I believe my previous views on CRD Bylaw #4420, 2008 (Proposed Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Function) are well known in my previous blog entries. The AAP (Alternate Approval Process) or Counter-Petition Form has now been released. The deadline to hand in the AAP/Counter-Petition Form is Monday, November 17th, 2008 at 4pm. Forms can be delivered to the Cariboo Regional District office in Williams Lake (180 North 3rd Avenue - Across from Sam's Restaurant).
If you want a copy of the form, please email me at apsecrty@telus.net and I will e-mail you one. I also intend to go door-to-door in Electoral Area 'F', while campaigning, and make people aware of the proposed Function and give them a AAP Form to fill out if they are opposed to this Function, like I am.
You must be a resident of the City of Williams Lake, or a resident of Electoral Area D, E, F for your AAP Form to count
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Local Government Election News - Update
Hello all:
Councillor Surinderpal Rathor has publicly announced his intention to seek a 6th mandate from the voters' of Williams Lake. The story is here
Also, Geoff Bourdon and Sheila Mortensen have now filed their papers' at City Hall (City of Williams Lake) bringing the number of Councillor Candidates to 4 out of 8. Tom Barr and Laurie Walters have also filed their election papers
Councillor Surinderpal Rathor has publicly announced his intention to seek a 6th mandate from the voters' of Williams Lake. The story is here
Also, Geoff Bourdon and Sheila Mortensen have now filed their papers' at City Hall (City of Williams Lake) bringing the number of Councillor Candidates to 4 out of 8. Tom Barr and Laurie Walters have also filed their election papers
Monday, October 6, 2008
Local Government Election - Monday Oct 6/08
I'm going to try and provide an update on Monday and Friday, after the nomination period closes for those whom are seeking office.
As of 11:40am, Monday. The following individuals are confirmed as seeking office for Williams Lake and the Cariboo Regional District:
CRD
Electoral Area Director
Area A - Ted Armstrong (has filed papers) - no challenger
Area B - 1 person has filed papers, Incumbent Ken Falloon has not filed his papers yet
Area C - No nomination
Area D - No nomination
Area E - No nomination
Area F - Steve Forseth and Charlene Hays (100 Mile District Councillor) have both filed papers'
Area G - No nomination
Area H - Art Dumaresq (has filed papers, Incumbent) - no challenger
Area I - No nomination
Area J - No nomination
Area K - No nomination
Area L - Bruce Rattray has filed his papers - no other nominations
City of WL
Mayor
Paul French
Kerry Cook
Councillor
Laurie Walters
Tom Barr
I will post the full list of candidates as soon as practical on Friday afternoon of all candidates for both City of WL + CRD
As of 11:40am, Monday. The following individuals are confirmed as seeking office for Williams Lake and the Cariboo Regional District:
CRD
Electoral Area Director
Area A - Ted Armstrong (has filed papers) - no challenger
Area B - 1 person has filed papers, Incumbent Ken Falloon has not filed his papers yet
Area C - No nomination
Area D - No nomination
Area E - No nomination
Area F - Steve Forseth and Charlene Hays (100 Mile District Councillor) have both filed papers'
Area G - No nomination
Area H - Art Dumaresq (has filed papers, Incumbent) - no challenger
Area I - No nomination
Area J - No nomination
Area K - No nomination
Area L - Bruce Rattray has filed his papers - no other nominations
City of WL
Mayor
Paul French
Kerry Cook
Councillor
Laurie Walters
Tom Barr
I will post the full list of candidates as soon as practical on Friday afternoon of all candidates for both City of WL + CRD
Friday, October 3, 2008
WL Civic Election News
Hello all:
I thought I would update you all on those of us seeking local government office:
Cariboo Regional District: (As of Thursday, Oct 2nd)
Electoral Area Director:
Area D - Sue Zacharias (Incumbent). Rumoured to be running in Williams Lake City Councillor race. No papers filed for this Area
Area E - Brandy Dickey (Incumbent). No papers filed for this area
Area F - Duncan Barnett (Incumbent). Director Barnett has not filed his papers as of Thursday, Oct 2. Steve Forseth (Challenger) has filed his papers as of Tuesday, September 30th. District of 100 Mile House Councillor Charlene Hays is supposedly looking at running in this Area
City of WL: (As of Friday, Oct 3/08 at 5:30pm)
Mayor:
Councillor Paul French - papers are filed with City Hall
Kerry Cook - papers are filed with City Hall
Councillor:
Councillor Tom Barr
Laurie Walters
*** A Reminder that anyone seeking Local Government Office must have their papers filed with either SD #27, City Hall (City of Williams Lake) or the Cariboo Regional District by 4:00pm on Friday, October 10th, 2008 ***
I thought I would update you all on those of us seeking local government office:
Cariboo Regional District: (As of Thursday, Oct 2nd)
Electoral Area Director:
Area D - Sue Zacharias (Incumbent). Rumoured to be running in Williams Lake City Councillor race. No papers filed for this Area
Area E - Brandy Dickey (Incumbent). No papers filed for this area
Area F - Duncan Barnett (Incumbent). Director Barnett has not filed his papers as of Thursday, Oct 2. Steve Forseth (Challenger) has filed his papers as of Tuesday, September 30th. District of 100 Mile House Councillor Charlene Hays is supposedly looking at running in this Area
City of WL: (As of Friday, Oct 3/08 at 5:30pm)
Mayor:
Councillor Paul French - papers are filed with City Hall
Kerry Cook - papers are filed with City Hall
Councillor:
Councillor Tom Barr
Laurie Walters
*** A Reminder that anyone seeking Local Government Office must have their papers filed with either SD #27, City Hall (City of Williams Lake) or the Cariboo Regional District by 4:00pm on Friday, October 10th, 2008 ***
Update to AAP Process - Arts and Culture Function for Central Cariboo
There is a recommendation going to the CRD Board on October 10th recommending the new date for completion of the AAP or Counter-Petition process be November 30th. I will keep you all informed if this recommendation is approved
WL Council Highlights - Sept 30
Delegations:
1) Leeyann Allan from the Canadian Cancer Society invited Council to attend an upcoming cancer
workshop taking place Oct 18th at TRU. The day-long forum will include Key Note Speaker,
Dr. Lynda Belneaves
2) Steve Griffiths of the Timberwolves organization introduced himself to Council and is eager to get started with the marketing of the team. A corporate season ticket drive is currently
underway. Corporate tickets are $380 and $320 for General tickets which includes 30 home
games
3) Council was shown the CRD's "Welcome to the Cariboo-Chilcotin" DVD. This project was jointly completed by the City of Quesnel, Williams Lake, Cariboo-Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association, and the Soda Creek Indian Band. Council members were pleased with the DVD. This DVD was also shown at Canada House during the Beijing Olympics
Business:
1) A letter from the Community Policing Committe advised that they are seeking a new location for the Community Policing office as the existing location does not adequately serve the public.
