CCRHD Board Highlights - Dec 9th mtg

Present:

Chair A. Richmond/Vice Chair M. Sjostrom and Directors B. Bachmeier, J. Massier, S. Forseth, M. Neufeld, M. LeBourdais, M. Wagner, J. Glassford, T. Pare, B. Anderson, E. De Vries  E. Coleman, R. Paull, SPS Rathor M. Pinkney and J. Smith

Meeting called to order at 9:30am

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional unceded territory of Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw

Meeting agenda adopted

Minutes of the CCRHD Board Meeting held November 10th, 2022 were received/adopted

Business:

1) The Board gave 3 Readings/Adoption to the following Capital Expenditure Bylaws: 

a) Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Capital Expenditure (NH – Regional Wireless Replacement) Bylaw No. 202, 2022 

b) Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Capital Expenditure (NH – InCare Project Phase 2) Bylaw No. 203, 2022 

2) The Board received the Hospital Consent Calendar as of December 9th, 2022 

3) The Board received a request regarding the Cariboo Regional Hospital District to provide funding by way of a Foundation Partnership Grant and approved the request in principle, provided support of IH is received

4) The Board received a request of Northern Health regarding their Patient Transfer Tool project was received and that funding in the amount of $7,394.00 representing the CCRHD’s 3.9% share of the project costs be approved and directed that the necessary bylaw be brought forward to the Board at its January 13, 2023 meeting for consideration of three readings and adoption 

5) The Board received a request of Northern Health regarding funding of Videoconferencing Equipment was received and that funding in the amount of $8,533 representing the CCRHD’s 3.9% portion of cost be approved and directed that the necessary bylaw be brought forward to the Board at its January 13, 2023, meeting for consideration of three readings and adoption. 

 6) The Board received the Northern Health Connections modified holiday schedule starting December 20, 2022 through to the week of January 2, 2023 

The Chair provided updates on health care projects and services in Williams Lake and Quesnel

The Board adjourned at 9:48am

Cariboo RD Finance/Budget Committee Highlights - Dec 8th mtg

Present: Chair J. Glassford; Directors Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth, Neufeld (via telephone), LeBourdais, Richmond, Wagner, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Coleman, Paull, Rathor and Pinkney

Meeting commenced at 12:45pm

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional unceded territory of Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the Committee meeting held February 24th, 2022 were received/adopted

Business:

1) The Committee was presented with a report of the CFO concerning 2023 – 2027 Provisional Five Year Financial Plan Discussion and Review 

Discussion ensued thereon ... 

Resolved -- Report received

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Director Rathor (Williams Lake)

2) Closed (In-Camera) Committee Session ... 

At  1:31pm -- the Committee recessed its' Open Session to convene an Closed (In-Camera) Committee Session under the provisions of Sections 92 and 90(1c - labour) of the Community Charter

At 2:28pm-- the Committee resumed its' Open Meeting

3) Review of 2023 Business Plans

The Committee commenced its' review of the Regional District proposed Business Plans for 2023

Director Rathor (Williams Lake) recorded opposed on approval of "Administration Business Plans for 2023"

The Committee adjourned at 3:16pm

Committee of the Whole Highlights (Cariboo RD Board) - Dec 8th mtg

Present: Chair M. Wagner/Vice Chair J. Massier; Directors Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Forseth, Neufeld (via teleconference), LeBourdais, Richmond, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Coleman, Paull, Rathor and Pinkney

Meeting commenced at 9:30am

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional unceded territory of Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the September 22nd, 2022 Committee of the Whole meeting were received/adopted

Business:

The Committee was presented with a report and presentation from the Supervisor of Solid Waste Management 

During the presentation - a Question/Answer period ensued

Resolved -- That the report of the Supervisor of Solid Waste Management regarding the Solid Waste Management Plan update be received

There being no further business -- the Committee adjourned at 12:06pm

Join the Cariboo Regional District's "Fire Family"

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

Our volunteer firefighters are the backbone of your regional fire protection services. However, some of our halls are in critical need of volunteers to join the team. We need you to be the difference to your community – you may be surprised at how much you can do.

A firefighter does more than just putting out fires and driving fire trucks – although you can do that too! Our firefighters pull together not only to support their communities – they also support each other, through good times and tough times. Being a firefighter means joining a family of safety professionals.

Our Fire Departments are professionally staff by volunteers – members of your community ready to answer the call whenever they are needed – and we are asking you to join with your fire fighting family to make a difference. You can learn more about how to become involved with your firefighting family by visiting our website at www.cariboord.ca/firedepartments

Eric Smith, Fire Chief of the Kersley Fire Department says:

"What we’re looking for in individuals when they want to be a firefighter is a sense of commitment – someone that wants to do this, that enjoys doing this, they have pride in the work they do. I was nervous, I was shy, and now I’m leading the department with what I can do. It always comes down to you’ve got to cross that barrier and see if you can do it or not.”

New BC Cabinet

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

Premier David Eby has announced a new cabinet made of experience and new energy that will focus on tackling the problems people are facing, and working to make life better for British Columbians.

