Cariboo RD Board Chair's statement on Quesnel Mayor Ron Paull's censure

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

The Cariboo Regional District’s (CRD) Board Chair, Margo Wagner, has issued the following statement regarding the City of Quesnel’s Mayor being censured by Council:

“We are aware that Quesnel’s City Council has censured Quesnel Mayor Ron Paull, and revoked his appointment to the CRD’s Board of Directors as a result. We will welcome the new municipal representative to the Board once they have been selected by Quesnel’s City Council. Our Board, as a whole, remains committed to the principles of reconciliation and strengthening our relationships with all the Indigenous governments in the Cariboo and Chilcotin.”

The Cariboo Regional District will not be issuing further comment about Mayor Paull’s censure at this time.

Request for Expressions of Interest: Williams Lake Active Transportation Working Group

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake is pleased to announce a first step towards the formation of an Active Transportation working group.

The working group will meet approximately four to six times per year to inform City of Williams Lake active transportation planning and initiatives, set goals and objectives for active transportation within the city, and explore possible funding sources and to address issues and opportunities. It is hoped the group will include a representation from a cross-section of user groups and area residents passionate about active transportation in the community.

Active transportation can be defined as human-powered transportation that connects destinations such as walking, cycling, running, skateboards or wheelchairs, among other activities.

“Council is dedicated to planning and updating municipal infrastructure to create safe, navigable streets for active transportation users,” Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor said. “This working group is an opportunity for a group of passionate community members to meet regularly and to inform what active transportation could look like in Williams Lake, and how that ties into current and future development plans for the City.”

The City has contracted Fraser Basin Council (FBC) to work on behalf of the City to support the development and administration of the working group for 2024-25. The FBC has now developed an Expression of Interest (EOI) document seeking interested community members to engage with active transportation planning through the working group.

The EOI is available on the City’s website at https://www.williamslake.ca/1025/Active-Transportation-in-Williams-Lake and the City encourages all interested individuals to submit their applications to participate in the working group by the deadline of May 15, 2024.

The FBC is a charitable, non-profit organization that brings people together to advance sustainability in BC. Led by regional staff Jane Wellburn and Bettina Johnson, FBC’s strategic priorities include taking action on climate change, supporting healthy watersheds and building sustainable and resilient communities.

Steve's Meeting/Expense Calendar - April 2024

In the month of April 2024 -- I attended the following meetings or events:

* April 3rd -- Regular Meeting of the McLeese Lake Recreation Commission

* April 4th -- Gibraltar Technical Advisory Committee meeting, via MS Teams

* April 12th -- Meetings of the local Regional Hospital District and Regional District Boards' 

* April 20th -- "Seedy Saturday" event at the McLeese Lake Library

* April 24th - Central Cariboo Joint Committee meeting

* April 25th - Monthly meeting of the WL and District Chamber of Commerce 

In addition, responded to inquiries from Area "D" residents' of the Regional District via social media, email or phone/text

In the month of April 2024 - I submitted the following expenses for approval:

* April 12th -- $206 for meetings of the local Regional Hospital District and Regional District Boards' 

* April 24th -- $83 for meeting of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee

~SF

WL Council Highlights - April 30th mtg

Present: Mayor Rathor; Councillors Boehm, Flaspohler, Lyons, Nelson and Moses (via Zoom)

Meeting called to order at 6:00pm

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

A) Public Hearing -- 

The Corporate Officer presented the purpose and intent of Bylaw No. 2411 for property at 3018 Edwards Drive

The Mayor called 3 times for public input and members of the public addressed Council 

Matter referred to Council for consideration of 3rd Reading and Adoption

Public Hearing adjourned at 6:10pm

B) Council Meeting -- Start at 6:11pm

Meeting Agenda adopted with 1 Late Item (Drug Decrimilization, at request of Councillor Nelson) 

Minutes of the previous Williams Lake City Council meeting held on April 9th, 2024 were  received/adopted

Matters from Public Hearing:

Following a Public Hearing held earlier -- Council defeated 3rd Reading and Adoption to Zoning Bylaw No. 2411, 2024 for property at 3018 Edwards Drive

Resolved: That Council request Staff to review the container initiative policy/Zoning Bylaw directly tied to shipping containers used in the City of Williams Lake (R-1 Zone)

Delegations:

1) Presentation and Quarterly Update from Interior Health Authority (presentation here)

Following the presentation -- A Question/Answer period ensued 

Mayor Rathor thanked the delegation for their time/information

2) Darlene Doucette, Williams Lake Royal Purple & BC Royal Purple re Proclamation - "Canadian Royal Purple Week"

Following the presentation -- A Question/Answer period ensued 

Mayor Rathor thanked the delegation for their time/information

3) Kristin Giannotti & Kane Fraser, MNP Chartered Professional Accountants re 2023 Financial Statements and Auditor's Report

Following the presentation -- A Question/Answer period ensued 

Mayor Rathor thanked the delegation for their time/information

Business Arising from Delegations:

1) Council received for information the quarterly presentation from Interior Health staff 

2) The week of May 12 to 18, 2024 was proclaimed as "Canadian Royal Purple Week" in the City of Williams Lake, pursuant to City Policy and that the public be encouraged to participate in the British Columbia Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA) Brain Walk taking place on May 25, 2024 in support of the BC Brain Injury Association

