REGIONAL COUNCIL INFORMATION PACKAGE
May 10, 2012 Page
Regional Council Calendar 4 May 13 - May 19, 2012
NCMA 5-29 NORTH CENTRAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION 2012 NCLGA Resolutions
Provincial Ministries 30 MLA PAT BELL Top 10 for May 4, 2012
Federal Government 31 GOVERNMENT OF CANADA Government of Canada Announces Request for Proposals for Alaska Highway Rehabilitation Project
Miscellaneous Correspondence 32-42 NORTH EAST REGIONAL ADVISORY COUNCIL Meeting Minutes March 30, 2012
Page 1 of 59 Page
Miscellaneous Correspondence 43 FORT NELSON HOSPITAL FOUNDATION Horn River Basin Charity Hockey Tournament
44-46 NORTHERN ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION TEAM Fuelling Change Project
47-51 NORTHERN DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE TRUST Northeast Regional Quarterly Update Spring 2012
52 PORT MOODY Expert Panel Review of Business Taxation and Municipal Revenue Sources Review
Training, Conferences, & Seminars 53-54 INSURANCE CORPORATION OF BRITISH COLUMBIA Basic Vehicle Insurance Rating System 2012 Consultation and Engagement May 14 - June 22, 2012
News Articles 55-56 THE CANADIAN PRESS - ONLINE EDITION Imperial weighing West Coast LNG plans, not committing shipping oil west
57-58 ENERGETIC CITY.CA Province announces 2012/2013 Peace River North road upgrades
Trade Organizations 59 CENTRAL INTERIOR LOGGING ASSOCIATION Facts Fax May 4, 2012
Page 2 of 59 Page
Documents Available Upon Request INSIGHT Bidding, Contracting and Procurement in The Public Sector June 14 - 15, 2012 Vancouver
BC FOREST PROFESSIONAL May - June 2012
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13 Sunday 14 Monday From May 5 Councillor Osbourne away (Hawaii) From May 11 Councillor Eglinski away To May 16 Heather Cosman Away To May 18
15 Tuesday 16 Wednesday From May 11 Councillor Eglinski away From May 14 Heather Cosman Away To May 18 Mayor Streeper - BC Mayors' Caucus (Penticton) To May 18
17 Thursday 18 Friday From May 14 Heather Cosman Away From May 15 Mayor Streeper - BC Mayors' Caucus (Penticton) 6:00pm 9:00pm Zoning Bylaw Public Information Open House (Community Hall - Recreation Center)
19 Saturday
Nicole Cruickshank 1 5/10/2012 9:16 AM Page 4 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012
TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE RESOLUTIONS ...... 2 A1: POWERLINE IMPROVEMENTS ...... 2 MEMBER SUBMITTED RESOLUTIONS ...... 2 COMMUNITY AND RESOURCES ...... 2 B1: FENCING ADJACENT TO HIGHWAYS ...... 2 B2: FENCING OF AGRICULTURAL INTERFACE ...... 3 ENERGY ...... 3 B3: ENERGY EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENTS FOR HOMEOWNERS ...... 3 B4: FIVE YEAR STRATEGY FOR BC NATURAL GAS USE ...... 4 B5: INNOVATE BC’S TRANSPORTATION NETWORK ...... 4 B6: ROBSON VALLEY POWERLINE IMPROVEMENT ...... 4 B7: THREE PHASE POWER...... 5 ENVIRONMENT ...... 6 B8: BROWNFIELDS ...... 6 DISTRICT OF VANDERHOOF ...... 6 B9: LEVY FOR “ONE TIME USE” PLASTIC BAGS ...... 7 B10: NOXIOUS WEEDS AND RANGE LANDS ...... 8 B11: PROTECTION OF POTABLE WATER ...... 8 B12: WATER STEWARDSHIP ...... 9 FINANCE ...... 9 B13: 2020 CARBON NEUTRAL GOALS ...... 9 B14: ALTERNATIVES TO FEDERAL FUNDING OF INFRASTRUCTURE THROUGH PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS ...... 10 B15: FIRST NATIONS SERVICE AGREEMENT FUNDING ...... 10 B16: FUNDING FOR WATER INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS ...... 11 B17: INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING CRITERIA ...... 11 B18: LOCAL GOVERNMENT FUNDING ...... 12 B19: SKILLED PROFESSIONALS ...... 13 HEALTH ...... 13 B20: MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION IN RURAL BC *Gold Star Winner ...... 13 B21: PALLIATIVE CARE IN RURAL BC *Gold Star – Honourable Mention ...... 14 B22: TRANSITIONAL HOUSING IN RURAL AND REMOTE COMMUNITIES ...... 15 JUSTICE & PROTECTIVE SERVICES ...... 15 B23: EMERGENCY SERVICES FUNDING ...... 15 B24: NATIONAL SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY ...... 16 B25: RELEASE OF DANGEROUS OFFENDERS ...... 17 LEGISLATIVE ...... 17 B26: BILL 20 – AUDITOR FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENTS ...... 17 B27: CANADA EUROPEAN UNION TRADE AGREEMENT (CETA) ...... 18 B28: SHIPPING OF DANGEROUS GOODS LIABILITIES ...... 19 SOCIAL ISSUES - EDUCATION ...... 20 B29: FUNDING FOR NORTHERN COLLEGES ...... 20 TRANSPORTATION & COMMUNICATION ...... 21 B30: ALASKA HIGHWAY 97 BRIDGE UPGRADES ...... 21 B31: ALASKA HIGHWAY 97 TWINNING ...... 21 B32: COASTAL FERRY ACT REVIEW ...... 22 B33: HIGHWAY 27 UPGRADE ...... 23 B34: WIRELESS HIGH SPEED INTERNET * Gold Star – Honourable Mention ...... 23 B35: HIGHWAY 37 CELLULAR SERVICE ...... 24 SELECTED ISSUES ...... 24 B36: TRANSIENT WORKER DATA COLLECTION ...... 24 B37: TIME ALLOTTED FOR RESOLUTION DEBATE AT UBCM ...... 25
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Page 5 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 EXECUTIVE RESOLUTIONS
A1: POWERLINE IMPROVEMENTS NCLGA EXECUTIVE
WHEREAS many regions of British Columbia are in need of power line improvements, substation upgrades and distribution system expansions/enhancements that will provide adequate, stable, reliable power;
AND WHEREAS all regions of BC are reliant on the power and distribution system for community stability, jobs and economic growth:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Provincial Government and BC Hydro to make the power line and distribution system improvements a high priority for all regions of British Columbia.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
MEMBER SUBMITTED RESOLUTIONS COMMUNITY AND RESOURCES
B1: FENCING ADJACENT TO HIGHWAYS CARIBOO REGIONAL DISTRICT
WHEREAS the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure has established the Highways Fencing Program for ranchers to apply for funding to erect fencing along primary highways to reduce the risk of their livestock being on the highway; however, funding is not available for fencing of secondary highways or for maintenance of existing fencing;
AND WHEREAS many ranchers suffer economically and motorists are injured or killed when livestock enter onto highways, including secondary highways:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure to broaden the criteria for the Highways Fencing Program eligibility to include secondary highways and to provide funding for maintenance of existing fencing, which will increase the safety of the motoring public and will address the economic hardship that ranchers face when their cattle are killed on highways including secondary highways.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government broaden the criteria of the Highways Fencing Program to include secondary highways and to provide funding for the maintenance of existing fencing.
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Page 6 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 B2: FENCING OF AGRICULTURAL INTERFACE CARIBOO REGIONAL DISTRICT
WHEREAS in British Columbia, there are residential developments that are currently in existence that abut livestock range areas, resulting in livestock entering onto residential properties;
AND WHEREAS the Crown collects fees for grazing leases, but does not provide fenced, defined range boundaries to contain the livestock:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Provincial Government to assume the responsibility of fencing the existing agricultural/residential interface to protect ranchers from economic hardship through loss of livestock, and residents from damage caused by livestock entering onto their property.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the Province assume the responsibility of fencing agricultural/residential interface areas.
ENERGY
B3: ENERGY EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENTS FOR HOMEOWNERS CITY OF TERRACE
WHEREAS the Province of British Columbia has provided funding and programs to homeowners for energy efficiency improvements;
AND WHEREAS the Province of British Columbia has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through the Climate Action Charter:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCGLA and UBCM request the Province of British Columbia to continue and to expand programs that will encourage the retrofitting of existing housing stock to improve energy efficiency.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has endorsed several resolutions calling for the continuation, or expansion, of programs that encourage the retrofitting of houses. Resolution 2010-B86 called for increased provincial incentives for residential retrofits to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, while resolution 2007-B177 called for reinstatement of the federal EnerGuide program that funded energy efficient retrofits.
In response to the 2010 resolution, the provincial government highlighted its work, some still in progress, updating standards and regulations in the building sector, including standards for ultra low- flow toilets; a solar ready rough-in regulation; and a new BC Building Code, containing new energy requirements for buildings, green concrete standards, and increased opportunities for grey water reuse.
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Page 7 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 B4: FIVE YEAR STRATEGY FOR BC NATURAL GAS USE
PEACE RIVER REGIONAL DISTRICT
WHEREAS natural resources have the potential to be the foundation of British Columbia’s economic health and long-term revenue predictability;
AND WHEREAS meaningful jobs for present and future BC citizens are multiplied by secondary and tertiary employment:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM strongly encourage the Province to develop strategies that will address the long term domestic supply, satisfy existing commitments, and provide incentives to build infrastructure for ancillary enterprises..
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED AS AMENDED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not previously requested the Province to develop strategies that will address the long term domestic supply of natural gas, including incentives to build related infrastructure.
B5: INNOVATE BC’S TRANSPORTATION NETWORK PEACE RIVER REGIONAL DISTRICT
WHEREAS the Government of British Columbia has expressed an interest in a “Made in BC Approach” to utilizing the natural gas reserves in British Columbia;
AND WHEREAS the Government of British Columbia has expressed a desire to create a diversified natural gas industry with its attendant jobs:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM request the Government of British Columbia to effect a plan within one year to create a comprehensive infrastructure to supply natural gas to commercial transport for British Columbia, with a target date for implementation within five years.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting the Province to effect a plan within one year to create a comprehensive infrastructure to supply natural gas to commercial transport for BC, with a target date for implementation within 5 years.
B6: ROBSON VALLEY POWERLINE IMPROVEMENT VILLAGE OF MCBRIDE
WHEREAS the Robson Valley is in dire need of power line improvements that will provide stable, reliable power and create economic opportunities for the entire Robson Valley;
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Page 8 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012
AND WHEREAS the Village of McBride has been working with Independent Power Producers and BC Hydro and has developed a business case for Transmission line installation, additional substations and distribution line upgrades that would provide stable, reliable power and economic growth along the Robson Valley Corridor:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA lobby the Provincial Government and BC Hydro to make the power line improvements along the Robson Valley Corridor a high priority.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that BC Hydro make power line improvements along the Robson Valley Corridor a high priority.
