On Monday at 7pm in Quesnel Council Chambers - Quesnel Council will have Budget Meeting #3 which includes a formal Public Input Session. Have concerns or suggestions about the 2012 Budget for the City of Quesnel - come out and let your elected officials in Quesnel know them
Read the Agenda/Reports here
Then on Tuesday at 7pm in the SD #27 Boardroom - the Board of Education for School District #27 will meet
Read the Agendas/Reports here
Friday, February 24, 2012
Government, Spending and John Cummins...
Over at CityCaucus.com - former BC Attorney-General Geoff Plant says: Lots of people will bring forward lots of spending ideas but we must ask - how will we, as a society, determine which ideas go forward and which ones will be deferred to future years - read here
Meanwhile - veteran Vancouver Sun political columnist Vaughn Palmer says if John Cummins wants to cut taxes like the Carbon Tax and reduce spending and be taken seriously as a 'government-in-waiting' like the opposition BC New Democrats - his party (BC Conservatives') will have to have, like the BC NDP, a fully costed platform to show to the voters' of BC for the 2013 Provincial Election -read here
Finally - former NDP MLA David Shreck looks at the narrow focus of Christy Clark's government - read here
Editor's Note - on John Cummins and his promises to reduce spending -- given health-care/education comprise nearly 70% of the total BC Budget -- I think his government (should that be the decision of voters in 2013) are going to have an extremely difficult time making ends meet, given all of the various other needs that come up at budget time. The only way I can see Mr. Cummins and his party make in-roads on the provincial budget is to ratchet the move towards privatization of health-care and that has been rejected by average BC'ers to date - with both NDP/BC Liberals' provincial governments in place over the last 30 years...
Meanwhile - veteran Vancouver Sun political columnist Vaughn Palmer says if John Cummins wants to cut taxes like the Carbon Tax and reduce spending and be taken seriously as a 'government-in-waiting' like the opposition BC New Democrats - his party (BC Conservatives') will have to have, like the BC NDP, a fully costed platform to show to the voters' of BC for the 2013 Provincial Election -read here
Finally - former NDP MLA David Shreck looks at the narrow focus of Christy Clark's government - read here
Editor's Note - on John Cummins and his promises to reduce spending -- given health-care/education comprise nearly 70% of the total BC Budget -- I think his government (should that be the decision of voters in 2013) are going to have an extremely difficult time making ends meet, given all of the various other needs that come up at budget time. The only way I can see Mr. Cummins and his party make in-roads on the provincial budget is to ratchet the move towards privatization of health-care and that has been rejected by average BC'ers to date - with both NDP/BC Liberals' provincial governments in place over the last 30 years...
Expanding Tourism at Burns Lake
Courtesy of the Government of BC:
Over the next few weeks, staff from the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation will begin to consult and work directly with a team of community leaders and tourism stakeholders from Burns Lake on tourism planning to strengthen economic opportunities for the area.
Working closely with members of the community, business leaders, the Northern British Columbia Tourism Association and Aboriginal Tourism British Columbia, ministry staff will refresh planning previously undertaken in 2009 through the Province’s Community Tourism Foundations program to help identify any existing tourism development challenges and prioritize opportunities to support the local tourism industry.
The Village of Burns Lake currently participates in co-operative tourism marketing initiatives funded in part by the Province and co-ordinated through the Northern British Columbia Tourism Association. For fiscal 2011-12, Burns Lake has been approved for up to $9,200 in co-operative tourism marketing funding to assist in the production of a community trail map and mountain bike brochure, and to updating their photo image bank.
Since the Babine Forest Products mill accident, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation Pat Bell and ministry staff having been working with local MLA John Rustad, mayor and council, First Nations chiefs, union leaders and industry representatives to help the community recover as quickly as possible.
The Province established a cross-ministry leadership group that is co-ordinating the provincial government’s response and recovery efforts. Forest industry veteran Bob Clark, vice-president of forestry consultants J.B. Clark and Co., is leading the provincial government’s on-the-ground Burns Lake economic response.
Pat Bell, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation stated –
“We have committed to develop strategies for Burns Lake to recover economically from the Babine mill tragedy. Burns Lake is a beautiful area and is making great strides as a mountain bike destination. Therefore I have asked ministry staff to take a closer look at tourism planning for the area and work with industry stakeholders and community leaders to increase tourism opportunities.”
John Rustad, MLA Nechako Lakes also commented –
“The challenge that Burns Lake is facing over the short term cannot be overstated. But the key is to look at multiple options for moving the community forward and tourism has an enormous potential to help diversify the economy.”
Finally, Anthony Everett, CEO of Northern British Columbia Tourism Association says –
"Burns Lake and the entire Lake's District is recognized by travellers for its unique beauty and activity based experiences such as mountain biking.”
“The Northern British Columbia Tourism Association, partnered with the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation and Burns Lake stakeholders, will work together to further enhance the community's tourism goals by building upon this solid foundation. Tourism is a great way for Burns Lake residents to celebrate their pride of place and further efforts to help the community recover."
Quick Facts:
· The Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation works with the B.C.’s six regional destination marketing organizations (RDMO) and communities throughout the province on tourism development initiatives.
· Two community-based programs work closely with groups looking to develop tourism in their area for both the long and short-term.
· The Community Tourism Foundations program assists communities to develop a comprehensive multi-year tourism plan. By providing a range of tools, proven resources and customized destination and market development assistance, the program can accommodate the needs of communities in various stages of tourism development.
· Community Tourism Opportunities is a provincewide program that provides co-operative funding for eligible tourism activities in communities throughout B.C. The program is designed to assist communities that are in a position to implement their own tourism building initiatives.
Over the next few weeks, staff from the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation will begin to consult and work directly with a team of community leaders and tourism stakeholders from Burns Lake on tourism planning to strengthen economic opportunities for the area.
Working closely with members of the community, business leaders, the Northern British Columbia Tourism Association and Aboriginal Tourism British Columbia, ministry staff will refresh planning previously undertaken in 2009 through the Province’s Community Tourism Foundations program to help identify any existing tourism development challenges and prioritize opportunities to support the local tourism industry.
The Village of Burns Lake currently participates in co-operative tourism marketing initiatives funded in part by the Province and co-ordinated through the Northern British Columbia Tourism Association. For fiscal 2011-12, Burns Lake has been approved for up to $9,200 in co-operative tourism marketing funding to assist in the production of a community trail map and mountain bike brochure, and to updating their photo image bank.
Since the Babine Forest Products mill accident, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation Pat Bell and ministry staff having been working with local MLA John Rustad, mayor and council, First Nations chiefs, union leaders and industry representatives to help the community recover as quickly as possible.
