Northern Communities Poised For Election Year

Courtesy of the North Central Local Government Association:

As the dust settles from the North Central Local Government Association’s (NCLGA) recent four day convention in Dawson Creek, community leaders from across north-central BC are primed to ensure their region receives unprecedented consideration over the coming twelve months, culminating in a Provincial election on May 9th, 2017. 

Newly minted NCLGA President, Laurey Roodenburg, points to strong efforts over the past two years to give northerners the best possible advantage. “With just seven percent of the provincial population covering 70% of the provincial landmass, we have to look for strategic advantages where we can find them”, said Roodenburg. “In just the last year, for example, we’ve ratified MOU’s with UNBC, the Fraser Basin Council, Northern Development, two Beetle Action Coalitions and we’ve built strategic alliances with many others”. 

As they continue to fulfill their role as “The Elected Voice of North Central BC”, the NCLGA has stressed a non-partisan, conciliatory approach in dealing with stakeholders like the Provincial Government. “Our primary role is to promote the environmental, economic and social wellbeing of northern communities”, said NCLGA Past President, Brian Frenkel. On that front, finger pointing and grandstanding get us nowhere; we see other levels of government as partners, not opponents.” 

Roodenburg added that the resolution process coupled with ongoing dialogue with stakeholders leaves the NCLGA well positioned to ensure northerners are not forgotten in the political discourse. “Our communities might be small, but as a whole, our region accounts for 80% of provincial exports, 60% of BC’s aboriginal population, 80% of agricultural land and we’re home to the vast majority of this Province’s major resource development projects. We’re far from insignificant.” 

“Over the next twelve months, we’ll be meeting with as many decision makers as possible- in senior levels of government, industry and with other influential NGO’s, said Roodenburg, a three term Councillor from Quesnel. Since the last municipal elections, we’ve heard from 265+ elected leaders that fall under the NCLGA umbrella and can summarize their thoughts in a single phrase: capacity building. 

We’re ready to do amazing things in this corner of the world. We’re ready to show everyone that economic development and environmental stewardship are not mutually exclusive. We’ve got the plans, the expertise and most importantly, the will. We just need the tools.” The tools Roodenburg is referring to run the gamut from increased broadband communications to the replacement of decaying infrastructure and, in many cases, legislative change. 

A detailed list of current and past resolutions, newsletters, and a list of the 2016 – 2017 NCLGA Board can be found at www.NCLGA.ca

For additional comment and information, please contact: 

NCLGA President, Laurey Roodenburg: (Home) 250-747-7406, (Cell) 250-255-5394
NCLGA Past President, Brian Frenkel: (Cell) 250-567-8620
NCLGA Executive Director, Oliver Ray: (Cell) 250-612-9801

KAAS Donates Sweeper to 108 Mile Airport

Joint Release of the Kamloops Airport Authority Society/Cariboo Regional District:

Due to the generosity of the Airports Canada Assistance Program through the Government of Canada, the Kamloops Airport Authority Society (KAAS) purchased two new runway
sweepers for the Kamloops Airport in the summer of 2015. These new sweepers provide snow clearing services to allow flights to land at the airport in winter conditions.

The new equipment resulted in the retirement of two sweepers that no longer met the snow clearing needs for the Kamloops Airport. The Cariboo Regional District (CRD) heard about the surplus equipment and asked if it could be secured through a donation. The Kamloops Airport Authority Society agreed to donate a sweeper to its northern neighbour, whose airport allows for medevac flights and tourist visits to the region.

"The Kamloops Airport Authority Society was very fortunate to receive funding last year from the Federal Government’s ACAP program, and purchased two new sweepers to replace aging equipment,” says Kamloops Airport Authority Society Vice-Chair Peter Milobar. “We heard that South Cariboo Regional Airport was in need of one and are pleased to support our northern neighbour with a donation of one of our retired sweepers."

“The Cariboo Regional District is extremely grateful to the Kamloops Airport Authority Society for this generous donation,” states South Cariboo Regional Airport Commission Chair Mitch Campsall. “This is a welcome addition to our airport and will be extremely helpful in ensuring we continue to provide the best possible services to our airport and the South Cariboo communities.”

SD27 receives $321,000 from BC for 3 schools

Courtesy of the BC Government Caucus:

Students, parents and teachers at three schools in the Cariboo-Chilcotin School District will see revamped and refreshed schools thanks to $321,073 going to School District 27 under the Province’s School Enhancement Program.

The projects:

· Dog Creek Elementary School and Likely Elementary School: Heating, ventilation and air condition (HVAC) upgrades at each school – totalling $146,073 in provincial funding.

· Cataline Elementary School (Williams Lake): Fire protection upgrade, $175,000 in provincial funding.

The School Enhancement Program is improving 80 schools across every district this year. Districts applied to the Ministry of Education this spring and successful projects were chosen based on need and priority.

As a result of B.C.'s fiscal discipline and its balanced budget, the government is able to support key investments like the School Enhancement Program.

“Through the School Enhancement Program, these three schools will receive much-needed improvements that will benefit students, teachers and staff,” Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett said. “This is another example of how schools and students continue to benefit from B.C.’s balanced budget.”

The projects have to be substantially complete by March 31, 2017.

This year’s $45-million School Enhancement Program builds on last year’s $35-million Routine Capital Program investment, which supported 109 school improvement projects throughout the province.

Budget 2016 provides $1.7 billion in capital funding over three years to replace aging facilities, build more student spaces in growing communities and improve seismic safety.

Frizzi Road Switchback

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake is reminding users that Frizzi Road switchback to the River Valley is no longer maintained for vehicle traffic. 

The switchback has been identified as an area of high potential for land failure resulting from poor water drainage. In order to assure safety, warning signs are posted at top and bottom of the switchback.

Visitors to the River Valley are welcome to park at the Comer Street entrance or on Frizzi Road before proceeding onto valley trails. When using the River Valley, please remain on the road or on posted trails in order to avoid trespassing on private property. ATVs and dirt bikes are not permitted in the River Valley Recreation Sites. 

When parked on Frizzi Road, drivers are reminded to ensure that vehicles are not impeding traffic, nor blocking driveways. When using the Comer Street access, please use extra caution. In addition to public works vehicles, the Comer access route is now used by the rural residents and resource license holders in the River Valley. 

The City is working with provincial resource staff to identify a safer access route to the river valley. Further information is available by contacting Gary Muraca, Director of Municipal Services or Leah Hartley, Director of Development Services, City of Williams Lake.

Ph: 250-392-2311 or Emails:

Gary Muraca - click here

Leah Hartley - click here

“Empowering Family Health” is Underway

Courtesy of Partners for Health Communities: North Cariboo

News Release - P4HC Resource Inventory Project Underway May 17, 2016[1] by Steve Forseth

Mental Health System can do more to ensure specialized services for people

Courtesy of the BC Auditor-General:

Auditor General of British Columbia Carol Bellringer issued her latest audit today: Access to Adult Tertiary Mental Health and Substance Use Services.

Bellringer’s team looked at how B.C.’s health system manages access to the highest level of mental health and substance use services. They found pockets of good practice, but more is needed to ensure that highly vulnerable patients – for example, someone suffering from an acute mental illness with a long history of hospitalization and substance use issues – can access the services they need.

