Let’s stay the course on COVID-19

 Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Without question, this pandemic is testing our patience. As a society, we’ve really not experienced anything like this protracted, resulting in an invisible assault on our economic and social systems.

We’re being tested both individually and collectively, and every lapse in our social distancing and sanitation discipline is resulting in an increase in cases and more demands for more restrictive public health orders that will test our collective patience even more. We’re in a vicious cycle that can only be broken if everyone (or at least the vast majority of us) adheres to public health orders, directives, and advice; regardless if we “agree” with them or not.

These orders and directives are relatively simple: wash your hands often and thoroughly, wear a mask when in public spaces, keep your social bubble small, keep your distance from those not in your bubble, don’t travel if you don’t absolutely have to, and self-isolate if you feel any flu or cold-like symptoms.

If we want to avoid more stringent lockdowns and another major assaults on our economic system, and we want to get back to some kind of normal social interaction … as the NIKE ad used to say: “Just do it!” If not for your own sake, then do it for the sake of others, especially our elders and people in our community who are immunocompromised.

As a Council, we’re doing what we can to mitigate the impact of this pandemic on our local economy, our social systems, and the City’s budget (which determines your property taxation).

The latter was helped greatly by a $2.5 million COVID-19 Safe Restart Grant from the Province that is intended to assist the City to deal with lost revenues and increased costs due to COVID-19, emergency planning and response, upgrading our connectivity and technology, and COVID-19 impacts on vulnerable populations. Council’s Finance Committee will be incorporating this much needed and much appreciated financial assistance into our 2021 budget.

Our business support team (a proactive partnership with Quesnel’s Business Associations, the Chamber of Commerce, and Community Futures) continues to work to support all of the registered businesses operating in the North Cariboo. They will be conducting another round of direct contact with businesses to ensure they are aware of the current round of federal and provincial business supports.

We’re also working with the not-for-profit sector to better understand our community’s needs, especially as we head into the Christmas season. Part of this work includes attempts to find suitable replacement programs to fill the vacuum created by the cancellation of the Christmas Food Hamper program.

As my mother often says: “this too shall pass.” So, while we wait for an effective vaccine to be approved and distributed, let’s continue to exercise discipline and patience by staying the course and, as a result, minimizing the impact that COVID-19 can have on our economic and social systems.

Bob Simpson is the Mayor of Quesnel, BC.  He can be reached via email here

Williams Lake Council Highlights - Nov 17th mtg

Present: Mayor W. Cobb and Councillors Boehm, Bonnell, Brenner, Ryll, Smith and Nelson (via teleconference)

Meeting called to order -- 6:00pm

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the WL City Council meeting held on November 3rd, 2020 and the Special Council meeting on November 10th, 2020 were both received/adopted

Delegations and/or Presentations - None

Business:   

 

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated October 30, November 5, 6 and 12, 2020

2)  Council approved entering into a Memorandum of Agreement with the Cariboo Friendship Society for their Lease of the “Longhouse” located in the Stampede Park to permit the temporary added use of COVID housing on the premises through May 31, 2021.

3) Development Approval Procedures Amendment Bylaw No. 2337, 2020 was introduced and given 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings.  This amendment bylaw is a housekeeping measure to clarify processes and language of the new City of Williams Lake Development Approval Procedures Bylaw which was passed in October 2019

4) Council adopted Permissive Property Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 2342, 2020

5) Council received the Minutes of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting held October 28, 2020

6) Council received for information the letter from the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development - Water Management (FLNRORD) dated November 9, 2020 and attached Change Approval for City of Williams Lake File 5003029, authorizing the use of lake harvester equipment on areas of Williams Lake as specified in the letter from FLNRORD 

7) Council received the 'Council Information Package' as of November 17th, 2020 as follows:

* October 23, 2020 - CRD Board Highlights

* November 2, 2020 - Ministry of Children and Family Development re Celebrating November as Adoption Awareness Month

* November 10, 2020 - IHA Release re Surging COVID-19 Cases Throughout Region Becoming Concern

* November 12, 2020 - DWLBIA re 2020 Winter Lights Reverse Parade Registration Information

COVID-19 Update -- Mayor Cobb provided an update to Council

Members of Council and the CAO reported on their recent activities... 

Media Question Period -- update on Frizzi Road

Council agreed to adjourn at 6:20pm

November 17th, 2020 BC #COVID-19 Numbers Update

Joint Statement of BC's Provincial Health Officer/Minister of Health (Dr. Bonnie Henry/Hon. Adrian Dix):

“Today, we are reporting 717 new cases of COVID-19, including one epi-linked case, for a total of 23,661 cases in British Columbia.