The Province established a cross-ministry leadership group that is co-ordinating the provincial government’s response and recovery efforts. Forest industry veteran Bob Clark, vice-president of forestry consultants J.B. Clark and Co., is leading the provincial government’s on-the-ground Burns Lake economic response.
Pat Bell, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation stated –
“We have committed to develop strategies for Burns Lake to recover economically from the Babine mill tragedy. Burns Lake is a beautiful area and is making great strides as a mountain bike destination. Therefore I have asked ministry staff to take a closer look at tourism planning for the area and work with industry stakeholders and community leaders to increase tourism opportunities.”
John Rustad, MLA Nechako Lakes also commented –
“The challenge that Burns Lake is facing over the short term cannot be overstated. But the key is to look at multiple options for moving the community forward and tourism has an enormous potential to help diversify the economy.”
Finally, Anthony Everett, CEO of Northern British Columbia Tourism Association says –
"Burns Lake and the entire Lake's District is recognized by travellers for its unique beauty and activity based experiences such as mountain biking.”
“The Northern British Columbia Tourism Association, partnered with the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation and Burns Lake stakeholders, will work together to further enhance the community's tourism goals by building upon this solid foundation. Tourism is a great way for Burns Lake residents to celebrate their pride of place and further efforts to help the community recover."
Quick Facts:
· The Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation works with the B.C.’s six regional destination marketing organizations (RDMO) and communities throughout the province on tourism development initiatives.
· Two community-based programs work closely with groups looking to develop tourism in their area for both the long and short-term.
· The Community Tourism Foundations program assists communities to develop a comprehensive multi-year tourism plan. By providing a range of tools, proven resources and customized destination and market development assistance, the program can accommodate the needs of communities in various stages of tourism development.
· Community Tourism Opportunities is a provincewide program that provides co-operative funding for eligible tourism activities in communities throughout B.C. The program is designed to assist communities that are in a position to implement their own tourism building initiatives.
BC Teachers' denounce "legislated contract" (Updated)
In response to George Abbott's announcement that a Bill(s) will be forthcoming to the BC Legislature to impose a contract on teachers' - BC Teachers' Federation President Susan Lambert called the forthcoming bills "bullying legislation" - see more from CBC-BC here
In addition -- BC Teachers' will be holding 'A Day of Action' on Monday - read more details from CBC here
The last time the BC Legislature imposed a contract on teachers' in 2005 -- the BCTF went on a 2 week strike and I think it is highly probable that they'll do so again when the BC Liberal controlled BC Legislature adopts a Bill(s) to impose a contract on BC's Teachers...
However - I am concerned about the language used by the BCTF yesterday. With 'Pink Shirt Day' (Anti-Bullying) next Wednesday and given teachers' are "Leaders" in our school communities - I'm sure that they could have found other language to express their extreme disappointment of another contract imposed on them without making references to having 'bullying legislation' imposed on them
Finally - as has been noted - the BCTF conveniently forgot to note... all other BC Public Sector Unions' have a "me too" clause which means if teachers' got a pay hike then all other public sectors' would be up for similiar raises as well. And as I noted yesterday - the economic circumstances do not permit us to give raises to all of our public sector workers (teachers' included) at this time but when/if economic circumstances permit it - I hope the government will be fair in paying fair wages/benefits to those working on behalf of the public...
SBF
Update (Feb 24th at 3:11pm) - Teachers in Williams Lake to hold 'information picket' before/after school at Marie Sharpe Elementary on Monday ... read here
In addition -- BC Teachers' will be holding 'A Day of Action' on Monday - read more details from CBC here
The last time the BC Legislature imposed a contract on teachers' in 2005 -- the BCTF went on a 2 week strike and I think it is highly probable that they'll do so again when the BC Liberal controlled BC Legislature adopts a Bill(s) to impose a contract on BC's Teachers...
However - I am concerned about the language used by the BCTF yesterday. With 'Pink Shirt Day' (Anti-Bullying) next Wednesday and given teachers' are "Leaders" in our school communities - I'm sure that they could have found other language to express their extreme disappointment of another contract imposed on them without making references to having 'bullying legislation' imposed on them
Finally - as has been noted - the BCTF conveniently forgot to note... all other BC Public Sector Unions' have a "me too" clause which means if teachers' got a pay hike then all other public sectors' would be up for similiar raises as well. And as I noted yesterday - the economic circumstances do not permit us to give raises to all of our public sector workers (teachers' included) at this time but when/if economic circumstances permit it - I hope the government will be fair in paying fair wages/benefits to those working on behalf of the public...
SBF
Update (Feb 24th at 3:11pm) - Teachers in Williams Lake to hold 'information picket' before/after school at Marie Sharpe Elementary on Monday ... read here
Bulk Water Station in WL 'Ready for Operation'
Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:
The City of Williams Lake would like to inform residents that the Smart Card Bulk Water Dispensing System at the Stampede Grounds is ready for public use.
The station, located next to the sani-station at the Stampede Grounds, uses a smart card system. The user will pre-purchase credits for bulk water on a reusable card at the front desk at City Hall. Users can then go to the bulk water station at any time and swipe the card to access water. The system will allow users to dispense the amount of water desired and give a remaining card balance. When the card credits have been exhausted, users can simply take their card back to City Hall and repeat the process of purchasing additional credits. Cards are free, but a fee of $12 will be charged for lost or stolen cards. The cost of water is $0.01 per litre.
“I’m pleased the City can provide this service, as it became apparent during the wildfires of 2010 that the City required a method for bulk water haulers to be able to have access to a water source to fill their large volume potable water tanks 24 hours every day,” says Councillor Sue Zacharias, chair of the Planning and Operations Committee. “Now that the station is established at the Stampede Grounds, the City will save time and money by no longer having to service water haulers at the municipal works yard.”
The bulk water system includes a transaction log to monitor the users, amounts and times the station is being used; cross connection control devices to keep the City’s water supply safe; a water meter, and will have two sizes of water connections for bulk water to be dispensed. The sani-station will be restricted to the filling of recreational vehicles only, and bulk water haulers and other businesses that require water will be required to utilize the new bulk water station.
The City of Williams Lake would like to inform residents that the Smart Card Bulk Water Dispensing System at the Stampede Grounds is ready for public use.
The station, located next to the sani-station at the Stampede Grounds, uses a smart card system. The user will pre-purchase credits for bulk water on a reusable card at the front desk at City Hall. Users can then go to the bulk water station at any time and swipe the card to access water. The system will allow users to dispense the amount of water desired and give a remaining card balance. When the card credits have been exhausted, users can simply take their card back to City Hall and repeat the process of purchasing additional credits. Cards are free, but a fee of $12 will be charged for lost or stolen cards. The cost of water is $0.01 per litre.