“More information is needed,” says Bellringer. “The Ministry of Health and health authorities need to know where the bottlenecks are, how long the waitlists are, and whether or not programs are effective and meet patient needs now and in the future.”

Mental health and substance use services were once housed at Riverview Hospital (in Coquitlam). Services have slowly transferred to the health authorities. This audit is about the current system and the planning for future services.

Currently, some people may not be well-served. This includes people with serious mental health and/or substance use problems, plus acquired brain injury, developmental disabilities, and/or a history of extreme violence or current aggressive behaviour. These gaps in service are compounded by the lack of available resources for patients ready for discharge, such as appropriate housing, and pressures on other parts of the medical system, such as emergency rooms.

Barriers to access and discharge need to be analyzed and coordinated. Bellringer recommends leadership from the Ministry of Health to keep the momentum going, set province-wide direction, and enhance collaboration with the health authorities for more consistency across the province.

“We’re not recommending a one-size-fits-all approach, but there needs to be some consistency,” says Bellringer. “Different approaches and philosophies of care are necessary because patient needs vary across the province. There should be fair and equitable access for everyone.”

To read the BC's Auditor-General's report on this subject, click here

View a summary video of the BC's Auditor General's report on Mental Health Services below:

WL Mayor clears air over alleged conflict of interest charge

Back in February of this year, a resident of Williams Lake alleged that Williams Lake Mayor Walt Cobb was in a conflict of interest, given his role as a Director on the Royal Canadian Legion Board, while at the same time, Williams Lake City Council approved a Grant in Aide of $7,500 and property tax exemption to the Legion.  After a review by the City's legal counsel - it was determined that Mayor Cobb is not in a conflict of interest on the basis that "That the pecuniary interest is so remote or insignificant that it cannot reasonably be regarded as likely to influence the member in relation to the matter"

Mayor Cobb sat down with the Williams Lake Tribune yesterday to fully explain the situation.

Read here

Conflict of interest charges against elected officials do not happen often, let alone be made public and when they do, in most cases, they are either proven to be false or dropped altogether.  In the rare times that it is indeed proven that an elected official is indeed in a conflict of interest, Section 100 of the Community Charter (view here) and case law provides for when an elected official may be or must be disqualified (thrown out) from office, however it is ultimately up to the individual elected official to determine if they are in a conflict and act accordingly

As a result of the 2013 Schlenker vs Torgrimson court ruling - elected officials in BC, whether on a Regional District Board, Municipal Council or Island Trust, were previously cautioned to be very mindful of their elected role and on which non-profit boards they sit on as a result of "divided loyalties" and the theory of "which master you serve"

However, back on May 4th, the Province announced that the provincial Cabinet passed a Regulation which exempts local elected officials from conflict of interest rules as a result of being appointed from a local government body (Board, Council or Trust) to certain corporate bodies or non-profit boards - more details here

For myself - as an elected official, I purposely avoid sitting on non-profits to avoid the possibility of having "divided loyalties" between sitting on a non-profit board and being an elected Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area Director

~SF

Dave Dickson to receive Medal of Good Citizenship

Courtesy of the BC Government:

Editor's Note -- Congrats to Dave Dickson who holds a number of roles in the City including his work with Rotary and the City of Williams Lake's Manager of Community Safety.  Well done, Dave!

Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations for Rural Development Donna Barnett, on behalf of Premier Christy Clark, will present Dave Dickson, a well-known Williams Lake citizen, with the province’s newest honour, the Medal of Good Citizenship.

The ceremony will be held Tuesday, May 24, 2016, at 5 p.m. at the Williams Lake City Hall, 450 Mart St., Williams Lake.

Launched in July 2015 by Premier Clark, the prestigious Medal of Good Citizenship recognizes individuals who, through exceptional long-term service, have made outstanding contributions to their communities without expectation of remuneration or reward. The medal reflects their generosity, service, acts of selflessness and contributions to community life. Nominations for the Medal of Good Citizenship are accepted year-round.

Dickson was honoured with the medal for his wide-ranging volunteer contributions made in the Williams Lake and Chilcotin Cariboo region, many of which have helped to make the community safer, reduced crime, and ensured those who are in need or vulnerable are taken care of.

His service to the community and countless hours of volunteering have benefited the Williams Lake Community Policing unit, Canadian Red Cross, Williams Lake Rotary Club, Northern BC Mobile Support Team with the Provincial Emergency Program, the local emergency support services team and the Canadian Cancer Society.

Among his many other contributions, Dickson was also instrumental in establishing a number of programs including the Mounted Citizens on Patrol, a first-of-its-kind program that sees local citizens ride horseback to patrol areas that are difficult to observe; Wandering program for those at risk of going missing; and the Positive Ticketing Program which rewards children for being positive citizens. He has been a member of the Cops for Cancer Tour de North team for a number of years, is a multiple Paul Harris Fellow and has been involved in a number of international projects.

Dickson is among a select group of British Columbians who will receive the Medal of Good Citizenship.

BC's Premier - the Hon. Christy Clark said:

“Every British Columbian deserves to feel safe in their community. Dave Dickson’s selfless contributions to community safety initiatives have helped vulnerable residents feel safer, and inspire youth to be the next generation of great citizens.”

While local Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett stated:

"Dave Dickson is an excellent example of a British Columbia good citizen. His passion and hard work for the betterment of his community goes above and beyond. It is an honour to present him with the Medal of Good Citizenship.”

Finally, Mr. Dickson stated:

“I have always enjoyed helping other people and helping to make someone else feel or be a little better. When volunteering you get a lot back in return as you always meet outstanding people who share your mission to make your community a better place. I am certainly pleased to receive the honour although it is not about me, it is about the wonderful people that I get to work with and serve, however large or small the task might be.”

Quick Facts:

The Medal of Good Citizenship was launched in 2015 to recognize individuals who, through exceptional long-term volunteer efforts, have made outstanding contributions to the well-being of their communities.

Nominations for the Medal of Good Citizenship are accepted year-round.

All regions in the province were represented on the Medal of Good Citizenship Selection Committee and members came from various professional backgrounds.

More than 220 nominations were reviewed.

Additional medal presentation ceremonies will be held across the province in the coming months.

National Police Week (May 15-21)

Courtesy of the Hon. Mike Morris - BC Solicitor-General/Minister of Public Safety:

For nearly half a century, Police Week has provided Canadians with annual opportunities to connect with their local police agencies and learn about the range of services they deliver.

Beyond providing families with a chance to check out different vehicles and equipment that police use to further public safety, Police Week lets people get to know the women and men behind the badge. This year, police agencies are also using it to highlight important issues like family violence. As our government continues its multi-year Violence Free BC strategy, police are critical, front-line partners in preventing and eliminating the violence that affects too many women and children throughout our province.

Of course, opportunities to interact with police officers can also help to influence the career choices our young people make, adding to the value of Police Week. Positive interaction with officers early in my life contributed to my decision to join the RCMP for what would become a 32-year career in the force – decades that I look back on with fondness and pride.

I encourage British Columbians to participate in the open houses and other events that local detachments and departments are hosting over the next few days, to meet officers, learn about the important work that they and various support staff perform, and perhaps consider the career opportunities that policing affords.