3) Council received the 2023 City of Williams Lake annual financial statements and approve them as presented/updated, receive and accept the auditor’s report, and authorize the Mayor and the Chief Financial Officer to sign the management letter and the financial statements on behalf of the City and that Council authorize the Chief Financial Officer to make the submission of the audited financial statements and any other relevant financial information to the Inspector of Municipalities, as required

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated April 18, 25 and 26, 2024

2) Council received an application from Cheridan Enterprises Ltd. requesting to amend City of Williams Lake Zoning Bylaw No. 1825, 2002 for property at 1749 South Lakeside Drive and accordingly gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings and Adoption to “City of Williams Lake Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2398, 2024”

3) Council received for information reports of the Public Hearings for Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2405 held March 26, 2024 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2407 held April 9, 2024

4)  Council approved the 2024/2025 Annual Operating Agreement with BC Transit, and the Mayor and Corporate Officer be authorized to sign the agreement on behalf of the City

5) Council directed Staff to proceed with the Request for Offers process for the single property lot on McKinnon Road

6) Council agreed to support the Williams Lake First Nation’s grant application under the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund for 2024 for a ‘Williams Lake and Area Evacuation Route and Notification Planning Project’, and endorse Williams Lake First Nation applying for and administering the grant funding for the project

7) Council received for information the report of the Director of Protective Services/Fire Chief regarding an update on the community well-being and safety program 

8) Council approved compensation, registration and travel expenses for interested Council members to attend the annual North Central Local Government Association AGM & Convention being held in Smithers from May 13 to 16, 2024

9) Council proclaimed the week of May 12 to 18, 2024 as "Local Government Awareness Week" and May 15, 2024 as “Asset Management Awareness Day” in the City of Williams Lake

10) Council approved the 2023-2025 Victim Services Funding Agreement between the Cariboo Regional District and the City of Williams Lake, and the Mayor and Corporate Officer be authorized to sign the agreement on behalf of the City

11) Council proclaimed the week of May 19 to 25, 2024 be proclaimed as "National Public Works Week" in the City of Williams Lake

12) Council awarded the contract for the supply of unleaded gasoline and diesel fuel to Star West Petroleum Ltd. for proponent proposed price linked to the daily rack price, which as of April 15, 2024 was $1.6549 per litre of Unleaded Gasoline and $1.7529 per litre of Diesel, including all applicable taxes

13) Council awarded the Waterworks 2024 contract to Morben Construction Ltd. for a total construction tender amount of $180,666.00, excluding GST, for a total saddle project value of $254,856.00 with asphalt patching, contingency and engineering (excluding GST)

14) Council awarded the Pavement Rehabilitation 2024 contract to Peters Bros Construction Ltd. for a total construction tender amount of $1,249,015.95, excluding GST, and approve waiving of Purchasing Policy No. 138 to direct award consulting services in the amount of $75,000 without competitive bidding, for a total paving project value of $1,282,349.00 with contingency and engineering and that Council direct staff to exercise contract clauses to reduce quantities as necessary after award to meet the project budget.

15) Council proclaimed the week of May 26 to June 1, 2024 as “AccessAbility Week” in the City of Williams Lake and endorse an application by the City of Williams Lake on behalf of the Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) to SPARC BC’s AccessAbility Grant program for $500 toward a public family movie event in the Gibraltar Room to be hosted by the AAC and held during AccessAbility Week to increase awareness of accessibility in the community and that Council delegate authority to the AAC to manage the event and the grant funds and allocate up to $200 in additional funding toward the costs of hosting this event

16) Council adopted the following Bylaws:

* 2024-2028 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2412, 2024

* 2024 Municipal Tax Rate Bylaw No. 2413, 2024

* Business License Amendment Bylaw No. 2416, 2024 - Short-Term Rentals

CONTRARY TO ADOPTION OF BYLAWS 2412/2413 -- Councillors Nelson and Boehm

17) Council proclaimed the following:

* June 15, 2023 as "World Elder Abuse Awareness Day" in the City of Williams Lake and the lights of City Hall be changed to purple on this day

* the lights of City Hall be changed to pink on September 13, 2024 for World Sepsis Day

* the week of May 12 to 18, 2024 be proclaimed as "Victims and Survivors of Crime Week" in the City of Williams Lake and that Mayor and Council be encouraged to attend the the "VICTIMS AND SURVIVORS OF CRIME: The Power of Collaboration" Symposium being held on May 15 and 16, 2024 at Thompson Rivers University - Williams Lake Campus

18) Late Item -- At the request of Councillor Nelson, Council requested the support of the Province of BC and Government of Canada to end BC's Drug Decrimilization policies and support for treatment centres in rural BC, specifically in locations like Williams Lake/Cariboo-Chilcotin Region 

19) Council received the Council Information Package as of April 30th , 2024

Members of Council reported on their recent activities

Council adjourned at 8:45pm

Quesnel Council Highlights - April 30th mtg

Present: Mayor Paull and Councillors Roodenburg, Elliott, Goulet, Vik, McKelvie and Runge

Meeting called to order - 5:30pm

The Mayor recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional territory of the Lhtako Dene Nation

