all members of Council was the intent to continue the service, and ensure residents were not without fire protection.
The City made an offer to the CRD within the bounds of the costs outlined in the referendum question, which the CRD did not accept. This left the City unable to offer the service without an agreement in place, due to significant insurance concerns and liability risk. The Dec. 21 Supreme Court of B.C. injunction allows the service to continue to April 30 without a long-term agreement.
“The City’s relationship with the Cariboo Regional District is very important, and we want to have a positive, constructive one,” says Mayor Kerry Cook. “The City and CRD have important business to do together, and the City is committed to find ways to do that business in a respectful manner. I’m confident that it can happen on this issue as well.”
Extend Aud-General term for 2 more yrs??
Earlier today - BC Premier Christy Clark announced that she would push BC Liberal members' on the Special Committee to appoint an Auditor General to support a 2 yr extension to the current term of current BC Auditor-General John Doyle. In addition, Clark announced that her government would table legislation allowing for 1 - 8 year term as Auditor-General which would be non-renewable, like Quebec, Ontario and the Federal Government (Ottawa). But congrats to her government for responding to this situation but this should have been something that should have never been allowed to develop in the first place...
As I read the Auditor General Act and as also mentioned by Ind. Cariboo-North MLA Bob Simpson and Vancouver Sun political columnist Vaughn Palmer - the current Auditor-General Act would not allow for a 2 year extension as proposed and hence the Act would need to be amended prior to extending the term...
Read the Auditor-General Act for yourself here
Story from CBC-BC here
Provincial Blogger Alex Tsakumis - read here and here
Also - watch a video of BC Premier Christy Clark proposing changes to the BC Auditor-General Act below:
As I read the Auditor General Act and as also mentioned by Ind. Cariboo-North MLA Bob Simpson and Vancouver Sun political columnist Vaughn Palmer - the current Auditor-General Act would not allow for a 2 year extension as proposed and hence the Act would need to be amended prior to extending the term...
Read the Auditor-General Act for yourself here
Story from CBC-BC here
Provincial Blogger Alex Tsakumis - read here and here
Also - watch a video of BC Premier Christy Clark proposing changes to the BC Auditor-General Act below:
North Cariboo takes another step towards Multi-Centre
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:
The North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee (the four CRD Northern Directors and seven City Council members) has approved in principle to commit funding from Multi-Centre pre-taxation towards the project.
This funding is designed to be "the last piece of the puzzle" and would be used if the funding secured from all other sources, such as the federal government or corporate fundraising initiative, is not enough to complete the project. Only then would the pre-taxation amount be formally committed.
"The North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee made this decision collectively," said CRD Vice-Chair Ted Armstrong. "We will continue working together to source any alternative funding options to help move this project forward."
"As elected officials we are committed to this project and are leaving no stone unturned in our fundraising efforts," added Quesnel Mayor Mary Sjostrom. "I have always maintained that I would like to see as little taxation used for this project as possible. But we also want to fulfill the mandate of creating first-class recreational and arts facilities for our residents."
The resolution also states that the facility would need to be built "in a manner generally in accordance with the concepts presented to the public during the referendum process," and adds that the funding would be in addition to the $15 million North Cariboo residents approved borrowing in 2008.
The NCJPC established the Multi-Centre pre-taxation in October 2006, two years prior to the referendum. This resulted in an initial $500,000 in funding in 2007. In the years following, that amount was reduced to $300,000 per year.
By mid-2013, approximately $2.3 million will have been collected, with $600,000 of that used for Multi-Centre work, including the development of necessary pre-construction studies, technical documents, and the fundraising campaign. This leaves $1.7 million in the reserve. The pre-taxation and any Multi-Centre expenses are reviewed each year during the North Cariboo Recreation and Parks budget process.
The North Cariboo Multi-Centre will be a modern facility designed to replace the 62-year-old arena and aging theatre infrastructure. It will feature a 1,600 seat NHL-sized arena, a 450-seat performing arts theatre and accompanying event and assembly area.
For more information about the North Cariboo Multi-Centre project or how you can participate in the fundraising efforts, visit www.ourmulticentre.com
The North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee (the four CRD Northern Directors and seven City Council members) has approved in principle to commit funding from Multi-Centre pre-taxation towards the project.
This funding is designed to be "the last piece of the puzzle" and would be used if the funding secured from all other sources, such as the federal government or corporate fundraising initiative, is not enough to complete the project. Only then would the pre-taxation amount be formally committed.
"The North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee made this decision collectively," said CRD Vice-Chair Ted Armstrong. "We will continue working together to source any alternative funding options to help move this project forward."
"As elected officials we are committed to this project and are leaving no stone unturned in our fundraising efforts," added Quesnel Mayor Mary Sjostrom. "I have always maintained that I would like to see as little taxation used for this project as possible. But we also want to fulfill the mandate of creating first-class recreational and arts facilities for our residents."
The resolution also states that the facility would need to be built "in a manner generally in accordance with the concepts presented to the public during the referendum process," and adds that the funding would be in addition to the $15 million North Cariboo residents approved borrowing in 2008.
The NCJPC established the Multi-Centre pre-taxation in October 2006, two years prior to the referendum. This resulted in an initial $500,000 in funding in 2007. In the years following, that amount was reduced to $300,000 per year.
By mid-2013, approximately $2.3 million will have been collected, with $600,000 of that used for Multi-Centre work, including the development of necessary pre-construction studies, technical documents, and the fundraising campaign. This leaves $1.7 million in the reserve. The pre-taxation and any Multi-Centre expenses are reviewed each year during the North Cariboo Recreation and Parks budget process.
The North Cariboo Multi-Centre will be a modern facility designed to replace the 62-year-old arena and aging theatre infrastructure. It will feature a 1,600 seat NHL-sized arena, a 450-seat performing arts theatre and accompanying event and assembly area.
For more information about the North Cariboo Multi-Centre project or how you can participate in the fundraising efforts, visit www.ourmulticentre.com
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
John Slater runs as Ind. in 2013 BC Election
In a bombshell - Boundary Similkameen BC Liberal MLA John Slater was denied candidacy by the BC Liberal Party for having 'personal issues' - Sharon White, QC - President of the BC Liberal Party said:
Lots of coverage on this:
1) Alex Tsakumis - read here
2) Bernard von Schulmann - read here
For myself - I was disappointed to see this and reminds me and probably my fellow Party members' of the unfortunate fall-out of the Abbotsford-South candidacy situation. The BC Liberals' can't afford any more 'dirty laundry' to be aired in public as it will hamper their ability to win this May's election which was already going to be challenging primarily around how we BC Liberals dealt with the HST situation in 2009-2011
As some have speculated online -- if they could do this to Slater now (with roughly 16 weeks to go before writ), then what's to stop the BC Liberals from even revoking approved candidacy papers from someone like Donna Barnett...
SBF
“John Slater has made significant contributions to his community in both private and public life.In addition - several members of MLA Slater's BC Liberal Riding Association resigned in protest including the Riding President Zach Poturica. Mr. Slater today announced that he would run as an Independent for the Boundary-Similkameen riding in this May's election
“Last month, John informed colleagues that he would not seek re-election. Over the past week, he has reconsidered his decision and sought to be nominated as the BC Liberal candidate.
“Mr. Slater’s candidacy is not being approved due to personal issues that, in our view, impact his ability to represent the Party.
“The Party sought a cooperative solution through discussions with John. This is not a decision taken lightly and is fully considered.”
Lots of coverage on this:
1) Alex Tsakumis - read here
2) Bernard von Schulmann - read here
For myself - I was disappointed to see this and reminds me and probably my fellow Party members' of the unfortunate fall-out of the Abbotsford-South candidacy situation. The BC Liberals' can't afford any more 'dirty laundry' to be aired in public as it will hamper their ability to win this May's election which was already going to be challenging primarily around how we BC Liberals dealt with the HST situation in 2009-2011
As some have speculated online -- if they could do this to Slater now (with roughly 16 weeks to go before writ), then what's to stop the BC Liberals from even revoking approved candidacy papers from someone like Donna Barnett...
SBF
Friday, January 11, 2013
Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of Jan 14-18
4 Local Governments are meeting this upcoming week in the Cariboo-Chilcotin as follows:
Quesnel - Committee of the Whole meeting on Monday, Jan 14th at 7:00pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St). View the Agenda here
School District #28 (Quesnel) - Regular Meeting on Wednesday, Jan 16th at 7:00pm in the School District #28 Boardroom (401 North Star Rd). View the Agenda here
School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Special Meeting on Tuesday, Jan 15th at 6:30pm in the School District #27 Boardroom (350 2nd Ave North, Williams Lake). View the Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District:
North Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Meeting on Tuesday, Jan 15th at 4:00pm in the Meeting Room at #102-410 Kinchant Street. View the Agenda here
North Cariboo Joint Committee - Meeting on Tuesday, Jan 15th at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St). View the Agenda here
WL Rural Fringe Fire Protection Meeting #2 on Thurs Jan 17th at 5:30pm in the Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex (525 Proctor St, Williams Lake). Imperative that CRD Rural Fringe residents in Areas D, E, F show up to this meeting as a further meeting may not be possible
Cariboo-Chilcotin Reg. Hospital Board Mtg at 9:30am on Friday, Jan 18th in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Ave, Williams Lake). View the Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District Board Mtg at 9:45am on Friday, Jan 18th in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Ave, Williams Lake). View the Agenda here
Quesnel - Committee of the Whole meeting on Monday, Jan 14th at 7:00pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St). View the Agenda here
School District #28 (Quesnel) - Regular Meeting on Wednesday, Jan 16th at 7:00pm in the School District #28 Boardroom (401 North Star Rd). View the Agenda here
School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Special Meeting on Tuesday, Jan 15th at 6:30pm in the School District #27 Boardroom (350 2nd Ave North, Williams Lake). View the Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District:
North Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Meeting on Tuesday, Jan 15th at 4:00pm in the Meeting Room at #102-410 Kinchant Street. View the Agenda here
North Cariboo Joint Committee - Meeting on Tuesday, Jan 15th at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St). View the Agenda here
WL Rural Fringe Fire Protection Meeting #2 on Thurs Jan 17th at 5:30pm in the Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex (525 Proctor St, Williams Lake). Imperative that CRD Rural Fringe residents in Areas D, E, F show up to this meeting as a further meeting may not be possible
Cariboo-Chilcotin Reg. Hospital Board Mtg at 9:30am on Friday, Jan 18th in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Ave, Williams Lake). View the Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District Board Mtg at 9:45am on Friday, Jan 18th in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Ave, Williams Lake). View the Agenda here
Open Letter to Eric Foster
On the heels of Shane Simpson (BC NDP Caucus Chairman) who pleads with Eric Foster to re-consider the decision by the Special Committee to appoint an Auditor - General (read more here)
Ind. Cariboo-North MLA Bob Simpson has gotten in on the act by placing an "Open Letter" to Foster on his website (see below in a moment) but it doesn't appear the BC Liberals members' will be swayed and will push for someone new. It is "within the realms of possibilities" that new candidates for BC Auditor-General are sought and Doyle re-appointed after that process but all statements from either BC Liberal MLA's Foster, Les or Krueger basically say that this won't happen
Letter from B. Simpson to E. Foster:
Ind. Cariboo-North MLA Bob Simpson has gotten in on the act by placing an "Open Letter" to Foster on his website (see below in a moment) but it doesn't appear the BC Liberals members' will be swayed and will push for someone new. It is "within the realms of possibilities" that new candidates for BC Auditor-General are sought and Doyle re-appointed after that process but all statements from either BC Liberal MLA's Foster, Les or Krueger basically say that this won't happen
Letter from B. Simpson to E. Foster:
Dear Mr. Foster:
I am writing in support of the reappointment of Auditor General John Doyle. As Chair of the Special Committee to Appoint an Auditor General, I respectfully request that at its next meeting the Committee revisit the decision to not reappoint Mr. Doyle as Auditor General.