SD28 Budget Pressures continue

Courtesy of the Board of Education for School District #28 (Quesnel):

The Board of Education of School District 28 (Quesnel) is in the process of preparing its preliminary budget for the 2016/17 school year. While the Board intends to announce a balanced budget for the upcoming year, they do so with a great deal of frustration and displeasure. On March 30, 2016, the Board passed a bylaw to close three schools – École Baker Elementary, Parkland Elementary and Kersley Elementary – effective June 30, 2016. The savings that resulted from these closures is estimated to be $777,000 which would have been sufficient to cover the funding shortfall of $749,000 which has substantially resulted from declining enrolment and decreases in funding protection. Unfortunately, because of way the provincial government has downloaded certain costs to the District, instead of being able to add services back to the system after closing schools, the Board is being forced to make further cuts of $324,000. These cuts may directly impact students.

The Quesnel Board of Education, like other districts in the province, is demanding that the government reverse decisions which have contributed to a significant funding shortfall for the upcoming and future years. First, the Board demands the return of the District Administrative Savings, the result of which is that $370,000 has been permanently taken out of operating budgets – $202,000 in the 2015/16 year and a further $168,000 for the 2016/17 year. Second, repay the costs for the new provincial network for internet access. Our District’s cost for this are $260,000 in the 2015/16 school year and will cost a further $135,000 in 2016/17 school year – costs which will be ongoing. Finally, the Board will be demanding that exempt staff wage increases (frozen since 2009 but recently approved by the government) be fully funded. These wage increases cost the Quesnel School District $55,000 for the 2015/16 year and it is anticipated that there will be additional exempt staff increases in future years that should be fully funded as well

As a Board, we feel that it is disingenuous for the government to announce increases to per student funding on one hand, while offloading unexpected costs to Districts on the other. We wonder what will happen when we have no excess capacity to reduce, or educational programs to cut. Unexpected funding decisions ultimately affect student programming, especially in districts that do not have any capacity to generate additional funding.

In a year when the budget could be balanced with an overall increase to current service levels, the Quesnel School District is down over $1 million in funding resulting from the above-noted cost pressures in just the 2015/16 and 2016/17 years, necessitating cuts being made for the upcoming school year. We are calling on the government to return those funds to School District #28 students, and invite members of the public to voice their concern and outrage directly to the Ministry of Education and/or provincial government.

Local Gov't Awareness Week (May 15-21)

Courtesy of the BC Government:

The Province of British Columbia is proud to proclaim Local Government Awareness Week, May 15-21, 2016, Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Peter Fassbender said today.

Local governments play a key role providing citizens, businesses and communities with essential services they need to prosper and thrive. Safe drinking water, wastewater management, streets, sidewalks, libraries, land-use planning, fire and police protection, recreation and parks are just some of the important benefits that B.C.’s local governments help support in order to foster strong, successful communities.

Every year, the Government of British Columbia approves grants that help local governments provide public services. In 2016, the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development increased funding for local government grant programs to more than $165 million – a $30 million increase over last year. The increases apply to the Small Community Grants Program and the Traffic Fine Revenue Sharing Program.

In addition to grants, partnerships are an important part of the on-going collaboration between the Province and B.C.’s local governments. For example, the B.C. government and the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) negotiate the terms of the Gas Tax Fund with the federal government. UBCM administers the fund within British Columbia.

The Gas Tax Fund will invest $2.76 billion in British Columbia’s local governments over the next ten years – and the Small Communities Fund under the New Building Canada Fund represents a $327 million investment over the next decade in B.C.’s local community infrastructure.

Every year, Local Government Awareness Week is celebrated simultaneously with National Public Works Week.

Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Peter Fassbender said –

“In communities throughout B.C., elected municipal and regional representatives make vital decisions on behalf of British Columbians. Local governments impact communities directly, through planning, managing and operating public services and infrastructure that enable communities of all sorts and sizes to flourish. As we observe Local Government Awareness Week, I want to thank all the elected officials and staff in B.C.’s local governments for their dedicated service to their communities.”

While Union of BC Municipalities President (and Cariboo Regional District Chair) Al Richmond –

“Local governments are honoured to deliver the basic services British Columbians rely on daily. The infrastructure, facilities and services that local residents count on are the result of generations of planning and implementation. The vibrancy and health that characterizes our communities is a credit to the Province of B.C.’s empowering legislative framework for local government. I am pleased the Province has set aside this week to highlight the contributions of B.C.’s municipalities and regional districts."

Quick Facts:

There are 189 local governments in British Columbia, including 162 municipalities and 27 incorporated regional districts. In addition, the Islands Trust and the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality combine features of a municipality and a regional district.
In British Columbia, elected local officials represent cities, towns, villages, regional districts, parks boards and the Islands Trust.

The Community Charter (Bill 14, 2003) is the first local government legislation in Canada to establish a full set of principles for municipal-provincial relations.

Under the Community Charter and the Local Government Act, local governments have broad authority to provide any service that their respective council or board considers necessary or desirable, including water, sewer, garbage disposal, recreation, child care and economic development.

The Local Government Act provides a legal framework and foundation for local governments. It provides local governments with powers, duties and functions – and with the flexibility to respond to the diverse needs and changing circumstances of their communities.

Learn More:

Read the Local Government Awareness Week Proclamation at:

https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/LGAwarenessWeekproc.pdf

For more on Local Government Awareness Week, visit: http://www.lgaw.bc.ca/

For further information about local government in British Columbia, visit CivicInfo BC at:

http://www.civicinfo.bc.ca/

Check out the provincial government’s role in supporting communities, sport, arts and culture through the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development at:

http://www.gov.bc.ca/cscd

To learn more about the Community Charter, visit:

http://www.bclaws.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/03026_00

To learn more about the Local Government Act:

http://www.bclaws.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/96323_00

Term Limits for Local Elected Officials?

In his column today on NewsKamloops (online news site) - Mel Rothenburger, also the Thompson-Nicola Electoral Area 'P' (Rivers and the Peaks) Director, floats the idea:

Should local elected officials have a statutory limit on how many consecutive terms they serve?

In terms of history - elected officials used to have a two year term many years ago, along with municipal councils' having half of their membership up for re-election every year, in some fashion, until 1990 when local government legislation was amended to require full Council/Board membership elections every 3 years with the term length being amended a couple of years ago to a 4 year term

While term limits in other jurisdictions, including Canada, is virtually unheard of -- this is routine in most, if not, all American political offices (local, state and federal governments).  One possible benefit is allowing "fresh blood" into our political system (local, provincial and federal) and allowing young people, like myself and others who are young and who can or do actually serve in local public office - be it Mayor, Councillor, Electoral Area Director or School Trustee.