The Committee requested Council consider the exiting Firehall upon relocation to a new Firehall. Councillor O’Neill suggested that the high cost of having moved several times is using a large portion of their budget and a permanent home needs to be located for them
2) Council authorized entering into an agreement with the Board of Education - School District No 27 which will allow Williams Lake Emergency Social Services to use School District buildings in the event of a large scale emergency
3) L&M Engineering was awarded the contract for the engineering design contract of Cameron
Street from the cul-de-sac east of 5th Avenue N. to 3rd Ave N. in the amount of $33,880
4) The No Parking zone located at 402 Pearkes Drive will be changed from the west side of the
street to the east side of the street. The block located at 402 Pearkes Drive is a short
and narrow section of road. This section of road serves as the entrance to Sun Ridge Gardens.
City staff have had problems in this area with respect to snow removal and maintenance of the
sidewalk. Staff was instructed to notify residences prior to implementing the changes
5) Council approved the deactivation of all water and mechanical systems in Cariboo Lodge at a
cost of $35,000. The system for Heritage House will remain operational
6) Development Permit application was received which will see the upgrade of the local Safeway
Store. Staff was directed to negotiate the incorporation of natural building materials
such as wood, rock, stone or brick into the exterior in order to suit the downtown façade
program. This is a $3 million project
7) The contract for this year’s winter road salt was awarded to McTar Divison of Lafarge Canada
for the tendered price of $162.64 per metric tonne. The City uses approximately 1,200 tons
per season
8) An agreement with First Choice Marketing (Margaret Lipke) Group will be entered into for
a term of five years for the maintenance and sale of advertising panels on the City bus
shelters
9) The following proclamations were made by
Council:
“Waste Reduction Week” - Oct 19th to 25th.
“Restorative Justice Week - Nov 16th to 23rd.
“Foster Family Month will be October of 2008.
“Small Business Week" - Oct 19th to 25th
10) At the invitation of Councillor Mary Sjostrom of Quesnel. A member of staff and one Councillor was approved to attend the Measuring Up the North Project Reception on Oct 2nd in Prince George
11) Councillors Ed Mead and Jon Wolbers informed Council that they would not be seeking reelection in November. Both expressed their sincerest thanks to the city staff and fellow
Council members. Mayor Nelson thanked them both for their hard work and wished them well
in their future endeavors
Next Council Meeting: October 14th, 2008 in Council Chambers (450 Mart Street)
1) Leeyann Allan from the Canadian Cancer Society invited Council to attend an upcoming cancer
workshop taking place Oct 18th at TRU. The day-long forum will include Key Note Speaker,
Dr. Lynda Belneaves
2) Steve Griffiths of the Timberwolves organization introduced himself to Council and is eager to get started with the marketing of the team. A corporate season ticket drive is currently
underway. Corporate tickets are $380 and $320 for General tickets which includes 30 home
games
3) Council was shown the CRD's "Welcome to the Cariboo-Chilcotin" DVD. This project was jointly completed by the City of Quesnel, Williams Lake, Cariboo-Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association, and the Soda Creek Indian Band. Council members were pleased with the DVD. This DVD was also shown at Canada House during the Beijing Olympics
Business:
1) A letter from the Community Policing Committe advised that they are seeking a new location for the Community Policing office as the existing location does not adequately serve the public.
The Committee requested Council consider the exiting Firehall upon relocation to a new Firehall. Councillor O’Neill suggested that the high cost of having moved several times is using a large portion of their budget and a permanent home needs to be located for them
2) Council authorized entering into an agreement with the Board of Education - School District No 27 which will allow Williams Lake Emergency Social Services to use School District buildings in the event of a large scale emergency
3) L&M Engineering was awarded the contract for the engineering design contract of Cameron
Street from the cul-de-sac east of 5th Avenue N. to 3rd Ave N. in the amount of $33,880
4) The No Parking zone located at 402 Pearkes Drive will be changed from the west side of the
street to the east side of the street. The block located at 402 Pearkes Drive is a short
and narrow section of road. This section of road serves as the entrance to Sun Ridge Gardens.
City staff have had problems in this area with respect to snow removal and maintenance of the
sidewalk. Staff was instructed to notify residences prior to implementing the changes
5) Council approved the deactivation of all water and mechanical systems in Cariboo Lodge at a
cost of $35,000. The system for Heritage House will remain operational
6) Development Permit application was received which will see the upgrade of the local Safeway
Store. Staff was directed to negotiate the incorporation of natural building materials
such as wood, rock, stone or brick into the exterior in order to suit the downtown façade
program. This is a $3 million project
7) The contract for this year’s winter road salt was awarded to McTar Divison of Lafarge Canada
for the tendered price of $162.64 per metric tonne. The City uses approximately 1,200 tons
per season
8) An agreement with First Choice Marketing (Margaret Lipke) Group will be entered into for
a term of five years for the maintenance and sale of advertising panels on the City bus
shelters
9) The following proclamations were made by
Council:
“Waste Reduction Week” - Oct 19th to 25th.
“Restorative Justice Week - Nov 16th to 23rd.
“Foster Family Month will be October of 2008.