Over the course of his term, Mr. Doyle has demonstrated the qualities required to uphold the integrity of this independent office. Public support and trust in Mr. Doyle’s work as Auditor General is apparent; by contrast, the Committee’s in camera decision to not reappoint Mr. Doyle has been met with vocal and widespread opposition.
As Committee Chair you have publicly stated there is no precedent for revisiting the decision to not reappoint Mr. Doyle. That statement is misleading. The Auditor General Act was changed in 2003 to specify a new procedure for the re-appointment of the Auditor General and this is the very first time this new procedure is being used. Therefore there can be no “precedent,” because the process is being tested for the first time. Your Committee is, in fact, establishing the precedent, and unfortunately it is one that clearly undermines the integrity and transparency of the legislative function in British Columbia.
To have a process that enables a single MLA to decide, without public accountability or transparency, to deny the re-appointment of the Auditor General is absurd and unacceptable. Under the current Act, as in the past, the recommendation to appoint an Auditor General comes to the Legislative Assembly for ratification, and it is the Legislature that makes the final recommendation to the Lieutenant Governor on the appointment. Unfortunately, there is no such referral to the Legislature on the Committee’s decision to not reappoint a sitting Auditor General. It is this omission, the failure in the 2003 Act to require referral of the decision to notreappoint to the entire body of 85 MLAs, which empowers one MLA to reject the reappointment of the Auditor General, to the detriment of the integrity of the legislative function.
The 2003 Act states that the Committee is granted 60 days to respond to Mr. Doyle’s notice seeking reappointment. It is my understanding that this 60 day window does not end until January 28. Therefore, the Committee still has the ability to revisit its decision while meeting the spirit and intent of the existing Act by making a final determination about Mr. Doyle’s reappointment within the 60 day window. You are free to establish a precedent as your Committee tests this new reappointment process. I hope you will allow common sense to prevail and reverse the current decision to not re-appoint a public servant who has so completely fulfilled all of the obligations of his position and held us all to account.
I also request that the Committee make recommendations to the Legislature to alter the reappointment process in the 2003 Auditor General Act. A single MLA on the Committee should not have the power to block the reappointment of a sitting Auditor General without requiring a public account of the Committee’s decision and vote.
I believe there are two possible ways to address this process problem. First, the decision to not reappoint should be referred to the Legislature as a whole, just like the initial decision to appoint an Auditor General. This would enable all 85 MLAs to vote on the public record, and each of us would be held to account for our own personal reasons for either supporting or not supporting the motion to not reappoint.
Better yet, given the lack of trust in the ability of MLAs to make a reappointment decision in the public interest generated by this current decision, British Columbia should simply extend the term of the Auditor General’s appointment and make it a one term appointment only. I’ve provided a table that outlines the terms of Auditors General across Canada and whether provinces reappoint or not. The simplest solution to the current morass is to have legislation introduced this session that mirrors the Federal Auditor General Act, which would see BC’s Auditor General appointed to a single 10 year term.
It is my sincere hope that you will show the leadership necessary to resolve this matter in a way that restores some integrity to the critical process of appointing an Auditor General. I urge you to give the Committee the opportunity to reverse its current decision on Mr. Doyle’s reappointment and to recommend either legislative changes to the reappointment process that would enable the Legislature to make the final decision on reappointment, or which would change the terms of the office so this troublesome reappointment process is made moot.
Thank you,
Bob Simpson
Independent MLA, Cariboo North
Independent MLA, Cariboo North
Cc: Honourable Christy Clark, Premier of British Columbia
Cc: Honourable Adrian Dix, MLA Vancouver-Kingsway
Cc: Kathy Corrigan, MLA Burnaby-Deer Lake
Cc: Blair Lekstrom, MLA Peace River South
Cc: John Les, MLA Chilliwack
Cc: Bruce Ralston, MLA Surrey-Whalley
Cc: Honourable Adrian Dix, MLA Vancouver-Kingsway
Cc: Kathy Corrigan, MLA Burnaby-Deer Lake
Cc: Blair Lekstrom, MLA Peace River South
Cc: John Les, MLA Chilliwack
Cc: Bruce Ralston, MLA Surrey-Whalley
WL Residents: Help your City remove snow!
Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:
Every winter, the City of Williams Lake makes prompt and efficient snow removal a priority. During the recent snowfalls, the City has had every available piece of equipment on the streets to clear snow from roads and sidewalks.
Under the City’s Snow and Ice Control Policy, priority is given to the downtown core, where the objective is to have snow plowed, windrowed, and trucked away between 8 and 24 hours after a snow event. Within each of the City’s five snow removal zones, there are three areas with three different levels of priority. These roads will be the first to be plowed and treated following a snow event.
Residential areas will be plowed and windrowed for cleanup. This procedure will take approximately 24-96 hours to complete following the cleanup of the downtown core and will be done in conjunction with the solid waste collection route. Residents are asked to put garbage and recycling carts on the curb the morning of their collection day, not the night before, and to remove them from the curb as soon as possible following collection. Residents are also asked not to park cars overnight on City streets when there is snow. City Bylaws contain provisions to tow vehicles that interfere with snow removal operations at the owner’s expense.
Snow clearing of City sidewalks, parking lot stairs, walkways and public transit bus stops may be cleaned within 8 – 24 hours after a storm where the City receives 5 centimeters of snow or more. In cases of extreme snow events, City staff assigned to other duties will be assigned to assist in snow clearing operations. Property owners are required to clear sidewalks in front of their property, and are asked to refrain from pushing snow into the street, which creates a safety issue and slows down snow clearing operations.
“City snow removal operators are working hard to keep snow cleared, and they will continue to do so,” says Kevin Goldfuss, Director of Municipal Services. “We ask that residents help us do that job quickly, efficiently, and as cost-effective as possible by keeping the streets clear of vehicles and garbage carts while operators are out clearing snow.”
Every winter, the City of Williams Lake makes prompt and efficient snow removal a priority. During the recent snowfalls, the City has had every available piece of equipment on the streets to clear snow from roads and sidewalks.
Under the City’s Snow and Ice Control Policy, priority is given to the downtown core, where the objective is to have snow plowed, windrowed, and trucked away between 8 and 24 hours after a snow event. Within each of the City’s five snow removal zones, there are three areas with three different levels of priority. These roads will be the first to be plowed and treated following a snow event.
Residential areas will be plowed and windrowed for cleanup. This procedure will take approximately 24-96 hours to complete following the cleanup of the downtown core and will be done in conjunction with the solid waste collection route. Residents are asked to put garbage and recycling carts on the curb the morning of their collection day, not the night before, and to remove them from the curb as soon as possible following collection. Residents are also asked not to park cars overnight on City streets when there is snow. City Bylaws contain provisions to tow vehicles that interfere with snow removal operations at the owner’s expense.
Snow clearing of City sidewalks, parking lot stairs, walkways and public transit bus stops may be cleaned within 8 – 24 hours after a storm where the City receives 5 centimeters of snow or more. In cases of extreme snow events, City staff assigned to other duties will be assigned to assist in snow clearing operations. Property owners are required to clear sidewalks in front of their property, and are asked to refrain from pushing snow into the street, which creates a safety issue and slows down snow clearing operations.
“City snow removal operators are working hard to keep snow cleared, and they will continue to do so,” says Kevin Goldfuss, Director of Municipal Services. “We ask that residents help us do that job quickly, efficiently, and as cost-effective as possible by keeping the streets clear of vehicles and garbage carts while operators are out clearing snow.”
Initial Options Report Update - Jan 9th
Editor's Note - it now seems very evident that the Board of Education - School District #27 will close Glendale, Kwaleen and Wildwood Elementary on January 22nd as their recent 'Initial Options' update and related documents show. It doesn't seem like the Board is contrite or concerned about closing 5 schools - 3 in Williams Lake and 2 in 100 Mile
The Board of Education has released a media release containing information on the following:
- New reports revealing public input gathered during the public consultation process
- Clarifying information surrounding school closures
- Board still welcomes public input
Thoughtstream has created a website specifically for the District summarizing all that has been heard from the public during the months since the Initial Options Report was released on September 25, 2012. Full consultation reports can also be found here. You can find the website at http://sd27website.thoughtstream.ca/ or the link may be found with Initial Options Report - Summary of Public Input.
The Board has also updated its Frequently Asked Questions link on the District website in order to provide more information as to why individual schools have been slated for possible closure. While the Board has consistently cited this list of rationale in both the Initial Options Report and in public meetings over the last few months, it became apparent that it would be most transparent to restate the rationale in writing on the website.
"The Board doesn't want there to be any confusion in the public as to why individual schools have been proposed for closure," says Will VanOsch, Chair of the Board of Education.
The Board of Education is welcoming feedback from the public until January 22nd. Members of the public can continue to write letters, submit e-mails or speak at the two upcoming public meetings. The Board meets again on Tuesday, January 15th at 6:30pm at the School District Office in Williams Lake to continue to discuss possible school closures and reconfiguration. The Board is expected to make final decisions at the Public Board Meeting on Tuesday, January 22nd at 6:30pm at the School District Office in Williams Lake.
Contact: WILLIAM vanOSCH
Chair, Board of Education
Phone: 398-3800
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Reminder: CRD Rural Fringe Fire Meeting next Thurs
Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:
Please see the poster below - if you reside in a rural fringe property just outside the City of Williams Lake and receive fire protection from the Williams Lake Fire Department - like the Cariboo Regional District, I urge you to attend this meeting
Please see the poster below - if you reside in a rural fringe property just outside the City of Williams Lake and receive fire protection from the Williams Lake Fire Department - like the Cariboo Regional District, I urge you to attend this meeting
BC Conservatives' bleeds more members to BC Liberals
This just out... and this is more news in a long line of news items that shows that the BC Conservatives' are out of gas and will not be a contender for government in May's election
Shannon Kewley, the former co-chair of the 2013 Candidate Recruitment Committee for the BC Conservatives, has left her former party and has joined the BC Liberals.