You can read Mr. Rothenburger's column here

~SF

Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of May 16-20

The following local governments are meeting next week:

Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, May 17th at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue).  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

Williams Lake - Council in Committee on Tuesday, May 17th at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (450 Mart St - Basement).  On the Agenda:

* Hodgson/Dog Creek Road Geotechnical - Next Steps
* WLCBIA & Economic Development Corporation Seeds Initiative
* Central Cariboo Economic Development Corporation Business Plan and Budget Request

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District:

North Cariboo Rural Caucus - Meeting on Tuesday, May 17th at 3pm in the CRD Quesnel Office (101 - 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Community Economic Development - Discussion Item

View the full Agenda here

North Cariboo Joint Committee - Meeting on Tuesday, May 17th at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegations (3) - 2 Rivers Boxing Club - Wally Doern; Physician Recruitment & Retention - Susan Paulsen; Communities for Veterans - Paul & Terry Nichols

* Arena Project Status Report
* Arena Replacement Project Oversight and Administration Policy and Procedure
* Quesnel Arts & Recreation Centre - Strategic Priorities Fund
* Arts and Recreation Centre – NDIT application
* Rural Recreation Capital Budget Priorities
* Capital Funding Policy
* Regional Prosperity - Partnership with Community Development Institute
* Letter from Quesnel Curling Club - Light fixtures from old arena

View the full Agenda here

Community Events this weekend/next week:

Saturday - Seedy Saturday in Boitanio Park -- 10am to 2pm

Sunday - Start of 2nd Season of McLeese Lake Farmers' Market - 9am - 1pm at the McLeese Lake Tourist Information Centre (between Pub/Cafe)

~SF

CRD Board Highlights - May 13th mtg

Present - Chair Richmond; Directors Armstrong, Bruce, Massier, Forseth, Kemp, Sorley, Wagner, Cash, Anderson, Coakley, Sharpe, Simpson, Cobb and Campsall

Meeting called to order at 9:45am

Meeting Agenda approved/Mins of the April 22nd CRD Board meeting adopted

Delegations Memo. of Business as of May 13th received

Business:

Development Services:

a) CRD Planning Bylaws 4999,5000. 5001 and 5002 were given 3rd Reading and Adoption (Area L)

b) CRD Planning Bylaws 4882/4883 were adopted (Area F)

c) DVP #21/2016 (Area E) was adopted

d)  DP #20/2016 (Area A) was adopted

e) ALR Application #A22/2016 was adopted by the following Stakeholder - Electoral Areas Vote:

Affirmative - Directors Armstrong, Bruce, Massier, Kemp, Sorley, Richmond, Wagner, Anderson and Coakley

Negative - Directors Forseth and Cash

Environmental Services:

a) The Proposed Water/Sewer Projects report was received

Community Services:

a) The Board agreed to submit applications to the BC Rural Dividend Program for $10,000 under the Project Development funding stream for development of a wheelchair accessible trails assessment and inventory study for the Chilcotin, central Cariboo and portions of the south Cariboo & $32,000 under the Single Applicant funding stream to support the sub-regional community economic development project in the South Cariboo.

b) The Board endorsed a NDIT Application (Festivals Envelope) for the Interlakes Rodeo event

Libraries:

a) The Board endorsed the following Resolution in regards to the Bridge Lake Library

"If the School District advises the Cariboo Regional District that they must relocate the Bridge Lake library, the Board grant approval in principle for staff to further explore the option of locating the library beside the Interlakes Community Hall, provided the costs are not inconsistent with other community libraries"

Finance:

a) The Board received/ratified the Cheque Register for the month of April 2016 totalling $1,803,334.07, consisting of $732,608.57 paid by cheque, $983,334.31 paid through electronic funds, and $87,391.19 paid by MasterCard

b) The Board received a Request for Permissive Tax Exemption for the Forest Grove Legion

Administration:

a) The Board received a report of the Corporate Officer concerning 2016 UBCM Resolutions

b) The Board received the Consent Calendar as of May 13th

c) The Board received a copy of a letter from the District of Kitimat to BC Premier C. Clark in regards to Graduated Licensing Program for Motorcycles and a Resolution from the City of Cranbrook in regards to making a financial donation to Fort MacMurray

Resolved - That a letter of support be forwarded to the Regional Municipal Council of Wood-Buffalo in light of the Fort MacMurray fires

d) The Board received the Prioritization of Board Resolutions Report as of May 13th

Committee/Commission Minutes/Recommendations:

a) The Board received the April 20th North Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting Minutes

b) The Board received the April 21st Committee of the Whole Meeting Minutes and adopted 10 Recommendations from that meeting which include:

i) North Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus Recommendation – Hazardous Slide Area Designation
ii) Request from Director Massier to Discuss Dangerous Tree Bylaw
iii) Request from Director Coakley – Discussion Regarding Fee per Lot in Area L
iv) Quesnel Regional Airport – Request for Financial Contribution
v) Draft Volunteer Chief, Deputy Chief and Training Officer Recruitment and Retention Bonus Policy
vi) Corporate Priorities - Strategic Goals
vii) Corporate Priorities - Additions to Work Plan - Review 100 Mile House Library Hours
viii) Late Item - New Community Library Standards Policy
ix) Bridge Lake Library
x) New Agenda Item Summary Format

c) The Board received the April 27th Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting Minutes

Directors Requests/Reports:

a) The Board received a report, submitted by Chair Al Richmond, summarizing the activities and performance of the Municipal Finance Authority of BC for the period of October 2015 to March 2016

b) The Board authorized $500 from the Area C Discretionary Fund for start-up costs of the Wells / Barkerville / Bowron Primary Care Clinic

b) The Board authorized a request of Director Anderson (Area K) for access to the Area K Discretionary Fund for the following events at Riske Creek:

$200 for a Turkey Shoot on June 26, 2016;
$300 for a gymkhana on August 1, 2016; and
$300 for a gymkhana on September 17, 2016

c) That a request of Director Bruce (Area B) for access to the Rural Feasibility Fund for $2,000 to study the creation a new service to clean up Bouchie Lake be APPROVED

Meeting recessed at 10:52am
Meeting resumed at 11:05am

Delegations:

1) Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett appeared before the Board to discuss the criteria for the BC Rural Dividend

A Question/Answer period ensued

Chair Richmond, on behalf of the Board, thanked MLA Barnett for her time/information

2) Frank Leonard, Chair of the Agriculture Land Commission along with Interior Panel ALC members and Martin Collins, ALC Regional Planner appeared before the Board to discuss the new ALC Regulation

A Question/Answer period ensued

Chair Richmond, on behalf of the Board, thanked the delegation for their time/information

Meeting recessed for lunch at 12:15pm
Meeting resumed at 1pm

Board resumed consideration of the following:

"That a request of Director Bruce (Area B) for access to the Rural Feasibility Fund for $2,000 to study the creation a new service to clean up Bouchie Lake be APPROVED"

Discussion continued...

The question being called by the Chair - it was approved by the following vote:

Affirmative - Directors Armstrong, Bruce, Massier, Forseth, Kemp, Richmond, Wagner, Cash, Anderson, Coakley, Sharpe, Simpson, Cobb and Campsall

Negative - Director Sorley

At 1:38pm -- The Board recessed its' public meeting and convened an In-Camera (closed to the public) Meeting as per Sections 90(1a,g,k and l - appointment, potential/actual litigation, negotiations and annual report) of the Community Charter

At 2:08pm -- The Board resumed its public meeting

Directors gave oral reports as to their recent activities

Resolved - That a contribution of $5,000 from the Regional District's collaborative fund be authorized towards the Chinese Performing Arts program, should it be required.

Resolved - That Director Wagner be appointed as the CRD representative on the Reconciliation Canada Committee, at no cost to the Board.

Resolved - That representatives from both Gibraltar and Mount Polley Mines be invited to attend an upcoming Board meeting to provide updates on their Water Management Plans.