“There are 6,589 active cases of COVID-19 in the province. There are 198 individuals currently hospitalized with COVID-19, 63 of whom are in intensive care. The remaining people are recovering at home in self-isolation.

“Currently, 10,960 people are under active public health monitoring as a result of identified exposure to known cases and 16,469 people who tested positive have recovered.

“We have had 177 new cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, 484 in the Fraser Health region, 16 in the Island Health region, 18 in the Interior Health region, 21 in the Northern Health region and one new case of a person who resides outside of Canada.

“There have been 11 new COVID-19 related deaths, for a total of 310 deaths in British Columbia. We offer our condolences to everyone who has lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We have one new health-care facility outbreak at Tsawaayuss-Rainbow Gardens in the Island Health region. There have been no new community outbreaks.

“We need everyone working together to stay small, stay local and help us slow the spread of COVID-19 in our province.

“The biggest impact you can make is through the small actions you take every day.

“Just as we put on our jackets to keep us warm in the rain and snow, so too are our COVID-19 safety layers there to protect all of us. Washing your hands, keeping a safe distance and always wearing a mask in places where you are around people you don’t know – these things make a difference.  

“We have seen an increase in new cases on Vancouver Island, in the Interior and in the North, many of which are connected to travel to and from the Lower Mainland. That is why is it important that we stay local and travel less right now.

“When we spend time inside with people from outside of our household, our work group or school cohort, the risks increase for everyone. Instead, let’s stay connected virtually and make it a safer winter for all of us.”

Learn More:

Nov. 12 modelling update:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/modelling-projections

To find the provincial health officer’s orders, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/current-health-topics/covid-19-novel-coronavirus

Guidance on new restrictions for those in the Fraser and Vancouver Coastal health regions: http://gov.bc.ca/regionalrestrictions

Businesses in the Fraser Health and Vancouver Coastal health regions with group physical activities can submit their plans to: ehvc@vch.ca
Or worksitefitnessplans@fraserhealth.ca

BCCDC’s safer celebrations guidance:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/social-interactions/safer-celebrations

BCCDC national and international COVID-19 epidemiological data:
https://bccdc.shinyapps.io/covid19_global_epi_app/

To see a map of COVID-19 cases by local health area, visit: 
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/data

If you are experiencing symptoms, find a collection centre near you to get tested: 
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/testing

For mental health and anxiety support, visit: www.bouncebackbc.ca
Or: www.anxietycanada.com

For a listing of the community exposure events, go to:
BCCDC (flights, work sites, etc.): http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/public-exposures
Fraser Health: fraserhealth.ca/covid19exposure
Interior Health: https://news.interiorhealth.ca/news/public-exposures/
Island Health: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about-health/covid-19/outbreaks-and-exposures
Northern Health: https://www.northernhealth.ca/health-topics/outbreaks-and-exposures
Vancouver Coastal: http://www.vch.ca/covid-19/public-exposures

For the latest medical updates, including case counts, prevention, risks and testing, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/
Or follow @CDCofBC on Twitter.

For non-health related information, including financial, child care and education supports, travel, transportation and essential service information, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/covid19
Or call 1 888 COVID19 (1 888 268-4319) between 7:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. (Pacific time), seven days a week.

For the latest videos and livestreaming of COVID-19 media availabilities, visit:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BCProvincialGovernment/ 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BCGovNews
YouTube: www.youtube.com/ProvinceofBC

Masks and COVID-19: Protecting You/Community

Op-Ed from Dr. Bonnie Henry - BC's Provincial Health Officer:

British Columbians have been nimble in adapting their individual actions to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our communities over the last ten months, and it has had a big impact.

Our actions have helped keep our hospitals, schools and workplaces open – and protect the ones we love.

Such essential actions include maintaining a safe distance from others, cleaning our hands and staying home if we get sick. Using masks appropriately is another important example of an individual act that results in a collective good. Each of these is a layer of protection to guard against a virus that never rests.

Some people are asking when we will see masks mandated in B.C. The answer is that they already are. The mandate to use masks appropriately is a cornerstone of businesses’ and organizations’ COVID-19 safety plans, and is embedded in our health-care facilities’ operational policies and restart protocols in other public institutions.

Despite how it might appear when we watch the news or go on social media, research shows that most of us in B.C. are doing the right things most of the time. Ordering universal mask use in all situations creates unnecessary challenges with enforcement and stigmatization. We need only look at the COVID-19 transmission rates in other jurisdictions that have tried using such orders to see what little benefit these orders by themselves have served. We also know that when orders and fines are in place, it is racialized people and those living in poverty or homeless who are most often targeted.