Kewley made the decision to leave the BC Conservatives because she feels that over the past few months her former party has proven not to be a credible alternative to the NDP.
“It is clear the next election is going to be a choice between a free enterprise government under Premier Christy Clark or higher taxes and spending under Adrian Dix,” said Kewley.
“The BC Liberals are the clear choice for those who want to keep B.C.’s economy strong,” said Kewley. “The Premier and her team have strong new candidates coming forward every week across the province. They are a renewed, united group focused on the priorities of everyday British Columbians.”
In September, Kewley was promoted by the BC Conservatives as being a member of the ‘Friends of John Cummins’ group during their party’s leadership challenges. She believes that it is now time for free enterprisers to unite under the BC Liberal banner.
“My message to small ‘c’ conservatives would be to take a look at the renewal going on inside the BC Liberal Party,” added Kewley. “While I still respect many of my former colleagues, I truly believe the BC Liberals offer the best opportunity to keep British Columbia on a responsible fiscal and economic track.”
Kewley will be actively involved in helping the BC Liberals win the next election.
Shannon Kewley, the former co-chair of the 2013 Candidate Recruitment Committee for the BC Conservatives, has left her former party and has joined the BC Liberals.
Kewley made the decision to leave the BC Conservatives because she feels that over the past few months her former party has proven not to be a credible alternative to the NDP.
“It is clear the next election is going to be a choice between a free enterprise government under Premier Christy Clark or higher taxes and spending under Adrian Dix,” said Kewley.
“The BC Liberals are the clear choice for those who want to keep B.C.’s economy strong,” said Kewley. “The Premier and her team have strong new candidates coming forward every week across the province. They are a renewed, united group focused on the priorities of everyday British Columbians.”
In September, Kewley was promoted by the BC Conservatives as being a member of the ‘Friends of John Cummins’ group during their party’s leadership challenges. She believes that it is now time for free enterprisers to unite under the BC Liberal banner.
“My message to small ‘c’ conservatives would be to take a look at the renewal going on inside the BC Liberal Party,” added Kewley. “While I still respect many of my former colleagues, I truly believe the BC Liberals offer the best opportunity to keep British Columbia on a responsible fiscal and economic track.”
Kewley will be actively involved in helping the BC Liberals win the next election.
Change A-G Selection Process
In his weekly column - Ind. Cariboo-North MLA Bob Simpson says that every member of the Special Committee to appoint an Auditor-General should have to say how they voted on the re-appointment of John Doyle as Auditor-General of British Columbia. Read more here
Meanwhile - Jordan Bateman with the Canadian Taxpayers' Federation argues BC has the wrong system to re-appoint the Auditor-General and in fact, we should use Ottawa's model - one, 10 yr term which is non-renewable. Read his posting here
For myself - I agree with Bob and disagree with Mr. Bateman, John Doyle deserves re-apppointment with his hard work and dedication and the BC Liberals were wrong to be petty by blocking Mr. Doyle's re-appointment
Meanwhile - Jordan Bateman with the Canadian Taxpayers' Federation argues BC has the wrong system to re-appoint the Auditor-General and in fact, we should use Ottawa's model - one, 10 yr term which is non-renewable. Read his posting here
For myself - I agree with Bob and disagree with Mr. Bateman, John Doyle deserves re-apppointment with his hard work and dedication and the BC Liberals were wrong to be petty by blocking Mr. Doyle's re-appointment
Timber Supply Review for 100 Mile House
Courtesy of the BC Government:
The Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations is inviting public review and comment until March 9, 2013, on a public discussion paper released today as part of a comprehensive timber supply review of the 100 Mile House timber supply area.
The 100 Mile House timber supply area’s current allowable annual cut of 2 million cubic metres was increased by 50 per cent in 2006 from the previous determination set in 2002, to facilitate accelerated harvesting of mountain pine beetle-killed timber.
The base case presented in the discussion paper shows that by continuing to concentrate the harvest in beetle-attacked stands and transitioning to lower volume stands, the current harvest level can be maintained for the next seven years before declining by about 43 per cent to a mid‑term harvest level of 865,000 cubic metres per year.
The projected long-term harvest level of 1.4 million cubic metres per year is slightly higher than the allowable annual cut in place prior to the mountain pine beetle epidemic.
Public feedback on the discussion paper will be considered by the chief forester before he sets a new allowable annual cut.
The 100 Mile House timber supply area covers 1,237,626 hectares, with only 662,225 of these hectares available for timber harvesting. The forests of the 100 Mile House timber supply area are diverse with a wide range of resources including timber, forage, non-timber forest products, fish and wildlife habitat, recreation and tourism opportunities.
Communities within the timber supply area boundaries include 100 Mile House, Clinton, Lac La Hache, Forest Grove, 70 Mile House, Lone Butte and Bridge Lake.
The chief forester’s allowable annual cut determination is an independent professional judgment based on information such as technical forestry reports, First Nations and public input regarding the government’s social and economic goals.
Under the timber supply review, the chief forester must determine how much wood can be harvested in each of the province’s 38 timber supply areas and 34 tree farm licences at least once every 10 years. A new allowable annual cut may be determined earlier in response to abnormal situations, or postponed for up to five years if an allowable annual cut level is not expected to change significantly.
To view or download a copy of the discussion paper, visit the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations forest analysis and inventory branch website at: http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hts/tsa/tsa23/index.htm
The Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations is inviting public review and comment until March 9, 2013, on a public discussion paper released today as part of a comprehensive timber supply review of the 100 Mile House timber supply area.
The 100 Mile House timber supply area’s current allowable annual cut of 2 million cubic metres was increased by 50 per cent in 2006 from the previous determination set in 2002, to facilitate accelerated harvesting of mountain pine beetle-killed timber.
The base case presented in the discussion paper shows that by continuing to concentrate the harvest in beetle-attacked stands and transitioning to lower volume stands, the current harvest level can be maintained for the next seven years before declining by about 43 per cent to a mid‑term harvest level of 865,000 cubic metres per year.
The projected long-term harvest level of 1.4 million cubic metres per year is slightly higher than the allowable annual cut in place prior to the mountain pine beetle epidemic.
Public feedback on the discussion paper will be considered by the chief forester before he sets a new allowable annual cut.
The 100 Mile House timber supply area covers 1,237,626 hectares, with only 662,225 of these hectares available for timber harvesting. The forests of the 100 Mile House timber supply area are diverse with a wide range of resources including timber, forage, non-timber forest products, fish and wildlife habitat, recreation and tourism opportunities.
Communities within the timber supply area boundaries include 100 Mile House, Clinton, Lac La Hache, Forest Grove, 70 Mile House, Lone Butte and Bridge Lake.
The chief forester’s allowable annual cut determination is an independent professional judgment based on information such as technical forestry reports, First Nations and public input regarding the government’s social and economic goals.
Under the timber supply review, the chief forester must determine how much wood can be harvested in each of the province’s 38 timber supply areas and 34 tree farm licences at least once every 10 years. A new allowable annual cut may be determined earlier in response to abnormal situations, or postponed for up to five years if an allowable annual cut level is not expected to change significantly.
To view or download a copy of the discussion paper, visit the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations forest analysis and inventory branch website at: http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hts/tsa/tsa23/index.htm
Wrong Priorities for Snow Removal?
In an editorial posted on Welcome to Williams Lake's website - they report on an email exchange between local resident Kim Herdman and the City of Williams Lake
I also have heard from many other City residents and I haven't heard one positive comment about the City's attempt at Snow removal
Read the City's Snow Removal Policy here and file an online report on snow removal here
Read here (editorial) and here (Facebook comments - look for Plowing priorities adrift?)
I also have heard from many other City residents and I haven't heard one positive comment about the City's attempt at Snow removal
Read the City's Snow Removal Policy here and file an online report on snow removal here
Read here (editorial) and here (Facebook comments - look for Plowing priorities adrift?)
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
BREAKING: CC Joint Committee meetings 'suspended'
At today's Central Cariboo Rural Caucus meeting - the Rural Caucus agreed to send a letter to the City of Williams Lake advising that, for the foreseeable future, regular meetings of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee will be 'suspended' to allow the Cariboo Regional District to focus its' energies to resolving the Rural Fringe Fire Protection issue. The letter will enunciate that this is not a 'retaliatory' measure but a temporary measure to allow the Regional District to focus on resolving the Rural Fringe Fire Protection file and then regular meetings of the Joint Committee can once again resume. Meetings of the Joint Committee will occur for emergency or time-sensitive matters
I imagine WL City Council will be disappointed to learn this however there is little that they can do as Joint Committee requires that CRD/City of WL Council both be present for an official meeting to take place
For myself - I was saddened to see the move and this was a move I wasn't expecting and I believe that this move will not help, in the short term, the relationship between the Central Cariboo CRD Directors' and WL Council. Especially considering the issues that still have to be dealt with in 2013 including:
1) Pool Task Force report and future actions from that report
2) Renew the Management Contract between City of WL/CRD for the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex
3) Renew the Memo of Understanding between CRD/City of WL for agreed upon services within the MOU
SBF
I imagine WL City Council will be disappointed to learn this however there is little that they can do as Joint Committee requires that CRD/City of WL Council both be present for an official meeting to take place
For myself - I was saddened to see the move and this was a move I wasn't expecting and I believe that this move will not help, in the short term, the relationship between the Central Cariboo CRD Directors' and WL Council. Especially considering the issues that still have to be dealt with in 2013 including:
1) Pool Task Force report and future actions from that report
2) Renew the Management Contract between City of WL/CRD for the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex
3) Renew the Memo of Understanding between CRD/City of WL for agreed upon services within the MOU
SBF
Water Advisory for Canim Lk residents'
Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:
On Jan. 9, 2013 the Cariboo Regional District issued a Water Notice to residents in the Canim Lake area. The Notice applies to the following water supply system: Canim Lake Water System, Operating Permit Number 14-091-00001 and should be considered by all persons using water from the system.
This Water Notice is being issued due to a contamination of the system; therefore, all users of the Canim Lake water system are asked to stop using the water for drinking, cooking and bathing immediately, as a safety precaution.
The Cariboo Regional District has contacted Interior Health to request their cooperation in investigating this matter. During this time, an alternate water source will be available at the Forest Grove Fire Hall located at 4518 Canim-Hendrix Lake Road. Personal water jugs may be filled with water at the outside tap at the back of the fire hall.