Meeting adjourned at 2:54pm

CCRHD Board Highlights - May 13th mtg

Present - Chair Massier; Directors Armstrong, Bruce, Forseth, Kemp, Sorley, Richmond, Wagner, Cash, Anderson, Coakley, Sharpe, Simpson, Cobb and Campsall

Meeting called to order at 9:30am

Meeting Agenda adopted/Mins of the April 22nd CCRHD Board meeting adopted

Business:

1) The Hospital Consent Calendar was received

2) A press release from Interior Health entitled "Bringing Care Closer to Home - Hemodialysis Helps Rural Patient" was received

3) Interior Health's Procurement Policy was received, pursuant to a request of a CCRHD Board letter of March 8th

4) A press release from BC Emergency Health Services entitled "Community Paramedicine Initiative Selection Announcement" was received

5) Pursuant to a request from the District of Wells - the Board agreed to provide a grant of $2,424.80 for 40% of startup costs for the Wells Primary Care Clinic

6) Late Item - An Invitation regarding Quesnel Primary Care Clinic Open House and Grand Opening starting Friday, May 13th at 4pm was received

7) Late Item - An Invitation regarding Northern Health - Growing up Healthy in Northern BC Community Consultation and attached schedule of meeting sites was received

8) Late Item - Announcement from NMPT - Approval of 2016-2017 Grants for Health-Care Students - was received

Meeting adjourned at 9:43am

Quesnel Council Highlights - May 10th meeting

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Agricultural Centre - Feasibility Study

Darrell Toma presented findings of the North Cariboo Agriculture Centre Feasibility Study, recently conducted by Toma & Bouma Management Consultants and Lionsgate Consulting for the City of Quesnel, with funding from Cariboo-Chilcotin Beetle Action Coalition.  The presentation highlighted current trends in the agriculture sector, feedback received from local producers and small scale food processors through community meetings and a survey, and a proposed budget and structure for a potential Agri-Food Innovation Centre in Quesnel.

The feasibility study highlighted the following for the North Cariboo region using 2011 data:

-   North Cariboo region is mainly comprised of beef cattle and forages/cereal crops with a number of speciality vegetable and fruit growers. 

-   Has 394 farms with roughly $19 million in revenue and $494 million invested capital.

-  Trends in agri-foods include an increased focus on local foods, value-added food products, renewables, health and functional foods, rural tourism, entrepreneurship, and a decrease in government extension services.

 

The study shows there are approximately 20 food development centres in Canada that fall under three different categories.  The first category includes Federal/Provincial centres that focus on pre-commercial tasks such as ingredients, product design, formulation, testing and packaging.  The second category includes college/university centres that look at the development and management of agricultural research in regional or local areas.  The third category, and the one that is growing in demand in western Canada, is that of the farm applied research offered by farm associations that serve local smaller farm operations with crop and fertilizer trials. 

The following input was gathered from over 80 local stakeholders through direct interviews, meetings and an e-survey:

What are you most interested in?

-   Strawberry and soft fruit crops

-   Hops and malt barley

-   Vegetables – both field and greenhouse

-   Community gardens and local food

-   Forage and grain production for livestock

-   New crop opportunities

-   Processed foods – baked goods, canned products

-   Use of community kitchens

Who is helping the farmers now?

-   Personal farm friends, local personal, or industry networks

-   No one

-   Farm associations (BC Cattlemen’s/Forage Council) 

-   Internet websites (Mainly USA sources/Some BC Agriculture)

-   Print sources – farm/industry magazines

-   Local agriculture and food organizations

What is needed?

-   A person (professional/experienced) who can help in gathering technical information and show how to adapt research/ideas for local conditions.

-   Centre of education for new entrants and people looking for new opportunities.

-   Technical information, knowledge and local professional advice.

-   Coordination and communication to farmers and for consumers.

-   Master event calendar and awareness of speakers

 

The study suggests there is a market gap in the region for a resource to be delivered through a new regional Agri-Food Innovation Centre.  A society may be established in order to access funding for start-up and a recommended three year pilot project in order to provide needed resources to farmers and food processors and conduct research to encourage innovation in the region.

Improve Accessibility in the City’s Downtown Core

Council approved amending an existing grant application to the Northern Development Initiative Trust (“NDIT”) for the Capital Investment Analysis grant that will look at how to improve accessibility in the downtown core.  If the grant application is successful, the analysis will make recommendations and list best practises for:  better placement of curb cuts; increased/better placed seating; number and placement of accessible parking stalls; and an accessible approach between City Hall and Kinchant Street.  

Final 2016 Tax Rates

The City has now received tax rates from all taxing authorities for 2016.  Based on per $100,000 of residential assessment, the expected 2016 property taxes are $1,093.80 before the homeowner grant.  The average residence in Quesnel is valued at $170,129 and will see an increase of $31.49 in total property taxes for 2016.

Next Meetings

5:30 pm – May 17^th – North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee

7 pm - May 24^th – Regular Council

Northern communities approve 2016-17 grants for health-care students

Courtesy of the Northern Medical Programs Trust:

Editor's Note - congrats to my colleague, Cariboo Regional District Area 'C' Director/CCRHD Chair, John Massier on his re-election as Chair of the NMPT Trust Board and to Prince George Mayor Lyn Hall as Vice-Chair of the NMPT Board

Communities in Northern B.C. will invest more than $215,000 in the coming year, through the Northern Medical Programs Trust, to support local health-care student education and recruitment initiatives in the North.

The Trust, a partnership between UNBC and more than 30 northern local governments, provides financial support for students in the Northern Medical Program, the Nursing program, and the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) graduate program.

In addition to continued support for established grants in 2016-17, Northern Medical Programs Trust (NMPT) members approved funding for two new initiatives at their recent annual general meeting:

· A bursary program for UNBC undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need who intend to apply for a health professional program at UNBC.

· A Family Nurse Practitioner Award available to FNP graduates who accept a nursing position within the region of the North Central Local Government Association (up to two awards).

Trust investment helps health-care students integrate unique clinical experiences in northern and rural communities with their education. More than 550 student awards have been disbursed since the NMPT first began providing awards in 2006.

“With support from the Trust, a fellow student and I undertook a shadowing opportunity in Valemount with a local physician who spent a lot of time with us talking about rural medicine and its unique challenges,” said Ross Williams, a second-year Northern Medical Program student. “We learned about patient transfers and on-call responsibility, as well as the importance of community engagement and using a team-based approach to patient care.”

During the AGM, Trust members re-elected Electoral Area C Director John Massier from the Cariboo Regional District as NMPT president. Massier also serves as the Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Chair. Lyn Hall, mayor of Prince George, was elected as NMPT Vice-President.

“Since its start, the Trust has been focused on the recruitment and retention of health-care professionals in Northern communities,” said Director Massier. “Through clinical opportunities supported by the NMPT, students are able to experience northern lifestyle and rural health service delivery first-hand, helping them better understand, and envision, future practice and career opportunities in our region.”

Since its establishment in 2002, the NMPT has been one of the most popular designations for UNBC donations and the endowment is currently valued at more than $9.5 million.