“British Columbia is a wonderful place to live, but people are looking for action on the issues facing them and their families,” Premier Eby said. “If the pandemic taught us anything, it's that we can't solve these problems alone. We need to solve them together. My team of determined colleagues will use a wealth and variety of experiences to continue the good work we’ve started and go further to deliver results people can see and feel in their communities.”

The new cabinet members are tasked with helping regular British Columbians with the cost of living, strengthening the health-care system, tackling the housing crisis so people can find affordable, attainable homes, making communities safer, advancing reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, fighting the impacts of climate change and building a sustainable, clean-energy economy that works for everyone.

Two new ministries are being created to devote more attention and resources to major issues that impact British Columbians: the Ministry of Housing, and the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. 

The new cabinet includes 23 ministers and four ministers of state. Gender representation remains balanced. The cabinet will be supported in its work by 14 parliamentary secretaries.

The cabinet is as follows:

• Premier: David Eby
• Agriculture and Food: Pam Alexis
• Attorney General: Niki Sharma
• Children and Family Development: Mitzi Dean
• Citizens’ Services: Lisa Beare
• Education and Child Care: Rachna Singh
  • Minister of State for Child Care: Grace Lore
• Emergency Management and Climate Readiness: Bowinn Ma
• Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation: Josie Osborne
• Environment and Climate Change Strategy: George Heyman
• Finance (includes Columbia River Treaty): Katrine Conroy 
• Forests, and Minister Responsible for Consular Corps: Bruce Ralston
• Health, and Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs: Adrian Dix
• Housing, and Government House Leader: Ravi Kahlon
• Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation: Murray Rankin
• Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation: Brenda Bailey
  • Minister of State for Trade: Jagrup Brar
• Labour: Harry Bains
• Mental Health and Addictions: Jennifer Whiteside
• Municipal Affairs: Anne Kang
• Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills (including foreign credentials recognition): Selina Robinson
  • Minister of State for Workforce Development: Andrew Mercier
• Public Safety and Solicitor General (ICBC), and Deputy Premier: Mike Farnworth
• Social Development and Poverty Reduction: Sheila Malcolmson
• Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport: Lana Popham
• Transportation and Infrastructure (BC Transit and Translink): Rob Fleming
  • Minister of State for Infrastructure and Transit: Dan Coulter
• Water, Land and Resource Stewardship (Fisheries): Nathan Cullen

A backgrounder follows.

Backgrounders

Parliamentary secretaries announced

The following is a list of new parliamentary secretaries.

• Parliamentary Secretary for Anti-Racism Initiatives: Mable Elmore
• Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Preparedness: Jennifer Rice
• Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainable Economy: Adam Walker
• Parliamentary Secretary for Environment: Aman Singh
• Parliamentary Secretary for Gender Equity: Kelli Paddon
• Parliamentary Secretary for Forests: Doug Routley
• Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors' Services and Long-Term Care: Harwinder Sandhu
• Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Development: Roly Russell
• Parliamentary Secretary for Labour: Janet Routledge
• Parliamentary Secretary for Accessibility: Susie Chant
• Parliamentary Secretary for Community Development and Non-profits: Megan Dykeman
• Parliamentary Secretary for Arts and Film: Bob D’Eith
• Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism and Premier’s Special Advisor on Youth: Brittny Anderson 
• Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries and Aquaculture: Kelly Greene

WL Council Highlights - Dec 6th mtg

Present: Mayor SPS Rathor; Councillors Boehm, Delainey, Flaspohler, Lyons, Moses and Nelson

Mayor Rathor recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional, unceded territory of the Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw

Council Meeting Agenda Adopted - click here.  Meeting video here

Minutes of Williams Lake City Council Meeting held on November 15th, 2022 was received/adopted

Presentation:

1) Fire Chief Passing of the Helmet Presentation to new Williams Lake Fire Chief Evan Dean

Delegations:

1) Ruth Lloyd and Paul Smith, Go By Bike Williams Lake and Streets for All Williams Lake appeared before Council to discuss their Fall Activities & Active Transportation Committee

Following the presentation - A Question/Answer period ensued

Mayor Rathor thanked the delegation for their time and information

Resolved -- That the presentation from the Go By Bike Williams Lake and Streets for All Williams Lake group be received and Council establish an Active Transportation Committee 

2) Renee McKeown, Dr. Carol Fenton & Deberah Robbin - Interior Health Authority and First Nations Health Authority (via Zoom/in-person) appeared before Council to discuss Approval of Proposed Mobile Overdose Prevention Site in Williams Lake

Following the presentation - A Question/Answer period ensued

Mayor Rathor thanked the delegation for their time and information

Resolved -- That the presentation from representatives of the Interior Health Authority and the First Nations Health Authority regarding a request for Council to approve a proposal for a mobile overdose prevention site in Williams Lake be received and referred to staff for a report back to Council.