“I’m pleased the City can provide this service, as it became apparent during the wildfires of 2010 that the City required a method for bulk water haulers to be able to have access to a water source to fill their large volume potable water tanks 24 hours every day,” says Councillor Sue Zacharias, chair of the Planning and Operations Committee. “Now that the station is established at the Stampede Grounds, the City will save time and money by no longer having to service water haulers at the municipal works yard.”
The bulk water system includes a transaction log to monitor the users, amounts and times the station is being used; cross connection control devices to keep the City’s water supply safe; a water meter, and will have two sizes of water connections for bulk water to be dispensed. The sani-station will be restricted to the filling of recreational vehicles only, and bulk water haulers and other businesses that require water will be required to utilize the new bulk water station.
Dry Grad Committee needs volunteers ASAP
The Williams Lake Dry Grad Committee desperately needs volunteers for Dry Grad 2012 or they indicate the whole Dry Grad will be cancelled
Meeting Details:
Place - TRU Cafeteria
Time - 7:00pm
Date - Wednesday, Feb 29th, 2012
For more information, call 250-392-7121
Meeting Details:
Place - TRU Cafeteria
Time - 7:00pm
Date - Wednesday, Feb 29th, 2012
For more information, call 250-392-7121
Miocene Fire Depart. celebrates expansion...
Welcome to Williams Lake is covering the open house held by the Miocene Fire Department, in which they celebrate their expanded fire hall
Read more here
Read more here
2nd Bomb Threat in a week...
Williams Lake Tribune is reporting on last night's bomb threat at 7-11 around 7:30pm which caused the shutdown of nearby businesses - Movie on the Go & Red Tomato Pies
Read more here
As the RCMP note - these acts are taken extremely seriously and charges will be laid, regardless of the reason given.
These "false alarms" takes emergency personnel away from more serious emergencies... and I hope the person that is doing it gets caught & gets a lengthy sentence to show the general public that causing false "bomb threat" calls are taken extremely seriously by the RCMP & other emergency personnel and initiating false "bomb threat" calls comes with serious consequences...
SBF
Breathalyzer Policy for School District #27??
Last year - a Fort St John high school principal got caught using a breathalyzer in enforcing the drug/alcohol policy for secondary school students in School District #60
In the meantime - Superintendent Terry Sullivan in School District #73 heard this story and realized that his School District had no policy governing the use of breathalyzers' and as a consequence - the Board of Education for School District # 73 is looking into a policy amendments to its' existing Drug/Alcohol Policy to help govern the use of breathalyzers' - read an article from the Vancouver Sun here
The draft policy (use of breathalyzers') for use in School District #73 is, as proposed:
For greater certainty in enforcing these Regulations, school staff may conduct breathalyzer tests to confirm whether a student has used alcohol, as follows:
a) Breathalyzer tests shall be conducted by school staff who have been properly trained to do so.
b) School staff shall have reasonable suspicion that a student has used alcohol, for example due to a student’s odour or behaviour, or information provided to the administrator by other students.
c) School staff may conduct breathalyzer tests during normal school hours and extra-curricular activities.
d) If a student refuses to take the breathalyzer test, school staff may rely on such refusal to conclude that a student has been using alcohol, and the student shall then be subject to the consequences outlined in this Regulation
Read the full SD #73 Agenda Item here
In the meantime - the Board of Education for School District #73 has deferred a decision pending consultation with local parents - see the article from the Kamloops Daily News here
When I read the Kamloops Daily News story - I decided to take a look at School District 27's current policy on drug/alcohol & use of breathalyzers' which you can read the policy yourself here
When I learned it contained no language, with regards to breathalyzers' - I contacted Diane Wright - Superintendent of Schools for School District #27, as follows last Friday:
I was wondering if I may inquire as to if use of breathalyzers within School District #27 is permitted, at the moment…?
The reason I ask is that School District #73, as I understand it, is looking at policy governing the use of breathalyzers in that School District and I also understand that a school principal in Fort St John was criticized for the use of one in that school district
While I’m aware of SD #27’s Policy regarding Alcohol/Drugs on school property – I’m wondering if our School District ought to be proactive in this regard, given the proliferation of these devices (breathalyzers) and the need to ensure SD #27 Administration is not “caught off-guard” by the potential use of these devices and the potential negative media that could result if it were revealed that a principal in our school district had use one… just like the case in Fort St John
As of 4:30pm yesterday - I had not yet heard from Ms. Wright. I think the Board of Education for School District #27 should seriously look into this issue including whether or not to include a clause in the existing Drug/Alcohol policy regarding use of breathalyzers' in secondary schools' in School District #27, lest we find ourselves in similar circumstances found in Fort St John (School District #60)
In the meantime - Superintendent Terry Sullivan in School District #73 heard this story and realized that his School District had no policy governing the use of breathalyzers' and as a consequence - the Board of Education for School District # 73 is looking into a policy amendments to its' existing Drug/Alcohol Policy to help govern the use of breathalyzers' - read an article from the Vancouver Sun here
The draft policy (use of breathalyzers') for use in School District #73 is, as proposed:
For greater certainty in enforcing these Regulations, school staff may conduct breathalyzer tests to confirm whether a student has used alcohol, as follows:
a) Breathalyzer tests shall be conducted by school staff who have been properly trained to do so.
b) School staff shall have reasonable suspicion that a student has used alcohol, for example due to a student’s odour or behaviour, or information provided to the administrator by other students.
c) School staff may conduct breathalyzer tests during normal school hours and extra-curricular activities.
d) If a student refuses to take the breathalyzer test, school staff may rely on such refusal to conclude that a student has been using alcohol, and the student shall then be subject to the consequences outlined in this Regulation
Read the full SD #73 Agenda Item here
In the meantime - the Board of Education for School District #73 has deferred a decision pending consultation with local parents - see the article from the Kamloops Daily News here
When I read the Kamloops Daily News story - I decided to take a look at School District 27's current policy on drug/alcohol & use of breathalyzers' which you can read the policy yourself here
When I learned it contained no language, with regards to breathalyzers' - I contacted Diane Wright - Superintendent of Schools for School District #27, as follows last Friday:
I was wondering if I may inquire as to if use of breathalyzers within School District #27 is permitted, at the moment…?
The reason I ask is that School District #73, as I understand it, is looking at policy governing the use of breathalyzers in that School District and I also understand that a school principal in Fort St John was criticized for the use of one in that school district
While I’m aware of SD #27’s Policy regarding Alcohol/Drugs on school property – I’m wondering if our School District ought to be proactive in this regard, given the proliferation of these devices (breathalyzers) and the need to ensure SD #27 Administration is not “caught off-guard” by the potential use of these devices and the potential negative media that could result if it were revealed that a principal in our school district had use one… just like the case in Fort St John
As of 4:30pm yesterday - I had not yet heard from Ms. Wright. I think the Board of Education for School District #27 should seriously look into this issue including whether or not to include a clause in the existing Drug/Alcohol policy regarding use of breathalyzers' in secondary schools' in School District #27, lest we find ourselves in similar circumstances found in Fort St John (School District #60)
Former City of WL Finance Director hired in Tumbler Ridge
Former City of Williams Lake Director of Finance Candie Laporte has been hired by the District of Tumbler Ridge as its' Chief Financial Officer
See more here
I wish Ms. Laporte all the best in her new post and hope it works out well for her :)
SBF
See more here
I wish Ms. Laporte all the best in her new post and hope it works out well for her :)
SBF
Terry Lake looking at 'retirement" in 2013??