This Notice remains in effect unless and until another public notice is issued upon the Order of a Drinking Water Officer advising that the Notice has been amended or may be rescinded.
For further information, please contact the CRD’s Environmental Services Department at 1-800-665-1636 or 250-392-3351 or Interior Health Authority at 250-395-7676.
On Jan. 9, 2013 the Cariboo Regional District issued a Water Notice to residents in the Canim Lake area. The Notice applies to the following water supply system: Canim Lake Water System, Operating Permit Number 14-091-00001 and should be considered by all persons using water from the system.
This Water Notice is being issued due to a contamination of the system; therefore, all users of the Canim Lake water system are asked to stop using the water for drinking, cooking and bathing immediately, as a safety precaution.
The Cariboo Regional District has contacted Interior Health to request their cooperation in investigating this matter. During this time, an alternate water source will be available at the Forest Grove Fire Hall located at 4518 Canim-Hendrix Lake Road. Personal water jugs may be filled with water at the outside tap at the back of the fire hall.
This Notice remains in effect unless and until another public notice is issued upon the Order of a Drinking Water Officer advising that the Notice has been amended or may be rescinded.
For further information, please contact the CRD’s Environmental Services Department at 1-800-665-1636 or 250-392-3351 or Interior Health Authority at 250-395-7676.
User Fees for Military Disaster Assistance?
Yesterday, Postmedia News columnist Micheal Den Tandt looks into the dumb idea that Ottawa is considering -- User Fees for provinces and other government departments for Canadian Forces' services
The reason I think it should be scrapped ASAP is two-fold:
1) Don't taxpayers' in municipalities already pay federal taxes for services provided from the Canadian Forces?
2) Would the Canadian military refuse to help in dire situations where help is immediately required and user fees aren't paid up?
The sooner that this 'wacky and ill-advised' proposal from the Canadian Forces is shot down by Prime Minister Stephen Harper and his Cabinet, the better off Canadians will be who will need our Canadian military's assistance - from time to time
Read more here
The reason I think it should be scrapped ASAP is two-fold:
1) Don't taxpayers' in municipalities already pay federal taxes for services provided from the Canadian Forces?
2) Would the Canadian military refuse to help in dire situations where help is immediately required and user fees aren't paid up?
The sooner that this 'wacky and ill-advised' proposal from the Canadian Forces is shot down by Prime Minister Stephen Harper and his Cabinet, the better off Canadians will be who will need our Canadian military's assistance - from time to time
Read more here
North Cariboo Economic Development...
In a recent posting on her blog - Cariboo Regional District Area 'B' Director Heloise Dixon-Warren writes on taxpayers' funding Economic Development from parts of Areas A, B, C and I of the Cariboo Regional District
Director Dixon-Warren is looking into starting a local Ec Dev service for supporting local economic development within Electoral Area 'B'
Read more here
Director Dixon-Warren is looking into starting a local Ec Dev service for supporting local economic development within Electoral Area 'B'
Read more here
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
WL Council Highlights - Jan 8th 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
Tom Chung - IT Manager
Deb Radolla - Manager of Active Living
Ken MacInnis - Communications Coordinator
Meeting called to order at 6:00pm
Agenda approved - no late items
Minutes of Dec 18th, 2012 WL City Council meeting approved
Delegations:
1) Bruce Mack (President of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Partners for Literacy) appeared before Council to discuss Family Literacy Week (Jan 20-26th, 2013)
Business:
1) Council received the accounts payable computer cheque listings for the periods ending December 20 and 28, 2012 for information
2) Council received the proposed Lease Agreement #CWL1900 with Canadian Helicopter Ltd. at the Williams Lake Regional Airport and the required Notice of Disposition be published in accordance with Section 26 (3) of the Community Charter; and approval of the Lease Agreement be considered at the January 22nd, 2012 Williams Lake City Council meeting
3) Council received for information the 2012 Annual Report of the Accessibility Advisory Committee
4) Council received the letter from Citizenship and Immigration Canada dated November 2012 regarding the 2013 Paul Yuzyk Award for Multiculturalism and nomination information and the community was encouraged to consider and submit their nominations for this award by the March 1, 2013 deadline.
5) Council proclaimed the week of January 20 to 26, 2013 as "Family Literacy Week" in the City of Williams Lake
Meeting adjourned at 6:25pm
Staff Present:
Geoff Goodall - Acting CAO/GM of Planning and Ops
Cindy Bouchard - Manager of Legislative Services
Tom Chung - IT Manager
Deb Radolla - Manager of Active Living
Ken MacInnis - Communications Coordinator
Meeting called to order at 6:00pm
Agenda approved - no late items
Minutes of Dec 18th, 2012 WL City Council meeting approved
Delegations:
1) Bruce Mack (President of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Partners for Literacy) appeared before Council to discuss Family Literacy Week (Jan 20-26th, 2013)
Business:
1) Council received the accounts payable computer cheque listings for the periods ending December 20 and 28, 2012 for information
2) Council received the proposed Lease Agreement #CWL1900 with Canadian Helicopter Ltd. at the Williams Lake Regional Airport and the required Notice of Disposition be published in accordance with Section 26 (3) of the Community Charter; and approval of the Lease Agreement be considered at the January 22nd, 2012 Williams Lake City Council meeting
3) Council received for information the 2012 Annual Report of the Accessibility Advisory Committee
4) Council received the letter from Citizenship and Immigration Canada dated November 2012 regarding the 2013 Paul Yuzyk Award for Multiculturalism and nomination information and the community was encouraged to consider and submit their nominations for this award by the March 1, 2013 deadline.
5) Council proclaimed the week of January 20 to 26, 2013 as "Family Literacy Week" in the City of Williams Lake
Meeting adjourned at 6:25pm
100 Mile/WL get money for seniors' projects
Courtesy of the BC Government:
Seniors in 100 Mile House and throughout the province will benefit as 27 communities receive grants of up to $20,000 to help create programs or tools that address the needs of their older residents.
“This year’s grant recipients have recognized the importance of ensuring that communities and businesses meet the needs of residents of all ages,” said Minister of State for Seniors Ralph Sultan. “Successful projects focus on a wide range of supports to make life easier for older residents. Many of these programs are supporting seniors to remain socially active and connected to their communities and are helping to reduce isolation, which is one of the top issues that I hear from seniors across B.C. when I meet with them.”
The age-friendly planning and project grant program is a partnership between the government of B.C. and the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM). Grants of up to $20,000 are provided through UBCM to help establish, or continue, a variety of projects that support healthy, active seniors.
“As B.C.’s population continues to age, it is important that we look to ways to support the health of seniors and ensure that our communities are age-friendly and accessible,” said Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett. “It is great news for seniors here in the Cariboo, and across B.C., that local governments are engaging in projects and programs that support our oldest residents.”
Applications for age-friendly planning and projects grants were reviewed by staff from UBCM and the Ministry of Health. They were scored on a variety of factors, including: goals, proposed activities, involvement of seniors and other key partners, budget, and innovation and sustainability.
“As local governments come to grips with aging populations, there is a need to rethink the range of services we provide and how they are delivered. This program is helping communities around the province to improve policies and services for seniors,” said Mary Sjostrom, President of the Union of British Columbia Municipalities.
Since 2007, 117 B.C. communities have received funding to support age-friendly planning and projects. Examples include age-friendly assessments, ensuring services are more accessible, supporting transportation and social connection to help prevent social isolation, and improving the community by increasing garden and green space.
In September 2012, government announced $500,000 was available for the 2013 round of grants. Fourteen of the 27 successful applicants for 2013 have not received previous funding through the program.
“We are very pleased that this funding will enable us to work in partnership with the South Cariboo Community Planning Council to conduct an age-friendly assessment and will help us build on our ongoing work in creating livable communities for seniors with disabilities,” said Mitch Campsall, Mayor of the District of 100 Mile House.
The age-friendly grant program is only one aspect of Age-friendly BC, which focuses on providing communities with support, information and recognition to help meet the needs of an aging population. Local governments can achieve age-friendly recognition and officially become an Age-friendly BC community once they have completed four basic steps that focus on community engagement, commitment, assessment and action.
To learn more about Age-friendly B.C. and the Age-friendly Planning and Project grant program, please visit: www.gov.bc.ca/agefriendly
The age-friendly grant program reflects the goals of B.C.’s Family Agenda, which supports seniors by encouraging healthy, active aging. To learn more, visit: www.familiesfirstbc.ca
For 100 Mile House:
Project: Towards an Age-friendly Community
Grant amount: $19,967
For Williams Lake:
Project: Senior Citizens’ Activity Centre – Healthy and safe eating kitchen reno
Grant amount: $20,000
Seniors in 100 Mile House and throughout the province will benefit as 27 communities receive grants of up to $20,000 to help create programs or tools that address the needs of their older residents.
“This year’s grant recipients have recognized the importance of ensuring that communities and businesses meet the needs of residents of all ages,” said Minister of State for Seniors Ralph Sultan. “Successful projects focus on a wide range of supports to make life easier for older residents. Many of these programs are supporting seniors to remain socially active and connected to their communities and are helping to reduce isolation, which is one of the top issues that I hear from seniors across B.C. when I meet with them.”
The age-friendly planning and project grant program is a partnership between the government of B.C. and the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM). Grants of up to $20,000 are provided through UBCM to help establish, or continue, a variety of projects that support healthy, active seniors.
“As B.C.’s population continues to age, it is important that we look to ways to support the health of seniors and ensure that our communities are age-friendly and accessible,” said Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett. “It is great news for seniors here in the Cariboo, and across B.C., that local governments are engaging in projects and programs that support our oldest residents.”
Applications for age-friendly planning and projects grants were reviewed by staff from UBCM and the Ministry of Health. They were scored on a variety of factors, including: goals, proposed activities, involvement of seniors and other key partners, budget, and innovation and sustainability.
“As local governments come to grips with aging populations, there is a need to rethink the range of services we provide and how they are delivered. This program is helping communities around the province to improve policies and services for seniors,” said Mary Sjostrom, President of the Union of British Columbia Municipalities.
Since 2007, 117 B.C. communities have received funding to support age-friendly planning and projects. Examples include age-friendly assessments, ensuring services are more accessible, supporting transportation and social connection to help prevent social isolation, and improving the community by increasing garden and green space.
In September 2012, government announced $500,000 was available for the 2013 round of grants. Fourteen of the 27 successful applicants for 2013 have not received previous funding through the program.
“We are very pleased that this funding will enable us to work in partnership with the South Cariboo Community Planning Council to conduct an age-friendly assessment and will help us build on our ongoing work in creating livable communities for seniors with disabilities,” said Mitch Campsall, Mayor of the District of 100 Mile House.
The age-friendly grant program is only one aspect of Age-friendly BC, which focuses on providing communities with support, information and recognition to help meet the needs of an aging population. Local governments can achieve age-friendly recognition and officially become an Age-friendly BC community once they have completed four basic steps that focus on community engagement, commitment, assessment and action.