“Small Business Week" - Oct 19th to 25th
10) At the invitation of Councillor Mary Sjostrom of Quesnel. A member of staff and one Councillor was approved to attend the Measuring Up the North Project Reception on Oct 2nd in Prince George
11) Councillors Ed Mead and Jon Wolbers informed Council that they would not be seeking reelection in November. Both expressed their sincerest thanks to the city staff and fellow
Council members. Mayor Nelson thanked them both for their hard work and wished them well
in their future endeavors
Next Council Meeting: October 14th, 2008 in Council Chambers (450 Mart Street)
Thursday, October 2, 2008
CRD Board Highlights - Sept.19
Delegations - None
Business:
1) The CRD adopted several bylaws which will provide for fire protection in the Interlakes area and an expansion of the Forest Grove Fire Protection boundary to encompass Canim Lake residents. In addition, Horse Lake and Canim Lake water systems bylaws received final approval by the Board
2) Ruth Lake Road residents in the Forest Grove area of the South Cariboo could soon be included in the Forest Grove Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) protection boundary. The CRD has received expressions of interest from Ruth Lake Road residents and will proceed to a formal petition proposal which, if approved, will allow the expansion of fire protection services in the area
3) The Board endorsed an updated version of the CRD’s Strong Regions Grow Strong Sustainable Communities report as a discussion paper for senior government during next week’s Union of BC Municipalities Convention. Minor revisions to the document will be incorporated into the final draft for presentation to a future Board meeting
4) The Board approved a recommendation from the North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee to present a zero percent requisition increase budget for the North Cariboo Recreation and Parks budget
5) The CRD will be hosting a public meeting on September 30, 2008 to provide
6) Changes to recycling programs in the south Cariboo are underway to make recycling more effective. The recycling bins currently located at Save-On Foods and Safeway will be removed and residents will soon be directed to the Gold Trail recycling facility on Exeter Road. Funds currently used to cover transportation costs will be used to expand recycling in the south Cariboo to include tin and glass on a trial basis. A public education program will be launched to ensure that residents are aware of the new recycling opportunities. Watch for further details in local newspapers and on the Regional District website in coming weeks
7) The CRD Board toured the new Quesnel Branch Library construction project on September 18, 2008. The new Library, being constructed in the John Ernst/City Hall building by Vachon Construction Limited of Quesnel, is approximately 80 percent complete. Completion of construction is estimated to occur at the end of October, with the existing Library relocating at that time. The project remains within the original budget allocated for this project
8) CRD Board members will be travelling to Penticton for the annual Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) convention on September 22 to 26. Board members will be meeting with various Ministers to discuss issues of local concern including the impact of the carbon tax on northern regions, expansion of the Cariboo Connector, sewerage system regulations, and others
9) The next Finance/Budget Committee Meeting of the Cariboo Regional District is Thursday, October 9th, 2008 at 6:00pm in the CRD Boardroom with the CRD Board meeting being held on Friday, October 10, 2008 in the CRD Board room in Williams Lake
Business:
1) The CRD adopted several bylaws which will provide for fire protection in the Interlakes area and an expansion of the Forest Grove Fire Protection boundary to encompass Canim Lake residents. In addition, Horse Lake and Canim Lake water systems bylaws received final approval by the Board
2) Ruth Lake Road residents in the Forest Grove area of the South Cariboo could soon be included in the Forest Grove Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) protection boundary. The CRD has received expressions of interest from Ruth Lake Road residents and will proceed to a formal petition proposal which, if approved, will allow the expansion of fire protection services in the area
3) The Board endorsed an updated version of the CRD’s Strong Regions Grow Strong Sustainable Communities report as a discussion paper for senior government during next week’s Union of BC Municipalities Convention. Minor revisions to the document will be incorporated into the final draft for presentation to a future Board meeting
4) The Board approved a recommendation from the North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee to present a zero percent requisition increase budget for the North Cariboo Recreation and Parks budget
5) The CRD will be hosting a public meeting on September 30, 2008 to provide
6) Changes to recycling programs in the south Cariboo are underway to make recycling more effective. The recycling bins currently located at Save-On Foods and Safeway will be removed and residents will soon be directed to the Gold Trail recycling facility on Exeter Road. Funds currently used to cover transportation costs will be used to expand recycling in the south Cariboo to include tin and glass on a trial basis. A public education program will be launched to ensure that residents are aware of the new recycling opportunities. Watch for further details in local newspapers and on the Regional District website in coming weeks
7) The CRD Board toured the new Quesnel Branch Library construction project on September 18, 2008. The new Library, being constructed in the John Ernst/City Hall building by Vachon Construction Limited of Quesnel, is approximately 80 percent complete. Completion of construction is estimated to occur at the end of October, with the existing Library relocating at that time. The project remains within the original budget allocated for this project
8) CRD Board members will be travelling to Penticton for the annual Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) convention on September 22 to 26. Board members will be meeting with various Ministers to discuss issues of local concern including the impact of the carbon tax on northern regions, expansion of the Cariboo Connector, sewerage system regulations, and others
9) The next Finance/Budget Committee Meeting of the Cariboo Regional District is Thursday, October 9th, 2008 at 6:00pm in the CRD Boardroom with the CRD Board meeting being held on Friday, October 10, 2008 in the CRD Board room in Williams Lake
Local Government Election News
Seeing as the nomination period for those who seek Local Government Offices has now commenced, I thought it appropriate to review those seeking office throughout the Cariboo:
City of Quesnel
Mayor - 1 to be elected
Nate Bello - incumbent, confirmed
Mary Sjostrom - challenger, confirmed
Councillor: (6 to be elected)
Sushil Thapar - incumbent, confirmed
City of WL:
Mayor: (1 to be elected)
Paul French - confirmed and has filed papers
Kerry Cook - confirmed and has filed papers
Councillor: (6 to be elected)
Surinderpal Rathor - confirmed
Tom Barr - confirmed and has filed his papers