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated November 4, 10, 17, 18, 24 and December 1, 2022

2) Council Appointments were amended to reflect the following changes: 

* Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Liaison – Councillor Moses 

* Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Fee for Service Management Committee – Councillor Moses 

* Cariboo Chilcotin Partners for Literacy – Councillor Delainey

* Williams Lake Airshed Quality Roundtable -- Councillor Delainey

3) Council received for information the report of the Public Hearing for Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2375 held November 15, 2022

4) At the request of Councillor Nelson -- Council agreed to send a letter to Hon. Murray Rankin, BC Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing, thanking him for his directive to identify and implement amendments to the BC Prosecution Service’s Bail – Adults policy, issued pursuant to section 6 of the Crown Counsel Act; and further that Council request the Attorney General to encourage the BC Prosecution Service to utilize electronic monitoring on prolific offenders that are released into the community on bail conditions

5) Council agreed to renew agreements with the Cariboo Regional District, as follows:

* Handy-Dart service for specified areas within Areas D,E,F of the Cariboo Regional District

* Cemetery Services for those in Areas D,E,F of the Cariboo Regional District

* Emergency Support (Social) Services for those living within rural areas in the Cariboo Regional District

6) Council approved registration, accommodation, meals, travel, Council compensation and other associated expenses for interested Council members to attend the Local Government Leadership Academy’s 2023 Elected Officials Seminar in Prince George, BC from March 15 to 17, 2023

7) Council endorsed recommendations of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee, as follows:

a) 2023 Meeting Schedule of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee

b) That pursuant to Central Cariboo Joint Committee Report #03-2022, the Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society's 'Performances in the Park Report' be received and approval be given for renewal of the Performances in the Park services agreement between the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society, the City of Williams Lake and the Cariboo Regional District for a three-year term at a cost of $22,000 annually paid to the Society for coordinating the Performances in the Park events, and the Mayor and Corporate Officer be authorized to sign the agreement on behalf of the City; and further, that staff be directed to investigate the use of the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex for those events scheduled during inclement weather or poor air quality due to wildfire smoke.

8) Council gave 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings to "Williams Lake Cemetery Amendment Bylaw No. 2380, 2022"

9) Council approved BC Air Access Program grant applications, as follows:

* Airport Security Gate Upgrade - $60,000

* Airport Apron Lighting Upgrade - $55,900

10) Council approved a REDIP/Rural Economic Development Infrastructure Program grant application for a Utility Master Plan for the Williams Lake Regional Airport (in concert with a similar study for capacity within the Pine Valley Sewer System, as proposed by the Cariboo Regional District)

11) Council awarded the contract for the washroom replacement at Scout Island to Spruce Lee Construction for the tendered price of $298,225, plus applicable taxes, and agree to the project cost overrun of $26,829.02 to be covered from other project budgets that have come in under budget.

12)  Council agreed to extend the existing contract of the Community Well-Being and Safety Coordinator until December 31, 2023, and that this extension be funded through the COVID Safe Restart Funds that are remaining in the City Budget from the 2020 allocation from the Province 

13) Council receive the report of the Director of Human Resources dated November 21, 2022 and directed that the COVID-19 Mandatory Vaccination Council Policy be rescinded 

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Councillor M. Moses

14) "City of Williams Lake Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2375, 2022" was adopted (318 Broadway Avenue South)

15) Council ratified several Committee of the Whole recommendations, as follows:

Councillor Moses declared a conflict on the next item at 8:19pm and left Council Chambers

a) That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #22-2022, the report of the Chief Financial Officer dated November 15, 2022 be received and Council approve entering into Fee for Service agreements for three-year terms, effective January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2025, as follows: 

 Big Brothers Big Sisters of Williams Lake - $15,000 / year 

 BGC Williams Lake Club - $15,000 / year 

 Cariboo Chilcotin Conservation Society ‘Water Wise’ Program - $42,000 / year 

 Social Planning Council of Williams Lake and Area - $5,000 / year 

 Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin Society - $24,000 / year 

 Williams Lake Stampede Association - $25,000 / year 

 Williams Lake Food Policy Council - $6,000 / year 

 Downtown Williams Lake Business Improvement Association - $4,000 / year 

 Williams Lake Community Policing Committee - $15,000 / year

Councillor Lyons declared a conflict on the next item and left Council Chambers at 8:21pm

b) That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #23-2022, the report of the Chief Financial Officer dated November 15, 2022 be received and final consideration of the following Fee for Service applications be deferred to future budget discussions: 

 Scout Island Nature Centre 

 Cariboo Chilcotin Conservation Society ‘Waste Wise’ Program 

 Williams Lake Stampede Parade 

 Williams Lake Hospice Society 

 Potato House Sustainable Community Society 

 Williams Lake & District Chamber of Commerce 

And further, that the Williams Lake Stampede Parade group be invited to meet with Council at a future Committee of Whole Council meeting to discuss their application

Councillors' Moses and Lyons returned to Council Chambers at 8:24pm

c) That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #24-2022, the report of the Chief Financial Officer dated November 16, 2022 be received and Council award $12,545 in Grant-in-Aid allotments for 2023 to the following applicants: 

