Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings: Week of August 12-16, 2024

The following local governments' of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will be holding meetings the week of August 12-16, 2024 - as follows:

Williams Lake - Meetings as noted below:

1) Special Closed Council Meeting, as per Sections 92 + 90(1j and k - information prohibited from public disclosure and negotiations) of the Community Charter starting at 5:15pm on Tuesday, August 13th, 2024 in the Rick Hansen Boardroom, Basement: 450 Mart Street.  View the closed meeting notice here

2) Public Hearing at 6pm on Tuesday, August 13th in Williams Lake Council Chambers (450 Mart St, Williams Lake).  Purpose: Housekeeping Amendments to City of Williams Lake Zoning Bylaw #1825, 2002.  View background here

3) Regular Council meeting to follow termination of the Public Hearing in Williams Lake Council Chambers on Tuesday, August 13th.  On the Agenda:

* 3rd Reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2418, following Public Hearing

* Presentation: Williams Lake Fire Department in Appreciation for July 2024 River Valley Wildfire Response

* Delegation: Beth Holden, Williams Lake Cycling Club re Update on First Annual Ride Your Ride Women's Bikefest

* Authorization to attend 2024 UBCM/Union of BC Municipalities Convention in Vancouver, BC in September

* Ratify Email Poll to attend celebration at Esk'etemc (Alkali Lake)

* Award Development of Active Transportation Plan to Fraser Basin Council 

* Presentation of Letters re: Emergency Room Closures at Cariboo Memorial Hospital in Williams Lake

View the full Agenda here 

100 Mile House - Regular Council meeting on Tuesday August 13th, 2024 at 4pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House).  On the Agenda:

* Closed Council Session -- Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter

* Bylaw Officer's report for July 2024

* 2024 Property Tax Collection

* Bylaws for consideration -- Board of Variance Bylaw No.1427, 2024 and Cemetery Bylaw Amendment No. 1428, 2024

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District - Meetings as noted below in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake) 

1) Indigenous Relations Committee - Thursday, August 15th at 2pm.  On the Agenda:

* Information Items -- 7th Province-side Community-to-Community Forum and FCM - UNDRIP-Guide-for-Municipalities

View the full Agenda here

2) CCRHD/Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District - Regular Board Meeting - Friday, August 16 at 9:30am.  On the Agenda:

* Northern Health Request for funding of GR Baker IT Network Replacement

* Northern Health Request for funding of a Data Storage Device Replacement

* Discussion Item from Director Forseth -- CCRHD and Health Authorities (Northern/Interior Health) Boundaries 

* 11:30am Interior Health Virtual Delegation -- Diane Shendruk, Vice President, Clinical Operations, IH North, Karen Cooper, Executive Director, Clinical Operations, IH West, Dr. Jacques Neuhoff, Chief of Staff, Cariboo Memorial Hospital will be attending virtually to discuss recruitment, retention, and availability of services. 

View the full Agenda here

3) Cariboo RD Board - Regular Board Meeting on Friday, August 16 upon recess of CCRHD Board Meeting.  On the Agenda:

* 11:00am Delegation -- Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Lorne Doerksen re: General Update

* Land Use Matters (Area Directors' only)

* Grant for Assistance (Year Round Intake) Applications 

* Verbal Report from Mgr. of Emergency Programs re: current EOC Activities 

* Request for Permissive Tax Exemption for the Forest Grove Legion Branch 261

* Resolution for Borrowing – Interlakes VFD

* Budget Amendment for Interlakes VFD Tender Purchase

* Consent Calendar for receipt/further action

* Committee Recommendations for endorsement

* Request from Director Forseth (Area D) re: Letter of Support for SD27 for demolition of former McLeese Lake Elementary school

* Closed Board Session: Sections 92 + 90(1k - negotiations and 2b - confidential negotiations with the provincial/federal governments) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

Future Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government or Boards' of Education Meetings:

Wells - August 20th, 2024

Quesnel - August 27th, 2024

SD27 - mid to late September

SD28 - mid to late September

Cariboo RD EOC makes changes to Evacuation Alerts/Orders - August 9th, 2024

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District Emergency Operations Centre:

Effective today -- the following changes to active Evacuation Alerts/Orders are made:

*rescind Chilcotin Confluence North Area Evacuation Order issued on August 4, 2024 at 10:15 p.m

* partially rescind the Chilcotin River Landslide Area 2 Order and replace it with a smaller area order named Chilcotin River Landslide Area 3

Interactive map: www.cariboord.ca/EOCorderalerts or call 1-866-759-4977, which is open 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Williams Lake updates its Community Grants Program

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake is streamlining its Community Grants Program to reduce administrative hurdles for both grant applicants and the City.