However, UBCM members did endorse resolution B25 in 2004, which requested that the Province commit to the writing of a comprehensive plan for extension of the electrical grid into the Northwest region that considers long term economic and resource development needs.
B7: THREE PHASE POWER DISTRICT OF VANDERHOOF
WHEREAS according to BC Hydro’s Transmission Interconnection Process Guidelines, connection times for a business to connect to an adequate power supply can vary from 17 months to 4.5 years;
AND WHEREAS an inadequate power supply prohibits industrial growth;
AND WHEREAS the cost of the transmission connection can vary greatly from community to community thereby creating an unfair competitive advantage:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA requests that the Provincial Government encourage BC Hydro and the BC Utilities Commission to institute policy changes designed to reduce connection times and to establish fair and equitable connection costs for all transmission customers.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution encouraging BC Hydro and the BCUC to make policy changes to reduce the connection times and establish fair connection costs for customers.
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Page 9 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 ENVIRONMENT B8: BROWNFIELDS DISTRICT OF VANDERHOOF DISTRICT OF MACKENZIE VILLAGE OF BURNS LAKE
WHEREAS vacant sites or orphan properties known as “brownfields” are often on properties located along transportation corridors and in downtown core areas, are eyesores to the community and have caused real or suspected environmental contamination and negatively impact economic development of that specific site and in the general area of that specific site;
AND WHEREAS the owners of these “brownfield” sites have already reaped the benefits and should have an obligation to clean-up their own mess:
AND WHEREAS UBCM Resolution 2008-B33 was passed at the 2008 UBCM Convention to strongly urge the provincial government to take immediate steps to implement the previously adopted resolutions 2007-B29 and 2007-B70 that were passed at the 2007 Convention and no concrete action has taken place;
AND WHEREAS there has been no real progress to support rural communities continuing to face the challenge of economic loss and unsightly premises in their downtown core due to real or suspected environmental contamination on vacant lots;
AND WHEREAS provincial policies and regulations for remediation of brownfield sites are vague and not strictly enforced:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM request that the Ministry of Environment be authorized to legislate that owners of all contaminated brownfield sites, regardless of their hazard rating, be remediated upon request from the local government and provide timely communication with the local government regarding remediation progress.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling for legislative amendments that would require the remediation of contaminated sites upon the request of a local government.
In particular, the membership endorsed resolution 2007-B29, which called for an amendment to Part 4 of the Environmental Management Act to require that, upon application by a local government, the Ministry of Environment order remediation of contaminated sites. The membership also endorsed resolution 2007-B70, which called on the Province to amend the current legislation in order to require the owners of vacant properties that have been contaminated to remediate these properties within five years of their becoming vacant. In addition, the membership endorsed resolution 2008-B33, which called on the Province to take immediate steps to implement 2007 resolutions B29 and B70. Finally, Resolution 2001-B76 requested that “sections 26.5, 26, 27, and 27.1 of the Waste Management Act be amended to require that, upon application by a local government, the Ministry of Water, Land and Air will order remediation of contaminated sites”.
In response to the 2008 resolution, the provincial government cited the BC Brownfield Renewal Strategy that it had introduced that same year.
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Page 10 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 B9: LEVY FOR “ONE TIME USE” PLASTIC BAGS CITY OF QUESNEL
WHEREAS it is estimated 55 million “one time use” plastic bags are used weekly by Canadians, with all but a small percentage being sent to landfills using valuable space;
AND WHEREAS it takes up to 1000 years to biodegrade, as well as taking taxpayer’s resources to attend to the issues that arise from plastic bag litter like clean up and blockages in gutters or drains:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Province to institute a per-bag levy to consumers who choose to use “one time use” bags, with the funds generated devoted to recycling programs that help keep plastic bags out of our landfills.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
Due to time constraints, resolution 2009-B124 was referred to the UBCM Executive. The resolution called for the provincial government to implement a fee for plastic shopping bags, with the revenue to be distributed to local governments responsible for solid waste, to be allocated towards a plastic bag recycling initiative, awareness program or other incentives to encourage the use of reusable shopping bags. Upon consideration, the UBCM Executive did not endorse the resolution.
The UBCM membership has considered the issue of plastic bags several times over the years. In 2006, members referred resolution B144 to the UBCM Executive. The resolution called on the provincial and federal governments to impose a “PlasTax” on single use, thin film shopping bags, similar to a tax imposed by the Government of Ireland. The UBCM Executive referred 2006-B144 to the UBCM Environment Committee, and upon consideration, the Environment Committee did not endorse the resolution.
As part of its consideration of resolution 2006-B144, the Environment Committee conducted a comprehensive assessment of the Plastax initiative other options for addressing the plastic bag issue. The Committee suggested that the “Plastax” proposal might not be the best model for BC at the time, and instead proposed that UBCM should encourage the plastics industry to harmonize plastic bag products to increase their recyclability; and also work with local governments on options for enhancing plastic bag reuse, reduction, and recycling.
In addition, at the 2008 Convention, the membership endorsed Resolution B88, which called on UBCM to request a provincial government ban on thin film plastic grocery bags. In September 2008 leading retail organizations in BC voluntarily committed to reduce the use of disposable shopping bags by half over the coming five years as well as to develop reuse and recycling options to address immediate concerns regarding disposable shopping bags. Given the commitment of the retail industry to take voluntary action, the Ministry of Environment acknowledged that it was “not considering a provincial ban on disposable shopping bags at [the] time, but instead [would] monitor the success of this industry initiative.”
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Page 11 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 B10: NOXIOUS WEEDS AND RANGE LANDS CARIBOO REGIONAL DISTRICT
WHEREAS noxious weeds pose a grave threat to the health of the range lands in BC and consequently to their capacity to maintain the native flora and wildlife as well as their capacity to offer grazing to domestic animals;
AND WHEREAS neither the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resources, nor the Regional Districts have the funding or the personnel necessary to adequately control these weeds; however, ranchers are familiar with their ranges and monitor them continuously:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Government of BC to do everything possible to enlist the aid of the ranching community to control noxious weeds, including but not limited to supplying necessary herbicide and offering a restricted and abbreviated pesticide applicator’s license which would allow ranchers to control weeds on their own range.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not considered a resolution calling on the Province to do everything possible to enlist the aid of the ranching community to control noxious weeds.
However, members have consistently endorsed resolutions requesting provincial funding and assistance in combating invasive plant species. In particular, the UBCM membership has requested that the provincial government fully implement and fund the “Invasive Plant Strategy for British Columbia,” developed by the Fraser Basin Council (2004-B72; 2003-B81), as well as commit resources for combating invasive plant species (2005-B25; 2007-B30; 2007-B31).
B11: PROTECTION OF POTABLE WATER CARIBOO REGIONAL DISTRICT
WHEREAS sources of potable water are increasingly being lost due to contamination and overuse;
AND WHEREAS water is vital to human life and must be protected:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM lobby both the Provincial and Federal Governments to protect water aquifers and all bodies of potable water through the enactment of a national strategy that will ensure that Canadian water sources are protected and conserved so that all Canadians have access to clean water sources now and in the future.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling for the creation of a national strategy for the protection and conservation of Canadian water sources. However, members have consistently endorsed resolutions calling for the enactment of measures that would protect potable water sources.
In particular, the membership endorsed resolution 2007-B27, which called on UBCM to work with all levels of government to develop water policies that protect and conserve natural sources of water, and ensure that the delivery, management and regulation of water and services is a public
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Page 12 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 responsibility, affordable and accountable to BC citizens. Similarly, the membership has endorsed resolutions calling for groundwater regulation (2011-B43), a ban on the export of bulk water (2003- B31), opposition to the privatization of water services (2006-B147), and greater control over watersheds (2011-B129).
B12: WATER STEWARDSHIP CITY OF FORT ST. JOHN
WHEREAS water is our most important resource and should be managed prudently;
AND WHEREAS there is increased activity in the oil and gas activity in northeastern BC that is utilizing this vital resource for its hydraulic fracturing operations where alternative solutions need to be explored and implemented such as the use of effluent water:
THEREFORE BE lT RESOLVED that the NCLGA be requested to petition the Province of BC to encourage oil and gas industries to enter into partnership agreements with either local or regional governments to construct effluent water facilities rather than utilizing aquifers for hydraulic fracturing purposes.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling on the Province to encourage oil and gas industries to enter into partnership agreements with either local or regional governments to construct effluent water facilities rather than utilizing aquifers for hydraulic fracturing purposes. FINANCE
B13: 2020 CARBON NEUTRAL GOALS VILLAGE OF BURNS LAKE
WHEREAS numerous BC local governments have committed to be Carbon Neutral by 2020 by signing the Climate Action Charter;
WHEREAS there are limited provincial financial assistance programs and loan arrangements to help local governments, especially small BC communities, to reach their carbon neutrality goals:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Province of BC to develop more financial assistance programs and loan arrangements to assist local governments, especially small BC communities, in achieving 2020 Climate Action Charter commitments.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling for the Province to develop additional financial assistance programs and loan arrangements to assist local governments, especially smaller communities, in achieving their Climate Action Charter commitments.
However, members endorsed resolution 2007-B34, which requested funding from the provincial and federal governments for the development and implementation of local government climate change strategies. In 2009, the Province introduced the Climate Action Revenue Incentive Program (CARIP) 9
Page 13 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 to assist local governments in achieving their Climate Action Charter commitments. CARIP is a conditional grant program that provides funding to Climate Action Charter signatories equivalent to 100 percent of the carbon taxes they pay directly. As part of their work supporting local government signatories to the Charter, the UBCM-provincial Green Communities Committee has also provided a rebate to those local governments that sign on to the use the carbon emissions inventory and reporting tool, SMARTTool.
B14: ALTERNATIVES TO FEDERAL FUNDING OF INFRASTRUCTURE THROUGH PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS DISTRICT OF PORT EDWARD
WHEREAS the Federal Government has indicated it wishes to enter into discussions on a new national infrastructure program;
AND WHEREAS there is no Federal infrastructure funding available to Local Government other than through public private partnerships (P3s);
AND WHEREAS Local Government should have a choice as to the structure of the development of infrastructure projects and not be limited to public private partnerships, which do not work for small communities:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM appeal to the Federal Government not to limit its infrastructure funding for Local Governments to public private partnerships. Local Governments should be given a choice of funding arrangements that best suits their needs.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution raising an issue with federal infrastructure funding that is restricted only to projects that are public private partnerships (P3s); and requesting that the federal government amend infrastructure funding requirements so that non-P3 projects may become eligible for infrastructure funding.
Members did endorse resolution 1998-A4, which called for structuring of federal and provincial government investment programs that would encourage private investment to aid in the development of local infrastructure.