 Cariboo Chilcotin Youth Fiddle Society - $4,000 

 Foundry Cariboo Chilcotin - $2,000 

 Gavin Lake Forest Education Society - $1,545 

 Canadian Royal Purple Association #125 - $1,000 

 Williams Lake Cycling Club - $4,000

16) Council received correspondence, as follows:

a) Minutes of the November 23rd Central Cariboo Joint Committee meeting

b) BC Municipal Affairs Minister Nathan Cullen re: 2022 UBCM Convention Meeting

c) BC Transportation Minister Rob Fleming re: Dog Creek Road Remediation Program

d) Letter Requesting the City Open the Snow Dump for Outside Contractors -- Letter referred to Staff for review and report back to Council

17) Council received the "Council Information Package" as of December 6th, 2022

Members of Council reported on their recent activities

Resolved -- That the Mayor be authorized to write letters of support, provided that a copy of those letters be included in the "Council Information Package" at each Council Meeting

Resolution to proceed to Closed (In-Camera) Council Meeting:

That Council resolve into a Closed Meeting, following adjournment of the Open Council Meeting, according to Section 92 of the Community Charter for discussion of items identified under Section 90 (1) (a) personal information about an identifiable individual who holds or is being considered for a position as an officer, employee or agent of the municipality or another position appointed by the municipality, (c) labour relations or other employee relations, (e) the acquisition, disposition or expropriation of land or improvements, if the Council considers that disclosure could reasonably be expected to harm the interest of the municipality and (f) law enforcement, if the council considers that disclosure could reasonably be expected to harm the conduct of an investigation under or enforcement of an enactment

Council adjourned at 8:47pm

2022 National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women

Courtesy of the Prime Minister of Canada - Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau:

“Today, on the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women, we remember the 14 young women who were murdered and 13 others injured at the École Polytechnique de Montréal on December 6, 1989. Their lives were so tragically cut short simply because they were women.

“For 33 years, we have held them in our thoughts. Geneviève Bergeron. Maryse Laganière. Hélène Colgan. Maryse Leclair. Nathalie Croteau. Anne-Marie Lemay. Barbara Daigneault. Sonia Pelletier. Anne-Marie Edward. Michèle Richard. Maud Haviernick. Annie St-Arneault. Barbara Klucznik-Widajewicz. Annie Turcotte. We will never forget them.

“On this day, and throughout the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, we acknowledge that the hatred that motivated this tragic mass shooting is still a very real threat for women in Canada and around the world. This is particularly true for marginalized and racialized women.

“Across the country this past week, we have been mourning the tragic killing of four Indigenous women in Manitoba: Rebecca Contois, Morgan Harris, Marcedes Myran, and a fourth woman who remains unidentified at this time. We will remember them as mothers, daughters, sisters, and caring community members. There is more work to do to stop this senseless violence and put an end to the ongoing tragedy of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. We will continue to work in partnership with Indigenous families, Survivors, leaders, and partners, as well as with provinces and territories, to implement the MMIWG National Action Plan and the Federal Pathway to make our communities safer.

“The Government of Canada is working to end gender-based violence so that all women, girls, and gender-diverse people can feel safe. Our Gender-Based Violence Strategy is advancing efforts to help prevent and address gender-based violence, support Survivors and their families, and promote justice. We are also supporting provinces and territories in implementing the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, launched last month, which sets a framework for anyone facing gender-based violence to have reliable and timely access to protection and services, no matter where they live. In addition, the government provided funding for women’s shelters across the country, crisis hotlines, and organizations helping women flee violence.

“We are also helping to protect women and girls by keeping guns out of our communities. Earlier this fall, the government implemented a national freeze on the sale, purchase, and transfer of handguns, which will make communities safer and help save lives. And Bill C-21 proposes Canada’s most significant action on gun violence in a generation.

“I encourage all Canadians to honour the victims and Survivors of the tragedy at the École Polytechnique de Montréal. Today, we wear a white ribbon, observe a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m., and support Survivors and those affected by gender-based violence. We will continue to do everything we can to build a safer, more inclusive future for everyone.”

Foundry Cariboo Chilcotin opens its doors to young people

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

Young people in the Cariboo Chilcotin region can access more mental-health and substance-use services with the opening of a Foundry centre in Williams Lake.

Foundry Cariboo Chilcotin provides young people aged 12-24 and their families free and confidential age-friendly services to fit their unique needs, such as mental-health and substance-use counselling, medical services, peer support and social services.

“Young people have been dealing with immense pressures and health challenges made worse by the COVID-19 pandemic, the toxic drug crisis and climate emergencies,” said the Hon. Sheila Malcolmson, BC's Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “Foundry Cariboo Chilcotin will be a beacon for young people in Williams Lake and surrounding communities, supporting youth with access to the help they need, when they need it.”

Foundry Cariboo Chilcotin is the 14th Foundry centre to open in British Columbia and is operated by Cariboo Chilcotin Child Development Centre in collaboration with multiple partner organizations. The centre is located at 51 4th Ave. S. in Williams Lake.

The Province has provided one-time funding of $800,000 for the centre’s establishment and is contributing $700,000 in annual funding for operations and services. Foundry Cariboo Chilcotin aimed to raise $1.2 million to build and establish the centre, and is more than 90% to the fundraising goal, thanks to support from donors and community champions.