Judy O'Neill - will announce shortly
Sheila Mortensen - confirmed
Chuck Pearson - confirmed
Geoff Bourdon - confirmed
Laurie Walters - confirmed and has filed her papers at City Hall
Sue Zacharias - rumoured to be running, presently CRD Area 'D' Director
District of Wells - Mayor/Council Candidates unknown at this time
District of 100 Mile House
Mayor - 1 to be elected
Mitch Campsall
Spence Henderson
Councillor - 4 to be elected
Unknown at this time
Cariboo Regional District - 12 Electoral Area Directors to be elected
Area A - Ted Armstrong - incumbent, confirmed/has filed papers
Area B - Unknown - challenger, confirmed/has filed papers
Area C - Seat is open as Incumbent Ronda Wilkins is retiring on December 1st
Area F - Duncan Barnett - incumbent/has not filed papers although his challenger, Steve Forseth is confirmed/has filed papers, District of 100 Mile Councillor Charlene Hays rumoured to be running in this Electoral Area
Area G - Al Richmond - incumbent/has not filed papers
Area H - Art Dumaresq - incumbent/has filed papers
Area I - Seat is open as Incumbent Mary Glassford is retiring on December 1st
Area J - Alex Bracewell - Incumbent/has not filed papers
Area K - Rick Mumford - Incumbent/has not filed papers
Area L - Seat is open as Incumbent Maureen Pinkney is retiring on December 1st, Bruce Rattray has filed his papers for the Area L seat
SD #27 - No individuals have filed for any of the 7 Trustee seats
As always, I will keep you appraised of any news with respect to the above
City of Quesnel
Mayor - 1 to be elected
Nate Bello - incumbent, confirmed
Mary Sjostrom - challenger, confirmed
Councillor: (6 to be elected)
Sushil Thapar - incumbent, confirmed
City of WL:
Mayor: (1 to be elected)
Paul French - confirmed and has filed papers
Kerry Cook - confirmed and has filed papers
Councillor: (6 to be elected)
Surinderpal Rathor - confirmed
Tom Barr - confirmed and has filed his papers
Judy O'Neill - will announce shortly
Sheila Mortensen - confirmed
Chuck Pearson - confirmed
Geoff Bourdon - confirmed
Laurie Walters - confirmed and has filed her papers at City Hall
Sue Zacharias - rumoured to be running, presently CRD Area 'D' Director
District of Wells - Mayor/Council Candidates unknown at this time
District of 100 Mile House
Mayor - 1 to be elected
Mitch Campsall
Spence Henderson
Councillor - 4 to be elected
Unknown at this time
Cariboo Regional District - 12 Electoral Area Directors to be elected
Area A - Ted Armstrong - incumbent, confirmed/has filed papers
Area B - Unknown - challenger, confirmed/has filed papers
Area C - Seat is open as Incumbent Ronda Wilkins is retiring on December 1st
Area D - Incumbent Sue Zacharias is rumoured to be running in City of WL Election for Councillor so the seat may be open by next week
Area E - Brandy Dickey - incumbent/has not filed papersArea F - Duncan Barnett - incumbent/has not filed papers although his challenger, Steve Forseth is confirmed/has filed papers, District of 100 Mile Councillor Charlene Hays rumoured to be running in this Electoral Area
Area G - Al Richmond - incumbent/has not filed papers
Area H - Art Dumaresq - incumbent/has filed papers
Area I - Seat is open as Incumbent Mary Glassford is retiring on December 1st
Area J - Alex Bracewell - Incumbent/has not filed papers
Area K - Rick Mumford - Incumbent/has not filed papers
Area L - Seat is open as Incumbent Maureen Pinkney is retiring on December 1st, Bruce Rattray has filed his papers for the Area L seat
SD #27 - No individuals have filed for any of the 7 Trustee seats
As always, I will keep you appraised of any news with respect to the above
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
WL Arts Council Public Consulting - CRD Bylaw #4420 (Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Function)
A friendly reminder that the Central Cariboo Arts Council is hosting an "Open House" at Heritage House (across from Kiwanis Park) on CRD Bylaw #4420, 2008 tomorrow (Thurs. Sept 18) (Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Function - Financial Contribution). It starts at 4pm and runs until 7pm
If you didn't make the 1st Public Meeting on the above on Sept 10th at the Gibraltar Room and if you have any questions on CRD Bylaw #4420, then I encourage you to go this meeting and ask your questions on this Bylaw as the AAP (Alternative Approval Process - counter-petition) process is slated, at this point, to get underway in October. Again, I intend with my family to vote against this Function as I don't think it is responsible use of taxpayers' dollars and Arts & Culture funding is not a local taxpayer responsibility, but provincial/federal gov't one.
I'm going to be at a School Board (Board of Education - SD#27) meeting tomorrow evening at 7pm, asking the Board their view on the Marie Sharpe Elementary (replacement) Project
If you didn't make the 1st Public Meeting on the above on Sept 10th at the Gibraltar Room and if you have any questions on CRD Bylaw #4420, then I encourage you to go this meeting and ask your questions on this Bylaw as the AAP (Alternative Approval Process - counter-petition) process is slated, at this point, to get underway in October. Again, I intend with my family to vote against this Function as I don't think it is responsible use of taxpayers' dollars and Arts & Culture funding is not a local taxpayer responsibility, but provincial/federal gov't one.
I'm going to be at a School Board (Board of Education - SD#27) meeting tomorrow evening at 7pm, asking the Board their view on the Marie Sharpe Elementary (replacement) Project
Central Cariboo/City of Williams Lake Joint Committee Meeting
This evening, members of the Central Cariboo/City of WL Joint Committee met to consider a number of items including the future of solid waste in the Central Cariboo (ie: Recycling, diversion of waste, etc) (Note - Directors R. Mumford / A. Bracewell and Mayor Nelson, Councillor Wolbers not present)
Review of the Solid Waste Plan for the Central Cariboo - Recommendations:
i) Close Wildwood Transfer Station
ii) Have Recycling Depot at Central Cariboo Transfer Station - Area 'F' Director Duncan Barnett is opposed to this and prefers another location for these bins
iii) Have attendants at 150 Mile + Central Cariboo Transfer Station - Councillor Ed Mead wants to ensure that attendants are friendly towards the public and ensure the right material gets to the right bin
iv) Increase Tipping Fees
These recommendations, I'm sure, will be subject to the 2009 Town Hall Meetings. I suspect that the closure of the Wildwood Transfer Site will not sit too well with Area 'D' Residents. I still question Area 'F' Director Duncan Barnett's approach to working with the City of Williams Lake to having a strong "Central Cariboo" Recycling Program. Instead of confrontation, he needs to lower his voice and request Staff to look at different options to ensure Recycling is available to all Area D, E and F residents'. I don't particularly care for his confrontational nature towards Staff especially when he reads something in a newspaper and then waving it at a meeting in a confrontational nature and claim "Why wasn't I consulted". My approach is different - work with Staff behind the scenes when I have a difference with them or when something is in the paper and need clarification on it.