At its July 16, 2024 Regular Meeting, Williams Lake City Council approved a new Community Grants Program policy: an amalgamated program which combines the now repealed Grants-in-Aid (GIA) and Event Hosting Grant program policies into one process.

The Community Grants Program provides temporary financial assistance to local registered non-profit organizations for projects, activities and events that strengthen and enhance the well-being of the community, promote volunteerism and support the goals and strategic priorities of the City.

The new program combines the City’s previous annual budgets of $35,000 for GIA and $5,000 for Event Hosting Grants for a total of up to $40,000 to be awarded in Community Grants annually. Up to $35,000 may be awarded as part of the primary intake. The deadline for applications is September 30 of the year prior to funding being issued. Any remaining funds will be allocated as part of the year-long intake until fully disbursed.

The policy also includes new provisions, noting a maximum of $5,000 may be awarded to any one applicant in a calendar year to ensure as many organizations as possible benefit from the Community Grants Program each year. In addition, grants of up to $500 may be considered for unregistered non-profit organizations or groups, which will allow for more flexibility when considering applications.

“Being able to support a greater number of community applicants is a benefit to our community,” said Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor. “We look forward to working with this new policy for the 2025 grant awards and will conduct a one-year review next spring to see if there are even more improvements that can be made.”

More information on the City’s Community Grants Program, including the application form and policy, can be found on the City’s website at: www.williamslake.ca/1032/City-Grant-Programs.

Questions, or requests for printed or e-mailed copies of the application form or policy, can be directed to the Corporate Services Department at corporateservices@williamslake.ca / 250-392-1774/1773.

JOINT APPLICATION REVIEW PROCESS – CENTRAL CARIBOO CHILCOTIN (Cariboo RD Areas D,E,F,J,K + City of Williams Lake)

Applications submitted to the City’s Community Grants Program and the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) Grants for Assistance Program for Central Cariboo Chilcotin Areas D, E, F, J and K, respectively, by the September 30 deadline will be reviewed jointly to assess regional benefit of each and determine grant awards.

The CRD’s Grants for Assistance application form is available on the CRD’s website at: https://www.cariboord.ca/en/regional-government/grants-for-assistance.aspx. Questions on the CRD’s Grants for Assistance Program may be submitted to grantwriter@cariboord.ca.

100 Mile House Implements Water Conservation Measures in Response to Low Aquifer Levels

Courtesy of the District of 100 Mile House:

On August 7th, 2024, the District of 100 Mile House's water supply monitoring system detected an alarmingly low aquifer level. This marks the first occurrence of such an event and has been met with immediate and serious attention. District staff, engineers, and consultants are rigorously testing well sources, evaluating volume recovery, and closely monitoring the aquifer levels that supply water to the community.

Out of an abundance of caution to this event; the District has made the necessary decisions to ensure the continued availability of potable water for residents and businesses. Effective immediately, the following measures have been implemented:

• Suspension of all municipal irrigation activities
• Closure of the spray park, bulk water station, and sani-station

These measures are essential to preserve water for critical needs. The District urges the community to further support these efforts by reducing any non-essential water use.

"We are committed to keeping our residents informed and will continue to provide updates as our work progresses," said 100 Mile House Mayor Maureen Pinkney. "We deeply appreciate the community’s cooperation and efforts in conserving water during this time."

For more information and ongoing updates, please visit the District’s official website here or contact the District office directly at 250-395-2434

Cariboo RD EOC Update (Chilcotin River Landslide) -- August 8th, 2024

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District's (CRD) Emergency Operations Centre:

Our CRD Emergency Operations Centre is continuing to monitor the Chilcotin River Landslide event and everyone is reminded to stay informed and stay safe:

There is a continued increased risk of additional landslides and bank erosion on the Chilcotin River from the blockage to the confluence, and upstream where the lake drained.

There is a Flood Watch for the Chilcotin River upstream of the landslide and  a Flood Watch for Chilcotin River downstream of the landslide to the Fraser River confluence.