To learn more about Age-friendly B.C. and the Age-friendly Planning and Project grant program, please visit: www.gov.bc.ca/agefriendly
The age-friendly grant program reflects the goals of B.C.’s Family Agenda, which supports seniors by encouraging healthy, active aging. To learn more, visit: www.familiesfirstbc.ca
For 100 Mile House:
Project: Towards an Age-friendly Community
Grant amount: $19,967
For Williams Lake:
Project: Senior Citizens’ Activity Centre – Healthy and safe eating kitchen reno
Grant amount: $20,000
Monday, January 7, 2013
John Cummins vs Mary Polak - 2013 BC Election
Over the weekend - BC Conservative John Cummins officially confirmed that he will take on BC Transportation Mary Polak in her home provincial riding of Langley. This, of course, is no surprise as Mr. Cummins had always said that he would run in Langley, given that is where now
Mr. Cummins said also that some of his supporters wanted him to run in Delta, given he served that area as a Federal Conservative MP previously
For her part - Polak said that she had expected the move and she fight 'tooth and nail' to remain as the MLA for Langley. Read here and view below:
Myself - I think Cummins should have run in Delta as some of his supporters called on him to do as his odds on election there are certainly better than running in Langley. If Cummins lost his bid in Langley, he would almost certainly be 'politically pushed' into resigning as BC Conservative Leader and that would push back any progress for his Party for a significant period to come...
Odds are, in my view, that Polak will win and should she (a remote possibility in my view) encounter difficulties in campaigning for re-election, I have no doubt that she could call upon assistance from her fellow MLA and BC Deputy Premier Rich Coleman and I'm sure that he would be glad to 'give her a hand' in her bid to stay a BC Liberal MLA for Langley
-- SBF
Mr. Cummins said also that some of his supporters wanted him to run in Delta, given he served that area as a Federal Conservative MP previously
For her part - Polak said that she had expected the move and she fight 'tooth and nail' to remain as the MLA for Langley. Read here and view below:
Myself - I think Cummins should have run in Delta as some of his supporters called on him to do as his odds on election there are certainly better than running in Langley. If Cummins lost his bid in Langley, he would almost certainly be 'politically pushed' into resigning as BC Conservative Leader and that would push back any progress for his Party for a significant period to come...
Odds are, in my view, that Polak will win and should she (a remote possibility in my view) encounter difficulties in campaigning for re-election, I have no doubt that she could call upon assistance from her fellow MLA and BC Deputy Premier Rich Coleman and I'm sure that he would be glad to 'give her a hand' in her bid to stay a BC Liberal MLA for Langley
-- SBF
New BC Auditor-General?
In a weekend where one could only describe the BC Liberals' actions as 'petty', it was revealed that the Special Committee to appoint an Auditor-General had put out newspaper ads advertising for individuals to apply for the position of Auditor-General of British Columbia. Under the rules - the Special Committee must make an unanimous recommendation to the BC Legislature for the successful candidate to hold the office of Auditor-General of British Columbia. It should be noted that John Doyle requested re-appointment
It was always known that the provincial government did not like and didn't hide the fact that they didn't agree with the conclusions of John Doyle on his audit analysis(es)
But all sides put their own 'spin' on the situation:
NDP's Shane Simpson called for current Auditor-General John Doyle to be re-appointed to a 2nd term. See more here and view below:
BC Conservatives' themselves called for a halt to the process until a new BC Legislature could convene to further consider the matter. See more here
For themselves - BC Liberals' didn't see a problem with BC Liberal Chilliwack MLA John Les saying that a one-term Auditor-General was not uncommon and BC Liberal Kamloops-South Thompson saying that Doyle was 'wrong' on a number of fronts
For myself - this was a big PR blunder by the BC Liberals and will add to the public perception that we are a tired government. I once learned at a conference that surrounding yourself with like people is more dangerous than receiving no advice at all. I thought, as an average British Columbian, that John Doyle was doing a great job as Auditor-General of BC and deserved to continue on for a 2nd term. An Auditor-General is supposed to call out any government that has financial shortcomings, regardless of political flag, and for that - John Doyle was performing his role marvelously
SBF
It was always known that the provincial government did not like and didn't hide the fact that they didn't agree with the conclusions of John Doyle on his audit analysis(es)
But all sides put their own 'spin' on the situation:
NDP's Shane Simpson called for current Auditor-General John Doyle to be re-appointed to a 2nd term. See more here and view below:
BC Conservatives' themselves called for a halt to the process until a new BC Legislature could convene to further consider the matter. See more here
For themselves - BC Liberals' didn't see a problem with BC Liberal Chilliwack MLA John Les saying that a one-term Auditor-General was not uncommon and BC Liberal Kamloops-South Thompson saying that Doyle was 'wrong' on a number of fronts
For myself - this was a big PR blunder by the BC Liberals and will add to the public perception that we are a tired government. I once learned at a conference that surrounding yourself with like people is more dangerous than receiving no advice at all. I thought, as an average British Columbian, that John Doyle was doing a great job as Auditor-General of BC and deserved to continue on for a 2nd term. An Auditor-General is supposed to call out any government that has financial shortcomings, regardless of political flag, and for that - John Doyle was performing his role marvelously
SBF
Help City of Quesnel remove snow!!
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel website:
Another wintery blast has hit Quesnel. While the City clears snow from local roads, you can help.
- Allow extra travel time.
- Only travel if necessary during and after major snowfalls.
- Give snow equipment operators plenty of room to work.
- Please don't flag down our operators to explain a point or request a favour. If you have questions, call the Public Works Department at 250-992-6330.
- Don't shovel snow from your driveway or the windrow in your driveway into the street.
- Park your vehicles in your driveway - this allows the snow plow operator to do a neat and thorough job.
To learn more about the City's snowfall operations, click here.
Aggressive Dogs in the Cariboo RD?
On Wednesday, the Central Cariboo Rural Caucus who is made up of Cariboo RD Areas D, E, F, J and K Directors will meet and one topic up for discussion is whether to proceed with a feasibility study to regulate the conduct of aggressive dogs in rural areas. The actual motion under consideration is:
That a feasibility study be conducted to see what options there may be for aggressive dog control within the Cariboo Regional District, including an option to contract with the SCPA to undertake dog control activities within densely populated fringe areas within our region. (April 25 2012 mtg)
From my numerous conversations with Area D Director Deb Bischoff - she has informed me that both her and Area E Director Byron Kemp have had a few complaints about either aggressive dogs or dogs on the run in densified areas like Fox Mountain, Pine Valley, Wildwood and Mountview.
My own advice to her is that regulating this in rural areas, as I just mentioned, could become cost prohibitive ($100,000+) to deal with a handful of complaints in addition to the fact that no law is going to change the behaviour of one individual if he/she feels that they have a 'God-given' right to live how they want, regardless of any rule imposed on them. I would prefer myself a local community-based solution, rather than one imposed by local government, unless the community itself with one voice says - We want regulation of aggressive dogs and free-running dogs
Finally - the Thompson-Nicola Regional District has been looking into this issue as well and several rural directors in that Regional District have pulled their support as the cost skyrockets to bring a dog control officer into the rural areas of the TNRD. The RCMP, like here, have already stated that this is not a priority for them. Read more here
That a feasibility study be conducted to see what options there may be for aggressive dog control within the Cariboo Regional District, including an option to contract with the SCPA to undertake dog control activities within densely populated fringe areas within our region. (April 25 2012 mtg)
From my numerous conversations with Area D Director Deb Bischoff - she has informed me that both her and Area E Director Byron Kemp have had a few complaints about either aggressive dogs or dogs on the run in densified areas like Fox Mountain, Pine Valley, Wildwood and Mountview.
My own advice to her is that regulating this in rural areas, as I just mentioned, could become cost prohibitive ($100,000+) to deal with a handful of complaints in addition to the fact that no law is going to change the behaviour of one individual if he/she feels that they have a 'God-given' right to live how they want, regardless of any rule imposed on them. I would prefer myself a local community-based solution, rather than one imposed by local government, unless the community itself with one voice says - We want regulation of aggressive dogs and free-running dogs
Finally - the Thompson-Nicola Regional District has been looking into this issue as well and several rural directors in that Regional District have pulled their support as the cost skyrockets to bring a dog control officer into the rural areas of the TNRD. The RCMP, like here, have already stated that this is not a priority for them. Read more here
Update on local commemoration for Residential School Survivors
Courtesy of the St. Joseph's Mission Residential School Planning Committee.
St Joseph Mission Commemoration Update
St Joseph Mission Commemoration Update
2013 Quesnel Winter Carnival welcomes new Coordinator
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:
The face behind the
organization of the 2013 Quesnel Winter Carnival will be changing from one
smile to another.
We welcome our new Winter
Carnival Coordinator Susan MacNeill (left) pictured here with outgoing
Coordinator Nancy Lillienweiss (right).
MacNeill brings years of
expertise in event planning throughout the city, one of the most popular being
the Canada Day Strawberry Tea. She is excited about this year’s carnival and
promises a fun-filled, action-packed day on Saturday, February 2. MacNeill hopes
to break the attendance record of 1,700 and invites all area residents to take
part.
Leisure Services thanks
Lillienweiss for her years as carnival coordinator and the many smiles she
brought to the Park. We wish her every success in her new position at the
College of New Caledonia.
This is how Quesnel celebrates
winter; in true Canadian style with a Winter Carnival! Join us in the West
Fraser Timber Park on Saturday, February 2.
Friday, January 4, 2013
Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of Jan 7-11
3 Local Governments are meeting this upcoming week as follows:
Williams Lake - Regular City Council Meeting on Tuesday, Jan 8th at 6:00pm in WL Council Chambers. View the Agenda here
School District #27 - Regular Board of Education Meeting on Tuesday, Jan 8th at 6:30pm in the PSO Secondary School Library in 100 Mile House. View the Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District - Central Cariboo Rural Caucus Meeting on Wed. Jan 9th at 2:00pm in the Cariboo RD Boardroom (Suite D - 180 North 3rd Ave, Williams Lake). View the Agenda here
Williams Lake - Regular City Council Meeting on Tuesday, Jan 8th at 6:00pm in WL Council Chambers. View the Agenda here
School District #27 - Regular Board of Education Meeting on Tuesday, Jan 8th at 6:30pm in the PSO Secondary School Library in 100 Mile House. View the Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District - Central Cariboo Rural Caucus Meeting on Wed. Jan 9th at 2:00pm in the Cariboo RD Boardroom (Suite D - 180 North 3rd Ave, Williams Lake). View the Agenda here
Concerned Citizens of BC have an online presence
In the last year or so - Jim Shepard (former advisor to BC Premier Christy Clark) and other have set out to form an organization called Concerned Citizens of BC to remind BC voters' of what a BC NDP government would do to the BC economy, if given the opportunity.