“The opening of Foundry Cariboo Chilcotin is part of our ongoing commitment in ensuring young people and families across B.C. continue receiving accessible supports closer to home,” said Steve Mathias, executive director, Foundry. “The Cariboo Chilcotin communities have worked in partnership with the young people of the region to create a vision for an amazing centre. From the mural outside to the gathering spaces inside, the centre is welcoming and friendly. We express our gratitude to everyone who contributed countless hours on this beautiful space.”

There are 14 Foundry centres open throughout the province in Vancouver-Granville, North Shore (North Vancouver), Campbell River, Ridge Meadows, Abbotsford, Kelowna, Prince George, Victoria, Penticton, Terrace, Comox Valley, Langley, Richmond and Cariboo Chilcotin (Williams Lake).

An additional nine new Foundry centres are in development in Burns Lake, East Kootenay (Cranbrook), Port Hardy, Sea to Sky (Squamish), Surrey, Fort St. John, Tri-Cities, Kamloops and the Sunshine Coast. Foundry services can also be accessed from anywhere in the province through the Foundry BC app, by phone or at: foundrybc.ca/virtual

Enhancing supports for young people living with mental-health and substance-use needs is an integral part of A Pathway to Hope, B.C.’s roadmap for building a comprehensive system of mental-health and addictions care for British Columbians.

Learn More:

A Pathway to Hope, government’s vision for mental-health and addictions care in B.C.: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2021MMHA0049-001787

Foundry: foundrybc.ca

Cariboo Chilcotin Child Development Centre: https://www.ccchild.org/

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings - Week of Dec 5-9, 2022

The following local governments of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will be meeting next week (Dec 5-10, 2022):

1) Wells - Meetings as noted below, either via electronic means or in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue) - all on Tuesday, December 6th, 2022

a) 1st In-Camera Meeting from 1-3pm (closed to the public) as per Section 90(1a - appointment) of the Community Charter.  Read the closed meeting notice here

b) 2nd In-Camera Meeting from 6-6:45pm (closed to the public) as per Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter.  Read the closed meeting notice here

c) Open Council Meeting at 7pm.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation/Presentation -- Louis Orieux, RPF, B.A. Blackwell and Associates Ltd.—District of Wells Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan 2022

* Unfinished Business -- Strategic Priorities and Special Projects Spreadsheet—Gary Nason, Municipal Advisor

* Mayor's Report (verbal updates)

* Public Works Superintendent's Report

View the full Meeting Agenda here

2) Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, December 6th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  Meeting to be livestreamed via YouTube - click here

On the Agenda:

Presentation -- Fire Chief Passing of the Helmet Presentation to Evan Dean

Delegation #1 -- Denise Deschene and Ruth Lloyd, Go By Bike Williams Lake and Streets for All Williams Lake re Fall Activities & Active Transportation Committee

Delegation #2 -- Renee McKeown, Dr. Carol Fenton & Deberah Robbin - Interior Health Authority and First Nations Health Authority re Approval of Proposed Mobile Overdose Prevention Site in Williams Lake

* Letter to BC Gov't re: Repeat Violent Offenders (item from Councillor S. Nelson)

* BCAAP Grant Applications for Williams Lake Regional Airport Items

* REDIP Grant Application - Airport Utility Master Plan

* Scout Island Washroom Replacement Project - Award of Contract

* Extension of Community Well-Being & Safety Coordinator Contract

* Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society's 'Performances in the Park Report' - Joint Committee Report #03-2022 (New Contract of $22,000 per year until 2025)

* Report from Executive Committee re: COVID-19 Mandatory Vaccination Policy Consideration

* Recommendations from previous Committee of the Whole meeting for endorsement

* Letter Requesting the City Open the Snow Dump for Outside Contractors

View the full Meeting Agenda here

3) Cariboo Regional District - Meetings, as listed below, to be held in the Cariboo RD's Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake)

a) Committee of the Whole - 9:30am on Thursday, Dec 8th to receive an update on the Solid Waste Management Plan - Public Engagement Process.  View the full Agenda here 

b) Finance Committee - 11am on Thursday, Dec 8th to discuss the draft 2023 Regional District Budgets.  In addition, the Committee will hold an In-Camera Meeting as per Section 90(1c - labour) of the Community Charter).  View the full Meeting Agenda here

c) Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District - 9:30am on Friday, December 9th.  On the Agenda:

* Capital Expenditure (NH – Regional Wireless Replacement) Bylaw No. 202, 2022 (for consideration of 3 Readings/Adoption)

* Capital Expenditure (NH – InCare Project Phase 2) Bylaw No. 203, 2022 (for consideration of 3 Readings/Adoption)

* Request from South Cariboo Health Foundation for its Wound Care Clinic project

* Northern Health requests 40% CCRHD Funding for their Patient Transfer Tool project

* Northern Health requests proportional share of CCRHD funding of Videoconferencing Equipment