Our current Evacuation Orders will continue to be in effect until assessments are done.

For more information about the Chilcotin River Landslide event and associated issuances, go to 

https://www.emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca/event/31july24a/

Cariboo RD RESCINDS Evacuation Alert for Chilcotin River to Churn Creek Bridge Area #2

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District's Emergency Operations Centre:

The Evacuation Alert issued on August 2, 2024 at 3:30 p.m. for the Chilcotin River to Churn Creek Bridge Area 2 has been lifted.

An Evacuation Alert or Order may need to be reissued if that is deemed necessary.

Interactive map: https://www.cariboord.ca/en/emergency-and-protective-services/evacuation-orders-alerts-current.aspx

Please visit www.cariboord.ca and online searchable map for more details or call 1-866-759-4977, which is open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily.

Cariboo RD RESCINDS Evacuation Order for Churn Creek Bridge area

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District Emergency Operations Centre:

The Cariboo Regional District has rescinded the Churn Creek Bridge area Evacuation Order and residents can now return home.

For residents on evacuation alert, please be prepared to evacuate your premises or property should it be required. Residents will be given as much advance notice as possible prior to evacuation; however, you may receive limited notice due to changing conditions. Visit cariboord.ca for more details on what you should do when you’re on evacuation alert.

Interactive map: www.cariboord.ca/EOCorderalerts

Please visit www.cariboord.ca and online searchable map for more details or call 1-866-759-4977, which is open 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

TNG initiating Emergency Salmon Task Force

Courtesy of the Tsilhqot'in National Government:

In response to the Tŝilhqox (Chilcotin River) landslide, the Tŝilhqot’in National Government (TNG) is initiating an emergency salmon task force. Increased sediment, debris, and flow to the Tŝilhqox and ʔElhdaqox (Fraser River) have and will continue to have dramatic impacts to this year’s sockeye and chinook run.

The TNG is also calling on all levels of government, downstream First Nations, the Pacific Salmon Commission, and other Nations and States, especially Alaskan fisheries, to take all precautionary measures possible to conserve Tŝilhqot’in territory-bound salmon, and to immediately cease from fisheries that may impact these stocks, until the impacts from the landslide and breach are fully understood.

The TNG continues to operate a world-class fisheries team with enhanced conservation measures and research being utilized to help ensure the survival and increase of salmon stocks in the territory. The task force will be led by the Tŝilhqot’in as the Nation determines the proper Indigenous and science-based path forward.

Government partners are invited and asked to support the Tŝilhqot’in leadership in this important work.  Other First Nations and experts will be invited to contribute both their traditional and science-based knowledge.

 

“Salmon are the main food source for our people. We already face major health problems due to a lack of access to traditional foods. Hunting in the grocery stores has brought extremely high rates of diabetes and other diet related diseases to our communities. This emergency task force will bring together experts with traditional and science-based knowledge for informed decisions to be made on the Tŝilhqox salmon stocks. We call on the Province and Canada to support us in this work. All levels of government will be invited to this task force to ensure all expertise is heard.”

“We need long term alternative solutions to the salmon stocks. We also need full rehabilitation of our fishing sites and must look at stabilizing the upstream and downstream areas. There will be a lot of work ahead of us.”

—Nits’ilʔin (Chief) Joe Alphonse, O.B.C, LL.D. (hon.). Tribal Chair
Tŝilhqot’in National Government

Safety prioritized as water begins to overflow Chilcotin River landslide

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

Water has begun to overflow the landslide blocking the Chilcotin River near Farwell Canyon.

A BC Emergency alert has been issued to cellphones, radio and television to advise people in the area on or along the riverbanks of the Chilcotin River from Hanceville to the Fraser River, and the Fraser River from the Chilcotin River to the Gang Ranch Road bridge to evacuate immediately due to flooding and debris flow. People unable to evacuate themselves should call 911.

People also need to stay off the Chilcotin and Fraser rivers and away from riverbanks due to the risk of fast-moving water and debris. Even if the water elevation in an area may be similar to freshet (spring flooding) levels, the water will react differently, with greater momentum and force, than a gradual increase in water levels.