Also - we should see something on Marie Sharpe Elementary next year. A Policy Change from Victoria (Ministry of Education) means some more work on the Marie Sharpe Elementary school project. The 5-year, $750,000 Central Cariboo Joint Committee made to the Board of Education - SD#27 to go towards a community gym is still a go (at this point)
Review of the Solid Waste Plan for the Central Cariboo - Recommendations:
i) Close Wildwood Transfer Station
ii) Have Recycling Depot at Central Cariboo Transfer Station - Area 'F' Director Duncan Barnett is opposed to this and prefers another location for these bins
iii) Have attendants at 150 Mile + Central Cariboo Transfer Station - Councillor Ed Mead wants to ensure that attendants are friendly towards the public and ensure the right material gets to the right bin
iv) Increase Tipping Fees
These recommendations, I'm sure, will be subject to the 2009 Town Hall Meetings. I suspect that the closure of the Wildwood Transfer Site will not sit too well with Area 'D' Residents. I still question Area 'F' Director Duncan Barnett's approach to working with the City of Williams Lake to having a strong "Central Cariboo" Recycling Program. Instead of confrontation, he needs to lower his voice and request Staff to look at different options to ensure Recycling is available to all Area D, E and F residents'. I don't particularly care for his confrontational nature towards Staff especially when he reads something in a newspaper and then waving it at a meeting in a confrontational nature and claim "Why wasn't I consulted". My approach is different - work with Staff behind the scenes when I have a difference with them or when something is in the paper and need clarification on it.
Also - we should see something on Marie Sharpe Elementary next year. A Policy Change from Victoria (Ministry of Education) means some more work on the Marie Sharpe Elementary school project. The 5-year, $750,000 Central Cariboo Joint Committee made to the Board of Education - SD#27 to go towards a community gym is still a go (at this point)
Sunday, September 14, 2008
CRD BBQ + Board Meeting
A friendly reminder, as well, that the CRD Board Northern Directors' will be hosting a Community BBQ in LeBourdais Park in Quesnel from 5-7pm on Thursday, September 18th. The CRD Board of Directors' will be meeting at 9:30am on Friday, September 19th in Quesnel Council Chambers. I would encourage all of you to attend either or both events
Quesnel Council Meeting - Sept 15
A friendly reminder that Quesnel Council will be meeting at 7pm on September 15th in Quesnel Council Chambers
Local Government Elections
This is a friendly reminder, to those who read my Blog, that notwithstanding the current Federal Election, there are going to local government elections in the Fall for the following:
School Boards (SD 27 and 28) - 7 Trustees to be elected
City of Williams Lake - 1 Mayor and 6 Councillors to be elected
City of Quesnel - 1 Mayor and 6 Councillors to be elected
District of 100 Mile House/Wells - 1 Mayor and 4 Councillors to be elected
Cariboo Regional District - 12 Electoral Area Directors from Areas A-L to be elected
It only takes 2 voters from each School Trustee Zone, City of Williams Lake and Quesnel and Districts of 100 Mile House and Wells as well as CRD Electoral Areas A-L to nominate a individual to an office. Chief Election Officers' may take nominations on Tuesday, September 30th at 9:00am until Friday, October 10th, 2008 at 4pm. No further nominations will be accepted after 4pm on Friday, October 10th
Quesnel Local Elections:
We know that 2 Individuals (Mayor Bello and Councillor Mary Sjostrom) will be seeking the Mayors' Chair in Quesnel, 1 SD 28 Trustee (Louise Scott) is retiring and another SD 28 Trustee (Caroline Nielsen - current SD 28 Chair - Board of Education) will seek re-election. Councillor Sushil Thapar will be seeking re-election
Williams Lake Elections:
Councillor Paul French has announced that he wants to become the next Mayor of Williams Lake. It is rumoured that Kerry Cook intends to, at some future point, to announce that she will seek the Mayor's Chair for a unprecedented 4th time. Laurie Walters and Chuck Pearson have both announced that they want to be City Councillors. Incumbents Tom Barr, Surinderpal Rathor and Judy O'Neill have not yet announced that they will be seeking re-election but I expect this to occur in due course but prior to October 10. Also, no one has indicated their intentions with respect to SD#27 Board Trustee Elections. I hope that the current Zone 4 (CRD Area 'F') Trustee and Zone 6 SD#27 Trustee (City of Williams Lake) are both defeated as they have failed to serve their residents and do what their residents' have asked of them and stand up for their respective schools. Also CRD Directors (Incumbents) for Areas D, E and F have not publicly stated their intentions for this fall's elections however, everyone does know I am running to become the next Area 'F' Director. No word about Area D and E elections though
School Boards (SD 27 and 28) - 7 Trustees to be elected
City of Williams Lake - 1 Mayor and 6 Councillors to be elected
City of Quesnel - 1 Mayor and 6 Councillors to be elected
District of 100 Mile House/Wells - 1 Mayor and 4 Councillors to be elected
Cariboo Regional District - 12 Electoral Area Directors from Areas A-L to be elected
It only takes 2 voters from each School Trustee Zone, City of Williams Lake and Quesnel and Districts of 100 Mile House and Wells as well as CRD Electoral Areas A-L to nominate a individual to an office. Chief Election Officers' may take nominations on Tuesday, September 30th at 9:00am until Friday, October 10th, 2008 at 4pm. No further nominations will be accepted after 4pm on Friday, October 10th
Quesnel Local Elections:
We know that 2 Individuals (Mayor Bello and Councillor Mary Sjostrom) will be seeking the Mayors' Chair in Quesnel, 1 SD 28 Trustee (Louise Scott) is retiring and another SD 28 Trustee (Caroline Nielsen - current SD 28 Chair - Board of Education) will seek re-election. Councillor Sushil Thapar will be seeking re-election
Williams Lake Elections:
Councillor Paul French has announced that he wants to become the next Mayor of Williams Lake. It is rumoured that Kerry Cook intends to, at some future point, to announce that she will seek the Mayor's Chair for a unprecedented 4th time. Laurie Walters and Chuck Pearson have both announced that they want to be City Councillors. Incumbents Tom Barr, Surinderpal Rathor and Judy O'Neill have not yet announced that they will be seeking re-election but I expect this to occur in due course but prior to October 10. Also, no one has indicated their intentions with respect to SD#27 Board Trustee Elections. I hope that the current Zone 4 (CRD Area 'F') Trustee and Zone 6 SD#27 Trustee (City of Williams Lake) are both defeated as they have failed to serve their residents and do what their residents' have asked of them and stand up for their respective schools. Also CRD Directors (Incumbents) for Areas D, E and F have not publicly stated their intentions for this fall's elections however, everyone does know I am running to become the next Area 'F' Director. No word about Area D and E elections though
WL Council Highlights - Sept. 9th
Delegations (4):
i) Presentation to Numourous Business/Individuals re: Brahma Bull Statue (by A&W on Highway 97 South)
ii) Presentation to RCMP Cpl Dan Brennan after 20 yrs of service to Williams Lake.