WL Council Highlights - May 10th mtg

Present: Mayor Cobb; Councillors I. Bonnell, S. Nelson, J. Ryll, C. Smith, L. Walters (via teleconference) and S. Zacharias

Meeting called to order at 6pm

Meeting Agenda adopted/Mins of the April 26th meeting of WL City Council adopted

Delegations/Presentations:

1) Donna Mae Smith appeared before Council to discuss the Removal of Boitanio Park Bus Shelter

A Question/Answer period ensued. Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked Ms. Smith for her time/information

2) Mayor Cobb presented Certificates of Recognition to Community Policing Members Raj Mudhar &Chris Dow

3) Dave Dickson, Manager of Community Safety and Sarah Jackman, Executive Director of the Punky Lake Wilderness Camp Society appeared before Council to discuss First Nations Court proposal

A Question/Answer period ensued. Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked Mr. Dickson/Ms. Jackman for their time/information

4) Insp. Milo MacDonald appeared before Council to provide a Verbal Policing Update

A Question/Answer period ensued. Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked Inspector MacDonald for his time/information

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque listings for the periods ending April 28 and May 5, 2016

2) Council gave 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings to Williams Lake Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2246, 2016 by the following vote:

Affirmative - Mayor Cobb; Councillors Nelson, Ryll, Smith, Walters and Zacharias
Negative - Councillor I. Bonnell

3) Council approved the proposed 2016 Municipal Property Tax Rates and Bylaw No. 2247, being a Bylaw of the City of Williams Lake respecting Property Tax Levies for the year ending December 31, 2016 was given 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings

4) After a public input session which saw a number of speakers address Council - Council approved Option 2 for DVP #2-2016 for property at 35 Oliver Street for Reduction in Off-Street Parking Requirements as follows:

Vary Section 408 of the City of Williams Lake Zoning Bylaw No. 1825, 2002 to reduce the Off-Street Parking Requirements for a Place of Worship from 98 spaces to 25 spaces at 35 Oliver Street, legally described as Lot 6, District Lot 6483, Cariboo District, Plan PGP44921

Approved by the following vote:

Affirmative - Councillors Nelson, Ryll, Walters and Zacharias
Negative - Mayor Cobb; Councillors Bonnell and Smith

Meeting recessed at 8:22pm
Meeting resumed at 8:29pm

Councillor L. Walters left the meeting at 8:29pm

5) Council gave 1st and 2nd Readings to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2245 (401 Fourth Avenue North) and directed a Public Hearing be held on June 7, 2016 at 7:00 PM in Williams Lake Council Chambers

6) Council adopted two recommendations from the Public Works Committee as follows:

a) That pursuant to Public Works Committee Report #03-2016, the report of the Director of Development Services dated April 21, 2016 be received and Council endorse City Staff’s design proposal for the landfill storm drain upgrade project as follows:

•One parcel (City owned);
•Rehabilitation of existing system;
•First phase of a larger improvement project over several years; and
•Class C cost estimate, including contingency, of $211,365;

and further, Council support a grant application for this first phase and for the larger improvement projects.

b) That pursuant to Public Works Committee Report #04-2016, Committee of Whole Council Report #02-2016, together with the report of the Chief Financial Officer dated February 22, 2016, regarding pending changes in senior government regulations over water content be received and Staff be directed to include in the 2017 budget to commission a water management plan that will focus on, and prioritize, water treatment requirements, universal water metering, medium and large industrial user requirements and options for untreated water sources, future water treatment plant and order of magnitude costs for capital planning purposes.

7) Council approved the March for Food Justice walk taking place on Saturday, May 21, 2016

8) Council approved the Annual Williams Lake Stampede Parade on Saturday, July 2, 2016 at 10:00 AM

9) Council endorsed the Community Arts Council of Williams Lake's proposed expansion of an Aboriginal Day mural project on the stage of the Gwen Ringwood Theatre in Boitanio Park for Aboriginal Day, June 21, 2016

10) Council received for information the Minutes of the April 27th Central Cariboo / City of Williams Lake Joint Committee Meeting

11) Council received the 'Council Information Package' as of May 10th, as follows:

• April 22, 2016 - CRD Board Highlights;
• April 27, 2016 - District of Kitimat Letter to Premier re Graduated Licensing Program for Motorcycles;
• April 27, 2016 - Town Taxi Notice of Pending Taxi Rate Increase

Members of Council gave oral reports as to their recent activities.  Mayor Cobb announced that a Special Council Meeting will take place on Thursday at 5:15pm in Williams Lake Council Chambers to adopt the following Bylaws:

* Williams Lake Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2246, 2016
* 2016 Municipal Tax Rates Bylaw No. 2247, 2016

And to receive/approve the Audited Financial Statements for the year ending December 31st, 2015

Meeting adjourned at 8:55pm

Census Day 2016

Today is Census Day in Canada! ‪

Be sure to complete the questionnaire - it's important (and it's the law)!

Census information is important for our communities and the region and is used in planning services such as schools, public transportation, senior housing, and police and fire services.

You can do it online at www.census.gc.ca.

Simply enter your 16-digit secure access code that was provided to you and follow the instructions.

If you received a letter, your secure access code is located at the top of the page.

If you received a paper questionnaire, your secure access code is located at the top right corner of the first page.

For more information, visit www.census.gc.ca or call 1-855-700-2016.

Respondents who use TTY (a telecommunications device for people who are deaf) can call 1-866-753-7083.

1 Year to the 41st BC General Election

1 year from today - the roughly 1.8 million voters who voted in the 2013 Provincial Election will head to the election boxes in 2017 to vote for 85 MLA's for the 41st Parliament of British Columbia

While the 40th General Election of British Columbia was generally a mild affair, due to the public commitment of then-BC NDP Leader (and current Vancouver-Kingsway MLA) Adrian Dix to keep that particular election free of mud-slinging, I am expecting the 41st General Election to having a different tone and we are certainly seeing elements of that in the Provincial Legislature today to which official campaigning does not start until mid-April of 2017 which then marks the official start of the 41st BC General Election period (mid April - May 9th, 2017)

I am expecting both local BC Liberal MLA's Coralee Oakes (Cariboo-North) and Donna Barnett (Cariboo-Chilcotin) to seek re-election in 2017.

As for their election opponents:

I am expecting the BC NDP to put up a candidate against MLA's Oakes/Barnett.  In 2013 -- the NDP candidates in Cariboo North/Cariboo-Chilcotin were Duncan Barnett (Cariboo-North) and Charlie Wyse (Cariboo-Chilcotin).  While Mr. Wyse indicated 2013 was his last campaign to fight, I would not be surprised if Mr. Barnett (Cariboo-North) tried to unseat MLA Oakes once again.  With the BC Conservative Party in tatters and without a leader at this time, I am not expecting candidates from this Party in both Cariboo-Chilcotin and Cariboo-North but it would not be "outside the realm of possibilities" to see a candidate in Cariboo-North/Cariboo-Chilcotin from the BC Green Party.  As for independents in Cariboo-North/Cariboo-Chilcotin -- with Bob Simpson's defeat in the 2013 Provincial Election as an Independent MLA, I am not expecting to see an Independent MLA candidate for Cariboo-North but I wouldn't be surprised to see an Independent MLA candidate in Cariboo-Chilcotin.  In 2013 - Gary Young ran as an Independent MLA candidate in Cariboo-Chilcotin and could easily do so again...

By the end of 2016 - both the BC NDP/BC Liberals should have most, if not, all of their 85 MLA candidates nominated for the 2017 Provincial General Election

As for campaign issues in Cariboo North/Cariboo Chilcotin for the 2017 Provincial Election, those could include:

* Mt Polley/Responsible Resource Development in Rural Areas
* Closure of Schools/Education Funding, particularly from a Rural Perspective
* Lack of Jobs

Meanwhile - a couple of online sites are reporting that a lack of awareness of the BC NDP Leader John Horgan might be one of many NDP's achilles heal for the 2017 Election.