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the previous meeting of Council held April 23rd, 2024 were adopted

Delegations/Presentations: None

Business:

1) Administration Report #49B/24 - Bylaw 1959 - City of Quesnel Hotel Tax Revitalization Bylaw 1959, 2024 - First & Second Readings

A report from the Mgr. of Economic Development/Tourism was presented to Council

Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved -- Council gave 1st and 2nd Readings concurrently to City of Quesnel Hotel Revitalization Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 1959, 2024 

Councillor Goulet declared a conflict on the next item as he serves on the SD28 Board of Education and left Council Chambers at 5:33pm

2) Administration Report #64/24 - Zoning Amendment: Carson Elementary School

A report from the Director of Development Services' was presented to Council

Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved:

That Council provide first and second readings concurrently to OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 1963 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 1964 and that 

Council has considered consultation as per section 475 of the Local Government Act and directs staff that no additional consultation is required and Council sets the Public Hearing for Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at 5:30 pm

Councillor Goulet returned to Council Chambers at 5:39pm

3) Request for a letter of support for the United Way Critical Food Infrastructure Grant

Deputy Clerk presented the item to Council 

Discussion ensued thereon 

Resolved -- That the requested letter of support be approved

4) Council adopted the following Bylaws:

* City of Quesnel Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 1960, 2024 (2023-2027)

* City of Quesnel 2024 Tax Rate Bylaw No. 1961, 2024

5) Administration Report #63/24 - Possible Censure/Sanctions for Mayor Paull, as per Quesnel Council Resolution #24-10-110

A report from the City Manager was presented to Council by the Acting City Manager/Director of Corporate and Financial Services 

 

Discussion ensued thereon... 

Before discussion on the Motion of Censure -- Mayor Paull vacated the Chair at 6:18pm and left Council Chambers.  Acting Mayor Mitch Vik assumed the Chair at this time

Resolved:

A) Motion of Censure

WHEREAS the Oath of Office which was solemnly affirmed by Mayor Ron Paull requires him to perform the duties of Mayor respectfully, faithfully and with integrity; 

AND WHEREAS the Code of Conduct and Ethics requires all Members of Council to conduct themselves with integrity, in a fair, honest, respectful and open manner; 

AND WHEREAS every council member has the responsibility to consider the well-being and interests of the municipality and its community as per the Community Charter; 

AND WHEREAS Mayor Paull has damaged the relationship between the City and the Lhtako Dene Nation and surrounding Indigenous communities; 

NOW THEREFORE Council censures Mayor Ron Paull for his actions which are disrespectful to the history of residential schools, they are contrary to the City’s goal of mutual respect, recognition and reconciliation, and have harmed the City’s relations with Indigenous bodies

B) Sanctions

THAT Council apply sanctions against Mayor Paull, as follows:

Remove access to Mayor travel budget (UBCM, NCLGA, others) 

Remove access of Mayor Paull to City's lobbying travel budget  

Removal of the Mayor from Organizations that require Council approval, including: 

* Cariboo Regional District representation 

* Northern Development Initiative Trust  

Removal of the Mayor from City Committees (except Standing Committees)

Removal of the Mayor from Indigenous Relations

AND THAT the Mayor be required to issue a sincere apology regarding his recent conduct .. 

AND FINALLY THAT these sanctions be reviewed in 90 days

6) Public Question Period 

3 members of the public addressed Council 

Council adjourned at 6:57pm

RESCINDED: Burgess Creek Area Alert in #CaribooRD Area "F"

Courtesy of the Cariboo RD Emergency Operations Centre:

The Evacuation Alert issued on April 21, 2024 at 7:45 p.m. for the Burgess Creek Area has been lifted by the Cariboo Regional District Emergency Operations Centre (EOC).

An Evacuation Alert or Order may need to be reissued if it is deemed necessary. Residents must be prepared if the area receives a future evacuation order or alert on short notice. Residents are advised to ensure they maintain their emergency kits and monitor the EOC and BC Wildfire’s social media pages to stay informed.

Burgess Creek Area Alert Lift

Alert Lifted and Map
Interactive Map

For more information contact: 1-866-759-4977

To ensure public safety, stay out of fire affected areas and obey all warning and hazard signs.

For areas that have been impacted by wildfire, residents should be aware there may be danger trees in wildfire affected areas. Home owners and private land owners are recommended to work with an insurance agency to have an assessment done by a qualified arborist on their private property by a qualified arborist.

Air quality may remain poor as a result of smoke from nearby fire activity. Those with respiratory issues, small children, and the elderly should consider this before they choose to return to the area. The BC Centre for Disease Control and regional health authorities have further information on their websites about the health impacts of wildfire smoke.

Residents are encouraged to register for the Cariboo Chilcotin Emergency Notification System to receive a text, call or email regarding any new Evacuation Alerts and Orders impacting them. You must register to receive notifications from this system, as these are non-intrusive broadcast alerts.

For Cariboo Regional District information, please visit Cariboo Regional District's website, Emergency Operations Centre Facebook page, Twitter / X feed, or call the CRD’s emergency information line at 1-866-759-4977 (open 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday).

EDITORIAL: Will Ron Paull be the 1st Mayor of Quesnel to be censured?