While there is currently a specific federal infrastructure program targeted towards P3 projects, this is not a feature of most recent federal infrastructure programs (i.e., P3 is not required under any of the Municipal Rural Infrastructure Program, the Building Canada Fund or the Gas Tax Fund).
B15: FIRST NATIONS SERVICE AGREEMENT FUNDING VILLAGE OF BURNS LAKE
WHEREAS BC Assessment reports that 45 of approximately 1,600 First Nations reserves are located within Local Government boundaries;
WHEREAS First Nations Reserves may be situated within local government boundaries and have full service agreements with the Local Government;
WHEREAS Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Canada funds only select services through a Municipal
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Page 14 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 Type Service Agreement with the First Nation, not including important services such as snow removal and animal control:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Canada and the Federal and Provincial governments to provide adequate funding to First Nations to provide full services to their members through agreements with local government.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting the Province and the federal government to provide adequate funding to First Nations to provide full services to their members through service agreements with local government.
B16: FUNDING FOR WATER INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS DISTRICT OF HOUSTON
WHEREAS small communities struggle with funding costly water infrastructure projects such as, but not limited to, the development and construction of a water treatment plant to address complaints of dirty and unsafe drinking water;
AND WHEREAS turbidity is not so much a health concern as an indicator of health risk particularly for at-risk populations such as newborns, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems (e.g. those with HIV/Aids, undergoing chemotherapy, or taking anti-rejection drugs) and can interfere with chlorination:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Federal and Provincial Governments to enhance funding programs to assist Local Governments to address issues of providing clean and safe drinking water to its community.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial and federal governments to provide funding to local governments so that they can ensure clean and safe drinking water for their communities (2011-B107, 2009-B51, 2008-B21, 2006-B95, 2000-B12, 1999-A8, 1997- A2, 1995-B25, 1992-B20, 1992-B21, 1991-B53, 1989-B30).
B17: INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING CRITERIA CITY OF PRINCE RUPERT CITY OF WILLIAMS LAKE
WHEREAS Canada and British Columbia have reduced the number of infrastructure funding programs available to local governments and those that are available are limited to specific types of infrastructure or specific government objectives;
WHEREAS small rural and urban local governments are struggling to deal with huge infrastructure deficits, while revenues from business, the resource sector, industry and other avenues continue to decline;
AND WHEREAS yearly property tax increases to cover operational costs are not sustainable, and 11
Page 15 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 hurt the ability of those local governments to attract and retain business and industry investment to their communities;
AND WHEREAS small rural and urban local governments do not have the necessary funds to acquire federal/provincial grants which require them to produce matching funds, and are therefore unable to take advantage of these infrastructure grants:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM petition the Provincial and Federal governments to revise their grant formula so that they do not require matching funding, or come up with a new system that allows cash strapped local governments to address their critical infrastructure needs without having to borrow money to do so.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership endorsed resolutions 2009-B29, 2004-A7 and 2000-B12, all of which advocated for increased funding percentages for infrastructure grants, particularly for smaller communities, or where paying a 1/3 share of the project costs would place an undue financial burden on local tax payers.
B18: LOCAL GOVERNMENT FUNDING CITY OF PRINCE RUPERT
WHEREAS small rural and urban Local Governments are struggling to maintain basic operational services of water, sewer, and roads, while trying to deal with hundreds of millions of dollars in infrastructure deficit, as well as the various other services they provide;
WHEREAS Local Governments are unable to fund operations, in any way other than yearly property tax increases, which is not sustainable, and hurts the ability of those Local Governments to attract and retain business and industry investment to their communities:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA, UBCM and FCM petition the Provincial and Federal Governments to establish a committee to discuss, establish, and implement a funding formula that ensures a percentage of taxes already collected from citizens, business and industry, at the Provincial and Federal level be given back to Local Governments to deal with the infrastructure deficit in their communities.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial and federal governments to provide funding towards the cost of local government infrastructure (2011-B34, 2011- B31, 2010-B74, 2009-A1, 2009-B83, 2008-B21, 2008-B117 and 2005-SR1).
Members have consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial and federal governments to provide a share of various provincial and federal taxes, fees or resource revenues with local governments (2011-B30, 2011-B28, 2010-B77, 2010-B76, 2010-B75, 2009-B30, 2007-B1 and 2007- B23, as well as the 2008 Fiscal Balance Policy Paper and the 2004 Resource Revenue Sharing Policy Paper).
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Page 16 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 B19: SKILLED PROFESSIONALS DISTRICT OF VANDERHOOF
WHEREAS there is a growing need to attract and retain qualified, skilled professionals to meet the increased demands of the resource industry in northern British Columbia:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Federal Government to provide a tax credit of $3,000.00 for a period of five years for graduating skilled professionals who choose to be educated in and live in rural British Columbia.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not considered a resolution that would seek a federal government tax credit for graduating skilled professionals who choose to be educated and live in rural BC.
However, members endorsed resolution 2008-B46, which requested that the Province make increased investments (capital and operating funding) in educational institutions and facilities, in order that they will be able to provide the retraining programs and services needed to enable individuals to make labour force transitions.
In response to the 2008 resolution, the provincial government highlighted its investment of “more than $1.5 billion since 2001 in new and better campuses all around BC”.
HEALTH
B20: MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION IN RURAL BC *Gold Star Winner DISTRICT OF STEWART
WHEREAS the current lack of adequate medical transportation for people who need access to regular specialized medical services located in hub communities throughout the NCLGA Region;
AND WHEREAS accessible transportation is key to the effective treatment and recovery of British Columbians in small rural and remote communities:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Provincial Government to further support the development of medical transportation services that meet the needs of all rural British Columbians.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
UBCM members have endorsed resolutions concerning the provision of assistance for health care related travel costs including requests that the Province:
• subsidize the ferry fares of immediate family members when travelling back and forth on BC Ferries during the extended period of a child’s treatment (2010-B110); • improve affordable public transportation service between small rural municipalities and hospitals in larger urban centres (2009-B15); • extend the Health Connections Program to subsidize travel for medical care for any rural residents outside their home community, regardless of distance (2006-B156); and • establish local mechanisms within communities to disburse funding to citizens for medical 13
Page 17 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 travel expenses (2005-B146).
In response to resolution 2009-B15, the provincial government highlighted the Health Connections program for patients accessing non-emergency specialist medical services outside their home communities; and the Travel Assistance Program (TAP), through which several airlines offer up to 30% off regular air fare on selected routes. The Province also clarified that “neither the Health Connections Program nor TAP can be used to subsidize emergency ground or air transportation provided by BC Ambulance Services (BCAS)”.
B21: PALLIATIVE CARE IN RURAL BC *Gold Star – Honourable Mention DISTRICT OF STEWART
WHEREAS the current model of palliative care services does not address the critical needs of small rural and remote Communities in British Columbia;
AND WHEREAS lack of palliative care does not allow for residents to end their life with dignity in their home community near family and friends:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM members endorse and support the development of palliative care services in rural British Columbia.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial government to improve palliative and community-based seniors’ care options in BC, including requests for:
• significant enhancement of BC’s system of community-based seniors’ care, in order to ensure timely access to the full range of public services that support seniors to age and die with dignity (2011-B63); • cost parity for palliative care, across all types of facilities (2010-B13); • development of a model of collaboration between regional cancer clinics and hospice palliative care programs, facilities and societies, to ensure a new standard of excellence in end of life care (2009-B154); • adequate funding for residential care beds and facilities (2009-B52; 2004-B127; 2005-B45; 2000-B98; 1988-B5); and • restoration of long-term care facilities throughout the province, sufficient to meet the needs of citizens in their communities (2006-B159).
The enactment clause of this resolution supports in general the development of palliative care services in rural BC. However, local governments do not provide palliative care services, so UBCM would propose an amendment to identify the responsibility for funding palliative care services across the province.
Proposed amendment:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM request that the provincial government provide additional palliative care services available throughout British Columbia.
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Page 18 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 B22: TRANSITIONAL HOUSING IN RURAL AND REMOTE COMMUNITIES CITY OF TERRACE
WHEREAS ample and varied housing stock is an essential part of a healthy and prosperous community;
AND WHEREAS housing for the hard-to-house and transitional housing is scarce in many rural and remote communities in British Columbia:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM urge the Provincial Government to provide ongoing operational funding for support services for the hard-to-house and transitional housing in British Columbia.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions requesting the creation of supportive housing units and funding for such housing (2011-B67, 2009-C28, 2007-B153, 2005-B48, 2005-B49, 2005-B47, 2004-B129, 2002-B64, 1998-A31).
JUSTICE & PROTECTIVE SERVICES
B23: EMERGENCY SERVICES FUNDING CITY OF PRINCE RUPERT
WHEREAS small rural and urban Local Governments are struggling to provide adequate emergency services, such as fire protection, water treatment, and policing, due to escalating costs and insufficient federal and provincial funding, which compromises the safety and well-being of their citizens:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA, UBCM and FCM call on the federal government to abandon plans to end the Joint Emergency Preparedness Program in 2013, as planned, and provide long term ongoing funding for the program.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM petition the Provincial and Federal Governments to establish a committee to discuss and implement a program providing assistance to local governments that adequately addresses the emergency service needs of people in these areas and the ability to pay for those services, to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens in our province and our country.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED AS AMENDED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial and federal governments to provide funding towards the cost of local government infrastructure including that 15
Page 19 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 related emergency services, such as water treatment, fire protection and policing (2011-B34, 2011- B31, 2010-B74, 2009-A1, 2009-B83, 2008-B21, 2008-B117 and 2005-SR1).
Members have also endorsed many resolutions requesting adequate funding for emergency management and planning, warning systems, flood protection, and cost of recovery after an event (2006-B65; 2006-B66; 2006-B67; 2005-A4; 2002-B16; 1997-A7).
UBCM recognizes that an emergency could occur in any area of the province, and would therefore propose an amendment so that the resolution includes all areas of the province.
Proposed amendment:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM petition the provincial and federal governments to establish a committee to discuss and implement a program providing assistance to local governments that adequately addresses the emergency service needs of local governments and their ability to pay for those services, to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens in our province and our country.
B24: NATIONAL SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY DISTRICT OF PORT EDWARD
WHEREAS in the wake of the disappearance of three-year-old Kiesan Hebert, of Sparwood, BC and the horrific stories we read about of children nationwide who vanish, are sexually assaulted and murdered, Port Edward Council strongly supports the City of Greenwood, in the protection of innocent children;
AND WHEREAS offenders have rights too, but once they repeat their offences, they should forfeit their right and their name be displayed in a public registry: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Federal Government to make the necessary changes to the Criminal Code of Canada in order that the repeat sexual offenders’ registry be made public.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution specifically requesting that the sexual offenders registry be made public.