Teams are on site assessing the movement of the landslide and the Province provided an update earlier today -- click here

Additional BC Emergency alerts will be issued to people downstream on and along the Fraser River as peak flows progress. People must follow the instructions noted in the alert. Real-time water-level monitoring information is publicly available through the Water Survey of Canada: https://wateroffice.ec.gc.ca/

People in communities along the Chilcotin and Fraser rivers should stay up to date with their local government or First Nation regarding evacuation alerts, orders and routes to safety. This information is also amplified here: https://www.emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca/

For information about road conditions, visit: https://drivebc.ca/  

For imagery, data and other information about the Chilcotin River landslide, visit: https://gov.bc.ca/landslide  

Cariboo RD EOC issues new Evacuation ORDER - Chilcotin Confluence North Area

From the Cariboo RD Emergency Operations Centre:

"Pursuant to the BC Emergency and Disaster Management Act, an Evacuation Order has been issued by the Cariboo Regional District Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) for one parcel in the area immediately north of the Chilcotin River’s confluence with the Fraser River. This order covers 350 hectares"

Full background: https://www.cariboord.ca/en/emergency-and-protective-services/evacuation-orders-alerts-current.aspx f

Water expected to overtop Chilcotin landslide tonight, early tomorrow

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

With the assistance of external experts, B.C. government staff continue to monitor the Chilcotin River landslide 24/7, conduct aerial survey flights and gather additional technical data.

The Province has also just launched a web portal to share the latest information about the slide with the public.

Based on current modelling, it’s expected that water will start to move over (overtop) the blockage late on Sunday, Aug. 4, 2024, or early on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024, and enter the riverbed below the slide site.

There has been minimal seepage of water through the natural dam created by the landside on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, so the water level behind the dam has continued to increase steadily in recent days. It is rising at a rate of about 18 centimetres per hour.

As refinement of data continues, inputs into the 2D model have allowed for updates to the model. The best and more-likely scenario is still that it would take 12 to 24 hours for the trapped water to move through and past the blockage. This is expected to result in flows below typical freshet (spring flooding) peaks on the Fraser River, though far above freshet peaks on the Chilcotin River. In the 12-hour scenario, the peak flows in the Chilcotin River could be over 10 times greater than a typical freshet peak flow. In the 24-hour scenario, the peak flow could be over seven times greater than a typical freshet peak flow.

In the worst-case scenario, where the lake behind the dam drains very rapidly (within one hour), updated modelling shows higher flows than presented yesterday: significantly higher on the Chilcotin River, and flows at or below freshet flows on the Fraser River. In this scenario, the water in the Chilcotin River could potentially rise to 21 metres at the Farwell Canyon bridge and 12 metres where the Chilcotin River meets the Fraser River. Peak flows in the Fraser River at Lillooet could be similar to or just above a typical freshet-peak flow. The peak flow could take 12-13 hours to reach Lillooet. Communities have been provided with the updated modelling.

Though similar to elevation of heights during freshet flows, the water will react differently, with greater momentum and force, than a gradual increase in water levels.

People are urged to keep out of the Chilcotin River valley between Hanceville and the confluence of Fraser River. An evacuation order issued by the Cariboo Regional District remains in place. People are also advised to stay away from the banks of the Fraser River. Planning continues to address potential impacts of debris as it relates to public safety.

Risks to public safety include the potential for further landslides upstream of the natural dam and downstream of the dam once water begins to flow past it. 

The landslide incident poses potential impacts to spawning salmon and other fish species. The Province is working with First Nations and Fisheries and Oceans Canada to establish an incident command structure, mobilize resources and plan mitigation efforts. 

The Province is preparing for all possible outcomes since modelling does not provide guarantees. Provincial personnel and partnering agencies continue to work day and night to gather real-time information from the site, to prepare for any mitigation that may be necessary, and to keep people in British Columbia informed and safe. The Province will continue to share the latest information with the public as it becomes available.

As water makes its way down the Chilcotin River and Fraser River, the Province will monitor water levels and will continue to provide updates. Real-time water-level monitoring information is publicly available through the Water Survey of Canada: https://wateroffice.ec.gc.ca/

New web portal for Chilcotin River landslide information:

The B.C. government has created a new web portal to share information about the Chilcotin River landslide with the public and members of the media.

This site includes photos and video of the landslide site and nearby areas; information bulletins issued to date by the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness and the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship; a link to updates issued by the River Forecast Centre; mapping information and additional resources.