iii) Irene Willsie requested Council for "Take Back the Night" walk and placing decals on City vehicles. Both requests were endorsed
iv) Laurie McKenzie presented to Council a 2500 person petition requesting Council to hire 2 new RCMP Officers'
Business:
1) Council agreed with the Mayor's recommendation to send a letter to IH informing them that they will be charged for RCMP costs unless a detox centre is provided or there are signs that significant reductions in drug/alcohol activity is evident that involves RCMP resources
2) Council gave 1st, 2nd, and 3rd reading to a Revitalization Tax Exemption Bylaw. The tax exemption bylaw allows property owners in the downtown specified area to maintain their current level of City taxes for up to three years based on a minimum investment (improvement) to their property
3) Cariboo Friendship Society's "Supportive Housing" Proposal received 3rd Reading and Adoption, after no one to spoke against the proposal at the Public Hearing held earlier in the evening.
4) The City's 80th Birthday is in March of 2009. Staff were directed to make preparations to recognize this event
5) Aviator Hotel proposal, besides Laughing Loon Pub, received 2nd Reading following favourable comments from the APC. The Public Hearing will be held on this proposal on October 14th, 2008 at 7pm in Council Chambers. If you wish to comment formally on this proposal, that will be the date for you to make your submission to Council
6) Council will send a letter to the Provincial Government encouraging them to provide financial support to Heritage Sites like Barkerville, Hat Creek Ranch and Cottonwood House
Next Council Meeting: September 30th, 2008 at 7:30pm
i) Presentation to Numourous Business/Individuals re: Brahma Bull Statue (by A&W on Highway 97 South)
ii) Presentation to RCMP Cpl Dan Brennan after 20 yrs of service to Williams Lake.
iii) Irene Willsie requested Council for "Take Back the Night" walk and placing decals on City vehicles. Both requests were endorsed
iv) Laurie McKenzie presented to Council a 2500 person petition requesting Council to hire 2 new RCMP Officers'
Business:
1) Council agreed with the Mayor's recommendation to send a letter to IH informing them that they will be charged for RCMP costs unless a detox centre is provided or there are signs that significant reductions in drug/alcohol activity is evident that involves RCMP resources
2) Council gave 1st, 2nd, and 3rd reading to a Revitalization Tax Exemption Bylaw. The tax exemption bylaw allows property owners in the downtown specified area to maintain their current level of City taxes for up to three years based on a minimum investment (improvement) to their property
3) Cariboo Friendship Society's "Supportive Housing" Proposal received 3rd Reading and Adoption, after no one to spoke against the proposal at the Public Hearing held earlier in the evening.
4) The City's 80th Birthday is in March of 2009. Staff were directed to make preparations to recognize this event
5) Aviator Hotel proposal, besides Laughing Loon Pub, received 2nd Reading following favourable comments from the APC. The Public Hearing will be held on this proposal on October 14th, 2008 at 7pm in Council Chambers. If you wish to comment formally on this proposal, that will be the date for you to make your submission to Council
6) Council will send a letter to the Provincial Government encouraging them to provide financial support to Heritage Sites like Barkerville, Hat Creek Ranch and Cottonwood House
Next Council Meeting: September 30th, 2008 at 7:30pm
Outcome of Meetings - Arts and Culture Function & Fire Protection from WL to Fringe Areas
Arts and Culture:
I wanted everyone know that I was in attendance at the Sept 10th meeting on CRD Bylaw 4420 (Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Bylaw). I thought the information that was presented was "amateurish" at best. WL Arts Council didn't make a strong case as to why a local Arts and Culture tax bylaw should be adopted. I still intend to both vote against this bylaw when it comes up for AAP in October and if I get the chance, I fully intend to withdraw the bylaw as it is not in the best interest of Area 'F' resident, in my humble judgement
Fire Protection - Fringe Areas of "Front" side of Fox Mountain (facing Highway 97 North), Esler Subdivision and portions of Dog Creek Rd.
This meeting with residents' took place Thurs evening at 7pm. Facts/figures as to individual property owners was presented. Numourous questions around costs for this service and general comments that it was about time for this service to come were made as well. General consensus was that this service, if ultimately adopted, would be in the best interests of Area D and E residents'. It was also commented that Phase 1 and Phase 2 Zone Fire Protection Contracts with the City of WL were in the process of eventually be merged into 1 Master Fire Protection Contract with the City of Williams Lake. Those who will be benefiting from Phase 2 Fire Protection (Fringe Areas) with the City of Williams Lake, I would urge you and your neighbours to get your formal petition documents in ASAP so this service can commence ASAP. Not only that, you will see a reduction in your house insurance.
I wanted everyone know that I was in attendance at the Sept 10th meeting on CRD Bylaw 4420 (Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Bylaw). I thought the information that was presented was "amateurish" at best. WL Arts Council didn't make a strong case as to why a local Arts and Culture tax bylaw should be adopted. I still intend to both vote against this bylaw when it comes up for AAP in October and if I get the chance, I fully intend to withdraw the bylaw as it is not in the best interest of Area 'F' resident, in my humble judgement
Fire Protection - Fringe Areas of "Front" side of Fox Mountain (facing Highway 97 North), Esler Subdivision and portions of Dog Creek Rd.