Each day, we are continuing to learn more about the virus and how it spreads. Right now, we are seeing rapid transmission in social gatherings where masks would not be worn anyway, in certain workplaces and risky indoor settings, like group fitness activities. Provincial health officer orders are always a last resort and we have used them carefully to address these recent trends.

The orders we have in place now complement our clear and expressed expectation that people will wear masks in indoor public places like shopping malls, stores, on ferries and transit.

Our orders also mandate that businesses and workplaces must have COVID-19 safety plans in place. These should include mask wearing, in addition to barriers, reduced numbers of people in spaces, screening of workers and the public and availability of hand cleaning and sanitation. Staff and customers must abide by these plans and businesses must offer virtual, online or contactless alternatives to customers who cannot wear a mask. COVID-19 safety plans are enforceable and something businesses and workplaces now plan for and have in place, in accordance with our orders.

We know that people want to do the right thing when they understand the reasons behind our thinking and have the tools they need to do what is asked of them. Mask use is important, and we need everyone to have the same understanding of our expectations. Wearing a mask will never eliminate all risks, but it is a significant part of the layers of protection that can help protect us, our loved ones and our community. Now more than ever, it is a measure we must all take.

An order can never replace our personal commitment. We need to be responsible for our own actions – that is how we all pull together. I wear a mask, and I expect each of you who can to wear one too.

November 16th, 2020 BC #COVID-19 Numbers Update

Joint Statement from BC's Provincial Health Officer/Minister of Health (Dr. Bonnie Henry/Hon. Adrian Dix):

“Today, we are reporting on three 24-hour periods. From Nov. 13 to 14, we had 654 new cases. From Nov. 14 to 15, we had 659 new cases and in the last 24 hours, we have had a further 646 new cases.

“This represents a total of 1,959 new cases of COVID-19, including three epi-linked cases, for a total of 22,944 cases in British Columbia.

“There are 6,279 active cases of COVID-19 in the province. There are 181 individuals currently hospitalized with COVID-19, 57 of whom are in intensive care. The remaining people are recovering at home in self-isolation.

“Currently, 10,928 people are under active public health monitoring as a result of identified exposure to known cases and 16,087 people who tested positive have recovered.

“Since we last reported, we have had 455 new cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, 1,361 in the Fraser Health region, 41 in the Island Health region, 87 in the Interior Health region, 14 in the Northern Health region and one new case of someone who resides outside of Canada.

“There have been nine new COVID-19 related deaths, for a total of 299 deaths in British Columbia. We offer our condolences to everyone who has lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We have 11 new health-care facility outbreaks at Al Hogg Pavilion, Jackman Manor, George Derby Centre, Kiwanis Care Centre, Columbus Residence, Holy Family Hospital, Arbutus Care Centre, PICS Assisted Living, Village by the Station, Hamlets at Westsyde and Burnaby Hospital. The outbreaks at Haro Park Centre, Pinegrove Place, the Village at Mill Creek and Rosemary Heights Seniors Village are now over. In total, 41 long-term care or assisted-living facilities and seven acute-care facilities have active outbreaks.

“There have been two new community outbreaks at the Platinum Athletic Club and at Cambridge Elementary school.

“Through the COVID-19 pandemic, the individual efforts of people in B.C. have helped to keep our hospitals, schools and workplaces open, and to protect the ones we love.

“It is the small yet essential efforts, like staying home when ill, not having social gatherings, minimizing our travel, maintaining a safe distance from others and using masks, that have a big impact.

“Today, we have seen that much of the transmission is occurring in private homes at social gatherings, at workplaces where people are gathering, or in risky indoor settings, like group fitness activities. These are all locations where there are limited layers of protection and people are not wearing masks.

“Masks are especially important in businesses and public spaces, on transit and ferries, when we are around people we don’t know and are unable to keep a safe distance. This also includes indoor public places like shopping malls, stores and community centres.

“It is important to remember that businesses are required to ensure the health and safety of their employees and right now, that means a requirement to have COVID-19 safety plans in place to operate.

“In addition to such things as barriers, having fewer people in spaces and health screening, masks are the cornerstone of many COVID-19 safety plans and should be included for all businesses or organizations that have public areas or require employees to gather. For customers who cannot wear a mask, businesses can provide virtual or curbside service instead.

“Equally important, employees and customers are required to abide by these safety plans. You wouldn’t ask a business owner to operate outside of their posted business hours, nor should you expect them to bend their COVID-19 rules for you.