Learn More:

To view the new web portal for Chilcotin River landslide information, visit: https://gov.bc.ca/landslide

Cariboo RD EOC issues 2 Evacuation ORDERS -- Churn Creek Bridge Area/Chilcotin River’s confluence with the Fraser River

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District Emergency Operations Centre:

Pursuant to the BC Emergency and Disaster Management Act, Evacuation ORDERS has been issued by the Cariboo Regional District Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) for two parcels in the Churn Creek Bridge Area. This order covers 157 hectares, including the previous Evacuation Alert area and a new area to the north of the confluence of the Chilcotin and Fraser Rivers as well as for eight parcels in the area immediately south of the Chilcotin River’s confluence with the Fraser River. This order covers 962 hectares.

Due to immediate danger to life safety due to flooding caused by landslide, members of the RCMP or other groups will be expediting this action. You must leave the area IMMEDIATELY

Full background and what you need to know -- https://www.cariboord.ca/en/emergency-and-protective-services/evacuation-orders-alerts-current.aspx

City of Williams Lake Working Toward Recovery Phase After WL River Valley Wildfire

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

While the immediate fire danger in the Williams Lake River Valley has been mitigated following a wildfire that erupted on Sunday evening, July 21, members of the public are reminded the area remains an active emergency response zone and will be closed until further notice.

“The wildfire danger has been largely addressed, but many other hazards remain,” said Brendan Foote, City Emergency Operations Centre Director. 

“Once we receive a geotechnical assessment and address danger trees burned or compromised in the fire, we can begin to chart a path forward for reopening, but as of now it is not safe for members of the public to be recreating in the River Valley.”

As of Friday, August 2, the City is downgrading its Emergency Operations Centre from a Level 3 to a Level 1.

The State of Local Emergency put in place to help support initial emergency operations and response will also expire on Sunday, August 4.

Since the wildfire, remaining hot spots in the River Valley have decreased from over 1,000 in the days following the fire to fewer than 10 as of Friday, August 2, 2024.

Power to the City’s sewage lagoons, which had been running on generator power since the fire, is now restored, and danger trees along the power line have been removed from the area. 

BC Wildfire Service crews are currently working on mopping up remaining hot spots, further danger tree falling is ongoing and heavy machinery may be working in the area in the days and weeks to come. 

The City is now working toward the recovery phase of the emergency and, moving forward, will continue to monitor the area.

To contact the City's Emergency Operations Centre please call 250-392-2364. For information and updates, continue to check back at www.williamslake.ca and on the City's social media channels.

The City will provide updates as they become available through its Emergency Operations Centre.

August 1st, 2024 update from Cariboo Fire Centre

Information courtesy of the Cariboo Fire Centre/BC Wildfire Service - August 1st, 2024:

General Overview:

Over the last week, widespread precipitation across the Fire Centre has aided crews in suppression efforts on active wildfires making significant progress. On Wednesday, July 31 the Groundhog Complex demobilized and turned over the complex wildfires, including the Antler Creek Wildfire of Note, to the Cariboo Fire Centre.

Although precipitation has been received, it is not enough to impact drought codes. Indices are expected to increase as we enter a drying trend with more seasonable temperatures. Forest fuels remain dry and vigilance when recreating in the backcountry this summer is essential.

The Cariboo Fire Centre continues to prioritize initial attack of newly detected fires and maintain preparedness. Resources are deployed to wildfires throughout the Centre and the Province, with appropriate resources remaining in the region for local preparedness and response.

To prevent human caused wildfires and protect public safety, campfires remain prohibited throughout the Cariboo Fire Centre. In addition to Category 1 campfires, The Cariboo Fire Centre and the Tsilhqot’in (Xeni Gwet’in) Declared Title Area have prohibited Category 2, and Category 3 open fires including the following activities:

Fireworks

Sky lanterns

Burn barrels or burn cages of any size or description

Binary exploding targets

Tiki and similar kinds of torches

Chimineas

Air curtain burners

The campfire prohibition does not include the use of outdoor stoves. As per the Wildfire Regulation, an outdoor stove is a CSA-rated or ULC-rated device used outdoors for cooking, heat or ambiance that burns charcoal briquettes, liquid fuel or gaseous fuel, and has a flame height that is less than 15 cm tall.