View the full Meeting Agenda here

d) Cariboo Regional District Board - after adjournment of CCRHD Board Meeting on Friday, December 9th, 2022.  On the Agenda:

*  Land Use Matters

* Request to Increase membership of Agriculture Development Advisory Committee from 13-15 members

* Request from TELUS to concur with new Cell Tower at Watch Lake in Electoral Area "L"

* Adoption of Regional District's Agriculture Plan

* NDIT Application - Kersley Playground (Area "A")

* BC Air Access Program Application for South Cariboo Airport

* 2 Grant for Assistance Applications - Central Cariboo sub-region

* Committee Minutes/Recommendations

* Cariboo Regional District Directors’ Remuneration and Expenses Bylaw No. 5415, 2022 (for 3 Readings and Adoption)

* Requests from Areas A/B Directors (M. Sjostrom/B. Bachmeier) to recognize their Commissions via their Director Initiative Funds

* Appointment to External Organizations for 2023 

* Closed Board Session -- Section 90(1c - labour) of the Community Charter

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Steve's Meeting/Expense Calendar - November 2022

In the month of November 2022 -- I attended the following meetings or events:

* November 1st -- attended virtual meeting of NCLGA's/North Central Local Government Association Governance Committee then attended the Inaugural Meeting of the 2022-2026 City of Williams Lake Municipal Council (along with Cariboo RD Chair Margo Wagner)

* November 8th -- attended a virtual meeting of the Northern BC Solid Waste Working Group, on behalf of NCLGA and then attended the monthly meeting of the Central Cariboo Arts/Culture Society's Board of Directors, in my capacity as the 2022 Central Cariboo Cariboo RD Director Liaison

* November 9th -- was interviewed by Kirk and Co. (firm facilitating the work of Gibraltar Mines' Technical Advisory Committee) about my participation in Gibraltar Mines' Technical Advisory Committee - what is working well, what isn't and what can be improved

* November 10th -- Inaugural Meeting of the 2022-2026 Cariboo Regional District & Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Boards' of Directors' 

* November 13th - Annual General Meeting of the Wildwood Community Association

* November 16th - Participated in a virtual meeting of NCLGA's 2023 AGM Organizing Committee

* November 22nd -- Participated in a 2023 budget meeting for the Wildwood VFD (1 of 14 VFD's operated by the Cariboo Regional District)

* November 23rd -- Participated in meetings of Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus and Central Cariboo Joint Committee

* November 24th -- Attended monthly meeting of the Williams Lake and District Chamber of Commerce and then attended a Winter Operations Stakeholder meeting of Dawson Road Maintenance

* November 28th -- Chaired meeting of NCLGA's Executive Committee whose membership consists of NCLGA's Table Officers (President, 1st and 2nd VP's and the Past President) 

* November 30th -- Attended virtual meeting of Gibraltar Mines' Technical Advisory Committee

In addition to the above, held weekly phone check ins with the Executive Director of NCLGA as well as respond to inquiries from Cariboo RD Area "D" residents via social media, phone/text or email

As to expenses submitted in the month of November 2022:

* November 10th -- $206 for Inaugural Meeting of the 2022-2026 Cariboo Regional District & Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Boards' of Directors' 

* November 23rd -- $83 for attendance at meetings of Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus and Central Cariboo Joint Committee

~SF

Xatśūll First Nation & BC Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation win 2022 B.C. Premier’s Regional Impact Award

Courtesy of Xat'sull First Nation:

The Province purchased the ranch, along with its Crown land range tenure, cattle, hay and equipment, for $8 million. It is leasing the ranch to Xatśūll First Nation until a treaty is reached, at which point ownership will transfer to the Nation. The purchase agreement also includes a provision for a grant towards the operating costs for the ranch’s first year.

The Regional Impact award recognizes groups, teams or organizations within the BC Public Service that have developed and delivered programs, projects and initiatives benefiting citizens in a specific location (town, city, municipality or region).

“We’re proud to be able to work together with the province and lead the way towards reconciliation,” says Xat'sull First Nation Councillor Mike Stinson. “We’re happy that the excellent work of our teams is being recognized by the B.C. Premiers Awards and are looking forward to continuing to work towards reconciliation and improving life for our members.”

The ranch has already provided beef to Xatśūll members.

Video: https://youtu.be/38BVakuf5QY

Quesnel Council Highlights - Nov 29th Special Mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Delegations - Revitalization Plans Davie Street Revitalization Plan North Fraser Drive Landing Revitalization Plan Representatives from L&M Engineering Limited presented their final long-term revitalization plans to Council.  These plans aim to attract new investment, promote the aesthetics of the areas, provide a balanced transportation system and foster links to surrounding areas.

Delegations - Quesnel Ball Field Action Plan Quesnel Ball Field Action Plan R.F. Binnie and Associates presented an action plan to enhance our ball fields by addressing the needs of the baseball and softball community within Quesnel and area, for Ranger Park in Barlow Creek and West Fraser Timber Park.