However, UBCM members have endorsed several resolutions related to the need for a sexual offenders registry and the need for treatment:
• 1996-B24 requested that society be better protected from sexual predators; • 1995-A10 requested that sexual predators not be released until they have served their full sentence; • 1992-B64 requested implementation of a central registry to identify convicted sexual offenders (which the federal and provincial government have since developed) and mandatory rehabilitation as a part of sentencing; and • 2006-B137 requested that there be consultation with local government and police; provision of treatment programs in provincial prisons; and that offenders not be released until they have undergone treatment and shown progress.
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Page 20 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012
B25: RELEASE OF DANGEROUS OFFENDERS CARIBOO REGIONAL DISTRICT
WHEREAS the criminal justice system in Canada does not prohibit dangerous offenders from being released into small rural communities, although there may be other conditions enforced upon them;
AND WHEREAS most small rural communities across Canada have neither the resources to rehabilitate the offender, nor an RCMP detachment to protect their citizens from these criminals who may be at risk to reoffend: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Federal Government to enact laws that would prohibit the conditional release of dangerous offenders into small communities that do not have an RCMP detachment to protect their citizens nor other resources to rehabilitate the dangerous offender.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the federal government enact legislation to prohibit the conditional release of dangerous offenders into communities without an RCMP detachment or municipal police force, and resources to rehabilitate the dangerous offender.
As noted by the sponsor, in many cases small communities lack the police presence and the other resources needed in the community to provide proper monitoring or treatment of violent or sexual offenders. LEGISLATIVE
B26: BILL 20 – AUDITOR FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENTS CITY OF PRINCE RUPERT
WHEREAS the British Columbia provincial government intends to create an Auditor General for Local Government (AGLG) via Bill 20;
AND WHEREAS the AGLG has been created as a result of sustained lobbying efforts of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business;
AND WHEREAS the Union of British Columbia Municipalities did not call upon the provincial government to create the position of the Auditor General for Local Government:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the North Central Local Government Association state that we do not support Bill 20 and the creation of an Auditor General for Local Government.
NCLGA Membership: DEFEATED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership endorsed the following resolution as part of the 2011 Municipal Auditor General Policy Paper: “that UBCM, while disagreeing on the necessity to create an office of the Municipal Auditor General due to the fact that requirements of such an office are already met under existing local government legislation and regulations, endorse in principle the [Municipal Auditor
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Page 21 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 General] policy paper and instruct the UBCM Executive to continue negotiations with the provincial government”. The Municipal Auditor General is now the Auditor General for Local Government (AGLG).
Bill 20 is largely in keeping with the principles set out in the Policy Paper, with one significant departure, in relation to the composition of the audit council. The Policy Paper suggested that the audit council should be comprised of members from the local government system, whereas the Bill provides for membership based on knowledge, skills, education or experience in accounting, auditing, local, regional or provincial governance or a subject area set out in the regulations.
B27: CANADA EUROPEAN UNION TRADE AGREEMENT (CETA) CITY OF PRINCE RUPERT DISTRICT OF PORT EDWARD
WHEREAS the Canadian government is close to concluding negotiations with the European Union (EU) on a Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), with participation from the provinces and territories;
AND WHEREAS the EU is insisting on full access to procurement by Local Governments which could significantly reduce the ability of Local Governments to hire or source locally or use public spending as a tool for economic development, environmental protection and support for local farmers and small businesses;
AND WHEREAS government procurement rules combined with investment protections related to transit, water, electricity and other public services delivered locally may lock in privatization and make it prohibitively expensive to apply new regulations, to re-municipalize services, or create new municipal programs;
AND WHEREAS Local Governments in British Columbia already have open and fair procurement policies:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA:
• Request the BC Government to issue a clear, permanent exemption for BC Local Governments from the Canada-EU CETA agreement, and that it otherwise protect the powers of local governments; and
• Request the BC Government to disclose what it is putting on the table regarding procurement, services and investment as part of CETA discussions, explain the impacts CETA would have on municipal governance, and gave Local Governments the freedom to decide whether or not they will be bound by the agreement.
• Send this resolution to the Union of BC Municipalities, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, and to local Members of Parliament and Members of the Legislative Assembly with a request that this policy be adopted.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership endorsed resolution 2010-B108, which requested: • a briefing from the Province of BC on the scope and content of trade negotiations with the European Union; • the Federation of Canadian Municipalities to provide sector-by-sector analysis of the potential impacts on local government functions and powers of the procurement regime that the European Union is seeking;
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Page 22 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 • the Federation of Canadian Municipalities to urge the government of Canada not to provide the European Union with access to sub national government procurement; and • that the provincial government negotiate a clear, permanent exemption for local governments from the CETA.
With respect to the 2010 resolution, UBCM received a briefing from the Province on CETA in April 2011; has conveyed our position to FCM; has been monitoring the discussions between FCM and the federal government; received informal briefings from the Province on the status of negotiations; and continued to express the membership’s request for a clear and permanent exemption.
UBCM issued a memo to members on February 22, 2012 conveying correspondence from the federal government that had been provided to FCM related to local government procurement and CETA. Members are encouraged to review this document, as the Q & A portion addresses some of the issues raised in the sponsors’ resolution—public vs. private service provision; environmental considerations; local supply and sourcing; support for local farmers and small business.
B28: SHIPPING OF DANGEROUS GOODS LIABILITIES CITY OF PRINCE RUPERT
WHEREAS the amount of ocean traffic is increasing along the West Coast of British Columbia due to increased economic activity, which increases the risk of accidents and spills, particularly from ships carrying dangerous and/or toxic products;
AND WHEREAS current environmental measures are not able to adequately clean up damages caused by these types of large scale spills or disasters, and continual cuts are being made that undermine the ability of our Coast Guard to address such disasters in a timely and adequate manner:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM petition the Provincial and Federal Government to create legislation that requires that liability for cargo on a ship be the responsibility of both the carrier and the one who sold the cargo until such time as the cargo reaches its final destination, and/or is outside of Canadian waters.
AND FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM petition the Provincial/Federal Governments to create legislation that requires shippers of dangerous goods and cargo, as well as the manufacturers, be required to pay into an emergency fund designed for two purposes. One, to clean up, and compensate for any and all damages , including capital devaluation, social, cultural, and ecological damage, caused by an accident involving said goods and cargo, and two, to fund research into improving clean-up methods to deal with the eventuality of such spills.
AND FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA and UBCM petition the Federal Government to restore the Coast Guard complement and safety measures along our coast to a standard that protects our coastline from the dangers of such accidents, and mitigates the amount of damage that would occur from the result of any such incidents.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution calling for: the enactment of legislation that requires the liability for cargo on a ship to be the responsibility of both the carrier and the shipper; the creation of legislation that requires the shippers and manufacturers of dangerous goods and cargo to pay into an emergency clean-up fund; and to restore the Coast Guard compliment and safety measures along the coast.
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Page 23 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012
However, the membership has endorsed resolutions calling for industry to assume greater responsibility in covering costs associated with hazardous materials spills that occur outside of municipal boundaries (2003-B48). In particular, resolution 2008-B32 called for the enactment of legislation that would require responsible parties to pay for the costs of wildlife rescue and ecosystem recovery caused by spills, as well as an exploration of the feasibility of creating a Liability Trust Fund to provide funding for spill event remediation when responsible parties cannot be identified or held accountable. In addition, the membership has endorsed resolutions calling for “a modern, suitably equipped and staffed Coast Guard service” as well as an expansion of funding for the Coast Guard
Auxiliary (2002-LR3, 2004-B50).
SOCIAL ISSUES - EDUCATION
B29: FUNDING FOR NORTHERN COLLEGES DISTRICT OF HOUSTON
WHEREAS colleges in northern and rural British Columbia provide “closer to home education” for those who otherwise cannot access training or education to provide necessary skills for employability;
AND WHEREAS colleges in northern and rural British Columbia are challenged by distance and numbers when trying to meet the same requirements as colleges in more heavily populated areas;
AND WHEREAS a large percentage of students looking to these Northern and Rural Colleges have not completed high school:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA lobby the Government of British Columbia to develop a standard of college funding more closely reflecting the real costs of providing required training and education to the scattered population of rural and northern British Columbia.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution specifically requesting that the Province develop a standard of college funding more closely reflecting the real costs of providing training and education in rural and northern BC.
However, members endorsed resolution 2004-B141, calling for the development of alternative or additional funding models that would assist in enhancing existing programs and allow development of new, relevant, and innovative training opportunities that could be accessed within each region (2004- B141).
As well in 2008, members endorsed resolution B46, calling on the Province to “make increased investments (capital and operating funding) in educational institutions and facilities, in order that they will be able to provide the retraining programs and services needed to enable individuals to make labour force transitions, as well as provide access to the skilled workers employers will need to work in new and emerging sectors;” and “to establish a new funding framework to ensure the ongoing long-term sustainability of the community college system in B.C.”
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Page 24 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 TRANSPORTATION & COMMUNICATION
B30: ALASKA HIGHWAY 97 BRIDGE UPGRADES CITY OF FORT ST. JOHN
WHEREAS the Provincial Government announced the long term plan of 4-laning Highways 2 and 97 from the Alberta border to Fort St. John to improve safety and build capacity;
AND WHEREAS 4-laning the highway will create bottlenecks at both the Kiskatinaw and Peace River bridges since there are currently no plans to widen these bridges to accommodate the extra lanes of traffic which may result in increased safety issues:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA be requested to petition the Government of BC to reconsider this decision by including the necessary upgrades to the Kiskatinaw and Peace River bridges as part of the Alaska Highway 4-laning.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government include upgrades to the Kiskatinaw and Peace River bridges as part of the four-laning of the Alaska Highway, Highway 97.
Members considered two resolutions in 2011 regarding highway expansion - resolution 2001-B161, calling for four-laning of the Alaska Highway, Highway 97; and resolution 2001-B162, calling for “three-laning” the Trans-Canada Yellowhead Highway 16 within BC. Neither resolution was endorsed.
This resolution is specific to the Peace River region and therefore it is best dealt with by the North Central Local Government Association through their own advocacy efforts.
B31: ALASKA HIGHWAY 97 TWINNING CITY OF FORT ST. JOHN
WHEREAS the Provincial Government announced 4-laning portions of Highways 2 and 97 from Tupper Creek Bridge to Taylor as part of a long term plan to improve safety and build capacity from the Alberta border to Fort St. John;
AND WHEREAS 4-laning is a cost effective method to enhance traffic flow for cars and trucks but can create safety concerns if a large number of tractor trailer vehicles are utilizing the road:
THEREFORE BE lT RESOLVED that the NCLGA be requested to petition the Government of BC to twin the Alaska Highway between the Alberta border and Fort St. John to enhance safety and build capacity rather than 4-laning.
NCLGA Membership: DEFEATED
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Page 25 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government undertake twinning of the Alaska Highway between the Alberta border and Fort St. John, rather than four-laning that section of highway as originally announced by the Province.