On Tuesday evening -- Quesnel City Council will meet and one of the items to be considered, and will likely consume a significant portion of its' meeting time, is regarding the potential censure of Quesnel Mayor Ron Paull... 

It should be noted that while the topic of censure in Quesnel is not new (see below) -- Quesnel is the only Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government to have formally censured a member of Quesnel City Council since Codes' of Conduct came into place in BC Local Governments' since the mid to late 2000's ... 

Background:

At the April 2nd, 2024 meeting of Quesnel City Council, the following Resolution was approved:

THAT Council directs Staff to prepare a report on censure of the Mayor, noting what censure means for Council and what sanctions Council can levy against the Mayor, and bring it forward to an open public meeting as soon as possible, even if it means a special (Council) meeting is needed

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Mayor Paull

At the meeting on Tuesday evening, the following materials will laid before Quesnel City Council to consider any actions of censure and/or related actions against Quesnel Mayor Ron Paull:

1) Report of Quesnel City Manager (CAO) Byron Johnson - click here

2) Response of Quesnel Mayor Ron Paull - click here

3) Quesnel Bylaws or Policies related to Oath of Office/Code of Conduct

* Elected Officials' Oath of Office Bylaw - click here

* City of Quesnel Oath of Office for Mayor/Councillors - click here

* Quesnel Council Code of Conduct Policy - click here

4) Memorandum of Understanding - City of Quesnel/Lhtako Dene Nation.  Click here

5) Resolution of Lhtako Dene Nation Band Council barring Quesnel Mayor Ron Paull from their lands without express permission of the Nation - click here

6) April 2nd, 2024 transcript of comments at the April 2nd Quesnel Council Meeting -- Lhtako Dene Nation Chief Cliff LeBrun and Nazko First Nation Chief Leah Stump - click here

7) Quesnel Cariboo Observer article "Quesnel Mayor Ron Paull denies distributing book entitled "Grave Error..." - click here

Recently -- the Quesnel Cariboo Observer observed how difficult this conversation has become in Quesnel since the topic of distributing the book of Grave Error came up in mid March of this year.  Read more here.  

Conclusion:

In terms of process -- recent court decisions and the common law in relation to discipline of a member of a local government body in relation to their conduct (Mayor, Councillor or Area Director) states that procedural fairness MUST be followed including advanced notice of a Motion of Censure and all related materials so that a defense can be prepared.  In that context -- Mayor Paull was served notice of the possible "Motion of Censure" and other related actions' on April 18th for consideration at the April 30th meeting which meets all the requirements in relation to procedural fairness and as noted above, he has prepared a response for Quesnel Council to consider

In terms of history in Quesnel on the subject of censure -- Mayor Paull is not the 1st elected official in Quesnel to face a censure motion in relation to their conduct. 

The 1st elected official to be formally censured by a Quesnel City Council was former Quesnel City Councillor Sushil Thapar who was formally censured for his conduct on 3 different occasions' in the 2011-2014 elected term however Mayor Paull will be the 1st Mayor of Quesnel to be formally censured, should that be the decision of the 2022-2026 Quesnel City Council on Tuesday evening and it'll be interesting to follow the debate on Tuesday evening, in what I am fairly confident will be a full public gallery inside Quesnel Council Chambers... 

~SF

Editor's Note -- the above editorial is my own opinion and not that of the Cariboo Regional District... 

Barlow Creek voters select ten year borrowing option for new fire tender

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

Voters in the Barlow Creek Fire Protection Service Area have voted to borrow funding for a new fire tender over ten-years. With 102 total ballots cast, 75 votes were cast in favour of the proposed extended borrowing term, while 27 were opposed to the proposed borrowing extension.

With this result, the Cariboo Regional District can proceed to borrow up to $650,000 over a ten-year term for a new fire tender for the Barlow Creek Fire Department. This will increase the residential tax rate for this service from $71.70 per $100,000 up to $108.86 per $100,000 of assessed improvement values. Changes to property taxation for the service area will take effect starting in 2025, with the truck’s delivery anticipated in that year.

“There are only positive outcomes from this referendum when the results either way result in a modern purpose-built fire tender that will serve the needs of the community for decades,” said John Massier, Electoral Area “C” Director. “The residents have chosen to finance the purchase over a ten year timeframe to lessen the annual impact of the taxation increase.”

“Both outcomes are positive for the community in that either 5 year or 10 year financing options each have their advantages,” said Barb Bachmeier, Electoral Area “B” Director, “The new, necessary and upgraded fire tender apparatus is great for our communities in Barlow Creek and Ten Mile Lake.”

The current tender, a 2005 Kenworth Tender, will reach its 20th service year in 2025. After that, it will no longer meet the fire protection standards set by the Fire Underwriters Survey, which informs the costs and discounts of home insurance for being in a fire protection area. Once the new fire tender is received, the fire protection fleet will be up to date and there are no anticipated equipment replacement purchases until 2041.

Bouchie Lake residents to have their say on sewer system study

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

The Cariboo Regional District is hosting a public meeting on April 30 between 4:00 p.m. and 7p.m. with Bouchie Lake residents about a proposed concept for a community sewer system. A survey and backgrounder have been distributed to residents of the proposed service area to enable the regional district to work directly with affected residents to better understand their concerns and aspirations concerning the health of the lake.