“This is a critical time for all of us. Getting through this surge in new cases and through this pandemic requires all of us to do our part and support each other to do the same. It is how we reduce our risks and protect ourselves, our loved ones and our communities.”

Learn More:

Nov. 12 modelling update:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/modelling-projections

To find the provincial health officer’s orders, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/current-health-topics/covid-19-novel-coronavirus

Guidance on new restrictions for those in the Fraser and Vancouver Coastal health regions: http://gov.bc.ca/regionalrestrictions

Businesses in the Fraser Health and Vancouver Coastal health regions with group physical activities can submit their plans to: ehvc@vch.ca
Or worksitefitnessplans@fraserhealth.ca

BCCDC’s safer celebrations guidance:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/social-interactions/safer-celebrations

BCCDC national and international COVID-19 epidemiological data:
https://bccdc.shinyapps.io/covid19_global_epi_app/

To see a map of COVID-19 cases by local health area, visit: 
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/data

If you are experiencing symptoms, find a collection centre near you to get tested: 
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/testing

For mental health and anxiety support, visit: www.bouncebackbc.ca
Or: www.anxietycanada.com

For a listing of the community exposure events, go to:
BCCDC (flights, work sites, etc.): http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/public-exposures
Fraser Health: fraserhealth.ca/covid19exposure
Interior Health: https://news.interiorhealth.ca/news/public-exposures/
Island Health: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about-health/covid-19/outbreaks-and-exposures
Northern Health: https://www.northernhealth.ca/health-topics/outbreaks-and-exposures
Vancouver Coastal: http://www.vch.ca/covid-19/public-exposures

For the latest medical updates, including case counts, prevention, risks and testing, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/
Or follow @CDCofBC on Twitter.

For non-health related information, including financial, child care and education supports, travel, transportation and essential service information, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/covid19
Or call 1 888 COVID19 (1 888 268-4319) between 7:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. (Pacific time), seven days a week.

For the latest videos and livestreaming of COVID-19 media availabilities, visit:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BCProvincialGovernment/ 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BCGovNews
YouTube: www.youtube.com/ProvinceofBC

An PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) Update is provided here

Quesnel/#CaribooRD to increase recreation capital reserves for North Cariboo Recreation/Parks

Joint Release of the City of Quesnel/Cariboo Regional District:

The North Cariboo Joint Advisory Committee (NCJAC) approved the North Cariboo Recreation and Parks (NCRP) five-year financial plan at its regular meeting on November 10, 2020. The proposed plan, which still requires approval and adoption by the Cariboo Regional District Board, will see recreation capital reserves increase by approximately $1.55 million dollars over five years.

The Committee opted for a four percent tax increase in each year of the five-year plan to minimize the financial impact on residents in the first two years of the plan. The original proposal, presented at the October 10, 2020 regular meeting, would have seen taxes increase by 7.5% in 2021, 5% in 2022, and 2.5% for the balance of the five-year plan. The current rate, based upon 2020 property assessments, is $138.00 per $100,000.00 of assessed value

The NCJAC capital reserves are available to help fund major North Cariboo Recreation and Parks (NCRP) capital projects, including unanticipated emergency repairs, replacement and renovation of existing facilities and amenities, and new infrastructure investment. The business plan for the NCRP Service includes a number of potential significant capital projects over the next five years including a proposed renovation of the swimming pool at the Arts and Recreation Centre. Capital reserves for the Service are expected to be just under $700k at the end of 2020. Increasing capital reserves was considered a priority for the Committee in light of aging recreation infrastructure and the anticipated recreational needs of the community. 

The NCRP function supports key assets in our community, including:

• The West Fraser Centre and Arena 2;
• The Quesnel and District Arts and Recreation Centre;
• Community art, sport and general recreation programming;
• The Quesnel Soccer Complex;
• The Alex Fraser Park;
• Pioneer Park on Dragon Lake;
• Bouchie Lake Recreation Commission programs and facilities;
• Parkland Community Association programs and facilities;
• Barlow Creek Recreation Commission programs and facilities;
• Lebourdais Park;
• West Fraser Timber Park;
• Riverfront Trail;
• Trail and other outdoor recreation initiatives.

“Balancing taxation rates against funding requirements requires careful analysis. The Joint Committee’s work in this regard has resulted in a financial plan giving us a solid footing to consider new projects and maintain existing services,” notes CRD Area I (West Fraser – Nazko) Director Jim Glassford. “It also takes into account the financial realities and constraints many residents are currently experiencing.”