Members considered two resolutions in 2011 regarding highway expansion - resolution 2001-B161, calling for four-laning of the Alaska Highway, Highway 97; and resolution 2001-B162, calling for “three-laning” the Trans-Canada Yellowhead Highway 16 within BC. Neither resolution was endorsed.
This resolution is specific to the Peace River region and therefore it is best dealt with by the North Central Local Government Association through their own advocacy efforts.
B32: COASTAL FERRY ACT REVIEW CITY OF PRINCE RUPERT
WHEREAS BC Ferries is an essential part of the Provincial Marine Highway system that is their financial responsibility;
AND WHEREAS there is a proposal to make local and regional governments pay for enhanced ferry services that are part of that responsibility:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the Provincial Government fully fund the Marine Highway as part of our Provincial Highway system, in order to provide reasonable access to all areas serviced by BC Ferries.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has endorsed a number of resolutions related to ferry fares, service levels and requesting that ferry systems throughout the province be deemed to be an extension of the highways systems and should be funded, administered and managed as such. Most recently in 2011 resolution A3 was endorsed which called on the Province to:
• recognize our coastal ferry services as essential extensions of our provincial public highway system and provide the independent BC Ferry Commission with a mandate to provide comprehensive recommendations aimed at creating equity between our terrestrial and marine highways and keeping jobs in coastal BC; and • ensure that the BC Ferry fares are reduced and current service levels are maintained at current levels until such time as the provincial government implements legislation that recognizes our coastal ferry services as essential extensions of our provincial public highway system and creates equity between BC’s terrestrial and marine highway systems.
In response to the resolution the Province has indicated that it is reviewing the recommendations in the Ferry Commissioner’s report, “and will be making decisions without undue delay.”
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Page 26 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 B33: HIGHWAY 27 UPGRADE DISTRICT OF VANDERHOOF
WHEREAS current Provincial Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure policy does not take into account expected increases in traffic and therefore by nature is late to react to significant changes in traffic;
AND WHEREAS the Highway 27 corridor between Vanderhoof and Fort St James currently does not meet the Ministry prescribed traffic flow to be upgraded, but this highway has and will continue to experience significant increases in traffic flow due to the migration of logging operations to the Fort St James area and from the construction of Mount Milligan Mine:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA lobby the Provincial Government to commit to prioritize the upgrading of Highway 27 to meet the significant increase in traffic flow.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the provincial government prioritize the upgrading of Highway 27.
Members considered two resolutions in 2011 regarding highway expansion—resolution 2001-B161, calling for four-laning of the Alaska Highway, Highway 97; and resolution 2001-B162, calling for “three-laning” the Trans-Canada Yellowhead Highway 16 within BC. Neither resolution was endorsed.
This resolution is specific to the Vanderhoof area and therefore it is best dealt with by the North Central Local Government Association through their own advocacy efforts.
B34: WIRELESS HIGH SPEED INTERNET * Gold Star – Honourable Mention DISTRICT OF HUDSON’S HOPE
WHEREAS the lack of access to high-speed internet adversely affects the economic well being of communities;
AND WHEREAS the unused spectrum formerly needed by stations transmitting analog television signals could be used to transmit internet service:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM petition the federal government (Industry Canada) to approve a portion of the unlicensed spectrum for use as wireless regional area networks at the earliest possible date.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
UBCM Comments:
This was submitted to UBCM in 2011 as a late resolution, but did not meet the criteria to be admitted for debate as an emergency resolution. In keeping with UBCM policy, the resolution has been forwarded to the Area Association for consideration as part of the 2012 resolutions cycle.
The Resolutions Committee notes that resolution B78 in the 2011 Resolutions Book calls on the federal government to recognize the importance of the 700 MHz spectrum and set aside and dedicate this portion of
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Page 27 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 the broadband spectrum for public safety uses.
The Resolutions Committee notes that the UBCM membership endorsed related resolution B78 in 2011, which called on the federal government to ”recognize the importance of the 700 MHZ spectrum and set aside dedicated public safety broadband”, and requested that the federal and provincial governments “commit the necessary resources to provide vision and leadership as required to build a robust system that meets public safety’s mission critical requirements to accomplish communications interoperability between public safety agencies across Canada and across borders”.
The resolution was conveyed to the provincial and federal governments and to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM). In response, FCM indicated that the resolution was in accordance with current FCM policy, as the FCM Board adopted a similar resolution at their meeting in September 2011. UBCM awaits responses from the provincial and federal governments.
The Committee also notes that the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling for improved and high-speed internet service (2010-B72, 2009-B57, 2006-B54, 2003-B35, 2002-B23).
B35: HIGHWAY 37 CELLULAR SERVICE DISTRICT OF STEWART
WHEREAS Highway 37and 37A is the major corridor in Northwest British Columbia, and sees large volumes of commercial, general and tourist traffic travelling through remote areas that are without cellular coverage;
AND WHEREAS many small rural and remote communities in British Columbia are still without cellular coverage, and the absence of these services poses a hazard to all who travel through remote areas and effect the economic development in of such regions:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA, through the UBCM, lobby the Provincial Government to continue with its commitment and ensure that cell phone coverage is available to the travelling public and industrial traffic throughout the NCLGA area by the end of 2012.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED AS AMENDED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial and federal governments to ensure the availability of cellular telephone coverage to all communities (2011-B72, 2010-B50, 2009-B57, 2008-B54, 2006-B54, 2005-B5, 2004-B9, 2003-B35, 2002-B23).
In response to resolution 2011-B72 the provincial government indicated that in July 2011 it “signed a new agreement with TELUS that will provide over 1,700 kilometers of new cellular coverage along unconnected highway segments within the next five years”.
SELECTED ISSUES
B36: TRANSIENT WORKER DATA COLLECTION DISTRICT OF TUMBLER RIDGE
WHEREAS transient workers utilize health and recreation services in our communities which has a substantial impact on our resources;
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Page 28 of 59 NCLGA RESOLUTIONS 2012 AND WHEREAS transient worker data collection is not captured in Statistics Canada Census as part of population growth;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NCLGA and UBCM lobby the federal government and recommend data collection that will accurately capture the number of transient workers and seasonal resident that work in one community but reside in another to accurately determine funding levels by provincial and federal governments.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED AS AMENDED
UBCM Comments:
The UBCM membership has not previously considered a resolution requesting that the federal government collect data, for the purposes of more accurately determining funding levels, on the number of transient workers that work in one community but reside in another.
However, members endorsed resolution 1995-B26, which sought the development of a formula that would recognize the issue of shadow populations for the purposes of transfer payments. This resolution was in response to the increase in populations that occur during high tourist season for some communities.
B37: TIME ALLOTTED FOR RESOLUTION DEBATE AT UBCM
CARIBOO REGIONAL DISTRICT
WHEREAS the debate of resolutions at the UBCM Convention is the most critical aspect of the convention to the delegates;
AND WHEREAS ample time should be given on the convention agenda for discussion, debate and decision on each and every resolution submitted:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the NCLGA strongly encourage the UBCM Executive and staff to undertake policy amendments to ensure that sufficient time is provided to hear and decide upon all resolutions submitted for consideration at the annual UBCM convention.
NCLGA Membership: CARRIED
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Page 29 of 59 From: Bell, Pat [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Friday, May 04, 2012 10:18 AM Subject: Top 10 for May 4, 2012
Hi All
A couple of weeks ago Shirley Bond and I had the honour of attending the Bob Ewart dinner in Prince George. Anyone who has attended this dinner knows that the highlight of the night is what is often referred to as the “Kelly Report”. Bert Kelly (a local Physician) stands up on stage in front of 600 medical professionals and community leaders and provides Shirley and I with our “report card” on the previous year’s activities and a “list” of expectations for the coming year. Over the years Shirley and I have experienced the pain of failure and the joy of success which has encouraged us to support our local medical community to the greatest extent possible.
This year’s “report” was exceptional so I have asked Bert for permission to reprint part of his speech. This week’s Top 10 are Dr Kelly’s words and Shirley and I were most honoured by them.
Have a great week!
Pat http://www.patbellmla.bc.ca/
By the end of 2002 the NMS had dreamed the dream, but we understood that alone we did not have the horsepower to get the job done. What we needed were allies and we hosted a dinner to which were invited NH, UNBC, CNC, The City and the Regional District. We sought the formation of a partnership which would work closely with our MLA’s. All parties signed on and the partnership endures today. So what has the partnership delivered since 2002?
1. The NMP (Northern Medical Program). The said it could not be done…….. but here we all are! 2. An increase in Nurse training by 600%. Perhaps more. 3. The establishment of a Nurse Practitioner program at UNBC. 4. Lab Tech training at CNC. 5. X‐ray Tech training at CNC. 6. A full service cancer centre. On time and on budget. Thank you Gordon Campbell. 7. Physiotherapy training for UNBC with the promise of OT and SLP to come. 8. The UHNBC to better reflect our new reality. Not as easy as it sounds. Again thanks to Mr. Campbell. 9. Primary Care reform………... The most advanced in BC and perhaps all of Canada with the supporting information technology. All designed in house. 10. An Auditorium and a Library for UHNBC. Ready to roll. Fully funded.
Not one of these things existed in Prince George just 10 short years ago. And the secret……….. Partnership, a commitment to innovation, the best MLA’s anyone ever had and a cerebrating Provincial Government prepared to listen.
Page 30 of 59
Government of Canada Announces Request for Proposals for Alaska Highway Rehabilitation Project
For immediate release
FORT NELSON, British Columbia, May 9, 2012 – The Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, today announced that the Government of Canada has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) on the Government Electronic Tendering System (MERX) for the upcoming rehabilitation of kilometres 443 to 451 of the Alaska Highway.
“Our Government is focused on what matters to Canadians—jobs and economic growth. Our investment in the Alaska Highway will not only generate long-term economic benefits for the entire region, but continue to provide safe access for the thousands of Canadians who rely on the Alaska Highway,” said Minister Ambrose. “Maintaining local public infrastructure is important to all of us as it contributes to a stronger economy and safer communities.”
As part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan, the Government of Canada recently announced investments of approximately $250 million, over the next five years, in Public Works and Government Services Canada-owned infrastructure projects across the country, for a total of $320 million in funding for these assets.
“The Alaska Highway is indispensible to thousands of Canadians and Americans daily,” said Bob Zimmer, Member of Parliament for Prince George–Peace River. “Upgrades will also create jobs locally and have a positive impact on the regional economy for years to come.”
Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC) is responsible for maintaining an 835- kilometre section of the Alaska Highway. In 2012–13, PWGSC is undertaking a capital improvement project to ensure that the highway continues to provide safe and reliable service to Canadians. The projected work involves paving and intersection improvements on an 8 kilometre stretch, between kilometres 443 and 451, in the Fort Nelson area.