In his latest blog post today - Alan Forseth (BC Conservatives' Regional Director for the Kamloops region) looks at recent public statements of Terry Lake (Kamloops-North Thomspon) in regards to the carbon tax and whether he is looking to get out in 2013 before eventual defeat by his voters'
See the blog post here
See the blog post here
End of Week News-Wrap -- Feb 24th edition
In Quesnel:
* Quesnel Mayor Mary Sjostrom explains, and with good reason, why she refused to take a $2 million loan from Northern Development Initiative Trust - read here. In the meantime - she says a decision on the $ 7 million that the City of Quesnel/Cariboo Regional District jointly applied for to go towards funding the construction of the North Cariboo Multi-Centre is expected in mid-to-late March
In Williams Lake:
* Full-time pediatrician coming to Williams Lake - read here
* 1 person breaks into 60 vehicles this past Tuesday early am - read here/here
* Big Creek 'watershed issue' must be resolved says Lana Popham, the BC NDP critic for agriculture - read here
* State of Canadian economy discussed at yesterday's Chamber of Commerce meeting - read here
* Charlie Wyse (NDP Candidate for Cariboo-Chilcotin) speaks out on 2012 BC Budget - read here
* Local industry & School District #27 partner to offer hands-on training at TRU for SD #27 students - read here
* 'Revitalized' Dog 'n Suds Restaurant re-opens - read here
In 100 Mile House:
* 100 Mile RCMP on look-out for a silver hatchback after a male offering to perform an indecent act in the presence of a female - read here
* Quesnel Mayor Mary Sjostrom explains, and with good reason, why she refused to take a $2 million loan from Northern Development Initiative Trust - read here. In the meantime - she says a decision on the $ 7 million that the City of Quesnel/Cariboo Regional District jointly applied for to go towards funding the construction of the North Cariboo Multi-Centre is expected in mid-to-late March
In Williams Lake:
* Full-time pediatrician coming to Williams Lake - read here
* 1 person breaks into 60 vehicles this past Tuesday early am - read here/here
* Big Creek 'watershed issue' must be resolved says Lana Popham, the BC NDP critic for agriculture - read here
* State of Canadian economy discussed at yesterday's Chamber of Commerce meeting - read here
* Charlie Wyse (NDP Candidate for Cariboo-Chilcotin) speaks out on 2012 BC Budget - read here
* Local industry & School District #27 partner to offer hands-on training at TRU for SD #27 students - read here
* 'Revitalized' Dog 'n Suds Restaurant re-opens - read here
In 100 Mile House:
* 100 Mile RCMP on look-out for a silver hatchback after a male offering to perform an indecent act in the presence of a female - read here
Thursday, February 23, 2012
WL City Hall to get a Dropbox??
On January 25th - I wrote WL City Councillor Geoff Bourdon, in his capacity as Chair of WL Council's General Governance Committee recommending that certain changes be made to the Council Procedure Bylaw/Council Agenda & that Council give consideration to installing a "Dropbox" to allow members of the public to drop off utility & property tax payments and other important documents so they are secured in a safe area, after office hours - read the full letter here
Meanwhile - I have a response from the City of Williams Lake, dated Feb 23rd, as follows:
The General Governance Committee met on January 31st to consider your letter which resulted in the following:
"That the letter from Steve Forseth dated January 25th, 2012 regarding his suggested changes for consideration during Council's 2011-2014 Strategic Plan Process be received and referred to future reviews of the Council Procedure Bylaw"
Please note that your recommendation on page two of your letter regarding a 'Dropbox' for City Hall has been referred to Pat Higgins, Director of Financial Services, for her investigation. If you have any questions in this regard, do not hesitate to contact the undersigned (C. Bouchard - Manager of Legislative Services) at (250) - 392-1773
SBF
Meanwhile - I have a response from the City of Williams Lake, dated Feb 23rd, as follows:
The General Governance Committee met on January 31st to consider your letter which resulted in the following:
"That the letter from Steve Forseth dated January 25th, 2012 regarding his suggested changes for consideration during Council's 2011-2014 Strategic Plan Process be received and referred to future reviews of the Council Procedure Bylaw"
Please note that your recommendation on page two of your letter regarding a 'Dropbox' for City Hall has been referred to Pat Higgins, Director of Financial Services, for her investigation. If you have any questions in this regard, do not hesitate to contact the undersigned (C. Bouchard - Manager of Legislative Services) at (250) - 392-1773
SBF
CRD hands off Forest Capital designation to Province
Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:
On Wednesday, February 22 the Cariboo Regional District handed off the Forest Capital of Canada designation to the Province of British Columbia to celebrate the centenary of the BC Forest Service in 2012. For the past two years, the Cariboo Regional District has proudly served as Canada’s Forest Capital, hosting a celebration of our forest resources.
A ceremony took place at the Association of BC Forest Professional’s Convention in Victoria with the Honourable Steve Thomson, Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, accepting the Forest Capital plaque from CRD Chair Al Richmond and CRD Area 'C' Director John Massier.
Throughout its reign as the 2010-2011 Forest Capital of Canada the Cariboo Regional District brought awareness to the Cariboo Chilcotin forest land base through a number of different projects and events. The CRD’s Forest Capital program focused on five key industries: non-timber forest products, value-added wood products, bio-energy, eco-tourism and agriculture.
“With the decline of the forest industry as a result of the US housing recession and the impact of the Mountain Pine Beetle infestation, the Regional District saw the Forest Capital of Canada program as an opportunity to look to the future and promote new, non-traditional industries emerging in forestry,” said CRD Chair Al Richmond.”
The CRD’s reign as the Forest Capital of Canada got off to a great start as it was launched during the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics at the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast pavilion at BC Street. This venue showcased the many facets of our region’s forests to 475,000 spectators.
Throughout the past two years, the CRD published a commemorative magazine Our Backyard – Forests of the Cariboo Chilcotin, which focused on the various non-traditional aspects of the forest industry through stories, poetry and photography for travellers, investors and residents wanting to learn more about local initiatives. The CRD also hosted a Forest Capital Speaker Series and hosted National Forest Week activities throughout the region, planting seedlings, and sponsoring various community events.