You can view their website here or follow them on Twitter -- @CC4BC
I personally applaud and congratulate the work of this organization and wish them the very best in getting their message out to average British Columbians in making them aware of the awesome responsibility they'll have in May in selecting the next Government of British Columbia and hopefully, BC'ers will select the BC Liberals to continue governing
You can view their website here or follow them on Twitter -- @CC4BC
I personally applaud and congratulate the work of this organization and wish them the very best in getting their message out to average British Columbians in making them aware of the awesome responsibility they'll have in May in selecting the next Government of British Columbia and hopefully, BC'ers will select the BC Liberals to continue governing
Local author to visit WL Library
Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:
On Wednesday, Jan. 9, at 7 p.m., local author and Horsefly resident, Lloyd Antypowich will be at the Cariboo Regional District Library in Williams Lake. During the session, Mr. Antypowich will discuss his first non-fiction work A Hunting We Did Go: True Mountain Adventures. The event will take place in the Library’s Programme Room located at 180 North Third Avenue at 7p.m.
For forty consecutive years, Antypowich took time out of his busy life and followed the call of his heart, journeying into the mountains to go hunting. He sharpened his senses as he pitted his skills against those of the animals that he stalked.
In A Hunting We Did Go: True Mountain Adventures, Antypowich takes you along on his hunting journeys, with a style that is humourous and candid. He will share some of his favourite stories and photographs from the book. The books will be available for purchase and signing at the event.
Further information about upcoming library events and service offerings is available online at cln.bc.ca or by calling 250-392-3630.
On Wednesday, Jan. 9, at 7 p.m., local author and Horsefly resident, Lloyd Antypowich will be at the Cariboo Regional District Library in Williams Lake. During the session, Mr. Antypowich will discuss his first non-fiction work A Hunting We Did Go: True Mountain Adventures. The event will take place in the Library’s Programme Room located at 180 North Third Avenue at 7p.m.
For forty consecutive years, Antypowich took time out of his busy life and followed the call of his heart, journeying into the mountains to go hunting. He sharpened his senses as he pitted his skills against those of the animals that he stalked.
In A Hunting We Did Go: True Mountain Adventures, Antypowich takes you along on his hunting journeys, with a style that is humourous and candid. He will share some of his favourite stories and photographs from the book. The books will be available for purchase and signing at the event.
Further information about upcoming library events and service offerings is available online at cln.bc.ca or by calling 250-392-3630.
Muriel Wild attacks Councillor Elliot
In another letter to the editor - Quesnel resident (and former Quesnel City Staffer) Muriel Wild launches into another tirade, this time against Quesnel Councillor Scott Elliot. Having read it myself - I don't share Ms. Wild's conclusion. Councillor Elliot merely points out that he doesn't need to waste Quesnel City Staff time with FOI's as he can get the same information for free by doing the job he was elected to do
It is clear to me that Muriel Wild is setting herself up for a Quesnel Council bid in 2014. It also clear that the supporters of Ms. Wild and Councillor Thapar do not intend to let up in their very personal criticisms at Quesnel Council between now and Oct 19th, 2014 (date of next election)
Muriel Wild's Letter to the Editor as follows:
How sad that after one year in office, Councillor Scott Elliot does appear to have learned much
In his year-end address, he proudly states that he has no reason to make FOI (Freedom of Information) requests as he attends every "In-Camera" meeting. I feel this remark is directed towards Councillor Sushil Thapar
This Council has stated an intention to be open and transparent to the taxpayers
I feel it has had probably a record number of in-camera meetings in 2012 to order to avoid doing so
What Elliot has failed to learn (or mention) is that by attending every In-Camera meeting, he is unable to share any information that comes from these meetings
By Thapar not attending, but instead making a FOI request, he is able to inform the public about matters which he (Thapar) believes they (general public) have a right to know (and clearly do if the information is able to be released through Freedom of Information)
I feel it is a great shame that more Quesnel City Councillors are not as open and transparent as Councillor Thapar is trying to be
It is even more of a shame that Councillor Elliot feels he has something to be proud of by his statement
-- Muriel Wild, Quesnel
It is clear to me that Muriel Wild is setting herself up for a Quesnel Council bid in 2014. It also clear that the supporters of Ms. Wild and Councillor Thapar do not intend to let up in their very personal criticisms at Quesnel Council between now and Oct 19th, 2014 (date of next election)
Muriel Wild's Letter to the Editor as follows:
How sad that after one year in office, Councillor Scott Elliot does appear to have learned much
In his year-end address, he proudly states that he has no reason to make FOI (Freedom of Information) requests as he attends every "In-Camera" meeting. I feel this remark is directed towards Councillor Sushil Thapar
This Council has stated an intention to be open and transparent to the taxpayers
I feel it has had probably a record number of in-camera meetings in 2012 to order to avoid doing so
What Elliot has failed to learn (or mention) is that by attending every In-Camera meeting, he is unable to share any information that comes from these meetings
By Thapar not attending, but instead making a FOI request, he is able to inform the public about matters which he (Thapar) believes they (general public) have a right to know (and clearly do if the information is able to be released through Freedom of Information)
I feel it is a great shame that more Quesnel City Councillors are not as open and transparent as Councillor Thapar is trying to be
It is even more of a shame that Councillor Elliot feels he has something to be proud of by his statement
-- Muriel Wild, Quesnel
Thursday, January 3, 2013
Donna Barnett launches Facebook and Web pages
Last December - current Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett launched her Facebook and re-election web pages which you can view here (Facebook) and here (re-election website)
Like Donna - both Cariboo-North BC Liberal Candidate Coralee Oakes, current Ind. Cariboo-North MLA Bob Simpson and BC NDP Cariboo-Chilcotin candidate Charlie Wyse have either launched Facebook pages announcing their re-election or election bids and re-election/election websites. This demonstrates that each candidate's election team feels that a presence on social media/Internet is a necessary tool for their election or re-election bids as the case may be
Only Bob Simpson and Coralee Oakes, so far, have Twitter accounts, in addition to their re-election websites or Facebook pages
Once the BC NDP Cariboo-North nomination race is determined on Sun Jan 20th between Quesnel Councillor Sushil Thapar or former Cariboo RD Area 'F' Director Duncan Barnett is settled - I expect the official candidate for the BC NDP in the Cariboo-North riding will quickly set up their own social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter and website)
SBF
2013 City of Kamloops Budget Process...
In a open and transparent process I wish both the City of Williams Lake and Cariboo Regional District would use including the links listed below and taped Budget Meetings
The City of Kamloops has announced its' 2013 Public Consultation Meetings schedule to deliberate the 2013 City of Kamloops Budget. Although not mentioned, I expect the meetings for Jan 22nd, 29th and Feb 5th, like 2012, will be held at the Interior Savings' Centre or similiar venue. You can view the 2012 Budget videos here
2013 Kamloops Budget Deliberation Schedule as follows:
December 11, 2012
» Financial Plan Presentation to Council for 2013 Budget
» 2011 Annual Report
January 22, 2013 - 7 pm ~ Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services
» PRC - General Operating Budget
» PRC - General Capital Budget
» PRC - Service Levels
January 29, 2013 - 7 pm ~ Public Works & Utilities
» PWS - General Operating Budget
» PWS - General Capital Budget
» PWS - Service Levels
February 5, 2013 - 7 pm ~ DES / CSCS
Development & Engineering Services
» DES - General Operating Budget
» DES - General Capital Budget
Corporate Services & Community Safety
» CCA - General Operating Budget
» CCA - General Capital Budget
March 12, 2013 - 1 pm ~ Council Review
Feedback collected from public input
April 9, 2013 - 1 pm ~ Final Deliberations
Council decides on 2013 budget
I congratulate the City of Kamloops and its' Municipal Council for one of the most open and transparent budget process that I've seen in all of the Interior of BC (both North, Central and South Interior). In fact, I think that this should be standard practice in BC local government and Kamloops Council should get an award for this 'best practice' at UBCM and maybe even FCM... :)
The City of Kamloops has announced its' 2013 Public Consultation Meetings schedule to deliberate the 2013 City of Kamloops Budget. Although not mentioned, I expect the meetings for Jan 22nd, 29th and Feb 5th, like 2012, will be held at the Interior Savings' Centre or similiar venue. You can view the 2012 Budget videos here
2013 Kamloops Budget Deliberation Schedule as follows:
December 11, 2012
» Financial Plan Presentation to Council for 2013 Budget
» 2011 Annual Report
January 22, 2013 - 7 pm ~ Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services
» PRC - General Operating Budget
» PRC - General Capital Budget
» PRC - Service Levels
January 29, 2013 - 7 pm ~ Public Works & Utilities
» PWS - General Operating Budget
» PWS - General Capital Budget
» PWS - Service Levels
February 5, 2013 - 7 pm ~ DES / CSCS
Development & Engineering Services
» DES - General Operating Budget
» DES - General Capital Budget
Corporate Services & Community Safety
» CCA - General Operating Budget
» CCA - General Capital Budget
March 12, 2013 - 1 pm ~ Council Review
Feedback collected from public input
April 9, 2013 - 1 pm ~ Final Deliberations
Council decides on 2013 budget
I congratulate the City of Kamloops and its' Municipal Council for one of the most open and transparent budget process that I've seen in all of the Interior of BC (both North, Central and South Interior). In fact, I think that this should be standard practice in BC local government and Kamloops Council should get an award for this 'best practice' at UBCM and maybe even FCM... :)
TNG gets partial legal funding from BC/Ottawa for its' court case
The BC Court of Appeal (BC's highest court) has ruled that BC and Ottawa must partially pay the legal costs of the Tsilhqot'in First Nation court case appeal from the BC Supreme Court
The Tsilhqot'in First Nation has launced a last-ditch effort to appeal the BC Court of Appeal's ruling to the Supreme Court of Canada, although the Supreme Court of Canada has not yet ruled if it will hear the case but I expect that it will, given the huge constitutional and legal implications involved
Read more at CBC-BC here
The Tsilhqot'in First Nation has launced a last-ditch effort to appeal the BC Court of Appeal's ruling to the Supreme Court of Canada, although the Supreme Court of Canada has not yet ruled if it will hear the case but I expect that it will, given the huge constitutional and legal implications involved
Read more at CBC-BC here
Bouchie Lk Watercolor Group meets weekly...
The Bouchie Lake Watercolor Group will meet weekly on Mondays, starting on January 14th to learn how to paint at an intermediate level (beginners' are welcome too!)
See their poster below (My own thanks to Cariboo RD Area 'B' Director Heloise Dixon-Warren for the information)
Bouchie Lake Watercolors Group
See their poster below (My own thanks to Cariboo RD Area 'B' Director Heloise Dixon-Warren for the information)
Bouchie Lake Watercolors Group
Race for BC NDP Cariboo-North Candidacy...