PWGSC is committed to a fair, open and transparent process for selecting contractors to undertake projects such as these. This process is being conducted through the Government Electronic Tendering System (MERX).
For more information, media may contact:
Michelle Bakos Office of the Honourable Rona Ambrose 819-997-5421
Media Relations Public Works and Government Services Canada 819-956-2315
PWGSC news releases are also available on our Internet site at http://www.tpsgc- pwgsc.gc.ca/medias-media/index-eng.html.
Page 31 of 59 NORTH EAST REGIONAL ADVISORY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES March 30,2012 11:OO am - 2:00 pm UNBC Room 183 Peace River Liard Regional Office
Present:
Dr. George Iwama, President, UNBC Deanne McLeod, InstructorIProgram Coordinator, Dennis Macknak, Director of Regional Operations North East Native Advancing Society & UniversityICollege Relations, UNBC Fred Jarvis, Mayor, District of Taylor Dr. Linda Selby, Regional Chair and Program Byron Stewart, Councilor, City of Fort St. John Coordinator, UNBC Helen Knott, Aboriginal Services Coordinator, Betty Powers, Regional Services Coordinator, Northern Lights College UNBC Larry Fynn, Mayor, Village of Pouce Coupe Don Irwin, Community Member Gwen Johansson, Councilor, District of Hudson's Frances Armstrong, Careers Programs Manager, Hope SD #59
Regrets:
Dan Davies, Councilor, City of Fort St. John Alex Canning, Education Manager, West Moberly Larry Espe, Superintendent, School District #60 First Nations Pat Jansen, District Vice-principal, Aboriginal Brian Campbell, Principal of Careers & Education Program, School District #60 International Education, School District #60 Dan Pope, Northeast Director, MCtis Council of BC Audrey Norris, Director of Education, Saulteau First Nations
**Meeting commenced at ll:OOam, lunch was provided*"
1. Regional Chair and Program Coordinator - Linda Selby
Linda Selby opened the meeting with introductions and everyone introduced themselves giving a brief description of their positions.
2. President of UNBC - Dr. George Iwama Dr. Iwama's report was an update on the happenings at UNBC: Dr. Iwama expressed how important these meetings are to him. 0% increase in funding for the 201212013 budget, -1 % for 201 312014 and - 1.5% for 201412015 Proposal for the development of an Engineering School at UNBC is still being worked on Enrollments are a priority at Prince George and in the regions 2015 - 25thAnniversary of UNBC with many celebrations being planned Importance of articulation of Northern Lights College programs with programs at UNBC
3. Director of Regional Operations - Dennis Macknak Video-conference update, working towards having more courses offered by this method
Page 32 of 59 This will be Linda Selby's final meeting as she will be leaving UNBC as of May 3 1/12 Dennis thanked Linda for all the work that she has done during her short time here and hopes this will continue when the new Regional Chair is appointed.
4. Linda Selby - Regional Chair Linda gave a brief summary of her Regional Chair Report, a copy of which is attached. It was suggested that our courses, be put on Facebook and Twitter There is a real need for the Bachelor of Science (Nursing) to be offered in this region We are in discussion with Grande Prairie Regional College to offer Environmental Planning
5. UNBC Strategic Plan 2004 Bryon Stewart reviewed the UNBC Strategic Plan Summary He asked how can the City assist with UNBC to secure a stand alone campus Dr. Iwama advised that UNBC does not have a plan for a stand along campus and that a need for this must be demonstrated first It was noted that the City's offer of land is very generous It was suggested that the City, UNBC and First Nations organizations could work together regarding the issue of a stand alone campus Dr. Iwama offered to talk to the City of Fort St. John Council regarding this issue as well as to explore new initiatives It was suggested that the Chair set up a committee to work with the UNBC Deans, City, Regional Operations and Northeast Regional Advisory Committee to update the Strategic Plan. The following people advised they would be willing to serve on this committee: o Don Lrwin o Deanne Macleod o Larry Fynn o Gwen Johansson o Fred Jarvis When Dr. Iwama meets with City of Fort St. John Council a meeting will be set up with committee members regarding the update of the Strategic Plan.
6. Terms of Reference
Motion 20120330.01
That the Terms of Reference be ratified with Community Member as an additional membership category to be added to the Council Membership.
Moved by Don Irwin, Seconded by Byron Stewart.
CARRIED
Page 33 of 59 Motion 20 120330.02
Dan Davies was appointed Chair of the North East Regional Advisory Council. Nominated by Don Lrwin and seconded by Byron Stewart.
Next meeting will be held on October 29, 2012.
Linda expressed her thanks to the members of the council and wishes them all the best for the future.
Meeting was adjourned at 2:00 pm.
Page 34 of 59 TERMS OF REFERENCE for the UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN BRITISH COLUMBIA NORTH EAST REGIONAL ADVISORY COUNCIL
Revised March 30,2012
Mandate:
The mandate of Regional Advisory Councils at the University of Northern British Columbia is
To advise the President of UNBC on the programme and research needs of the Region. To support the overall development of UNBC in the Region. To assist the Regional Chair within the Region and the communities of the Region. To help organize events (such as conferences) in the Region as desired.
Council Membership
Council membership (as determined by the Council itself) is as follows, not to exceed a total of Thirty members:
1 member from each Regional District (total= 4) 1 member from each Municipal Council (total=8) (i.e. Fort St. John, Dawson Creek, Chetwynd, Pouce Coupe, Tumbler Ridge, Taylor, Fort Nelson, Hudson's Hope) 1 member from each Tribal Council (2) and Independent Band (5) 1 member from each School District (3) members from Business, Industry, Labour and Regional Students (3) member from the Community (1) other members as requested by the UNBC President
Terms of office for members will be determined by the organization or group that they represent.
Council Structure
Executive
The UNBC Northeast Regional Advisory Council will be led by a Chair and a Co-Chair. Each will serve a two-year term, renewable at the discretion of the Council. In so far as possible, the Chair and Co-Chair will be selected from the education sector, the other from a sector other than education.
Page 35 of 59 The duties of the Chair will be to chair meetings called by hider in consultation with the UNBC President and the Peace River-Liard Regional Chair. At their discretion, the Chair and Co-Chair may alternate officiating at.meetings.
The duties of the Co-Chair will be to fulfill the duties of the Chair if she is temporarily unable to do so.
Committees
The Council may appoint committees as required.
Procedures and Protocols
Decision-Making
Ordinarily the Council will attempt to make decisions by consensus. However, if full agreement cannot be reached after a genuine attempt has been made to accommodate opposing views, the issue may be resolved by a vote called at the discretion of the meeting's chair.
Council Meetings
The President and the Director of Regional Operations & UniversityICollege Relations will normally attend all Regional Advisory Council meetings. The Council may request from time to time that other UNBC staff attend meetings, e.g. one or more of the Deans. An Annual Report will be submitted to the Council by the Regional Chair. Meetings are open to the public, but voting rights are restricted to Council members.
Council Secretariat
The North East Regional Office will provide all necessary clerical assistance to the Council. The Regional Chair will submit an annual report to the Council describing university activities in the region.
Review of the Terms of Reference
The Council will initiate a review of these terms of reference at any time deemed necessary by its members.
Page 36 of 59 ""* - - .".. .-
City of Fort St. John UNBC Strategic Plan
UNBC Strategic Plan Sun~mary
STRATEGY ACTION ITEMS
STRATEGY #1 0 Develop specialized, unique degree-granting Consult and partner with various programs that focus on professional training. organizations to develop programs. Offer Specialired Programs Deliver specialized, unique programs for Conduct market analysis of advanced professional upgrading and re-certification. education in Fort St. John. Identify potential programs. Evaluate programs and decide which to offer. STRATEGY #2 Develop marketing strategy to attract students Conduct background research. (targeting First Nations and other local Recruit Students underrepresented groups and students from Develop marketing strategy to attract outside region). students. STRATEGY #3 Develop marketing/ hiring strategy to attract Develop marketing/ hiring strategy to faculty (targeting instructors committed to attract faculty. Strategy will include Recruit Faculty excellence in teaching and leading researchers marketing the region's lifestyle. in identified areas). Secure industry support for research chairs and programs to address pays scale issues. STRATEGY #4 Buildlstrengthen partnerships with: Strengthen existing partnerships. Other advanced education Build Partnerships institutions; Build new partnerships. Local industries; Professional associations; Other notheastern communities; Local School Districts; First Nations; and Fort St. John & District Chamber of Commerce. STRATEGY #5 Develop separate campus from Northern Conduct a feasibility study. Lights College. Develop a Physical Identify and assess potential Presence Campus will become a landmark and locations. community focal point. Physical design will reflect unique character OF Identify and assess potential building the region. forms. STRATEGY #6 UNBC, the community, and their partners will Obtain funds to prepare a business secure funding to develop a UNBC campus in plan and feasibility study. The Secure Funding Fort St. John. proposal will be a joint submission between UNBC and the community, Funding will be sustainable. to show community support for the project. Identify financing options by working with all 3 levels of government and with industry. Develop a capital and operating plan. STRATEGY #7 The community will promote linkages within Engage the public throughout the the community, UNBC, the City and their planning process. Enhance Benefits to partners. the Community Engage community associations, Build partnerships with community groups. cultural groups, business organizations, sports groups, and Ensure the university is developed to become industry through the planning an integral part of the community. process.
Page 37 of 59 North East Regional Advisory Council Meeting March 30th' 2012, UNBC Room 183 Peace River Liard Regional Office
Regional Chair's Report
The work to increase the profile of UNBC in the North East continues both locally and further afield. Posters advertising UNBC have been made and are displayed at the Fort St John airport, at the local secondary school and around the city of Fort St John. Our courses and programs continue to be advertised on campus, online and in the local newspapers.
My regular committee involvement in the region this year includes the Mental Health and Addictions Committee, The NLC Social Worker Diploma Advisory Committee, The North Peace Moving Forward Strategic Planning committee, Doig River Aboriginal Education committee, School District 60 Aboriginal Language committee, and the Chamber of Commerce.
I continue to work closely with Northern Lights College faculty and staff sharing ideas in areas of mutual interest. Ongoing discussions have been held about business courses, a nursing program in the NE, the social work programs and include the development of an MOU for a first year foundation year in Science. I continue to work closely with the NLC Director, Marketing and Communications, Jennifer Fernandes to explore ideas for joint marketing opportunities. For example,we have organized an Aboriginal and Career Fair with Audrey Norris to be held on the premises of the Saulteau First Nations located near Chetwynd on April 25th. This event will be attended by secondary school students, family and friends from Saulteau and West Moberly who are interested in post-secondary education and employment. We are expecting 5-10 trade displays from businesses in the region. UNBC is sponsoring the lunch for all participants. We have a similar event planned for later in the year at Doig River. Jennifer and I have also been invited to the Doig Day celebrations on May 3 lSt.