“We consider the last two years to have been a success; our holistic approach to forestry looked at all of the economic opportunities the forest land base offers”, continued Richmond. “Even with our extremely limited budget, and small-scale projects, we were able to reach a large audience with our message.”
The Cariboo Regional District would like to thank the Canadian Forestry Association, the more than 65 community partners and sponsors who made the Forest Capital program possible, and the CRD Forest Capital Committee Chair, former Electoral Area E Director, Steve Mazur.
Further information about the Forest Capital of Canada can be found online at www.canadianforestry.com For more information on the 2012 BC Forest Service’s centenary celebrations, visit www.bcfs100.ca
On Wednesday, February 22 the Cariboo Regional District handed off the Forest Capital of Canada designation to the Province of British Columbia to celebrate the centenary of the BC Forest Service in 2012. For the past two years, the Cariboo Regional District has proudly served as Canada’s Forest Capital, hosting a celebration of our forest resources.
A ceremony took place at the Association of BC Forest Professional’s Convention in Victoria with the Honourable Steve Thomson, Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, accepting the Forest Capital plaque from CRD Chair Al Richmond and CRD Area 'C' Director John Massier.
Throughout its reign as the 2010-2011 Forest Capital of Canada the Cariboo Regional District brought awareness to the Cariboo Chilcotin forest land base through a number of different projects and events. The CRD’s Forest Capital program focused on five key industries: non-timber forest products, value-added wood products, bio-energy, eco-tourism and agriculture.
“With the decline of the forest industry as a result of the US housing recession and the impact of the Mountain Pine Beetle infestation, the Regional District saw the Forest Capital of Canada program as an opportunity to look to the future and promote new, non-traditional industries emerging in forestry,” said CRD Chair Al Richmond.”
The CRD’s reign as the Forest Capital of Canada got off to a great start as it was launched during the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics at the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast pavilion at BC Street. This venue showcased the many facets of our region’s forests to 475,000 spectators.
Throughout the past two years, the CRD published a commemorative magazine Our Backyard – Forests of the Cariboo Chilcotin, which focused on the various non-traditional aspects of the forest industry through stories, poetry and photography for travellers, investors and residents wanting to learn more about local initiatives. The CRD also hosted a Forest Capital Speaker Series and hosted National Forest Week activities throughout the region, planting seedlings, and sponsoring various community events.
“We consider the last two years to have been a success; our holistic approach to forestry looked at all of the economic opportunities the forest land base offers”, continued Richmond. “Even with our extremely limited budget, and small-scale projects, we were able to reach a large audience with our message.”
The Cariboo Regional District would like to thank the Canadian Forestry Association, the more than 65 community partners and sponsors who made the Forest Capital program possible, and the CRD Forest Capital Committee Chair, former Electoral Area E Director, Steve Mazur.
Further information about the Forest Capital of Canada can be found online at www.canadianforestry.com For more information on the 2012 BC Forest Service’s centenary celebrations, visit www.bcfs100.ca
TNG states 10 Reasons why 'New Prosperity' should be rejected
Earlier today - Welcome to Williams Lake reported on the attendance of Xeni Gwet'in First Nations Chief Marilyn Baptiste in Switzerland presenting a report to the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) 80th Session - read here
Meanwhile - the Tsilhqot'in (Chilcotin) National Government has released its' "Top Ten" reasons why 'New Prosperity' should be rejected by Ottawa:
1. The CEAA review panel process was very different from the BC EAO rubber-stamp decision. Its report found immitigable, devastating impacts to the local fish stocks and endangered grizzly populations, and to the existing and future rights of the Tsilhqot'in and its youth. Then Environment Minister Jim Prentice described the report's findings as "scathing" and "probably the most condemning I have ever read."
2. The company knows its new option is worse than its first plan. TML's V.P. Corporate Affairs, Brian Battison, was clear in his Mar. 22, 2010, opening presentation to the CEAA hearings, when he stated: "Developing Prosperity means draining Fish Lake. We wish it were otherwise. We searched hard for a different way. A way to retain the lake and have the mine. But there is no viable alternative. The lake and the deposit sit side by side. It is not possible to have one without the loss of the other."
3. The point was emphasised by TML's VP of engineering, Scott Jones, who stated: "What happens to the water quality in Fish Lake, if you try and preserve that body of water with the tailings facility right up against it, is that over time the water quality in Fish Lake will become equivalent to the water quality in the pore water of the tailings facility, particularly when it's close."
4. This proposal does not address the issues that led to the rejection of the first bid last year. Fish Lake will be affected by the toxic waste and eventually die, and it will be surrounded by a massive open pit mine and related infrastructure for decades. The Tsilhqot'in people will not have access to their spiritual place, and the area will never be returned to the current pristine state.
It is not even new. It is "Mine Development Plan 2." TML states on page 20 of its project submission: "Option 2 is the basis for the New Prosperity design …The concepts that lead to the configuration of MDP Option 2 have been utilized to develop the project description currently being proposed."
5. This option was looked at and rejected last year by the company, Environment Canada and the CEAA review panel. For example, page 65 of the review report states: "The Panel agrees with the observations made by Taseko and Environment Canada that Mine Development Plans 1 and 2 would result in greater long-term environmental risk than the preferred alternative."
6. The new $300 million in proposed spending is to cover the costs of relocating mine waste a little further away. There is nothing in the 'new' plan to mitigate all the environmental impacts identified in the previous assessment. TML states in its economic statement: "The new development design, predicated on higher long term prices for both copper and gold, would result in a direct increase in capital costs of $200 million to purchase additional mining equipment to relocate the tailings dam and to move the mine waste around Fish Lake to new locations. This redesign also adds $100 million in direct extra operating costs over the 20-year mine life to accomplish that task." In fact, this new spending is actually $37 million less than the company said last year it would have to spend just to go with the option that it and the review panel agreed would be worse for the environment.
7. The federal government is required under the Constitution to protect First Nations, which have been found to be under serious threat in this case, and is internationally committed to do so under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. These duties are every bit as clear regarding this resubmitted proposal.
8. Approving this mine would show the Environmental Assessment process is meaningless, and would demonstrate that governments are ignoring their obligations - as the Assembly of First Nations national chiefs-in-assembly made this crystal clear this summer in their resolution of support for the Tsilhqot'in.
9. The federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans has opposed this project since it was first raised in 1995. It soundly rejected it again last year. It has no reason to support it now. Nor does Environment Canada, which, as the CEAA report noted last year, also found option 2 to be worse than the original bid.
10. There are many other more worthy projects to be pursued - the vast majority of which, if not all will require working with aboriginal communities. Natural Resources Canada estimates there is $350 billion-$500 billion worth of such potential projects in Canada. Governments, industry and investors do not need to go backwards by pushing this confrontational proposal and rebuffing efforts by First Nations to find a way to create a better mining system that would benefit everyone in the long run.