A study conducted by the B.C. Ministry of Environment in 2009 showed high levels of nitrogen and phosphate enter Bouchie and Milburn Lakes from areas in the watershed, which contribute to large algae blooms during the summer months. These algae blooms present health, safety and environmental hazards for humans, animals and have periodically caused fish kills. The largest sources of nutrient loading come from agricultural uses of lands in the watershed and sewage disposal systems for lakeshore properties which are in various stages of repair.

“We need to hear from residents around Bouchie Lake about their interest in having a system installed. I am deeply concerned about the current state of Bouchie Lake and its watershed, and am hoping residents of the area will come forward to share any concerns they may have and discuss this proposed solution further. The sewer system idea has been thrown around at various tables over the years, and we are seeking a more definitive answer through this process.” – Barb Bachmeier, Electoral Area “B” Director 

A community sewer system would provide one workable option to reduce the amount of nutrient inflow into Bouchie Lake from nearby residential properties. If residents provide initial approval of the concept, the Cariboo Regional District would complete a feasibility study to identify what that system would look like and how much it will cost. A feasibility study would also identify the area that any taxation for a service would apply to if a service establishment bylaw is approved through a referendum. Other actions would also need to be taken before a community sewer system could be built, including:

• Official Community Plan amendments to add a sewer system plan and land use policies;
• Engineering designs and drawings for a collection and treatment system;
• Consultation with First Nations and relevant provincial agencies;
• Confirm financing, including any  local area taxation, borrowing, and grant funds; and
• Hold a referendum to seek approval for the service being established.

Cariboo RD representatives will be present to speak with residents about this system as one option for improving the health of the Bouchie Lake watershed. Residents can attend the Bouchie Lake Community Hall on April 30 from 4pm to 7pm to speak about what they would like to see, their preferences, and address any questions they may have. Anyone with questions or concerns about the proposal is encouraged to attend to meet with the public engagement team.

Residents inside the proposed service area are asked to complete the public input survey. A link to the survey was provided in a letter mailed to each property owner within the conceptual service area, and paper copies will be available at the public information meeting. The Cariboo Regional District will not be distributing the survey or soliciting responses from anyone who lives outside of the conceptual service area as the taxation impacts of any new system would be directly onto property owners and residents in that area only.

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings - Week of April 29 to May 3, 2024

The following local governments' of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will be holding meetings during the week of April 29 to May 3, 2024, as follows:

Quesnel - 

1) Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 30th at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* City of Quesnel Hotel Tax Revitalization Bylaw 1959, 2024 - First & Second Reading

* Zoning Amendment - Carson Elementary School

* Possible Censure/Sanctions for Mayor Paull, as per Quesnel Council Resolution 24-10-110

* Nourish Food Bank/Canadian Mental Health Association - Request for a letter of support for the United Way Critical Food Infrastructure Grant

* Adopt Bylaws --  City of Quesnel Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 1960, 2024 (2023-2027); City of Quesnel 2024 Tax Rate Bylaw No. 1961, 2024 

View the full Agenda here

2) Policy/Bylaw Committee -- Regular Meeting on May 2nd, 2024 in the Fraser Room, Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

Williams Lake -

1) Special Closed (In-Camera) Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 30th at 5:30pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom, pursuant to Sections 92 and 90(1a + 1c - appointment/labour) of the Community Charter.  View the closed meeting notice here

2) Public Hearing --  Tuesday, April 30th at 6:00pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Rezoning Application - 3018 Edwards Drive (Use of Shipping Containers)

View the full Agenda here

3) Regular Council Meeting immediately following the Public Hearing on Tuesday, April 30th in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegations -- 

i) Presentation and Quarterly Update from Interior Health

ii) Darlene Doucette, Williams Lake Royal Purple & BC Royal Purple re Proclamation - "Canadian Royal Purple Week"

iii) Kristin Giannotti & Kane Fraser, MNP Chartered Professional Accountants re 2023 Financial Statements and Auditor's Report

* Zoning Amendment Application - Bylaw No. 2398 - Cheridan Enterprises Ltd. / Gossen - A-1 to R-8 Zone, Hobby Farm Use & Legalize Existing Barn - 1749 South Lakeside Drive - 3 Readings/Adoption

* BC Transit 2024/2025 Annual Operating Agreement

* McKinnon Road Lot - Request for Offer and Next Steps

* WLFN Evacuation Route Regional Grant Application (Editor's Note -- Cariboo RD Board consented to this at their April 12th, 2024 meeting)

* Council Attendance at NCLGA 2024 AGM & Convention

* Waterworks and Pavement Tenders -- for Award

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District - 

1) Policy Committee - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, April 30th at 10:00am in the  Cariboo RD's Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* CAO Evaluation Policy Amendment

View the full Agenda here

2) Emergency Preparedness Committee -- Regular Meeting on Tuesday, April 30th at 1pm in the  Cariboo RD's Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

Information Items -- Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) Activities - April 2024; Pathways to Preparedness Program

Discussion Item --  EDMA (Emergency and Disaster Management Act) Indigenous Engagement Requirements Update