For more information or updates on the bans and restrictions for the Cariboo Fire Centre, visit the Cariboo Fire Centre bans and restrictions website at https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status/prevention/fire-bans-and-restrictions/cariboo-fire-centre-bans

Fire Activity:

33 Wildfires

1 Wildfire of Note

18% of wildfires - Out of Control

42% of wildfires - Being Held

39% of wildfires - Under Control

33 Wildfires currently active

7 New Wildfires last week

Active Wildfires by Zone:

* Zone 1 (Quesnel) -- 15 Active Wildfires

* Zone 2 (Williams Lake) and Zone 3 (Horsefly) -- 12 Active Wildfires

* Zone 4 (100 Mile House) -- 6 Active Wildfires

* Zone 5 (Chilcotin) -- 0 Active Wildfires

Weather Forecast:

An upper ridge is building to the south of the Fire Centre and will bring generally clear and stable conditions. Light and somewhat variable winds are expected in most fire zones. Good RH recovery is expected overnight.

Temperatures will edge higher Friday with slightly lower RH values. There is a potential for some thundershowers west of the Fraser river and south of Williams Lake.

Outlook: Temperatures are expected to remain in the mid-high 20s Saturday with minimum RH values. A low risk of a few late day thundershowers is possible in the area west of the Fraser river. The risk of thundershowers increases on Sunday to the west of the Fraser river with some light northerly winds. On Monday a weak cold front from the north will push through the FC bringing temperatures down to the low 20s and higher RH values. More widespread thundershower and shower activity is expected with light- moderate northerly winds.

Near seasonal temperatures are expected into the new week with some scattered thundershower and shower activity. Light to moderate northerly winds are forecast for the rest of the week.

Province of BC Update on Chilcotin Landslide Situation - August 1st, 2024

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

A flood warning, flood watches and an evacuation order remain in place due to a landslide over the Chilcotin River near Farwell Canyon.

The Province is continuing to take action with partners to keep people safe with around-the-clock monitoring in place and a risk assessment underway.

In the morning of Wednesday, July 31, 2024, a landslide blocked the Chilcotin River, which feeds into the Fraser River. The landslide is approximately 22 kilometres upstream from the Farwell Canyon Bridge and is estimated to be roughly 600 to 800 metres in length, 300 to 600 metres in width and roughly 30 metres in depth.

The landslide has dammed the Chilcotin River and water is pooling behind the debris. It is estimated that the water has backed up behind the dam approximately eight kilometres up the river. The material blocking the river is composed of sands, silts and clays, which are susceptible to rapid erosion.

Provincial personnel are assessing and monitoring the landslide with modelling and mapping, geotechnical assessments, remote sensing technology, Light Detection And Ranging Data (LiDar) and environmental impact assessments. The focus is on learning as much as possible about when and how the water is most likely to be dispersed to the Chilcotin River.

At this time, there is no anticipated timeline on when this may occur. Personnel are monitoring the site 24/7. Drones and aerial resources are also being used for monitoring.

It is possible a large amount of debris will flow down the Chilcotin River to the Fraser River confluence, then south to Hope and ultimately to the ocean. However, even if a rapid surge were to happen at the landslide site, it is expected to take a number of hours for the debris and increased water levels to make it down the river to the vicinity of Hope.

The Province is continuing to co-ordinate with local authorities, First Nations and the federal government.

BC Emergency Alerts have been issued via cellphones, radio and television to people near the area. The Cariboo Regional District has an active evacuation order in place for areas surrounding the landslide. The Province is prepared to issue further BC Emergency Alerts as needed. For more information on active evacuation alerts and evacuation orders, visit: https://www.emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca/

People are urged to avoid the Chilcotin River and the Fraser River from Hope to the Chilcotin River confluence. People living in areas where a flood warning, flood watches and high streamflow advisory have been issued are encouraged to pack a grab-and-go bag and have an evacuation plan ready in case they are required to evacuate.  

The Province has been working with communities to open evacuation reception centres as a precaution. The Province is prepared to take additional actions to keep people and communities safe in the event of flooding. Sandbags, sandbag machines, gabions and tiger dams are ready to be deployed to communities if needed.

The Province will continue sharing information as it becomes available.