Meanwhile - the Tsilhqot'in (Chilcotin) National Government has released its' "Top Ten" reasons why 'New Prosperity' should be rejected by Ottawa:
1. The CEAA review panel process was very different from the BC EAO rubber-stamp decision. Its report found immitigable, devastating impacts to the local fish stocks and endangered grizzly populations, and to the existing and future rights of the Tsilhqot'in and its youth. Then Environment Minister Jim Prentice described the report's findings as "scathing" and "probably the most condemning I have ever read."
2. The company knows its new option is worse than its first plan. TML's V.P. Corporate Affairs, Brian Battison, was clear in his Mar. 22, 2010, opening presentation to the CEAA hearings, when he stated: "Developing Prosperity means draining Fish Lake. We wish it were otherwise. We searched hard for a different way. A way to retain the lake and have the mine. But there is no viable alternative. The lake and the deposit sit side by side. It is not possible to have one without the loss of the other."
3. The point was emphasised by TML's VP of engineering, Scott Jones, who stated: "What happens to the water quality in Fish Lake, if you try and preserve that body of water with the tailings facility right up against it, is that over time the water quality in Fish Lake will become equivalent to the water quality in the pore water of the tailings facility, particularly when it's close."
4. This proposal does not address the issues that led to the rejection of the first bid last year. Fish Lake will be affected by the toxic waste and eventually die, and it will be surrounded by a massive open pit mine and related infrastructure for decades. The Tsilhqot'in people will not have access to their spiritual place, and the area will never be returned to the current pristine state.
It is not even new. It is "Mine Development Plan 2." TML states on page 20 of its project submission: "Option 2 is the basis for the New Prosperity design …The concepts that lead to the configuration of MDP Option 2 have been utilized to develop the project description currently being proposed."
5. This option was looked at and rejected last year by the company, Environment Canada and the CEAA review panel. For example, page 65 of the review report states: "The Panel agrees with the observations made by Taseko and Environment Canada that Mine Development Plans 1 and 2 would result in greater long-term environmental risk than the preferred alternative."
6. The new $300 million in proposed spending is to cover the costs of relocating mine waste a little further away. There is nothing in the 'new' plan to mitigate all the environmental impacts identified in the previous assessment. TML states in its economic statement: "The new development design, predicated on higher long term prices for both copper and gold, would result in a direct increase in capital costs of $200 million to purchase additional mining equipment to relocate the tailings dam and to move the mine waste around Fish Lake to new locations. This redesign also adds $100 million in direct extra operating costs over the 20-year mine life to accomplish that task." In fact, this new spending is actually $37 million less than the company said last year it would have to spend just to go with the option that it and the review panel agreed would be worse for the environment.
7. The federal government is required under the Constitution to protect First Nations, which have been found to be under serious threat in this case, and is internationally committed to do so under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. These duties are every bit as clear regarding this resubmitted proposal.
8. Approving this mine would show the Environmental Assessment process is meaningless, and would demonstrate that governments are ignoring their obligations - as the Assembly of First Nations national chiefs-in-assembly made this crystal clear this summer in their resolution of support for the Tsilhqot'in.
9. The federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans has opposed this project since it was first raised in 1995. It soundly rejected it again last year. It has no reason to support it now. Nor does Environment Canada, which, as the CEAA report noted last year, also found option 2 to be worse than the original bid.
10. There are many other more worthy projects to be pursued - the vast majority of which, if not all will require working with aboriginal communities. Natural Resources Canada estimates there is $350 billion-$500 billion worth of such potential projects in Canada. Governments, industry and investors do not need to go backwards by pushing this confrontational proposal and rebuffing efforts by First Nations to find a way to create a better mining system that would benefit everyone in the long run.
Teachers' to have (again) legislated contract
This morning - the fact-finder that Victoria appointed to look into the possibility of a negotiated agreement between the BC Teachers' Federation and the BC Public School Employers' Association has reported back and stated that it is 'unlikely' that a negotiated contract would be forthcoming - see the press release from the Government of BC here
Meanwhile - on Twitter, George Abbott announced that legislation to impose a contract on teachers' would be drafted over the weekend and presented to the BC Legislature on Monday. George Abbott is sad that a negotiated contract could not be arrived at
Of course, this will not be the 1st time that a contract has been imposed on BC Teachers' - this act has been done by the current BC Liberal government, it was also done by the former Glen Clark NDP government as well
Finally - one individual I talked with this morning said "Why not binding arbritation or mediation?" The real problem with this is Victoria has upcoming negotiations with the BCGEU, HEU, etc this year and if Victoria did, in fact, give a wage increase to the BC Teachers' Federation, the BC Liberals' would be bound, at least morally, to give the same to all other unions
In my humble opinion - we simply can not afford wage hikes for our public sector workers (incuding teachers') at this time. That is not to say we, as a society, don't value their work (we do!) but the economic circumstances dictate that we can't afford their requests, at this time, but if/when economic circumstances permit it - then yes, we should afford our public workers' wage/pension hikes..
SBF
Update: George Abbott on CKNW talking about a legislated contract for teachers - read here
Meanwhile - on Twitter, George Abbott announced that legislation to impose a contract on teachers' would be drafted over the weekend and presented to the BC Legislature on Monday. George Abbott is sad that a negotiated contract could not be arrived at
Of course, this will not be the 1st time that a contract has been imposed on BC Teachers' - this act has been done by the current BC Liberal government, it was also done by the former Glen Clark NDP government as well
Finally - one individual I talked with this morning said "Why not binding arbritation or mediation?" The real problem with this is Victoria has upcoming negotiations with the BCGEU, HEU, etc this year and if Victoria did, in fact, give a wage increase to the BC Teachers' Federation, the BC Liberals' would be bound, at least morally, to give the same to all other unions
In my humble opinion - we simply can not afford wage hikes for our public sector workers (incuding teachers') at this time. That is not to say we, as a society, don't value their work (we do!) but the economic circumstances dictate that we can't afford their requests, at this time, but if/when economic circumstances permit it - then yes, we should afford our public workers' wage/pension hikes..