Read here (NewsKamloops) and here (Harvey Oberfeld Blog)

~SF

Dave Hendrixson (1931-2016)

Last Thursday - Dave Hendrixson, formerly the Mayor of the District of Wells from 1999-2005 passed away from prostate cancer

Mr. Hendrixson became the Mayor of the newly incorporated District of Wells back in 1999 and was re-elected in 2002 before being defeated by Jay Vermette in the 2005 District of Wells Local General Election

During his time on the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) Board of Directors' - he was elected Vice-Chair of the Board

While in office - his biggest legacy, I believe, was the fight to re-open Wells Elementary as a community school, even sacrificing his own personal health in order to see this goal to fruition.

From my own personal perspective - he was a dedicated servant for the people of Wells in the time he served as Mayor and a CRD Director and I have no doubt that he will be missed by all

I express my personal condolences to his family and friends on the loss of a great man! You can leave your own condolences to the family here

~SF

Post-Event Report - 2016 NCLGA AGM/Convention

As is my practice when I return from attendance at an NCLGA/UBCM (North Central Local Gov't Association/Union of BC Municipalities) Convention - find below my Post Event Report on my attendance at the 2016 NCLGA AGM/Convention held in Dawson Creek, BC from May 4th - 6th

Area D Memo Re 2016 NCLGA Convention by Steve Forseth

Public Urged to Follow Open Burning Restrictions

Courtesy of the BC Wildire Service:

The Cariboo Fire Centre is expecting windy conditions this weekend and urges the public to follow all open burning prohibitions and to use caution when participating in recreational activities.

Despite the green-up of grasses, the forest floor is still dry. The fire danger rating is "moderate" throughout the Cariboo Fire Centre with some pockets of "high."

Category 2 and Category 3 fires have been prohibited throughout the Cariboo Fire Centre since April 4, 2016. Campfires are allowed, but the public is urged to use caution.

These prohibitions are in place to reduce the number of preventable wildfires. Human-caused fires take valuable resources away from naturally-occurring wildfires and other wildfires burning throughout the province.

Before lighting a campfire, you must have a shovel or at least eight litres of water nearby to extinguish the fire. Ensure that your campfire is completely out and the ashes are cold to the touch before leaving the area for any length of time. Anyone riding an all-terrain vehicle or dirt bike should check the condition of the muffler, stay on dirt paths and avoid tall grasses and weeds.

Anyone found in contravention of an open burning prohibition may be issued a violation ticket for $1,150, required to pay an administrative penalty of $10,000 or, if convicted in court, fined up to $100,000 and/or sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person responsible may be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.

Members of the public have an important role to play in wildfire prevention. The public is urged to help play their part by following open fire prohibitions in their area and by reporting wildfires or illegal open burning.

To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or dial *5555 on a cellphone.

For up-to-date information on current wildfire activity, conditions and prohibitions, call 1 888 3-FOREST (1 888 336-7378) or visit: bcwildfire.ca

Cariboo RD Resolutions meet with success at NCLGA Conference and AGM

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

The Cariboo Regional District (CRD) saw success at the North Central Local Government Association’s (NCLGA) Conference and AGM with two successful resolutions. The resolutions deal with the effects of treaties on Crown tenure and license holders, and the second addresses consultation with local governments for industrial projects.

The first resolution submitted by the CRD, highlights the potential impacts of treaties on Crown tenure and license holders. Currently the governments of British Columbia and Canada are in the process of negotiating treaties with First Nations in British Columbia. The resolution calls for the NCLGA to lobby treaty negotiators and the provincial and federal governments to increase transparency in negotiations and provide meaningful consultation with all affected third parties. It also calls for a minimization on the impact to those third parties related to water rights, and all tenures on Crown land as well as compensation to impacted third parties.

The second resolution deals with the consultation with local governments for industrial projects within their respective jurisdictions. Currently, the provincial legislation requires consultation with potentially affected First Nations as part of the permitting process for resource extraction and other industrial projects. However, there is no such requirement for adjacent communities and local governments to be consulted. The resolution requests that the NCLGA and Union of British Columbia Municipalities lobby the provincial government to implement regulatory requirements for local communities (rural or municipal), and for local governments to be consulted in the permitting process, at the same level as First Nations, in all aspects of the potential impact. Consideration must include environment discharge; water, air and noise impacts; social and economic impacts; emergency preparedness and response plans; communication plans as well as reclamation and closure plans.

Both resolutions will now be taken to the resolution floor at the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) Conference and AGM, September 26-30, 2016 in Victoria.

During the NCLGA Conference, the Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District also took the opportunity to meet with the Northern Health Authority to be updated on the capital projects underway or being considered within the North Cariboo.

The NCLGA conference and AGM took place from Wednesday, May 4 through to Friday, May 6 in Dawson Creek, B.C. More information about the event can be found online at nclga.ca

Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of May 9-13

With another successful North Central Local Government Association Convention concluded - it is time for the local governments of the Cariboo-Chilcotin to return to work.  The following local governments are meeting next week:

Quesnel:

Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee - Meeting on Tuesday, May 10th at 9am.  On the Agenda:

1) Finance Department Update
2) Spending Issues (Overage)
3) Permissive Tax Exemptions 2016
4) Potential New Statutory Reserves
5) Letter from Accessibility & Inclusion Advisory Committee

View the full Agenda here

Regular Council - Meeting on Tuesday, May 10th at 7pm in Quesnel Council Chambers - 2nd Floor, 410 Kinchant St.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Feasibility Study for Quesnel Agricultural Centre - Darrell Toma - Toma & Bouma Management Consultants
* Union of British Columbia Municipalities - Proposed Resolutions for 2016 UBCM Convention
* Modification of Capital Investment Analysis Grant Application
* Final 2016 Tax Rates

View the full Agenda here

Policy/Bylaw Committee - Meeting on Wednesday, May 11th at 3pm.  On the Agenda:

* Living Wage Designation
* Review Quesnel Signage Bylaw 1527 of 2002

View the full Agenda here

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, May 10th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegations (4) - Donna Mae Smith re Removal of Boitanio Park Bus Shelter; Certificates of Recognition to Community Policing Members Raj Mudhar & Chris Dow; Dave Dickson, Manager of Community Safety and Sarah Jackman, Executive Director of the Punky Lake Wilderness Camp Society re First Nations Court; Insp. Milo MacDonald, RCMP - Verbal Policing Update

* 2016-2020 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2246/2016 Municipal Tax Rate Bylaw No. 2247 - For 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings
* Consideration of Development Variance Permit - DVP #02-2016 - Cariboo Community Church - Reduction in Off-Street Parking Requirements - 35 Oliver Street
* Consideration of 2 Recommendations from Public Works Committee - Landfill Storm Drain Upgrade/Water - Regulations Over Water Control

View the full Agenda here

Public Meeting on Disposition (Sell) of City Parks - Thursday, May 12th from 6-8pm in WL Council Chambers.  More information on the meeting can be viewed here

100 Mile House - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, May 10th at 7pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue).  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

Cariboo Regional District:

CC Reg. Hospital District -- Meeting on Friday, May 13th at 9:30am in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Hospital Consent Calendar
* Interior Health - Bringing Care Closer to Home - Hemodialysis Helps Horsefly Patient
* Interior Health - Procurement Policies
* BC Emergency Health Services - Community Paramedicine Initiative Selection Announcement
* District of Wells – Grant Request for Wells Primary Care Clinic