2025 Cariboo Regional District Grants for Assistance Applications now accepted

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

The Cariboo Regional District is accepting applications from community organizations in the Cariboo and Chilcotin for grants of assistance.  Applications will be accepted from August 1 to September 30 from community organizations that provide a benefit/service to the community and require financial assistance for projects, activities and events that strengthen and enhance the wellbeing of the community. The grants for assistance program provided by the regional district provided $69,000 to community organizations in the region in 2024.

To qualify for a Grant for Assistance, the applicant must:

• Identify the organization requesting the funding including status (i.e. unregistered community group, registered not-for-profit society under provincial/federal legislation or registered charity in accordance with the Income Tax Act);
• Demonstrate financial need;
• Provide a service, project or event that supports the priorities and goals of the CRD

Grants for Assistance are provided in all Electoral Areas in the South and Central Cariboo/Chilcotin and Electoral Area B in the North Cariboo.

• In the North, Electoral Area B North Cariboo (Quesnel West – Bouchie Lake / Ten Mile Lake) residents can apply through the online application process.  Grants for Assistance are not provided in Electoral Areas A, C and I. Groups within those areas are encouraged to submit applications to the Quesnel Community Foundation. The CRD provides annual funding to this granting organization in the North Cariboo for this purpose.
  • CRD Electoral Areas D, E, F, J and K are providing a joint Grants for Assistance Program for organizations in the Central Cariboo and Chilcotin. This year applications submitted to the Cariboo Regional District Grants for Assistance Program for Central Cariboo Chilcotin (Electoral Areas D, E, F, J and K) will be reviewed jointly with the City of Williams Lake to assess regional benefit of each application and determine appropriate grant awards.
  • CRD Electoral Areas G, H, and L and the District of 100 Mile House are continuing their joint Grants for Assistance program for groups in the South Cariboo.

Applications can be submitted online through the CRD’s website (www.cariboord.ca/grants) and must be received by September 30 to be considered. Questions about the program can be directed to Kathie, the Regional Economic Community Development officer at grantwriter@cariboord.ca.

Steve's Meeting/Expense Calendar: July 2024

During the month of July 2024 -- I attended the following meetings or events:

* July 3rd -- Zoom call with UBCM's Electoral Area representative (currently RDFFG/Regional District Fraser Fort George Area "G" Director Jerrilyn Kirk) and then attend the monthly meeting of the McLeese Lake Recreation Commission 

* July 5th -- Meetings of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District and Cariboo Regional District Boards' 

* July 10th -- Meeting with Cariboo RD CAO to discuss Area "D" issues/concerns

* July 14th - Attend 2024 Inaugural Season of the McLeese Lake/Alexandria Farmers' Market

* July 20th -- Attend 2024 AGM/Annual General Meeting of the Tyee Lake Community Association

* July 25th - Attend monthly meeting of the Williams Lake and District Chamber of Commerce 

* July 27th - Met with Matt Henderson, a UNBC Student, at McLeese Lake to discuss, over lunch, his ongoing research into strengthening the agriculture sector in the Cariboo-Chilcotin and how the Cariboo Regional District can assist with his research

* July 29th - Attend AGM/Annual General Meeting of the McLeese Lake Volunteer Fire Department Society 

In addition -- responded to questions/inquiries from Cariboo RD Area "D" residents' via phone/text, email or social media channels 

For expenses incurred during the month of July:

* July 5th -- $206 to attend meetings of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District and Cariboo Regional District Boards' 

BC River Forecast Centre issues Flood Warnings re: Chilcotin River Landslide

The BC River Forecast Centre has issued the following, in relation to the Chilcotin River Landslide:

* Flood Watch --  Chilcotin River upstream of Farwell Canyon 

* Flood Warning -- Chilcotin River, Fraser River from Chilcotin River to Hope 

* High Streamflow Advisory – Fraser River downstream of Hope 

The warnings can be read in full at http://bcrfc.env.gov.bc.ca/warnings/advisories/FWT_2024_07_31_1600_Chilcotin_Fraser_iss.pdf?fbclid=IwY2xjawEXqSZleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHfPrZFbYMTvD24Nb7lLcbb-0qW3XuC4ial0kIDiTTFucAwY-9Dxh_jz_Kg_aem_JFSqHgFjEEU8hci0QMOgow

Quesnel Council Highlights - July 30th, 2024 mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Presentation - Quesnel Ambassador Leadership Program

Council thanked the 2023/2024 Outgoing Ambassadors Jamie-Lynn Fedoruk and Avery Cassidy and welcomed the 2024/2025 Incoming Ambassadors Lacey Anderson and Jayla Wheeler. 