On May 3d we are holding a Building Bridges workshop day (see enclosed flyer). This event is being jointly sponsored by UNBC and NLC and so far we have 65 registered participants. This event has been designed to bring together all the members of agencies in the region and to provide them with an opportunity for professional development. It will raise our profile as the provider of high quality professional training for social workers in the region and it is also an opportunity to thank our practicum supervisors for the support they provide to our students.
As a member of the Aboriginal Language committee working with Pat Jensen from the school district I have been involved in the development of a unit of work on Dane-zaa language. This unit is now ready and it will be trialed with Grade 1 students at Upper Pine school after spring break. It is hoped that this will be the first step in developing a comprehensive language unit in Dane-zaa in the future which could in turn lead to the need for local people to gain qualifications in the teaching of First Nations languages. It has been a great to work with
Page 38 of 59 this group of dedicated professionals and to see the beginnings of a language program develop. The meetings with the Doig River Aboriginal Education committee have also been very interesting and informative for me. They have many initiatives underway and UNBC has offered support wherever appropriate.
UNBC Fort St John has twice hosted a meeting with Dan Ryan, Dean of Sciences and Management from the UNBC Prince George campus. The first meeting was an Engineering Open House held at the Quality Inn in which Dan explained that UNBC were investigating the feasibility of establishing an Engineering School at UNBC. There was a broad amount of support for this idea and a second meeting was held on March 26thhere at the campus.
We have received 11 applications for the MEd Counseling program which is scheduled to start at the campus here in September 2012. This is very disappointing as we need 22 students to make this viable. Extensive advertising has been done and we have extended the deadline for applications until June 1". I visited every school in Fort St John and Dawson Creek and left information and a poster in the schools prior to our information evening. We have advertised several times via email to the teachers and the superintendents in the school districts.
We held an information evening at Grande Prairie Regional College to ascertain interest in the UNBC MBA program. We had an excellent turnout and as a result of this meeting we have 20 prospective students on our list.
We have 11 new students registered in the 3rdyear of the Bachelor of Social Work program due to commence in September 2012 and we have three Masters of Social Work students completing their qualifications. Currently we have 10 students finishing their Bachelor of Social Work.
Dr Dave Sangha is away on sabbatical leave until January 2013. Part time instructors from NLC, from the region and from Prince George are teaching in his place.
I have continued to work with the Whitehorse MEd Leadership students who are completing projects and theses. I am in regular contact with the students and I am doing everything possible to ensure that as many students as possible complete their program. I am also teaching the Spring semester course for the MEd Leadership program in Grande Prairie.
Current Programs in the Region
Master of Education in Multidisciplinary Leadership (Yukon College and Grande Prairie Regional College both cohorts finishing and a new cohort has started at GPRC) N=55 students Bachelor of Social Work 3rdyear (Fort St John and Fort Nelson) N=10 students A new cohort of 11 students will start in September 2012. Master of Social Work in Fort St John N=3
Proposed New Programs in the region for 2012
Master of Education in Counselling in Fort St John
Page 39 of 59 Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Grande Prairie Regional College (2013) Year 3 Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) in Fort St John Human Resources Certificate in Fort St John (not going to happen) First Nations Lunguage Certpcate in Fort St John (possibly in the future)
I would like to extend my thanks to Betty Powers, Regional Coordinator, Peace River-Liard, for her efforts in supporting students and faculty in this region. Betty's extensive experience and her considerable knowledge of the region and its people have been invaluable to me in my role as Regional Chair. I would also like to thank Dennis Macknak for his support, encouragement and wise counsel.
As this will be my last meeting with the Regional Advisory Committee for the North East I would like to thank you all for your support and wish you all the best in the future. While my tenure here has been brief, I have really enjoyed the position and I think I have accomplished much in the 15 months I have been here. I hope that the incoming Regional Chair will continue with the initiatives currently underway.
Linda Selby, Regional Chair March 3oth2012
Page 40 of 59 Peace River-Liard Region
Spring/Summer 2012 Semester May 7 - August 17,2012
REGISTER NOW
-- Irrstrrrctor: Lisa Poirier World Wide Web May 7 - Jzrne 15 011-Carrrprrshboratow Muy 27 - Jltrre 2 BIOL 102-4: 11rtrod11ctoryBiology 11 brsrrrrcfor Listr Poirier World Wide Web Jrrrle 25 -Arrgust 10 011-CarrrprrsLaboratory Jrrtle 3 - Julv 13 For further ENGL 450/650-3:MytIn'c Paradigms hlstrrrctor: Carlu Gler~ information Video-cor!fererrce.July 3 - Jrrlv 24 Tuesdtrys, Wehresdays & Fridays - l:00 - 5:00p111 contact: EDUC 602-4: Quantitative Researclr Design & Data Arralysis I~rstnrctor: Kelt Ryhtr Jlrrle 23 - Jrrly 21- Fri(1ays & Strtrrrduys Fuce-to-face trtrti Bltrckboc~r~l EDUC 606-3: Leading for CIrarrge UNBC Irlstrrrcror: Lir~drSelby Muv 7- hrrre 9 - Fritkry & Satrrluiays Peace River FULe-to:fuce crrrd Bltrckbotrrd ENGL 450/650-3: Mytlric Paradignis Liard Regional Ir~~trrrctor:Ctrrla Glerl Office Vitleo-corifererrce,Jrrly 3 - Jrrly 21 Trrestltry. Wedrresduy & Friduy, I:00 - 5:00 ~III Telephone: POLS 3163: Municipal Gover~~rnentarrd Polifics Irrsrrrrctor Alberto DeFeo (250) 787-6220 Work/ Wide Web Jrrly 3 - Arryrcst 10 Fax: POLS 333-3: Politics artd Goverrtrner~fof BC (250) 785-9665 Irlstrrtctor: Jflsorl Morris World Wide Web Email: Miry 7- Jrtrle IS POLS 4031603-3: Social & Heaklr Policy & Ad~ni~~isfraliorr [email protected] Irrstrrrctor: Jusorr Morris Worltl Wide Web Mtry 7- Jrrrle I5 & Jirly 3 -A~~g~)lrst10 SOCW 421: H~rrnanGrowth and Deeeloprner~t bistr~rctor:H. Joelle McKier?ltrrl IVorld Wide Web May 2 - .I!(!\'29 SOCW 439: Social Work/Law arrd the Justice Sysferrt Irrstnrctor - Corrnie Ku~~.eesi Face-to-Fuce Fort St. .lo1111orrly Jrrrle 4 - 8. 9.00 0111 - S:00 prrl
Page 41 of 59 Peace River-Liard Region
REGISTER NOW
COMMERCE 332-3 Business and Professional Ethics
For further This course focuses on ethical philosophies and their information application to specific ethical issues of relevance to contact: work organizations and to the demands of multiple stakeholders. Prerequisites: None
UNBC Peace River Course Dates: Liard Regional Offered by VideoIAudio Conference Office Telephone: May 10 - 12:OO pm to 5:00 pm (250) 787-6220 May 17 - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Fax : May 22 - 9:00 am to 3:00 pm (250) 785-9665 May 24 - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Email: [email protected] May 30 - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm June 14 - 12:OO pm to 5:00 pm June 21 - Final Exam
If you are interested in taking this course please contact the UNBC office to find out how.
Page 42 of 59 'fmt Nebon HospitaC Foundation ~0K703 53 15 Liard Street Bag 1000 Fort Nelson, BC VOC 1 RO 250-774-8 I00 ext 335
April 26, 2012
Mr Bill Streeper Northern Rockies Regional Municipality Bag 399 Fort Nelson BC VOC I RO
Dear Bill,
We were so glad to see all of our return players and all the new players. The Horn River Basin Charity Hockey Tournament is an event that will continue to grow as everyone continues to enjoy the time that they spend with us. For that the Fort Nelson Hospital Foundation is extremely glad that we can assist in proving all of you an event that we hope in 15 years we will still be celebrating its success. The volunteers and tournament organizers all had a lot of fun networking and watching great hockey. We hope that all the participants had fun and are game to come back next year April 16 - 18,2013.
The Hospital Foundation Board and Staff would just like to say thank you to you and all the players and sponsors who made this event fantastic. Without the player registration, corporate sponsorship, auction purchasers and donor support, our event would not have been such a success.
The Hockey was what brought us together and raising funds for the Charity was our goal. Thank you to all that participated in the Tournament and thank you to those who purchased items at the Auction to help us raise over $81,600.00 cash plus $16,120 of gifts that were given in kind, well surpassing our goal. These funds will be going to purchase new equipment, of which we just received the list from the Hospital, so the Foundation Board will be making their purchases shortly.
It was great to see such enthusiasm by players, volunteers, and all those involved with our tournament. Thank you again for attending the Second Annual Horn River Basin Charity Hockey Tournament. We had a great time meeting everyone and hope to see you
Carla Peace Leonda Clarke Laurel Menzel Executive Director Executive Assistant Office Assistant Fort Nelson Hospital Fort Nelson Hospital Fort Nelson Hospital Foundation Foundation Foundation 250-774-8 135 office 250-774-8 171 office 250-774-8 156 office 250-775-0396 cell 250-500-1 881 cell 250-32 1-2447 cell
Committedto assisting the Tort ~NefionGenerul9fospita6in assuring they can provide the best rnedicuCcure to our ~ommunity.Page 43 of 59 Hey friends!! If you didn't already know, NEAT has won $10,000 towards this project and we are now trying for $100,000!!!!! We will start it in Fort St. John and then bring it to Fort Nelson! This could be amazing for our town so please vote and pass this along to everyone you know. Also could we pass this on to council?? Thanks!! http://fuellingchange.com/main/project/355/Green‐Freight
Liz Biggar Eco‐advisor NEAT ‐Fort Nelson (250)321‐6328 1‐888‐689‐6328 (FSJ)
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FIND A HOW IT FUELLINGCHANGE GRANT PROJECT WORKS PROMOTIONS RECIPIENTS
Project Overview
LAND
Green Freight NEAT
Category: $100,000 Rank: 1
Total Votes: 229 Voting ends: 31 OCTOBER
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Tweet 0 Green Freight emails $100,000 CURRENT RANKINGS NEAT Like email Green Freight 1 NEAT Votes: 229 LAND Fort St. Joh…, BC
Project Description Shoreline Superheroes Canadian Wildlife Federation The Green Freight Project will situate insulated shipping containers equipped with solar 2 Votes: 144 WATER Kanata, ON powered hydroponics systems on brownfield lots, creating local agricultural areas from contaminated sites. The goals for the project are to reduce the footprint of fresh produce in our Conservation Youth Corps community; to increase access to affordable and nutrient rich food; and finally, to allow Credit Valley Conservation Foundati… contaminated brownfield land to be productive once again. 3 Votes: 80 LAND Mississauga, ON Fort St John is a northern community found at mile 47 of the Alaska Highway, the major transport corridor both in and out of town. Northern communities face a unique challenge in Drivewiser --> Drive Less --> … regards to obtaining supplies as almost everything is trucked in, food included. 4 Clean Nova Scotia Understandably, the environmental footprint of food is rather large as it arrives at our local Votes: 20 AIR Dartmouth, NS supermarkets after traveling thousands of kilometers. Reducing the footprint of food brings with it a parallel increase in food security for the community as a whole. This reliance on the highway was highlighted this summer in Chetwynd when heavy rains washed out sections of the Pine Pass and the CNR rail line leaving the town without food deliveries for more than a week (Northeast News, 2011). Although local food production does take place, much of the year fields sit barren under snow. Local agricultural production focuses on meat, poultry, eggs and a variety of seasonal produce. Increasing the growing season from three months to twelve will reduce reliance on imported food and allow produce to ripen fully prior to harvest. Producing food locally will insulate the community of Fort St John against sudden price shocks; as production increases in both yield Page 45 of 59 and diversity, this insulation will continue to improve. Situating the containers on brownfield lots will efficiently reuse lots that are currently sitting barren. Because the containers do not require foundations, they are able to sit directly upon contaminated lots turning them into unconventional gardens and forming an agricultural hub in town.