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo RD Board - Meeting on Friday, May 13th at 9:45am in the CRD Boardroom.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett re: Rural Dividend Program
* Various Planning Items
* Two applications for endorsement to the Rural Dividend Program
* NDIT Application for Interlakes Rodeo
* Relocation of Bridge Lake Library
* Request for Permissive Tax Exemption for Forest Grove Legion
* Resolutions for 2016 UBCM Convention
* Consent Calendar
* Committee or Commission Recommendations
* MFA Update from Chair Richmond (Chair Richmond is also Vice-Chair of the Municipal Finance Authority)
* Request from Area C Director J. Massier - Support a portion of the start-up costs of the Wells / Barkerville / Bowron Primary Care Clinic
* Request from Area K Director B. Anderson - Financial Support from Area K Discretionary Fund for the following events:

$200 for a Turkey Shoot on June 26, 2016;
$300 for a gymkhana on August 1, 2016; and
$300 for a gymkhana on September 17, 2016

There will be an In-Camera Session as per Sections 90(1a,g,k and l - appointment, potential/actual litigation, negotiations, annual municipal report) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

Community Events - This Weekend or Next Week:

Saturday - Scout Island Nature Centre Spring Yard/Garden Sale - more information here

Sunday - Mothers' Day Events - Various Locations including McLeese Lake (view more on the McLeese Lake Mothers' Day Event this Sunday here)

Day 3 of NCLGA 2016

Today is the last day of the 2016 NCLGA Convention.

At 7am - there will be a presentation from Trans Canada on their pipeline program.

There also learning sessions on Forestry, Agriculture, and Water.

Delegates will also hearing from BC Ministers Mike Bernier (Education) and John Rustad (Aboriginal Relations/Reconciliation) before the Convention wraps up at 1pm today

Have a great Friday!

~SF

Quesnel Council Highlights - May 3rd mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Communities for Veterans Foundation 

Paul Nicols summarized for Council his experiences regarding the 2015 Communities for Veterans Foundation- Ride Across Canada on horseback that was both a fundraiser as well as to raise awareness on behalf of Canadian veterans suffering the effects of post-traumatic stress.  Paul and his wife, Terry, are now completing a pilot project for an Equine Assisted Mindfulness program at their local farm that provides rehabilitative services to Canadian veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress, operational stress injuries and the challenges that go along with transitioning to civilian life.  To find out more about this program, please call 250-991-2463 or visitwww.communitiesforveterans.com.

Baker Creek Enhancement Society

Tracy Bond, Executive Director of the Baker Creek Enhancement Society, explained that the Society is looking to enhance the Dragon Creek watershed.  The Daylighting project would provide high water refuge and rearing habitat for Chinook and Coho Salmon.  The proposed Daylighting project would construct a channel, from the existing Dragon Creek that flows into a culvert under Johnston Road and reroute it to a location where an open bottomed fish structure can be placed inside the West Fraser Timber Park.  Daylighting the culvert will provide 2km of wetland and creek habitat for juvenile salmon as well as educational opportunities, facilitated by the Society, through the Nature Education and Resource Centre located in West Fraser Timber Park. 

City Manager, Byron Johnson, presented a report to Council whereby Council considered the following items associated with the proposed Daylighting project:  existing infrastructure, West Fraser Timber Park concerns, Dragon Creek Water Levels, and City Staff Focus/Professional Design.    Council did not approve or deny the proposed Daylighting project, but passed a resolution to create a technical working group to better understand the complexities of the Dragon Lake/Creek watershed and the Daylighting project.

Quesnel Billy Barker Days Society – Request for Free Shuttle Bus Services

The Quesnel Billy Barker Days Society requested free shuttle bus services to transport citizens from Maple Park Mall, north weigh scales and Correlieu Secondary School, into the downtown core in order to attend the Billy Barker Days festivities from July 14 to 16, 2016.  This request was made by the Society due to the two gravel parking lots, being utilized for the construction of the West Fraser Centre Arena Replacement project located in the City’s downtown core.  Council denied the free shuttle bus service, due to logistics and costs, but did request that the Society (as well as other community groups hosting community events in the City’s downtown core over the next year) promote the use of car-pooling, making arrangements to drop off those with mobility issues at their destination and then parking their vehicle, and allowing extra time for parking and walking to downtown community events.  

Multi-Family Housing Incentives Consultation

Council heard the survey feedback from the City’s housing stakeholders about the proposed Multi-Family Housing Incentives program where the City will offer incentives to develop multi-family housing developments in the community.  Post survey feedback resulted in Council voting in favour of waiving the Development Cost Charge for both market and non-market units in non- profit affordable housing developments.  The proposed program recommends exempting taxes on qualifying projects for 10 years in north Quesnel and 5 years in sections of West Riverside and Riverview neighbourhoods.  The proposed incentive package also recommends waiving development cost charges 100% for affordable units and 25-50% for units meeting low environmental impact criteria.  Next steps include Staff bringing a report and bylaws for Council consideration.

2016 Strategic Plan

Council approved the Corporation’s 2016 Strategic Plan.  For full details please visit the City’s website at www.quesnel.ca. 

South Quesnel Parkland & Greenspace Enhancement Proposal

After listening to the public’s input at the April 27, 2016 public consultation at Dragon Lake Elementary School, regarding the proposed South Quesnel Parkland & Greenspace Enhancement, Council voted to defeat the Bylaw 1798 and 1799 and to cancel the previously scheduled May 10^th Public Hearing.

Next Meetings

-    7 pm - May 10^th – Regular Council

-    5:30 pm – May 17^th – North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee

NCLGA 2016 - Day 2

Today is Day 2 of the NCLGA Convention. On the Agenda:

* Breakfast Speech to Delegates - Geoscience and Mineral Exploration & Development in Northern BC
* Opening Ceremony
* UBCM Update
* Municipal Finance Authority & Municipal Insurance Association Updates
* Resolution Debates
* Panel Session -- Boom & Bust: Growing Pains
* Panel Session -- First Nations & Local Governments: First Steps Toward a Better Tomorrow
* NCLGA Banquet

As you can see above - a full packed day! Enjoy yours

~SF

Day 1 of NCLGA 2016

Today is the official launch of the 2016 North Central Local Government Association's Convention/AGM in Dawson Creek

Registered delegations will take in one of two Tours from 8:30am - 4:30pm:

Energy Tour - Energy House, take in the Village of Pouce Coupe, Bear Mountain Wind Park and Site ‘C’ Clean Energy Project.

South Peace Circle Tour - explore Tumbler Ridge, including the Dinosaur Discovery Gallery as well as lunch and continue the circle
through to Chetwynd where you will see the world class chainsaw carvings and tour the pellet mill.

Then from 2-4pm - the Northern Medical Program Trust (NMPT) AGM will take place (Editor's Note - I regret that I won't be able to take in this event as I won't be back from the Energy Tour to observe the AGM as my colleague, John Massier, was recently nominated by the CCRHD for an additional term. I hope to see him back as NMPT Chair

Then from 5:30pm - 8pm - a Welcome Reception and Community Leadership Awards Presentation with an additional Wine/Cheese Event for NCLGA Delegates to occur at Chances Dawson Creek from 8pm to 10:30pm

Have a great day!

~SF