Delegation - District Heating

TorchLight Bioresources was asked to Identify a low-carbon, very low-cost heat source of sufficient capacity to heat downtown Quesnel.

Managing Director Jamie Stephen, PhD, advised Council that a Community-wide district heating system is feasible and can be economically competitive in Quesnel, recommending continued efforts with a focus on a new turbine at Cariboo Pulp & Paper and a downtown-wide heat network.

Delegation - Decriminalization Coordinator & Clean Team Program

Coordinator Andreychuk provided Council an overview of program activities.  The wages are funded through a contract with Northern Health, which have been confirmed through January 2026. In addition to providing outreach services and working closely with people who use drugs, the Coordinator is responsible for the Clean Team Program.  This program provides daily clean-up in the city's high-traffic areas – schools, parks, and commercial areas.

Council approved continued partnership with Northern Health to support the Decriminalization Coordinator and the clean team until January 31, 2026, dedicating $87,600 for the operation of the clean team.

RCMP Detachment Expansion

Council directed Staff to begin working with the RCMP to secure a commitment for pro-rata funding toward an expansion and upgrade of the existing Quesnel RCMP Detachment building.  Space deficiencies are currently affecting the detachment's operational needs.

Additional reports and information will be provided by staff at various stages of the project as needed with the expectation that as the project proceeds there will be a need for additional design development, updated cost estimates, consideration of funding options, discussion of communication plans related to a potential referendum and other matters.

2025 UBCM Community Resilience Investment - FireSmart

Council supports an application to the Union of BC Municipalities for the 2025 Community Resiliency Investment program for FireSmart education and outreach, home assessment and rebate program, developing a Community Wildfire Resilience Plan, and instituting a program to assist vulnerable private land owners with FireSmart activities. 

2024/2034 Community Works Fund

Council approved entering into the 2024/2034 Community Works Fund Agreement with the Union of BC Municipalities, renewing the Canada Community-Building Fund (CCBF) for 10 years resulting in over $3.5 billion in federal funding to BC for local infrastructure investments. 

The Community Works Fund (CWF) is a long- standing program of the CCBF which provides each local government in BC with an annual base amount and per-capital allocation. The City has been receiving funds from this program since 2005.

CWF has, in part, funded city building improvements, bike trails, new playgrounds, road paving, the landfill berm and many more city capital projects.

Disc Golf at the Fuel Management Trails

Council approved entering into a five-year License of Occupation with the Quesnel Disc Golf Club for non-exclusive use of the Fuel Management Trails Property (property adjacent to airport) for the purpose of developing an 18-hole disc golf course.

Mayoral Administrative Continuity

In the rare event that the Mayor and two Acting Mayors are unavailable, Council approved the Mayor appointing an interim Acting Mayor to ensure continuity of city business. This is simply a safety measure during times when vacations align with seasonal natural disasters, such as freshet and wildfire season, when timeliness is imperative.

Petition - Crosswalk & crossing lights on North Fraser Drive

The City received a petition to install a crosswalk and crossing lights on North Fraser Drive at the bus stop. Residents noted it is dangerous for pedestrians to cross the road with the blind corner.

Council referred the request to the 2025 capital budget process for review and consideration.  The budget process begins in the fall of 2024.

Supporting the North Cariboo Metis Association

Council provided a resolution of support for the Association's application to the Northern Development Initiative Trust Cultural Infrastructure Program to hire an Economic Development Officer and fund programming.

Bylaws

• Bylaw 1966 - City of Quesnel Appointment of Officers and Delegation of Authority Amendment Bylaw No. 1966 of 2024 - Final Adoption

• Bylaw 1967 - City of Quesnel 2024-2027 Permissive Tax Exemption Amendment Bylaw 1967, 2024 - First three readings

          Amendment: 100% exemption to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #94 for the foreshore            at Legion Beach, where the accessible dock is located.

Announcements

The 50th Annual Tillicum Society and 1st Annual Lhtako Dene PowWow has been postponed to August 30 - September 2, due to the wildfire activity in our area.