 

Agreement Renewals Council approved renewal of the following Agreements: Quesnel Kangaroos Sr. Hockey Club Agreement Moonshine Coffee Ltd./Shiraoi House Lease Agreement Amendment Request Quesnel Curling Centre Lease Agreement Quesnel Crafters' Society/Hudson's Bay Building Lease Agreement Quesnel Regional Airport Renewal & Amendment Contribution Agreement Cariboo Regional District/City of Quesnel

Council Remuneration Council approved a stipend increase of 4% for 2023, which is a reduction from the 7.7% under Policy IWC-8 - Annual Review of Council Remuneration and Expenses, which is tied to the Consumer Price Index.

 

Development Services Strata Conversion Application - 410 Pinchbeck Street Council directed staff to proceed with an application for the Strata Conversion of the 8-plex at 410 Pinchbeck Street without the requirement to show a vacancy rate at or above 4% and, Council's final approval will be subject to the applicant satisfying the conditions set out in section 5 of the Strata Conversion Policy.  Residents will have the opportunity to directly speak to Council on this issue, during this process.

Bylaws Bylaw 1929 - City of Quesnel Comprehensive Fees and Charges Bylaw 1929 of 2022 - Final Adoption Council approved the annual update to the Comprehensive Fees Bylaw. Water fees will be increased 10% ($23.72 to a single family dwelling). Sewer Fees will be increased 5% ($13.92 to a single family dwelling). Other fee increases included 2% for airport fees, 2% for cemetery services and an increase to the minimum cost for a commercial load at the landfill to $25.

 

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings: Week of November 28-Dec 2nd, 2022

During the week of November 28-December 2, 2022 -- the following local governments of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will be holding meetings, as follows:

Quesnel - Meetings as noted below, all in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St., Quesnel) 

1) Special Closed (In-Camera) Council Meeting - 5pm on Tuesday, November 29th.  Meeting to be closed as per Sections 90(1g - litigation) and (2b - confidential negotiations) of the Community Charter.  View the closed meeting notice here

2) Special Open Council Meeting - 6pm on Tuesday, November 29th.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation -- Revitalization Plans - North Fraser Landing and Davie Street - L&M Engineering Limited & Quesnel Ball Field Action Plan - R.F. Binnie and Associates 

* Report from Policy/Bylaw Committee - Meeting Schedule for 2023

* Quesnel Regional Airport Renewal & Amendment Contribution Agreement Cariboo Regional District/City of Quesnel

* Quesnel Kangaroos Sr. Hockey Club Agreement (Recommendation from North Cariboo Joint Committee)

* Council Remuneration for 2023

* Moonshine Coffee Ltd./Shiraoi House Lease Agreement Amendment Request

* Quesnel Curling Centre Lease Agreement

*  Strata Conversion Application – 410 Pinchbeck

* Quesnel Crafters' Society/Hudson's Bay Building Lease Agreement

View the full Agenda here

3) Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee - Regular Meeting on Wednesday November 30th at 10am.  On the Agenda:

* 2022 Capital Program - Update

* Review of proposed 2023 Capital Budget

* Review of Community Groups requests for inclusion in 2023 Budget

* Discussion Items - SPCA Contract, Living Wage

View the full Agenda here

Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole Session on Tuesday, November 30th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation -- Ordell Steen and Susan Hemphill, Scout Island Nature Centre re Request for Increase in Fee-for-Service Rates for Scout Island

* Review of 2023-2025 Fee-for-Service Agreements

* 2023 Grants-in-Aid Awards

* Preliminary 2023 Budget and 2023-2027 Financial and 10-Year Capital Plans - Request for Direction 

 View the full Agenda here 

City of Quesnel to rescind its' COVID-19 Policy effective Dec 1st, 2022

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Effective December 1, 2022, the City of Quesnel will be rescinding its Mandatory Vaccination Policy. Mandatory vaccination against the COVID-19 virus will no longer be required for City staff, volunteers, and contractors. 

In late 2021, the City introduced a mandatory vaccination policy in order to provide a safe work environment for its employees, contractors, and visitors and to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus. 

Since the start of the pandemic, the health and safety of the City’s workforce and residents have been a top priority.  COVID-19 has now become one of several respiratory illnesses that are prevalent locally and the impact of the virus on our community and the City of Quesnel organization is changing.

The City will continue to closely monitor the evolving public health information and the COVID-19 situation to protect the health and safety of its employees. As an employer, the City will continue to take every precaution reasonable to safeguard employees from workplace hazards, including COVID-19.

Public health officials continue to communicate that vaccination is the best way to keep ourselves, our co-workers, and our community safe. The City continues to strongly encourage everyone to get vaccinated against COVID-19 to help protect themselves and others, including a fall booster dose to prevent severe illness.

City of Williams Lake/WLFN Sign Fire Service Agreement

Joint Release - City of Williams Lake/Williams Lake First Nation:

The City of Williams Lake and Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN) are pleased to announce the signing of a fire service agreement (the “Fire Service Agreement”) to protect infrastructure at WLFN’s San Jose Indian Reserve No. 6 (IR#6), an urban reserve that hosts a number of key WLFN economic enterprises including Unity Cannabis and Sugar Cane Cannabis. A further mixed-use residential/commercial project, the Osprey Nest, is currently under construction on IR#6.