View the full Agenda here

3) Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District (CCRHD) -- Regular Board of Directors' Meeting on Friday, May 3rd at 9:30am in the Cariboo RD's Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Capital Expenditure Bylaw for 3 Readings/Adoption -- GR Baker OR Surgical Tower Replacement

* Presentation of 2023 Financial Statements -- CCRHD

View the full Agenda here

4) Cariboo Regional District --  Regular Board of Directors' Meeting on Friday, May 3rd following recess of the CCRHD Board meeting in the Cariboo RD's Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Delegations -- 

i) PMT Chartered Professional Accountants LLP re: 2023 Regional District Financial Statements

ii) Beth Holden, CRD Regional Economic Development Officer re: Make the Move project

* Land Use Matters (Area Directors' only)

* Consideration of NDIT Applications

* Consideration of Year Round Grant for Assistance applications -- 100 Mile & District Arts Council; Cariboo Calico Quilters; Cariboo Chilcotin Youth Fiddle Society

* Consideration of recommendations from Committees or Commissions'

* Request from Director Forseth for a UBCM Community Excellence Nomination re: WLFN Evacuation Route Regional Grant Application (WLFN, Cariboo RD, City of Williams Lake)

* Closed (In-Camera) Board Session -- Sections 90(1c,g,i,k -- labour, litigation, legal advice and negotiations) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

Central Cariboo Joint Committee Highlights - April 24th mtg

Present from Cariboo Regional District: Co-Chair (Director) M. LeBourdais & Directors Forseth and Neufeld

Present from City of Williams Lake Council: Co-Chair (Mayor) SPS Rathor and Councillors Lyons and Flaspohler 

Meeting Chair: Co-Chair/Director M. LeBourdais 

Meeting called to order at 5:30pm

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

Meeting Agenda adopted with 2 Late Items (Information Item - WL Gymnastics Club/New Recreation Building on new Marie Sharpe Elementary school site -- at request of Director Forseth and Action Item - broadcast of Canuck Playoff Games, at request of Co-Chair Rathor)

Minutes of the Joint Committee meeting held on February 28th, 2024 was adopted

Business:

1) The Committee was presented with "Information Only" items as follows:

* Pool Mats / Slips and Falls Update

* Universal Change Rooms at West Fraser Aquatic Centre (formerly Sam Ketchum Pool) 

* Air Quality Committee Report

* WL Gymnastics Club/New Recreation Building on new Marie Sharpe Elementary school site

* Playing of Vancouver Canucks playoff games in the Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex 

After discussion - the Committee approved the following resolution (concurrence of City Council/Regional Board required) ... 

That a Joint (City of Williams Lake/Cariboo RD) letter be forwarded to the BC Ministry of Environment recognizing the value of the Air Quality Roundtable and requesting the Ministry to consider taking a lead role in reviving the Roundtable 

Staff were also directed to report back to the Committee on use of the Gibraltar Room to display Vancouver Canucks playoff games

2) The Committee dealt with "Action Items", as follows:

a) Proposed First Responder Discount

Report from City of Williams Lake Director of Community Services was presented to the Committee

Discussion ensued thereon... 

Resolved - Item received 

b)  KIJHL Agreement/WL Mustangs 

Report from City of Williams Lake Director of Community Services was presented to the Committee

Discussion ensued thereon... 

Resolved:  That it be recommended to the Regional Board/City Council:

That the proposed Use And Occupancy License Agreement between the City of Williams Lake (as the operators of the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex) and 1468229 BC Ltd DBA Williams Lake Mustangs Hockey club be endorsed as presented  and that the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the agreement

c) Funding for Rotary Club Fitness Equipment at Kiwanis Park

Report from City of Williams Lake Director of Community Services was presented to the Committee

Discussion ensued thereon... 

Resolved:  That it be recommended to the Regional Board/City Council:

That the City of Williams Lake submit a 2024 Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) application to the Community Places program in partnership with the Williams Lake Rotary Club, for the Kiwanis Park Seniors’ Exercise Equipment Project.  Further, that staff be authorized to support the project with the sub-regional recreation funding account or other funding source for a maximum amount of $10,000.00.

d) Proposed Minor Construction to Accommodate Williams Lake Mustangs

Report from City of Williams Lake Director of Community Services was presented to the Committee

Discussion ensued thereon... 

Resolved: That it be recommended to the Regional Board:

That proposed construction changes to the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex to accommodate the Williams Lake Mustangs Hockey Club be approved as presented.

e) Capital Project Budget Adjustment For Arena Dressing Room Retiling Project

Report from City of Williams Lake Director of Community Services was presented to the Committee

Discussion ensued thereon... 

Resolved: That it be recommended to the Regional Board:

That the proposed Lap Pool Retiling / Regrouting project for the West Fraser Aquatic Centre budgeted at $65,000 in 2024 be deferred to a future year, and that $50,000 be reallocated toward completing the Arena Dressing Room Retiling project for the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex in 2024.

3) After discussion - the Committee received the Action Page and directed that Item #3 be removed from the Action Page... 

The Committee adjourned at 7:17pm

Housing Affordability Indicators - Northern British Columbia for the year ending 2023

The BC Northern Real Estate Board has released a 2023 study in financing Home Ownership as a percentage of median income. For our incorporated communities in the Cariboo-Chilcotin Region:

Quesnel – 34.8%
Williams Lake – 37.9%
100 Mile House – 59.1%

According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, “… housing is considered “affordable” if it costs less than 30% of a household’s before-tax income.”