This meeting with residents' took place Thurs evening at 7pm. Facts/figures as to individual property owners was presented. Numourous questions around costs for this service and general comments that it was about time for this service to come were made as well. General consensus was that this service, if ultimately adopted, would be in the best interests of Area D and E residents'. It was also commented that Phase 1 and Phase 2 Zone Fire Protection Contracts with the City of WL were in the process of eventually be merged into 1 Master Fire Protection Contract with the City of Williams Lake. Those who will be benefiting from Phase 2 Fire Protection (Fringe Areas) with the City of Williams Lake, I would urge you and your neighbours to get your formal petition documents in ASAP so this service can commence ASAP. Not only that, you will see a reduction in your house insurance.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
BC Liberals Cariboo-Chilcotin Riding Association Golf Tournament on September 19th
Hello all:
Pls note that the September 19th Golf Tournament for the BC Liberals - Cariboo-Chilcotin Riding Association has been cancelled due to lack of registrations
Pls note that the September 19th Golf Tournament for the BC Liberals - Cariboo-Chilcotin Riding Association has been cancelled due to lack of registrations
Meetings - WL Arts Council and Fire Services
1) WL Arts Council
Today (September 10th), from 4-7pm, at the Gibraltar Room, the WL Arts Council will be conducting an Open House on CRD Bylaw #4420, 2008 (Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Service Establishment Bylaw). If you get time, pls come out and tell them what you think on this new Function for 2009.
2) Fire Services in Area D Fringe vis-a-vis City of Williams Lake
Tomorrow night (September 11th) at 7pm in Council Chambers, the CRD/City of WL will be discussing extending Fire Services to portions of Fox Mountain, Esler and Dog Creek Road with local residents. If you live in either area, pls attend and tell your elected officials whether or not you want this important service and are you willing to pay for it.
Today (September 10th), from 4-7pm, at the Gibraltar Room, the WL Arts Council will be conducting an Open House on CRD Bylaw #4420, 2008 (Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Service Establishment Bylaw). If you get time, pls come out and tell them what you think on this new Function for 2009.
2) Fire Services in Area D Fringe vis-a-vis City of Williams Lake
Tomorrow night (September 11th) at 7pm in Council Chambers, the CRD/City of WL will be discussing extending Fire Services to portions of Fox Mountain, Esler and Dog Creek Road with local residents. If you live in either area, pls attend and tell your elected officials whether or not you want this important service and are you willing to pay for it.
Another Steve Rant
1) Fall Sitting of BC Legislature
Today, Hon. Mike DeJong (Minister of Aboriginal Relations) announced that a Fall Sitting would not take place. The NDP Opposition immediately pounced on the government cancellation of the Fall Sitting. Personally, if there isn't work to do then really it is a judgment call on business to be considered and money used to have the House sit. Obviously the government felt that it wasn't appropriate use of taxpayers' money to have the House sit while the government has no business to propose to the House. 4 Government Bills remain on the Order Paper however the Government has decided that those Bills can wait until Feb of '09.
2) Increasing numbers of Directors sitting on the CRD Board
In today's Quesnel Cariboo Observer, Mayor Bello stated his intention to ask the CRD to increase Quesnel's representation on the CRD Board from 1 to 2. Allow me to pick apart why his logic is flawed. Right now, 16 Directors from Areas A-L (12 Directors) with 4 others from Quesnel, WL, 100 Mile House and Wells (4 Directors) comprise the CRD Board of Directors. The Board has 2 Voting system (Corporate/Stakeholder - Weighted/Unweighted). Unweighted means each Director gets 1 Vote. Weighted Votes are when financial matters are considered. Each Director is assigned a number of weighted votes. The actual formula for weighted votes are: "1 Vote = 2500 persons living in each Electoral Area/Municipality". Therefore, Williams Lake would get 5 Weighted Votes, Quesnel would receive 4 Weighted Votes and the 12 Electoral Areas would be assigned 1-3 weighted votes per Electoral Area, depending on actual population numbers in said Electoral Area. The problem with Mayor Bello's logic is that he complains he is outvoted 4-1 at the Board table, however if he were to work with the Northern Directors and not to act like "Holier than Thou" attitude towards the Directors', I believe that more would get done in the North Cariboo. The same would apply to the Central/South Cariboo regions. At the end of the day, municipal Directors need to work with the rural directors to get things done for their City/District, not increase number of directors at the CRD Board table. The Regional District system of local government works fairly well, although minor tweaking would be a good thing. Also, inviting First Nation Bands' to sit on the CRD Board I think would be a good thing, however that would have to be negotiated with the local First Nations' Bands as to weighted votes, participation in Functions, etc.
Today, Hon. Mike DeJong (Minister of Aboriginal Relations) announced that a Fall Sitting would not take place. The NDP Opposition immediately pounced on the government cancellation of the Fall Sitting. Personally, if there isn't work to do then really it is a judgment call on business to be considered and money used to have the House sit. Obviously the government felt that it wasn't appropriate use of taxpayers' money to have the House sit while the government has no business to propose to the House. 4 Government Bills remain on the Order Paper however the Government has decided that those Bills can wait until Feb of '09.