Earlier today - Quesnel Councillor Sushil Thapar publicly announced that he wants to be the candidate for the BC NDP for Cariboo-North in May's BC Election. Former Area 'F' Cariboo RD Director Duncan Barnett has already announced his intention to seek the same nomination. Unlike Mr. Barnett who had former Cariboo-South MLA David Zirnhelt and former Quesnel Mayor Nate Bello at his side, Councillor Thapar had no backers at his side in making his announcement today
My own view is that on Jan 20th - Duncan Barnett will win the BC NDP Cariboo-North Nomination and Mr. Barnett will face Ind. MLA Bob Simpson and former Quesnel City Councillor Coralee Oakes for the right to represent Cariboo-North in the BC Legislature for the term of 2013-2017/18
Read more here
My own view is that on Jan 20th - Duncan Barnett will win the BC NDP Cariboo-North Nomination and Mr. Barnett will face Ind. MLA Bob Simpson and former Quesnel City Councillor Coralee Oakes for the right to represent Cariboo-North in the BC Legislature for the term of 2013-2017/18
Read more here
Sushil Thapar's Annual Address 'Amended'
In early December of each year - Quesnel City Council members' each give an Annual Address to their residents' on their activities (I'm told this used to occur in Williams Lake..). This year like in years' past - Mayor Sjostrom and Councillors Cave, Roodenburg, Elliot, Coleman, Brisco and Thapar each gave their speeches
However - Councillor Thapar, unlike his colleagues, went into a 'rant' over misspending at Quesnel City Hall. Read his 'unedited' (I'll explain more in a minute) speech here
In a report presented to Quesnel Council at its' Dec 17th, 2012 meeting - Quesnel City Manager Byron Johnson raised several concerns with Councillor's Thapar speech. According to Mr. Johnson - Quesnel Council's "Executive Committee" consisting of Mayor Sjostrom and Councillors Coleman and Roodenburg directed the City Manager to review the Annual Addresses of Dec 3rd, 2012 to ensure:
commentary contained in Quesnel Council's permanent record (Minutes) is accurate
Mr. Johnson raised several flags in Thapar's Annual Address including:
a) Capital Spending in West Quesnel
b) 4 Water Wells 'beyond their lifespan'
c) Financial Statistics in Councillor Thapar's Annual Address
Read his report and the 'amended' Councillor Thapar address here
Steve's take:
It is rare for a Municipal Council to ask its' most senior civil servant (City Manager/CAO) to review 'political speeches' made by a Mayor or Councillor(s) to ensure they are factually correct. Without the benefit of the Dec 17th Quesnel Council minutes - I would presume that Councillor Thapar voted 'no' to amend his Dec 3rd, 2012 Annual Address
I found this action shocking..... I wonder what the reaction of the people of Quesnel will be when they eventually learn of this....
SBF
However - Councillor Thapar, unlike his colleagues, went into a 'rant' over misspending at Quesnel City Hall. Read his 'unedited' (I'll explain more in a minute) speech here
In a report presented to Quesnel Council at its' Dec 17th, 2012 meeting - Quesnel City Manager Byron Johnson raised several concerns with Councillor's Thapar speech. According to Mr. Johnson - Quesnel Council's "Executive Committee" consisting of Mayor Sjostrom and Councillors Coleman and Roodenburg directed the City Manager to review the Annual Addresses of Dec 3rd, 2012 to ensure:
commentary contained in Quesnel Council's permanent record (Minutes) is accurate
Mr. Johnson raised several flags in Thapar's Annual Address including:
a) Capital Spending in West Quesnel
b) 4 Water Wells 'beyond their lifespan'
c) Financial Statistics in Councillor Thapar's Annual Address
Read his report and the 'amended' Councillor Thapar address here
Steve's take:
It is rare for a Municipal Council to ask its' most senior civil servant (City Manager/CAO) to review 'political speeches' made by a Mayor or Councillor(s) to ensure they are factually correct. Without the benefit of the Dec 17th Quesnel Council minutes - I would presume that Councillor Thapar voted 'no' to amend his Dec 3rd, 2012 Annual Address
I found this action shocking..... I wonder what the reaction of the people of Quesnel will be when they eventually learn of this....
SBF
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Quesnel 2013 Property Values stable....
Courtesy of the BC Assessment Authority:
More than 17,000 property owners throughout the North Cariboo area
can expect to receive their 2013 assessment notices in the next few days.
“Most homes in the City of Quesnel have remained relatively stable in value compared to last year‟s assessment roll, while home owners in the District of Wells have experienced a small increase” said Darin Johnson, Deputy Assessor. “Most home owners in Quesnel will see a change in the -10% to +10% range. Homes in Wells, will typically see a change from 1% to 10%.”
Overall, Quesnel‟s Assessment Roll increased slightly from $1.132 billion last year to $1.136 billion this year, while the District of Wells saw an overall increase to the taxable roll base from $14.5 million last year to $14.8 million this year. A total of $4.5 million has been added to the Quesnel‟s Assessment Roll which includes subdivisions, rezoning and new construction.
“Property owners who feel that their property assessment does not reflect market value as of July 1, 2012 or see incorrect information on their notice should contact our office as indicated on their notice as soon as possible in January,” said Johnson.
“If a property owner is still concerned about their assessment after speaking to one of our appraisers, they may submit a Notice of Complaint (Appeal) by January 31, for an independent review by a Property Assessment Review Panel,” added Johnson.
The Property Assessment Review Panels, independent of BC Assessment, are appointed
annually by the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development, and meet
between February 1 and March 15 to hear formal complaints.
The Cariboo assessment office is located at Suite 202 – 350 Barnard Street in Williams Lake. During the month of January, office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday. Property owners can contact BC Assessment toll-free at 1-866-valueBC (1-866-825-8322) or at www.bcassessment.ca
More than 17,000 property owners throughout the North Cariboo area
can expect to receive their 2013 assessment notices in the next few days.
“Most homes in the City of Quesnel have remained relatively stable in value compared to last year‟s assessment roll, while home owners in the District of Wells have experienced a small increase” said Darin Johnson, Deputy Assessor. “Most home owners in Quesnel will see a change in the -10% to +10% range. Homes in Wells, will typically see a change from 1% to 10%.”
Overall, Quesnel‟s Assessment Roll increased slightly from $1.132 billion last year to $1.136 billion this year, while the District of Wells saw an overall increase to the taxable roll base from $14.5 million last year to $14.8 million this year. A total of $4.5 million has been added to the Quesnel‟s Assessment Roll which includes subdivisions, rezoning and new construction.
“Property owners who feel that their property assessment does not reflect market value as of July 1, 2012 or see incorrect information on their notice should contact our office as indicated on their notice as soon as possible in January,” said Johnson.
“If a property owner is still concerned about their assessment after speaking to one of our appraisers, they may submit a Notice of Complaint (Appeal) by January 31, for an independent review by a Property Assessment Review Panel,” added Johnson.
The Property Assessment Review Panels, independent of BC Assessment, are appointed
annually by the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development, and meet
between February 1 and March 15 to hear formal complaints.
The Cariboo assessment office is located at Suite 202 – 350 Barnard Street in Williams Lake. During the month of January, office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday. Property owners can contact BC Assessment toll-free at 1-866-valueBC (1-866-825-8322) or at www.bcassessment.ca
100 Mile House property values drop for 2013...
Courtesy of the BC Assessment Authority:
More than 1,100 property owners throughout the District of 100 Mile
House can expect to receive their 2013 assessment notices in the next few days.
“Most homes in 100 Mile are decreasing slightly in value compared to last year‟s
assessment roll,” said Darin Johnson, Deputy Assessor.
“Most home owners in the District of 100 Mile House will see modest changes in the 0 to -10% range.”
Overall, the District of 100 Mile‟s Assessment Roll decreased from $294.9 million last year to $291.4 this year. Despite this decrease, a total of $1.1 million was added to the assessment roll which includes subdivisions, rezoning and new construction.
“Property owners who feel that their property assessment does not reflect market value as of July 1, 2012 or see incorrect information on their notice should contact our office as indicated on their notice as soon as possible in January,” said Johnson.
“If a property owner is still concerned about their assessment after speaking to one of our appraisers, they may submit a Notice of Complaint (Appeal) by January 31, for an
independent review by a Property Assessment Review Panel,” added Johnson.
The Property Assessment Review Panels, independent of BC Assessment, are appointed
annually by the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development, and meet
between February 1 and March 15 to hear formal complaints.
The Cariboo assessment office is located at Suite 202 – 350 Barnard Street in Williams
Lake. During the month of January, office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to
Friday. Property owners can contact BC Assessment toll-free at 1-866-valueBC (1-866-
825-8322) or via www.bcassessment.ca
More than 1,100 property owners throughout the District of 100 Mile
House can expect to receive their 2013 assessment notices in the next few days.
“Most homes in 100 Mile are decreasing slightly in value compared to last year‟s
assessment roll,” said Darin Johnson, Deputy Assessor.
“Most home owners in the District of 100 Mile House will see modest changes in the 0 to -10% range.”
Overall, the District of 100 Mile‟s Assessment Roll decreased from $294.9 million last year to $291.4 this year. Despite this decrease, a total of $1.1 million was added to the assessment roll which includes subdivisions, rezoning and new construction.
“Property owners who feel that their property assessment does not reflect market value as of July 1, 2012 or see incorrect information on their notice should contact our office as indicated on their notice as soon as possible in January,” said Johnson.
“If a property owner is still concerned about their assessment after speaking to one of our appraisers, they may submit a Notice of Complaint (Appeal) by January 31, for an
independent review by a Property Assessment Review Panel,” added Johnson.
The Property Assessment Review Panels, independent of BC Assessment, are appointed
annually by the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development, and meet
between February 1 and March 15 to hear formal complaints.
The Cariboo assessment office is located at Suite 202 – 350 Barnard Street in Williams
Lake. During the month of January, office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to
Friday. Property owners can contact BC Assessment toll-free at 1-866-valueBC (1-866-
825-8322) or via www.bcassessment.ca
Property Assessments for WL stable
Courtesy of the BC Assessment Authority:
More than 4,500 property owners throughout the City of Williams Lake can expect to receive their 2013 assessment notices in the next few days.
“Most homes in Williams Lake are remaining relatively stable in value compared to last
year‟s assessment roll,” said Darin Johnson, Deputy Assessor. “Most home owners in
Williams Lake will see modest changes in the - 10% to + 10% range.”
Overall, the City of Williams Lake‟s Assessment Roll increased from $1.24 billion last year to $1.25 billion this year. A total of $16.2 million of this growth includes subdivisions, rezoning and new construction.