The full study can be viewed at https://bcnreb.bc.ca/files/documents/HousingAffordabilityIndicators2023.pdf

Burgess Creek Area ALERT (Cariboo RD - Electoral Area "F" on April 21st, 2024 at 7:45pm)

Courtesy of the Cariboo RD Emergency Operations Centre - April 21st, 2024 at 7:45pm:

An Evacuation ALERT has been issued by the Cariboo Regional District Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) for 6 parcels in the Burgess Creek Area within Electoral Area "F". This alert covers 3,283 hectares.

Because of the potential danger to life and health, the Cariboo Regional District has issued an Evacuation Alert for this area:

Burgess Creek Area Alert

Evacuation Alert and Map
Interactive Map

An Evacuation Alert has been issued to give you time to prepare to evacuate your premises or property should it be required.

Residents will be given as much advance notice as possible if an evacuation order is required; however, we may not have time to go door-to-door due to changing conditions.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO WHEN AN ALERT IS IN EFFECT

Upon notification of an ALERT, you should be prepared for an evacuation order:

• Have a plan to transport all family members or co-workers outside of the area, should the area be brought under evacuation order.
• Make grab-and-go bags for each member of your household to keep essential items readily available for a quick departure. Pack clothing, ready-to-eat food, toiletries, medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers (i.e. insurance), immediate care needs for dependents and, if you choose, keepsakes (photographs, etc.).
• Ensure that any dependents or pets are prepared for departure. Gather comfort items (blankets, stuffed animals, etc.) for your dependents to make an evacuation less stressful. Gather any kennels or leashes to make transportation safe with your pets.
• Move pets and livestock to a safe area if they cannot be evacuated. Ensure water and feed are available.
• Keep the fuel tanks of personal vehicles full in case a new order is issued.
• Ensure that you have accommodation options for your family, if possible. An Evacuee Reception Centre will be made available if required. Homeowner or tenant insurance may provide greater support than ESS will be able to.
• In the event you are evacuated, do not shut off your natural gas. For more information, visit fortisbc.com/forestfires.
• Monitor reliable news sources for information on evacuation orders and locations of Reception Centres and the CRD’s channels on Facebook and cariboord.ca. 
• If you are on an evacuation ALERT, or if you have been displaced from your home due to an emergency, please self-register for Emergency Support Services. You will need to sign up for the BC Services Card app to access the self-registration tool, which will reduce wait times for evacuees and assist in the referral process. https://ess.gov.bc.ca/

Residents are encouraged to register for the Cariboo Chilcotin Emergency Notification System to receive a text, call or email regarding Evacuation Alerts and Orders.

For Cariboo Regional District information, please visit Cariboo Regional District's website, Emergency Operations Centre Facebook page, Twitter / X feed, or call the CRD’s emergency information line at 1-866-759-4977 (open tonight until 9:00 p.m. and then from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday).

Update from Cariboo RD Emergency Operations Centre - April 21, 2024 at 2:30pm

Courtesy of the Cariboo RD Emergency Operations Centre:

The Cariboo RD’s EOC/Emergency Operations Centre is activated to monitor fire activity in the Cariboo region. At this time, there remain no active evacuation orders and alerts in response to fires in our region.

We are working with BC Wildfire to share information and identify public safety concerns, along with receiving briefings about response activities. Advance planning work is being done in coordination with BCWS/BC Wildfire Service

Our Emergency Information Line is not open. If an evacuation order or alert is required, we will open the line to receive and provide information about the order/alert, emergency preparedness, and other information related to our response.

For information about this and other wildfires, please check the BC Wildfire App or call the Wildfire Information Line at 1-888-336-7378 (3FOREST)

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings - Week of April 22-26, 2024

During the week of April 22-26, 2024 -- the following Local Governments' or Boards' of Education of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will be holding meetings, as follows:

Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 23rd from 11am - 12:30pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue) or via Zoom.  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

Quesnel:

1) Public Safety/Policing Committee - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, April 23rd at 10:30am in the Fraser Room, Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St.).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation -- Quesnel Downtown Association re: Collaboration between QDA/City of Quesnel on Public Safety in downtown Quesnel 

* Discussion Items -- Save Our Streets (SOS); 2024/2025 Quesnel RCMP Annual Performance Plan Initiatives and Burning Complaints inside City of Quesnel boundaries

* Closed Committee Meeting -- Section 90(1j - information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

2) Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 23rd at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St.).  On the Agenda:

* Delegations -- KPMG re: 2023 Audited Financial Statements for the City of Quesnel & Wells Mayor Ed Coleman re: Strategic Priorities Projects

* City of Quesnel Financial Plan Bylaw 1960, 2024 and City of Quesnel Tax Rate Bylaw 1961, 2024 -- for consideration of 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings

* Alex Fraser Park Society Management Agreement

* BC Games Summary

*  KIJHL Quesnel Team Facility Use Agreement (Parallel Sports Group)/KIJHL Quesnel Team Liquor Licence Third Party Liquor Licence Operator Agreement (Parallel Sports Group)