2) Increasing numbers of Directors sitting on the CRD Board
In today's Quesnel Cariboo Observer, Mayor Bello stated his intention to ask the CRD to increase Quesnel's representation on the CRD Board from 1 to 2. Allow me to pick apart why his logic is flawed. Right now, 16 Directors from Areas A-L (12 Directors) with 4 others from Quesnel, WL, 100 Mile House and Wells (4 Directors) comprise the CRD Board of Directors. The Board has 2 Voting system (Corporate/Stakeholder - Weighted/Unweighted). Unweighted means each Director gets 1 Vote. Weighted Votes are when financial matters are considered. Each Director is assigned a number of weighted votes. The actual formula for weighted votes are: "1 Vote = 2500 persons living in each Electoral Area/Municipality". Therefore, Williams Lake would get 5 Weighted Votes, Quesnel would receive 4 Weighted Votes and the 12 Electoral Areas would be assigned 1-3 weighted votes per Electoral Area, depending on actual population numbers in said Electoral Area. The problem with Mayor Bello's logic is that he complains he is outvoted 4-1 at the Board table, however if he were to work with the Northern Directors and not to act like "Holier than Thou" attitude towards the Directors', I believe that more would get done in the North Cariboo. The same would apply to the Central/South Cariboo regions. At the end of the day, municipal Directors need to work with the rural directors to get things done for their City/District, not increase number of directors at the CRD Board table. The Regional District system of local government works fairly well, although minor tweaking would be a good thing. Also, inviting First Nation Bands' to sit on the CRD Board I think would be a good thing, however that would have to be negotiated with the local First Nations' Bands as to weighted votes, participation in Functions, etc.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Quesnel Council Highlights - September 2nd
Delegations (1) - Council welcomed 2008 Miss Quesnel Royalty to their roles. The Miss Quesnel Royalty will spend the next year being Ambassadors for Quesnel, both inside Quesnel and at out-of-town events. The City of Quesnel provides a Fee-For-Service to help support the Miss Quesnel Self-Development program
Business:
1) Council approved a development permit that will see significant changes to the property at 678 Doherty Dr. (Kwik Kleen). The building will have a second floor added, with a significant change to the roofline and general look of the building. Council was pleased with the reinvestment made by a local business owner and noted how the changes will really enhance the area.
2) Council received a different kind of request for an event in LeBourdais Park. As Homeless Action Week runs Oct. 12 to 19, the Quesnel Shelter and Support Society is hosting a “Spend a Night in the Cold for our Community’s Homeless” in LeBourdais Park from 5 p.m. on Oct. 15 to 9 a.m. on Oct. 16. The event is designed to raise awareness of the extent of homelessness, and the causes and solutions to it.
The society is looking for at least 127 participants, the number of unique clients the new shelter facility has welcomed since it opened on May 12, 2008.
Executive Director Shannon Croy also offered an invitation to Council to attend the ribbon cutting and Open House for the new shelter facility, Seasons House, at 146 Carson Ave. The public is invited to the Open House starting at 11:30 a.m. on Monday Sept. 15.
Council approved the request for use of the park and wished the Society well in its efforts
3) Council reviewed the new Frequently Asked Questions document that has been prepared to help inform the public about the Nov. 15 referendum regarding the proposed Multi-Centre. The Cariboo Regional District and City of Quesnel are holding the referendum to determine the future of the Multi-Centre project. For more information, visit: www.city.quesnel.bc.ca/multi-centre
4) While Quesnel didn’t formally compete in the Communities in Bloom program this year, there’s still a lot of competitive spirit to be found. Once again Council competed in its annual “Council Over a Planter” event, with Councillors arranging a flower planter for display. This year’s winner was Councillor Ron Paull, with Coun. Mary Sjostrom in second and Coun. Peter Couldwell taking third. Council thanked staff for their efforts in maintaining the many annual and perennial beds that beautify the community each year.
5) This Saturday, Sept. 6, sees the first Super Saturday taking place. The event includes Try it Out Day (an opportunity to try your hand at various sports and activities at West Fraser Timber Park), Central Registration at the Arts and Recreation Centre, and a Volunteer Fair at West Park Mall. All the events run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. A full schedule is available on the City’s website at www.city.quesnel.bc.ca.
Important Dates:
September 8 - Committee of the Whole Session at 7pm
September 15 - Regular Council Meeting at 7pm
Business:
1) Council approved a development permit that will see significant changes to the property at 678 Doherty Dr. (Kwik Kleen). The building will have a second floor added, with a significant change to the roofline and general look of the building. Council was pleased with the reinvestment made by a local business owner and noted how the changes will really enhance the area.
2) Council received a different kind of request for an event in LeBourdais Park. As Homeless Action Week runs Oct. 12 to 19, the Quesnel Shelter and Support Society is hosting a “Spend a Night in the Cold for our Community’s Homeless” in LeBourdais Park from 5 p.m. on Oct. 15 to 9 a.m. on Oct. 16. The event is designed to raise awareness of the extent of homelessness, and the causes and solutions to it.
The society is looking for at least 127 participants, the number of unique clients the new shelter facility has welcomed since it opened on May 12, 2008.
Executive Director Shannon Croy also offered an invitation to Council to attend the ribbon cutting and Open House for the new shelter facility, Seasons House, at 146 Carson Ave. The public is invited to the Open House starting at 11:30 a.m. on Monday Sept. 15.
Council approved the request for use of the park and wished the Society well in its efforts
3) Council reviewed the new Frequently Asked Questions document that has been prepared to help inform the public about the Nov. 15 referendum regarding the proposed Multi-Centre. The Cariboo Regional District and City of Quesnel are holding the referendum to determine the future of the Multi-Centre project. For more information, visit: www.city.quesnel.bc.ca/multi-centre
4) While Quesnel didn’t formally compete in the Communities in Bloom program this year, there’s still a lot of competitive spirit to be found. Once again Council competed in its annual “Council Over a Planter” event, with Councillors arranging a flower planter for display. This year’s winner was Councillor Ron Paull, with Coun. Mary Sjostrom in second and Coun. Peter Couldwell taking third. Council thanked staff for their efforts in maintaining the many annual and perennial beds that beautify the community each year.
5) This Saturday, Sept. 6, sees the first Super Saturday taking place. The event includes Try it Out Day (an opportunity to try your hand at various sports and activities at West Fraser Timber Park), Central Registration at the Arts and Recreation Centre, and a Volunteer Fair at West Park Mall. All the events run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. A full schedule is available on the City’s website at www.city.quesnel.bc.ca.
Important Dates:
September 8 - Committee of the Whole Session at 7pm
September 15 - Regular Council Meeting at 7pm
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Another Candidate for WL Council
In today's WL Tribune...
Laurie Walters, longtime City advocate of Arts announces her intention to seek a City Councillor seat
Read more here
Laurie Walters, longtime City advocate of Arts announces her intention to seek a City Councillor seat
Read more here
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