SBF
Update: George Abbott on CKNW talking about a legislated contract for teachers - read here
Link between Health and Local Recreation
In a new blog post - Cariboo Regional District Area 'B' Director Heloise Dixon-Warren looks at the idea of a link of having healthy communities through local government policy and overall public health
Read here
She does raise a good point - increasingly, there is evidence that those who lead a healthy lifestyle (and yes, local government can assist in that regard with affordable recreation opportunities) do cost the provincial health system less
SBF
Read here
She does raise a good point - increasingly, there is evidence that those who lead a healthy lifestyle (and yes, local government can assist in that regard with affordable recreation opportunities) do cost the provincial health system less
SBF
WL News - Feb 23rd edition
1) Duncan Barnett from the Cariboo Cattlemen's Association expresses 'disappointment' at recent visit by Steve Thomson - Minister of Natural Resources Operations - read here
2) Workshop planned for Woodland Dr residents for future water services for that area - read here
3) 'Status Quo' for Zellers in Williams Lake - read here
4) Operation: Red Nose presentations - read here
5) Cariboo Regional District submits five resolutions for May's North Central Local Gov't Association AGM in 100 Mile House - read here
6) Local MLA's Donna Barnett (Cariboo-Chilcotin.. BC Liberal)/Bob Simpson (Cariboo-North.. Ind) speak out on BC Budget 2012 - read here
Editor's Note - Commentor 'Jim' is not likely to be happy on this development... there is a political danger that the City/CRD could see a flood of other groups whose grant-in-aide applications were rejected and want reconsideration as well, given the precedent that Mayor Cook proposes that be set in the case of the Dry Grad 2011 Grant-in-Aide application
Update at 10:47am - Lots of discussion on this topic on the Welcome to Williams Lake Facebook page which you can read here
9) And speaking of Mayor Cook - check out her weekly column this week where she speaks about compassion - read here
Editor's Note - I was a little disappointed with this column. The column itself didn't talk about what WL Council was up to. Hopefully next week, she'll return to weekly columns on what Council is up to
10) Liz Twan (Tribune columnist) looks at the work local ranchers are up to - read here
11) Carole Ann Cole of Toronto looks at the movie 'Pink Ribbons' - read here
12) Finally - as I said I would - Tribune runs my letter to the editor calling upon the Cariboo Regional District Board to reject a 'Social Planning' Function for the Cariboo Regional District - read here
2) Workshop planned for Woodland Dr residents for future water services for that area - read here
3) 'Status Quo' for Zellers in Williams Lake - read here
4) Operation: Red Nose presentations - read here
5) Cariboo Regional District submits five resolutions for May's North Central Local Gov't Association AGM in 100 Mile House - read here
6) Local MLA's Donna Barnett (Cariboo-Chilcotin.. BC Liberal)/Bob Simpson (Cariboo-North.. Ind) speak out on BC Budget 2012 - read here
7) Money distributed for Environmental Assessment process for Spanish Mountain Gold mine project near Likely - read here
8) WL Mayor Kerry Cook breathes new life into previously defeated grant-in-aide application from local Dry Grad Committee - read here
8) WL Mayor Kerry Cook breathes new life into previously defeated grant-in-aide application from local Dry Grad Committee - read here
Editor's Note - Commentor 'Jim' is not likely to be happy on this development... there is a political danger that the City/CRD could see a flood of other groups whose grant-in-aide applications were rejected and want reconsideration as well, given the precedent that Mayor Cook proposes that be set in the case of the Dry Grad 2011 Grant-in-Aide application
Update at 10:47am - Lots of discussion on this topic on the Welcome to Williams Lake Facebook page which you can read here
9) And speaking of Mayor Cook - check out her weekly column this week where she speaks about compassion - read here
Editor's Note - I was a little disappointed with this column. The column itself didn't talk about what WL Council was up to. Hopefully next week, she'll return to weekly columns on what Council is up to
10) Liz Twan (Tribune columnist) looks at the work local ranchers are up to - read here
11) Carole Ann Cole of Toronto looks at the movie 'Pink Ribbons' - read here
12) Finally - as I said I would - Tribune runs my letter to the editor calling upon the Cariboo Regional District Board to reject a 'Social Planning' Function for the Cariboo Regional District - read here
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
CC Joint Committee Highlights - Feb 22nd meeting
Present from City of Williams Lake: Mayor Cook (CCJC Co-Chair) and Councillors Hughes, Rathor, Walters and Zacharias
Present from CRD: Director J. Sorley (CCJC Co-Chair) and Directors Bischoff & Kemp
Staff Present:
J. Bell - CRD CAO
D. Campbell - CRD Manager of Community Services
B. Crowe - CRD Executive Assistant
B. Carruthers - City of WL CAO
G. Paynton - City of WL Director of Community Services
D. Radolla - City of WL Manager of Active Living
Meeting started at 5:03pm
Agenda approved with addition of Late Item - discussion on reconsideration of 2011 Grant-in-Aide application from Dry Grad Committee
Item B2 - Project/Operating Grants from Central Cariboo Arts/Culture Function
By Consensus - Joint Committee recommends to the CRD Board that Project/Operating Grants , as recommended by the Central Cariboo Arts/Culture Society, be approved
Minutes from the Jan 25th CCJC Meeting approved
Item B1 - CMRC Operations on Stat Holidays in 2012
The Manager of Active Living reviewed her report with the Joint Committee
Discussion ensued
By Consensus - CMRC operate on Stat Holidays in 2012, as was done in 2011 -
Councillor Danica Hughes opposed
Item B3 - Invitation to Bid for 2016 or 2018 BC Summer or Winter Games
The Director of Community Services reviewed this item with the Joint Committee
Discussion ensued
By Consensus - Item received
Item B4 - Pool Task Force Terms of Reference
The Director of Community Services reviewed his report with the Joint Committee
Discussion ensued
By Consensus - That the Pool Task Force Terms of Reference, as proposed, be adopted
CRD Area 'D' Director D. Bischoff opposed
Item B5 - NDI Application for "Community Kitchen" at Xeni Gwet'in:
The Manager of Community Services reviewed this item with the Joint Committee
Discussion ensued
By Consensus - That the NDI Application, as proposed, be supported by the Joint Committee
Item B6 - 2 Reps from Junior Council on the Pool Task Force
The Director of Community Services reviewed this item with the Joint Committee
Discussion ensued
By Consensus - That two seats on the Pool Task Force be reserved for members of WL Junior Council
Item B7 - Rick Hansen 25th Anniversary Relay Event Update
The Manager of Active Living and Councillor Rathor reviewed this item with the Joint Committee
Discussion ensued
By Consensus - Report of the Manager of Active Living received
Action Page
By Consensus - Action Page received
Late Item - Reconsideration of 2011 Grant-in-Aide application - Dry Grad Committee (as requested by City of WL Mayor Kerry Cook)
Mayor Cook reviewed this item with the Joint Committee
Discussion ensued
By Consensus - Staff requested to bring forward options to fund 2011 Dry Grad Committee's $5,845 Grant-in-Aide application to March 28th Central Cariboo/City of Williams Lake Joint Committee meeting
Meeting adjourned to In-Camera Session, as per Section 90(1)(a) of the Community Charter relating to appointments
Editor's Notes:
1) Councillor Laurie Walters asked if CRD Area 'D' Director Deb Bischoff would explain her opposition to the adoption of the Pool Task Force Terms of Reference. Director Bischoff refused. As a rule - once the vote is taken, you move on to the next item and don't ask those voting in opposition to explain their no vote after the vote is taken. Those who vote no to items are under no obligation to explain their vote. Note - no one asked Councillor Danica Hughes to explain her opposition to the CMRC being open during Stat Holidays in 2012
2) I was shocked with the Late Item request from City of WL Mayor Kerry Cook for the Dry Grad Committee 2011 Grant-in-Aide request be reconsidered for a 2nd time. This, after the Dry Grad application was rejected, as per the new Grant-in-Aide policy (that Mayor Cook herself agreed with) in late October 2011 and reconsidered at the Jan 25th, 2012 CC Joint Committee meeting and again was denied (Mayor Cook was absent at the Jan 25th CCJC Meeting).