“Although raising taxes is something nobody enjoys, it is essential to reestablish our capital reserves,” stated Councillor Laurey-Anne Roodenburg, Co-Chair North Cariboo Joint Advisory Committee. “We need to plan for the future to ensure we can continue to meet our long-term goals and have funds held in reserve for any unexpected expenses.”

View NCJAC October 13, 2020 Meeting Agenda and Minutes

View NCJAC November 10, 2020 Meeting Agenda 

Local Gov't Mtgs - Week of November 16-20

The following local governments' of the Cariboo-Chilcotin are meeting next week, as follows:

Quesnel -- As noted below:

City Council -- Regular Meeting on Tuesday, November 17th at 6pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Downtown Business Improvement Association - Request for Bylaw Renewal

* Committee Reports

* Southern Dakelh Nation Alliance Calls for RCMP Investigation into Systemic Racism and Violence Against Indigenous Peoples in Quesnel

* COVID-19 Safe Restart Grants for Local Governments – Federal/Provincial Funding

* 2 NDIT Grant Applications -- Economic Infrastructure and Community Places Streams 

* 3 NDIT Annual Grant Applications -- Local Government Intern; Economic Development Capacity Building and Grant Writer Support

View the full Agenda here

Executive Committee -- Regular Meeting on Wednesday, November 18th.  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

School District #28 (Quesnel) -- Regular Board of Education Meeting at 7pm on Wednesday, November 18th - 401 Northstar Rd, Quesnel.  When available, the Agenda can be accessed here

Williams Lake - Regular City Council Meeting on Tuesday, November 17th at 6pm, Williams Lake Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Stampede Park Lease MOA - COVID Housing as Temporary Use at Longhouse

* Development Approval Procedures Amendment Bylaw No. 2337, 2020 (For 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings)

* Permissive Property Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 2342, 2020 - Adoption

* Letter from FLNRORD re: Change Approval for Use of Lake Harvester on Specified Areas of Williams Lake

View the full Agenda here

BC updates measures to enforce Lower Mainland COVID-19 Public Safety

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

The Hon. Mike Farnworth, BC's Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, is aligning the Province’s ticketing measures with the provincial health officer’s (PHO) orders, giving police and other provincial enforcement officers the ability to issue violation tickets for additional contraventions in the Vancouver Coastal Health and Fraser Health regions.

The new ticketing measures under the Emergency Program Act apply to party buses and limousines. The measures allow police and other enforcement officers to issue additional fines. People who operate or permit operation of perimeter-seating vehicles or perimeter-seating buses in contravention of the PHO’s orders will be subject to a $2,000 fine. People taking part in a social gathering on a bus or limousine in these regions could face individual fines of $200.

All ticketing measures previously announced in August and September 2020 to enforce COVID-19 public safety at gatherings and events will remain in effect throughout the province.

In addition to enabling action from police, compliance and enforcement staff from provincial ministries will continue to support enforcement and help issue tickets. This includes liquor, cannabis and gaming inspectors, community safety unit inspectors and conservation officers.

Working in partnership with local governments and other agencies, a comprehensive and integrated compliance and enforcement regime has been built. These violation tickets build on existing tools, such as the ability to suspend or revoke the business or liquor licences of problematic operators.

Quick Facts:

• Section E of the PHO’s revised order on gatherings and events prohibits the operation of party buses in affected areas. This prohibition is in place until rescinded by the PHO.
• In this case, “affected areas” refers to the Fraser Health and Vancouver Coastal Health regions.
• Shuttles and small buses may still operate to transport people to and from work, work meetings or health-care appointments.
• The specifics around orders of the PHO, including the numbers allowable at gatherings and events, will continue to be set at the direction of the PHO.
• To report concerns around order violations from event organizers, venues or individuals, people are asked to contact their local government’s bylaw office. Local bylaw officers can help follow up on concerns and engage police departments, health officers and WorkSafeBC as necessary. If unable to reach a local bylaw office, contact the local police department’s non-emergency line.

Learn More:

All PHO orders are available here: www.gov.bc.ca/phoguidance

Violation tickets for unsafe behaviour:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/covid-19-provincial-support/violation-tickets

Restrictions in the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley: www.gov.bc.ca/regionalrestrictions

The Aug. 21, 2020, news release on ticketing measures for gatherings and events is available online: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020PSSG0046-001568

For more information on non-medical issues like travel recommendations and how to manage social isolation, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/COVID-19

For more information and latest medical updates on COVID-19, follow the BC Centre for Disease Control on Twitter @CDCofBC or visit its website: http://www.bccdc.ca

November 13th BC #COVID-19 Numbers Update

Joint Statement from BC's Provincial Health Officer/Minister of Health (Dr. Bonnie Henry/Hon. Adrian Dix):

“Today, we are reporting 617 new cases of COVID-19, for a total of 20,985 cases in British Columbia.