* DP2024-70 Multi-unit Development Permit Review - Four-Plex (180 Bowron Avenue) 

* Northern Development Initiative Trust Grant application - Marketing Initiatives 

* Lawn Bowling Building and Grounds

* BC Transit Annual Operating Agreement

View the full Agenda here

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Regular Board of Education Meeting on Tuesday, April 23rd at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Reports of the Superintendent and Secretary-Treasurer 

* Reports from Committees'

* Trustee Report from Trustee Forbes

View the full Agenda here

100 Mile House -- Meetings as noted below on Tuesday, April 23rd in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue). 

a) Committee of the Whole at 4pm.  On the Agenda:

* District of 100 Mile House Tourism Plan

View the full Agenda here

b) Council Meeting at 5pm. On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Matt Henderson re: ALR Study

* Garbage/Recycling and Janitor Contracts

* Facilities Attendant 

* Bylaws -- Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 1421, 2024; Tax Rates Bylaw No. 1423, 2024 (for consideration of 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings) and Financial Plan Bylaw No. 1422, 2024 (for consideration of adoption)

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District -- 

1) Central Cariboo Joint Committee - Regular Meeting on Wednesday, April 24th at 5:30pm in the Cariboo Regional District's Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

Information Items -- Pool Mats / Slips and Falls Update at CMRC (Cariboo Memorial Universal Change Rooms at West Fraser Aquatic Centre and Air Quality Committee and Next Steps

Action Items:

a) Proposed First Responder Discount for use at CMRC

b) KIJHL Agreement - WL Mustangs 

c) Funding for Rotary Club Fitness Equipment at Kiwanis Park

d) Proposed Minor Construction to Accommodate Williams Lake Mustangs

e) Capital Project Budget Adjustment For Arena Dressing Room Retiling Project

View the full Agenda here

Emergency Operation Centre funding for Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments'

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

Editor's Note -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local or Indigenous Governments have received Emergency Operations Centre or EOC Funding...

Wells -- $30,000 for equipment/training

Quesnel - $14,000 for training

Lhtako Dene Nation - $30,000 for equipment

Williams Lake First Nation - $29,352.87 for equipment

Cariboo Regional District - $13,875.90 for equipment and training

People in approximately 100 communities will be safer during emergencies with provincial funding that will better equip local governments and First Nations to respond to emergencies.

“As we move into the wildfire season, we know that many communities may need to activate their emergency operations centres (EOC) to respond and support people in their areas,” said the Hon. Bowinn Ma, BC's Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. “Local emergency operations centres are crucial for co-ordinating emergency response to keep people safe. This funding will help communities support responders on the ground and better protect people in emergency situations.”

The Province is providing approximately $2.7 million to communities in B.C. for emergency-preparedness initiatives, such as new supplies for local emergency operations centres and conducting training and exercises to support staff and enhance capacity. Emergency operations centres are a vital part of local emergency response, bringing together representatives and leaders to co-ordinate actions and resources, and to support first responders.

“This funding will help to grow communications capacity in our Lhtako Dene Nation emergency operations command centre, which was established last year,” said Bruce McDonald, lands and natural resource manager, Lhtako Dene First Nation. “It will help us initiate reliable means of communication with neighbouring Nations in the Quesnel area so we can better support them during times of emergency and need.”

Funded through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF), investments will support 80 projects in approximately 100 communities in the province, including:

• continued expansion of the emergency operations command centre through the purchase of new radios and supplies, and volunteer radio and EOC training for the Lhtako Dene First Nation;
• new equipment installation and emergency operations centre training for several communities in the Cariboo Regional District, including satellite connectivity for more reliable internet during emergencies;
• purchase and installation of equipment for two radio towers to enhance communication capability during emergencies, and community evacuation and EOC training for staff in the Sunshine Coast Regional District;
• a new trailer to transport supplies and equipment, and a new backup generator for community EOCs in Nlaka'pamux Nation; and
• new equipment, such as laptops and a mobile EOC kit, for the Thompson-Nicola Regional District emergency operations centre, which was activated for more than 80 days during the 2023 wildfire and spring flooding season.

“This funding will enhance the Akisqnuk First Nation community and staff to strengthen emergency-management education and response for both minor and major emergency situations,” said Thomas Dobbin, emergency program co-ordinator for Akisqnuk First Nation. “This initiative aims to foster greater collaboration and training opportunities with neighbouring local governments.”

The CEPF helps communities better prepare for and mitigate the impacts of climate-related emergencies by funding local projects and initiatives in several categories. In addition to emergency operations centre equipment and training, other categories include disaster-risk reduction and climate adaptation, public notification and evacuation-route planning, Indigenous cultural safety and cultural humility training, and emergency support services equipment and training. The CEPF is administered by the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) on behalf of the Province.

The Province has invested $369 million into the CEPF since it was established in 2017. More than $217 million has been provided to First Nations and local governments through the CEPF for more than 1,970 projects. More than half of the funding has gone to communities since December 2022, demonstrating the Province’s commitment to ramping up defences against climate emergencies in B.C. Since 2017, approximately $14.9 million has been invested to support local emergency operations centres.

Learn more:

For information about the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund, visit: https://www.ubcm.ca/cepf