As CRD Area 'E' Director Byron Kemp noted, if policy stated that the Dry Grad Committee grant-in-aide application did not "pass muster" on Oct 26th - then let's stick with policy now.
Mayor Cook, in defence, stated that she had received emails on the subject, a letter to the editor was submitted and was concerned about the perception that "local politicians do not support Dry Grad"
The real political danger here is others, who were denied grant-in-aide requests, will ask for similiar treatment and refusal to do so when land the politicians into considerable "hot water" because it'll seem they are "picking favorites". In addition, when you rely on policy, especially well written policy (like the new Grant-in-Aide policy is), you either stand by policy, no matter how upset the public gets, or throw out policy and just fund everything and figure it out later
Councillors Walters/Rathor also agreed with Mayor Cook and her sentiments on this request. Councillor Zacharias wanted to make the decision at tonight's CCJC however Director Sorley wanted to wait until Staff reported back on options. The report on this item will be presented at the March 28th Central Cariboo/City of Williams Lake Joint Committee meeting and a formal decision will be made at that time as the CRD Board must adopt its' budget on Friday, March 30th
Present from CRD: Director J. Sorley (CCJC Co-Chair) and Directors Bischoff & Kemp
Staff Present:
J. Bell - CRD CAO
D. Campbell - CRD Manager of Community Services
B. Crowe - CRD Executive Assistant
B. Carruthers - City of WL CAO
G. Paynton - City of WL Director of Community Services
D. Radolla - City of WL Manager of Active Living
Meeting started at 5:03pm
Agenda approved with addition of Late Item - discussion on reconsideration of 2011 Grant-in-Aide application from Dry Grad Committee
Item B2 - Project/Operating Grants from Central Cariboo Arts/Culture Function
By Consensus - Joint Committee recommends to the CRD Board that Project/Operating Grants , as recommended by the Central Cariboo Arts/Culture Society, be approved
Minutes from the Jan 25th CCJC Meeting approved
Item B1 - CMRC Operations on Stat Holidays in 2012
The Manager of Active Living reviewed her report with the Joint Committee
Discussion ensued
By Consensus - CMRC operate on Stat Holidays in 2012, as was done in 2011 -
Councillor Danica Hughes opposed
Item B3 - Invitation to Bid for 2016 or 2018 BC Summer or Winter Games
The Director of Community Services reviewed this item with the Joint Committee
Discussion ensued
By Consensus - Item received
Item B4 - Pool Task Force Terms of Reference
The Director of Community Services reviewed his report with the Joint Committee
Discussion ensued
By Consensus - That the Pool Task Force Terms of Reference, as proposed, be adopted
CRD Area 'D' Director D. Bischoff opposed
Item B5 - NDI Application for "Community Kitchen" at Xeni Gwet'in:
The Manager of Community Services reviewed this item with the Joint Committee
Discussion ensued
By Consensus - That the NDI Application, as proposed, be supported by the Joint Committee
Item B6 - 2 Reps from Junior Council on the Pool Task Force
The Director of Community Services reviewed this item with the Joint Committee
Discussion ensued
By Consensus - That two seats on the Pool Task Force be reserved for members of WL Junior Council
Item B7 - Rick Hansen 25th Anniversary Relay Event Update
The Manager of Active Living and Councillor Rathor reviewed this item with the Joint Committee
Discussion ensued
By Consensus - Report of the Manager of Active Living received
Action Page
By Consensus - Action Page received
Late Item - Reconsideration of 2011 Grant-in-Aide application - Dry Grad Committee (as requested by City of WL Mayor Kerry Cook)
Mayor Cook reviewed this item with the Joint Committee
Discussion ensued
By Consensus - Staff requested to bring forward options to fund 2011 Dry Grad Committee's $5,845 Grant-in-Aide application to March 28th Central Cariboo/City of Williams Lake Joint Committee meeting
Meeting adjourned to In-Camera Session, as per Section 90(1)(a) of the Community Charter relating to appointments
Editor's Notes:
1) Councillor Laurie Walters asked if CRD Area 'D' Director Deb Bischoff would explain her opposition to the adoption of the Pool Task Force Terms of Reference. Director Bischoff refused. As a rule - once the vote is taken, you move on to the next item and don't ask those voting in opposition to explain their no vote after the vote is taken. Those who vote no to items are under no obligation to explain their vote. Note - no one asked Councillor Danica Hughes to explain her opposition to the CMRC being open during Stat Holidays in 2012
2) I was shocked with the Late Item request from City of WL Mayor Kerry Cook for the Dry Grad Committee 2011 Grant-in-Aide request be reconsidered for a 2nd time. This, after the Dry Grad application was rejected, as per the new Grant-in-Aide policy (that Mayor Cook herself agreed with) in late October 2011 and reconsidered at the Jan 25th, 2012 CC Joint Committee meeting and again was denied (Mayor Cook was absent at the Jan 25th CCJC Meeting).
As CRD Area 'E' Director Byron Kemp noted, if policy stated that the Dry Grad Committee grant-in-aide application did not "pass muster" on Oct 26th - then let's stick with policy now.
Mayor Cook, in defence, stated that she had received emails on the subject, a letter to the editor was submitted and was concerned about the perception that "local politicians do not support Dry Grad"
The real political danger here is others, who were denied grant-in-aide requests, will ask for similiar treatment and refusal to do so when land the politicians into considerable "hot water" because it'll seem they are "picking favorites". In addition, when you rely on policy, especially well written policy (like the new Grant-in-Aide policy is), you either stand by policy, no matter how upset the public gets, or throw out policy and just fund everything and figure it out later
Councillors Walters/Rathor also agreed with Mayor Cook and her sentiments on this request. Councillor Zacharias wanted to make the decision at tonight's CCJC however Director Sorley wanted to wait until Staff reported back on options. The report on this item will be presented at the March 28th Central Cariboo/City of Williams Lake Joint Committee meeting and a formal decision will be made at that time as the CRD Board must adopt its' budget on Friday, March 30th
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