The Fire Service Agreement is the result of more than a year of negotiation and collaboration between the City of Williams Lake and WLFN, and commits the City to provide enhanced fire protection to IR#6 for an annual fee. The provision of water and sewer services to IR#6 was addressed in an earlier agreement signed by both parties in the 1990s. That earlier agreement committed that the City would provide water and sewer services to IR#6 in exchange for a sewer right of way through the WLFN reserve lands (known as Tillion IR#4) at the confluence of the Williams Lake River Valley and the Fraser River.

In 2014, WLFN assumed control of its reserve lands under a form of sectoral self-government known as “First Nations Land Management”. This removed WLFN from land-related provisions of the Indian Act, and gave WLFN the authority to negotiate agreements, pass laws and lease and develop lands without the involvement of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada.

The Fire Service Agreement is consistent with other servicing agreements in Canada and was modeled to incorporate best practices shared by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.

WLFN Kukpi7 (Chief) Willie Sellars stated:

“Originally created by Canada as a subsistence reserve for our ancestors to fish at Williams Lake, IR#6 has now evolved to reflect WLFN’s forward-looking approach to self-sufficiency. WLFN has made significant efforts to foster economic reconciliation by creating new employment opportunities and revenue streams, and we have been as innovative as possible with our land-use planning and development. This important commitment by the City of Williams Lake to provide fire protection will ensure WLFN’s community investments are protected and maintained well into the future. WLFN is grateful for this partnership with the City of Williams Lake.”

Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor further commented:

“I am pleased that the City of Williams Lake and Williams Lake First Nation were able to work collaboratively to address this essential service. It is extremely important that the City continues to focus on meaningful reconciliation and relationship building, and the signing of the Fire Service Agreement is reflective of our commitment to moving forward together for the mutual benefit of our communities.”

Quesnel Council Highlights - November 22nd mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Delegations As per the Community Charter, Business Improvement Areas must provide Council with a five-year strategic plan and budget for review & approval, to proceed with Local Area Service Bylaw renewal. The South Quesnel Business Association ("SQBA") and the Quesnel Downtown Association ("QDA") Bylaws expire at the end of 2022 and, representatives attended to present their respective strategic plans and budgets to Council: Tobi Weightman, President; Charlotte Kurta, Vice President and Lisa Boudreau, Executive Director attended on behalf of the SQBA. Gilbert Schotel, President; Matthew Maglio, Vice President and Patty Morgan, Office Manager attended on behalf of the QDA.

Business Improvement Area Bylaw Renewal Council approved: the Quesnel Downtown Association’s Plan and Budget and directs staff to proceed with preparing the Bylaw for the extension of the Quesnel Downtown Association Business Improvement Area for the years 2023- 2027 for the amount of $70,380 in 2023 and going up by inflation each year after that; and the South Quesnel Business Association’s Strategic Plan and directs staff to proceed with preparing the Bylaw for the extension of the South Quesnel Business Improvement Area for the years 2023- 2027 for the amount of $80,000. Both of which are a Council initiative process and subject to petition against.

 

Lhtako Dene Commitment to Partnership & Initiatives In response to correspondence from Lhtako Dene, new Council reaffirmed their commitment toward preserving the strong relationship between the City and Lhtako Dene and, their priority to continued collaboration through active partnerships on many existing reconciliation initiatives, including Community Forest, Lhtako Cultural Centre, Lhtako Dene Park, a Residential School Commemorative space at City Hall and, future initiatives.

Development Services Update Council approved Development Permit 2022-49 for the construction of a 6-storey residential building by Xerox Properties at 442 Kinchant Street and a variance to  reduce parking requirements to 54 stalls. The Quesnel Tillicum Society received a 6 month extension for their zoning amendment bylaw which had received third reading October 19, 2021 and lapses if not adopted within 12 months. This extension will allow the Society the opportunity to complete a development permit for a multi-unit apartment, the final step required prior to adopting the bylaw.

 

Grant Update Council approved application to the Infrastructure Canada Active Transportation Fund to fund the Active Transportation Plan Update and Expansion project for $50,000.

2023 Council Meeting Schedule Council approved the 2023 Council Meeting Schedule, which is posted on the City of Quesnel website and, will appear in the November 30 and December 7 editions of the Quesnel Cariboo Observer.

 

Bylaws Bylaw 1929 - City of Quesnel Comprehensive Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw 1929 of 2022 - First, Second and Third Reading Bylaw 1930 - City of Quesnel Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1930 of 2022 (RTC EZ Vape at 960 Chew Road) - First and Second Reading and set the Public Hearing date for January 10, 2022 at 6pm in Council Chambers. Bylaws 1931 and 1932 - City of Quesnel Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw 1931 of 2022 and City of Quesnel Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1932 of 2022 (PRT Growing Services at 275 Lear Road) - First and Second Reading and set the Public Hearing date for January 10, 2022 at 6pm in Council Chambers, with consultation, as per s.475 of the Local Government Act.