“There are 5,579 active cases of COVID-19 in the province and 167 individuals are hospitalized with COVID-19, 50 of whom are in intensive care. The remaining people are recovering at home in self-isolation.

“Currently, 12,016 people are under active public health monitoring as a result of identified exposure to known cases, and 14,901 people who tested positive have recovered.

“We have had 130 new cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, 424 in the Fraser Health region, 16 in the Island Health region, 42 in the Interior Health region, five in the Northern Health region and no new cases of people who reside outside of Canada.

“There have been two new COVID-19 related deaths, for a total of 290 deaths in British Columbia. We offer our condolences to everyone who has lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We have three new health-care facility outbreaks at Sun Pointe Village, Capilano Care Centre and Fraserview Intermediate Care Lodge. The outbreaks at Queens Park Hospital, Lakeview Care Centre, Yaletown House and St. Michael’s Centre are now over. In total, 35 long-term care or assisted-living facilities and six acute-care facilities have active outbreaks.

“There have been no new community outbreaks and the outbreaks at Coast Spas and Pace Processing are now over.

“As yesterday’s modelling update clearly showed, this is a critical time for everyone in our province. We need to act now to protect our loved ones, our Elders and our communities.

“When faced with a resurgence of COVID-19, it can be difficult to muster the strength to keep moving forward, yet British Columbians continue to show unwavering resilience and fortitude to support friends and neighbours in our communities and take care of those who are most at risk, by following the orders and using our layers of protection.

“This weekend, we encourage everyone to have a safe start to Diwali celebrations by staying home, limiting your travel and connecting virtually instead.

“Now is the time for everyone, right across our province, to do their part to slow the spread of COVID-19 - to be leaders by working together with a common purpose to push our curve back down.”

Learn More:

Nov. 12 modelling update:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/modelling-projections

To find the PHO’s orders, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/current-health-topics/covid-19-novel-coronavirus

Guidance on new restrictions for those in the Fraser and Vancouver Coastal Health regions: http://gov.bc.ca/regionalrestrictions

Businesses in the Fraser Health and Vancouver Coastal Health regions with group physical activities can submit their plans to: ehvc@vch.ca
Or worksitefitnessplans@fraserhealth.ca

BCCDC’s safer celebrations guidance, including for Diwali:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/social-interactions/safer-celebrations

BCCDC national and international COVID-19 epidemiological data:
https://bccdc.shinyapps.io/covid19_global_epi_app/

To see a map of COVID-19 cases by local health area, visit: 
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/data

If you are experiencing symptoms, find a collection centre near you to get tested: 
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/testing

For mental health and anxiety support, visit: www.bouncebackbc.ca
Or: www.anxietycanada.com

For a listing of the community exposure events, go to:
BCCDC (flights, work sites, etc.): http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/public-exposures
Fraser Health: fraserhealth.ca/covid19exposure
Interior Health: https://news.interiorhealth.ca/news/public-exposures/
Island Health: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about-health/covid-19/outbreaks-and-exposures
Northern Health: https://www.northernhealth.ca/health-topics/outbreaks-and-exposures
Vancouver Coastal: http://www.vch.ca/covid-19/public-exposures

For the latest medical updates, including case counts, prevention, risks and testing, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/
Or follow @CDCofBC on Twitter.

For non-health related information, including financial, child care and education supports, travel, transportation and essential service information, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/covid19
Or call 1 888 COVID19 (1 888 268-4319) between 7:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. (Pacific time), seven days a week.

For the latest videos and livestreaming of COVID-19 media availabilities, visit:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BCProvincialGovernment/ 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BCGovNews
YouTube: www.youtube.com/ProvinceofBC

Nov 12th BC #COVID-19 Numbers Update

Joint Statement from BC's Provincial Health Officer/Minister of Health (Dr. Bonnie Henry/Hon. Adrian Dix):

“Today, we are reporting on two 24-hour periods. From Nov. 10 to 11, we had 536 new cases. In the last 24 hours, we have had a further 594 new cases.

“This represents 1,130 new cases of COVID-19, for a total of 20,368 cases in British Columbia.

“There are 5,793 active cases of COVID-19 in the province. Currently, 155 individuals are hospitalized with COVID-19, 44 of whom are in intensive care. The remaining people are recovering at home in self-isolation.