“Property owners who feel that their property assessment does not reflect market value as of July 1, 2012 or see incorrect information on their notice should contact our office as indicated on their notice as soon as possible in January,” said Johnson.
“If a property owner is still concerned about their assessment after speaking to one of our appraisers, they may submit a Notice of Complaint (Appeal) by January 31, for an
independent review by a Property Assessment Review Panel,” added Johnson.
The Property Assessment Review Panels, independent of BC Assessment, are appointed
annually by the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development, and meet
between February 1 and March 15 to hear formal complaints.
The Cariboo assessment office is located at Suite 202 – 350 Barnard Street in Williams
Lake. During the month of January, office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to
Friday. Property owners can contact BC Assessment toll-free at 1-866-valueBC (1-866-
825-8322) or on the Internet at www.bcassessment.ca
More than 4,500 property owners throughout the City of Williams Lake can expect to receive their 2013 assessment notices in the next few days.
“Most homes in Williams Lake are remaining relatively stable in value compared to last
year‟s assessment roll,” said Darin Johnson, Deputy Assessor. “Most home owners in
Williams Lake will see modest changes in the - 10% to + 10% range.”
Overall, the City of Williams Lake‟s Assessment Roll increased from $1.24 billion last year to $1.25 billion this year. A total of $16.2 million of this growth includes subdivisions, rezoning and new construction.
“Property owners who feel that their property assessment does not reflect market value as of July 1, 2012 or see incorrect information on their notice should contact our office as indicated on their notice as soon as possible in January,” said Johnson.
“If a property owner is still concerned about their assessment after speaking to one of our appraisers, they may submit a Notice of Complaint (Appeal) by January 31, for an
independent review by a Property Assessment Review Panel,” added Johnson.
The Property Assessment Review Panels, independent of BC Assessment, are appointed
annually by the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development, and meet
between February 1 and March 15 to hear formal complaints.
The Cariboo assessment office is located at Suite 202 – 350 Barnard Street in Williams
Lake. During the month of January, office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to
Friday. Property owners can contact BC Assessment toll-free at 1-866-valueBC (1-866-
825-8322) or on the Internet at www.bcassessment.ca
City of WL opinion too 'rosy' on Rural Fire Protection?
Just before Christmas - the BC Supreme Court issued a temporary court injunction requiring the City of Williams Lake to provide 120 days (4 months) of fire protection to Cariboo RD rural fringe residents' at the pre-referendum cost of $129 per $100,000 of property assessment
Now, last Friday, the Globe and Mail reported the following:
The Cariboo Regional District (district) says thousands of rural B.C. residents are in danger of losing fire protection services after the City of Williams Lake reneged on a deal.
The district now has 120 days to either pursue further legal action or find another solution after winning a B.C. Supreme Court injunction that will keep those citizens covered for fire protection in the meantime.
The district launched legal action alleging that in mid-December the city unilaterally refused to sign an agreement the jurisdictions had come to in August. The deal was for Williams Lake to provide fire service for residents living in the so-called “rural fringe” areas around the city for five years, starting Jan. 1.
The city and district had both passed requisite laws to complete the agreement, then put it to a referendum where it was authorized by voters.
But the district alleged that Williams Lake council members then passed a resolution instead saying it would only agree to a one-year term, and that the cost must be fixed.
B.C. Supreme Court in Vancouver granted the district the injunction it sought on Dec. 21, requiring Williams Lake to temporarily honour its offer to protect citizens in the event of fire.
“While this is welcome news, a long-term resolution is still required,” the district said in a news release.
According to the court documents filed in request for the injunction, the district plans to seek a declaration that the deal is valid and binding.
Otherwise, the documents say the district wants the city to be compelled to provide services until an “adequate alternative” can be implemented.
This is a story that refuses to go away for Williams Lake Council and with the last minute one year $147 per $100,000 assessment fire protection arrangement, that decision may very well come home to haunt Council and I could see the BC Supreme Court ordering the City of Williams Lake to honour its' original 5 yr, $129 per $100,000 fire protection arrangement. Should CRD rural fringe residents' demand it at the Jan 17th meeting - the Cariboo RD Board could seek an alternative court order requiring the City to provide fire protection until a new 'Central Cariboo Volunteer Fire Department' is up and running (about 1-2 years from now)
One way or the other -- WL Council has dug itself a very big hole and either way, it will come out a loser...
Now, last Friday, the Globe and Mail reported the following:
The Cariboo Regional District (district) says thousands of rural B.C. residents are in danger of losing fire protection services after the City of Williams Lake reneged on a deal.
The district now has 120 days to either pursue further legal action or find another solution after winning a B.C. Supreme Court injunction that will keep those citizens covered for fire protection in the meantime.
The district launched legal action alleging that in mid-December the city unilaterally refused to sign an agreement the jurisdictions had come to in August. The deal was for Williams Lake to provide fire service for residents living in the so-called “rural fringe” areas around the city for five years, starting Jan. 1.
The city and district had both passed requisite laws to complete the agreement, then put it to a referendum where it was authorized by voters.
But the district alleged that Williams Lake council members then passed a resolution instead saying it would only agree to a one-year term, and that the cost must be fixed.
B.C. Supreme Court in Vancouver granted the district the injunction it sought on Dec. 21, requiring Williams Lake to temporarily honour its offer to protect citizens in the event of fire.
“While this is welcome news, a long-term resolution is still required,” the district said in a news release.
According to the court documents filed in request for the injunction, the district plans to seek a declaration that the deal is valid and binding.
Otherwise, the documents say the district wants the city to be compelled to provide services until an “adequate alternative” can be implemented.
This is a story that refuses to go away for Williams Lake Council and with the last minute one year $147 per $100,000 assessment fire protection arrangement, that decision may very well come home to haunt Council and I could see the BC Supreme Court ordering the City of Williams Lake to honour its' original 5 yr, $129 per $100,000 fire protection arrangement. Should CRD rural fringe residents' demand it at the Jan 17th meeting - the Cariboo RD Board could seek an alternative court order requiring the City to provide fire protection until a new 'Central Cariboo Volunteer Fire Department' is up and running (about 1-2 years from now)
One way or the other -- WL Council has dug itself a very big hole and either way, it will come out a loser...
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Welcome to 2013!!
Welcome to 2013!
Finally on the federal scene - we saw Stephen Harper and his Federal Conservatives' used their majority gov't status to ram through not one but two omnibus bills in one year - we haven't see this even with the Federal Liberals. I expect this to continue in 2013 where we'll see Harper to flex their majority status in both the House of Commons and Senate to advance their agenda. But I expect Harper and his political advisers to watch the Federal Liberal leadership race closely. Should Justin Trudeau be elected - they could potential concern them. Anyone else and if could easily allow Harper to retain majority gov't status until 2019....
On a personal note - I thank everyone for taking the time to read my blog posts and I look forward to your comments here in 2013
Thanks and God Bless!
SBF
As I think back to 2012 - it was certainly busy and I expect 2013 to be no less busy with the BC Election in May, a possible Ontario Election and other political issues, be local, provincial or federal, will keep us political junkies busy in 2013
In 2012 - we saw on the local scene the resignation of Brian Carruthers as the City of Williams Lake CAO to take a new job as CAO of the Regional District of Central Kootnay in Nelson, the fight over the WL Community Forest between CRD Area 'F' Director Joan Sorley and WL Mayor Cook over consultation with Big Lake residents' and finally a fight taken very public over the funding of rural fringe fire protection between the City of Williams Lake and the Cariboo Regional District. Tomorrow - I'll provide an update on this topic and why the City's press release on this subject in late December was perhaps a little too 'rosy'
In 2013 - Williams Lake/CRD will need to resolve rural fringe fire protection, come up with a new arrangement for managing the local Recreation Complex and sign off on a new 'Memo of Understanding' for joint local gov't services for the period of 2013-17. Meanwhile in Quesnel - the challenge will be on to get the $15 million + to build their local 'West Fraser' Multi-centre before Nov of 2013... at which point, if the money isn't there, Quesnel Council and the CRD Directors for Areas A, B,C and I will have a difficult question to decide - abandon the project, split it in phases or ask for an extension to the $15 million taxpayer funded guarantee for the $30 million Multi-centre project...
In 2013 - Williams Lake/CRD will need to resolve rural fringe fire protection, come up with a new arrangement for managing the local Recreation Complex and sign off on a new 'Memo of Understanding' for joint local gov't services for the period of 2013-17. Meanwhile in Quesnel - the challenge will be on to get the $15 million + to build their local 'West Fraser' Multi-centre before Nov of 2013... at which point, if the money isn't there, Quesnel Council and the CRD Directors for Areas A, B,C and I will have a difficult question to decide - abandon the project, split it in phases or ask for an extension to the $15 million taxpayer funded guarantee for the $30 million Multi-centre project...
In provincial politics - we saw the rise and near fall of the BC Conservative Party where the BC Conservatives' enjoyed as much as 23% public support from March - September 2012 but crashed in the 10-12% range after the September BC Conservative AGM where an internal party fight went very public and saw two people defect from the BC Conservatives to the BC Liberals in John Martin and Ben Besler. I've met both people personally and contrary to statements from BC Conservatives' like Alan Forseth - they are very decent people and truly want what is best for British Columbia. As well, BC Premier Christy Clark muddled through 2012 as the BC Economy showed improved job numbers and did better than other jurisdictions in Canada and hopefully 2013 will showed continued improvements in the jobs department
I expect a big fight to retain the Cariboo-Chilcotin provincial riding and this was equally confirmed by sitting BC Liberal MLA Donna Barnett. I also expect that Duncan Barnett, if confirmed as the Cariboo-North NDP MLA candidate on Jan 20th, will give Bob Simpson a run for his money. This could allow the BC Liberal candidate Coralee Oakes an opportunity to walk up the middle and take the riding. Stay tuned, 2013 will be an interesting ride for BC Politics. Could we see a NDP majority gov't. Last one was in 1996 or a 4th consecutive BC Liberal majority gov't or worse case scenario... a minority gov't in BC... the last one (I understand) was in 1952....
View below a 'New Year's Day' Message from BC Premier Christy Clark:
Finally on the federal scene - we saw Stephen Harper and his Federal Conservatives' used their majority gov't status to ram through not one but two omnibus bills in one year - we haven't see this even with the Federal Liberals. I expect this to continue in 2013 where we'll see Harper to flex their majority status in both the House of Commons and Senate to advance their agenda. But I expect Harper and his political advisers to watch the Federal Liberal leadership race closely. Should Justin Trudeau be elected - they could potential concern them. Anyone else and if could easily allow Harper to retain majority gov't status until 2019....
On a personal note - I thank everyone for taking the time to read my blog posts and I look forward to your comments here in 2013
Thanks and God Bless!
SBF
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