“There are 11,091 people under active public health monitoring as a result of identified exposure to known cases and 14,089 people who tested positive have recovered.

“We have had 249 new cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, 808 in the Fraser Health region, 16 in the Island Health region, 34 in the Interior Health region, 23 in the Northern Health region and no new cases of people who reside outside of Canada.

“There have been four new COVID-19 related deaths, for a total of 288 deaths in British Columbia. We offer our condolences to everyone who has lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We have six new health-care facility outbreaks at Chartwell Langley Gardens, Peace Portal Seniors Village, The Harrison at Elim Village, Finnish Manor, Dania Home and at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital. The outbreaks at CareLife Fleetwood, Hamilton Village and Mayfair Terrace Retirement Residence are over. In total, 35 long-term care or assisted-living facilities and seven acute-care facilities have active outbreaks.

“The latest COVID-19 modelling data shows some highly concerning trends that we all need to pay attention to.

“As we have seen in many parts of Canada and the world, here in B.C. the rate of transmission has risen rapidly in the past few weeks. The rate of increase puts all of us at risk. Without a slowdown, it will make it difficult to manage and contain the virus in our province.

“While the latest orders may focus on the highest spread in the Lower Mainland, we are seeing notable increases everywhere – in the Interior, on Vancouver Island and in the North.

“This is a critical time for us, and we all need to act now.

“We need to slow the spread of COVID-19, and we are asking for your support to do that. We need you to pause and step back from your social interactions and to help others do the same.

“The data shows us that the virus is able to transmit far more easily in the colder weather when we are spending more time indoors, which means that many of the things that we were able to do safely this summer are no longer safe.

“We need to maintain capacity in our health-care system to care for those with COVID-19 and other illnesses, we need to keep our schools open and we need to ensure we can continue the many other essential activities in our communities. That is why we must all act now.

“We are asking a lot of everyone and we recognize that what we are asking of you may be hard, so let’s support each other to make this happen. Let’s remember that we know what we need to do, because we have done it before – and we have done it well.

“The people of B.C. have been the examples of ‘what to do right,’ of how to support friends and neighbours in our communities and take care of those in need. Let’s continue to be leaders to push our curve back down and protect our loved ones, our Elders and our communities.”

Learn More:

To learn more about today’s modelling presentation, visit:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/modelling-projections

To find the PHO’s orders, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/current-health-topics/covid-19-novel-coronavirus

Guidance on new restrictions for those in the Fraser and Vancouver Coastal Health regions: http://gov.bc.ca/regionalrestrictions

Businesses in the Fraser Health and Vancouver Coastal Health regions with group physical activities can submit their plans to: ehvc@vch.ca
Or worksitefitnessplans@fraserhealth.ca

BCCDC’s safer celebrations guidance, including for Remembrance Day:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/social-interactions/safer-celebrations

BCCDC national and international COVID-19 epidemiological data:
https://bccdc.shinyapps.io/covid19_global_epi_app/

To see a map of COVID-19 cases by local health area, visit: 
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/data

If you are experiencing symptoms, find a collection centre near you to get tested: 
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/testing

For mental health and anxiety support, visit: www.bouncebackbc.ca
Or: www.anxietycanada.com

For a listing of the community exposure events, go to:
BCCDC (flights, work sites, etc.): http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/public-exposures
Fraser Health: fraserhealth.ca/covid19exposure
Interior Health: https://news.interiorhealth.ca/news/public-exposures/
Island Health: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about-health/covid-19/outbreaks-and-exposures
Northern Health: https://www.northernhealth.ca/health-topics/outbreaks-and-exposures
Vancouver Coastal: http://www.vch.ca/covid-19/public-exposures

For the latest medical updates, including case counts, prevention, risks and testing, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/
Or follow @CDCofBC on Twitter.

For non-health related information, including financial, child care and education supports, travel, transportation and essential service information, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/covid19
Or call 1 888 COVID19 (1 888 268-4319) between 7:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. (Pacific time), seven days a week.

For the latest videos and livestreaming of COVID-19 media availabilities, visit:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BCProvincialGovernment/ 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BCGovNews
YouTube: www.youtube.com/ProvinceofBC

Updates on Surgeries and Contact Tracing Hires can be viewed here

Cariboo RD's Strategic Planning Session - Nov 12th mtg

Present: Chair M. Wagner; Directors Massier, Forseth, Delainey, LeBourdais, Richmond, Macdonald, Fourchalk, Campsall, Cobb and Directors Sjostrom, Bachmeier and Simpson (via teleconference)

Meeting called to order - 1:00pm

Meeting Agenda adopted

The Board commenced its' mid term review of its' Strategic Plan for years 2020-2022 inclusive.... 

The CAO responded to questions from Directors'... 

The Board adjourned at 4:00pm

Evacuation Order Rescinded for 3 Frizzi Road Properties

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

On October 31, 2020, an Evacuation Order was placed on three industrial properties on Frizzi Road. The City of Williams Lake’s Emergency Operations Centre has been advised that the imminent danger to life and property for these properties has partially diminished at this time, and has rescinded the Order. 

The Evacuation Order affects the following properties: 

• 4005 Frizzi Road – Lot 10, Plan PGP15181, District Lot 8843, Cariboo Land District; 

• 4007 Frizzi Road – Lot 9, Plan PGP15181, District Lot 8843, Cariboo Land District; and 

• 4009 Frizzi Road – Lot 8, Plan PGP15181, District Lot 8843, Cariboo Land District 

The Emergency Operations Center continues to monitor the situation surrounding the noted properties in partnership with the property owners. The property owners are allowed to return with the understanding that they must remain aware of any hazards, and practice caution while occupying the site. As well, they are advised to restrict access to all persons (including employees and members of public) within 25 meters from the crest of the slope of the subject properties for personal or business purposes. Due to the possibility of changing conditions, an Evacuation Alert or Order may need to be reissued should the risk to danger of life and property again warrant such action. Property owners will be given as much advance notice as possible should an Evacuation Alert or Order be reissued.

Quesnel's Policy/Bylaw Committee meets today!

This afternoon at 3:15pm -- Quesnel Council's "Policy/Bylaw Committee" will meet at Quesnel City Hall (410 Kinchant St).  

On the Agenda:

* Property Disposition Policy - Surplus Parks

* Quesnel Council Procedure Bylaw - Electronic Meetings

The full Agenda can be viewed here

SF

Honouring and supporting our seniors

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

In a “normal” year, Quesnel residents show up in great numbers for the Remembrance Day ceremonies at our Cenotaph. The pandemic made this community gathering impossible this year and the Legion made the correct decision to hold a smaller indoor ceremony to remember and celebrate our veterans.

But, in this abnormal year, our inability to gather together for a Remembrance Day ceremony provides us with an opportunity to think more deeply about how we honour and celebrate not just our veterans, but all our elders all year long.

Anyone paying attention to the evolution of this pandemic knows that seniors have been particularly vulnerable to the virus and the highest proportion of COVID-related deaths have been in this demographic, particularly those seniors living in institutional settings. The pandemic has provided morbid evidence of what Senior’s Advocates have been saying for too long: our seniors care institutions are underfunded, understaffed, under resourced, and under scrutinized by outside agencies.

Supports for seniors living outside of public and private institutions are also scarce, leaving too many seniors vulnerable to ill-health, abuse, and isolated living conditions. Supports for families who are doing what they can to care for their ageing parents are also very limited, leaving some with little recourse but to abandon their aged parents in emergency rooms in the hopes that this will force the health care system to respond to their needs.

Wait lists for senior’s care beds are getting longer, and too many seniors end up spending their last days in hospital wards ill-suited to enable them to live their final days with the dignity and grace they deserve. Referring to seniors who end up stuck in hospital beds because appropriate care is not available for them as “bed-blockers” has the effect of placing the blame on the seniors rather than the system that is failing them in their final years and days.

It’s my hope that when the new Provincial Government is sworn in with their four-year majority mandate, their promises about addressing the serious systemic issues in our senior’s care system will be a top priority. We desperately need a massive rethink and increase in funding for home care and related supports for seniors and more supportive housing for seniors across the spectrum of care (independent living, assisted living, dementia care, and long-term care).

Closer to home, Quesnel Council worked with our senior’s community to assist them to establish the North Cariboo Seniors Council and the City continues to provide support to this group as it gets established. More importantly, Quesnel City Council will constantly and continuously seek advice and direction from the Seniors Council on where it should put both its political capital and taxpayer funding to best support seniors in our region.

The North Cariboo Seniors Council has already done amazing work and has huge potential to assist our community to support our seniors in multiple ways. You can contact and volunteer with this group through their website www.caribooseniorscouncil.org or by attending their AGM (November 25, at 6:30 PM at the Seniors Centre).

Please, as you reflect on our veterans this week … extend your thoughts to our entire seniors’ community and commit to engaging in their care and support all year long and in whatever way you can.

Bob Simpson is the Mayor of Quesnel, BC.  He can be reached via email here