How Our Project Helps the Environment
Using a community supported agriculture (CSA) model, the Green Freight Project will directly reduce carbon emissions associated with imported produce. As produce is grown indoors with minimal risk of pests, there is no need for pesticides, herbicides or any other chemical inputs. Nutrients are added to water which circulates around the roots providing plants with positive inputs. Over the first five years of production, Green Freight will continue to reduce greenhouse gas emissions related to food imports.
Situating the containers on contaminated lots within town will not only allow these empty lots to become valuable environmental assets, but will provide the community as a whole with access to an efficient, albeit unconventional, farm right in town. The solar LED growing and heating units will provide clean energy to run water pumps, growing lights and maintain optimal growing temperatures year round.
Using a CSA model, success for this project will be measured through units produced as well as the number of community members participating. We will also be able to calculate how many tonnes of carbon was saved by growing locally using green energy for each harvest. Additionally, increased interest by community partners will be a good indicator of success.
About NEAT
Reducing environmental footprint
Legal Northern Environmental Phone: 250-785-6328 Name: Action Team Address: 10027-100 St Website: neat.ca Fort St. John, BC CA, V1J 3Y5 Email: [email protected]
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Page 46 of 59 Northeast Region
Quarterly Update | Spring 2012
Northern Development Initiative Trust 301-1268 Fifth Avenue, Prince George, BC V2L 3L2 Tel: 250-561-2525 Fax: 250-561-2563 [email protected] www.northerndevelopment.bc.ca
New Region-Wide Website Launched! SUCCESS TO DATE – MARCH 31st, 2012 Showcasing Success In Every Community Northern Development's Board has approved $111 million in funding committed to 973 projects, including: Northern Development’s Board is pleased to announce the launch of the Trust’s new interactive website featuring over 250 . $36.1 million from the four Regional Development successful community economic development projects that have Accounts been spearheaded in communities throughout central and . $24.8 million from the Cross Regional Account northern British Columbia. . $19.8 million from the Pine Beetle Recovery Account . These commitments have leveraged other sources of funding for a total investment value of $1.06 billion . For every $1 of funding approved by the Board, there is $8.52 in funding from other sources . 74% of the investments are in small communities with populations of less than 5,000 . 49% of funds approved are loans and 51% are grants . Businesses in the region have committed to creating 974 new jobs with a total investment of over $185 million in new capital investment with the support of the Northern Development business programs
The new website enables visitors to connect directly with project Spring 2012 Report To The Region proponents and over 1,000 funding partners – all now instantly Northern Development’s Spring accessible online from Northern Development’s searchable 2012 Report To The Region will be community economic development database. delivered to 120,000 homes and Northern Development’s staff and board have a goal of helping places of business across central and communities excel at ‘shaking the money tree’ so that we can northern BC in late April and early collectively create new opportunities and invest in improving May. quality of life across the region. It’s now easier than ever to This publication is an effort connect with the people who are building their communities and to ensure residents receive news a stronger regional economy, whether online via our new website about the positive work led by local or by joining the discussion and staying up-to-date with us on organizations throughout the region Facebook and Twitter. while also receiving a bi-annual Local governments are encouraged to link their update on the positive economic, municipal or regional district websites to this new social, and environmental benefits resource to showcase the successful projects in their that continue to be supported by communities. Northern Development funding investments and capacity building We invite you to interact directly with the people and initiatives. organizations that are spearheading community development Page 47 of 59 across the region. www.northerndevelopment.bc.ca Download and read the Spring 2012 Report To The Region
ACCOUNT BALANCES IN THE NORTHEAST REGION Current: March 31st, 2012
Nominal Allocation Grant Committed1 Grant Available2 Loan Committed Loan Available Total Available
Northeast $ 2,343,762 $ 1,077,233 $ 1,870,832 $ 20,220,573 $ 21,297,806
Note 1: Since 2005 (inception)
Note 2: Remainder of $ 1.5 million allocation set in RAC Strategic Plan for 2009-2011
2012 APPROVED PROJECTS IN THE NORTHEAST REGION
NORTHEAST REGION TOTAL AMOUNT TOTAL PROJECT VALUE
23 Projects Approved in 2012 $ 799,425 $ 3,074,664
DISTRICT OF CHETWYND
Proponent Project Name Funding Program Nominal Allocation Amount Total Project Value
Chetwynd Community Community District of Chetwynd Northeast $ 500,000 Loan $ 1,500,000 Revitalization Project Revitalization
CITY OF DAWSON CREEK
Proponent Project Name Funding Program Nominal Allocation Amount Total Project Value
Business Plan for an Industrial Competitiveness Werfedup Holdings Inc. Cross Regional $ 7,500 Rebate $ 15,000 Park in Dawson Creek, BC Consulting Rebate
Northern Development Northern Lights College 2012 Scholarship Program Cross Regional $ 2,000 Grant $ 2,000 Scholarship
Dawson Creek Ski and Bear Mountain Ski Lift Community Halls and Northeast $ 30,000 Grant $ 269,500 Recreation Association Replacement Recreation Facilities
City of Dawson Creek 2012 Grant Writing Support Grant Writing Support Cross Regional $ 7,500 Grant $ 10,000
2012 Economic Development Economic Development City of Dawson Creek Pine Beetle Recovery $ 35,000 Grant $ 55,025 Capacity Building Capacity Building
Page 48 of 59
CITY OF FORT ST. JOHN
Proponent Project Name Funding Program Nominal Allocation Amount Total Project Value
City of Fort St. John 2012 Grant Writing Support Grant Writing Support Cross Regional $ 7,500 Grant $ 10,000
Business Planning and Financial Competitiveness Lilebi Glass Inc. Cross Regional $ 4,500 Rebate $ 9,000 Forecasting Consulting Rebate
DISTRICT OF HUDSON’S HOPE
Proponent Project Name Funding Program Nominal Allocation Amount Total Project Value
District of Hudson’s 2012 Grant Writing Support Grant Writing Support Cross Regional $ 7,500 Grant $ 10,000 Hope
NORTHERN ROCKIES REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY
Proponent Project Name Funding Program Nominal Allocation Amount Total Project Value
Prophet River First 2012 Grant Writing Support Grant Writing Support Cross Regional $ 7,500 Grant $ 10,000 Nation
Northern Rockies Northern Rockies Regional Marketing Initiatives Northeast $ 7,925 Grant $ 27,925 Regional Municipality Airport Website Development
Northern Rockies 2012 Economic Development Economic Development Cross Regional $ 35,000 Grant $ 402,150 Regional Municipality Capacity Building Capacity Building
Fort Nelson First Nation 2012 Grant Writing Support Grant Writing Support Cross Regional $ 7,500 Grant $ 21,250
PEACE RIVER REGIONAL DISTRICT
Proponent Project Name Funding Program Nominal Allocation Amount Total Project Value
Big Bam Ski Hill Facility Community Halls and Big Bam Ski Club Northeast $ 30,000 Grant $ 105,000 Renovation Recreation Facilities
Combined Heat and Power Kwadacha First Nation Biomass System Feasibility Feasibility Studies Northeast $ 10,000 Grant $ 120,620 Study
Whiskey Jack Nordic Ski Improvements to Beatton Park Community Halls and Northeast $ 20,000 Grant $ 181,840 Club Ski Trails Recreation Facilities
Page 49 of 59
Peace River Regional 2012 Grant Writing Support Grant Writing Support Cross Regional $ 7,500 Grant $ 10,000 District
Doig River First Nation 2012 Grant Writing Support Grant Writing Support Cross Regional $ 7,500 Grant $ 10,000
Halfway River First 2012 Grant Writing Support Grant Writing Support Cross Regional $ 7,500 Grant $ 10,000 Nation
West Moberly First 2012 Grant Writing Support Grant Writing Support Cross Regional $ 7,500 Grant $ 10,000 Nations
VILLAGE OF POUCE COUPE
Proponent Project Name Funding Program Nominal Allocation Amount Total Project Value
No applications approved in 2012 to date.
DISTRICT OF TAYLOR
Proponent Project Name Funding Program Nominal Allocation Amount Total Project Value
District of Taylor 2012 Grant Writing Support Grant Writing Support Cross Regional $ 7,500 Grant $ 10,000
DISTRICT OF TUMBLER RIDGE
Proponent Project Name Funding Program Nominal Allocation Amount Total Project Value
District of Tumbler 2012 Grant Writing Support Grant Writing Support Cross Regional $ 7,500 Grant $ 10,000 Ridge
District of Tumbler 2012 Economic Development Economic Development Cross Regional $ 35,000 Grant $ 265,354 Ridge Capacity Building Capacity Building
Page 50 of 59
INVESTMENTS IN THE NORTHEAST REGION SINCE INCEPTION
Funding Program Number of Projects Amount Invested Total Project Value
Economic Diversification Infrastructure 16 $ 4,448,633 $ 20,252,481
Feasibility Studies 5 $ 104,304 $ 427,144
Marketing Initiatives 1 $ 7,925 $ 27,925
Industry Attraction 1 $ 9,525 $ 19,050
Economic Development Capacity Building 25 $ 836,978 $ 4,811,781
Grant Writing Support 38 $ 272,253 $ 376,503
Community Halls and Recreation Facilities 14 $ 340,677 $ 6,605,730
Community Foundations 4 $ 225,000 $ 450,000
Community Revitalization 1 $ 500,000 $ 1,500,000
Northern Development Scholarship 3 $ 6,000 $ 6,000
Capital Investment and Training Rebate 3 $ 2,071,658 $ 24,039,563
Competitiveness Consulting Rebate 19 $ 154,378 $ 308,755
Northern Industry Expansion 1 $ 950,003 $ 4,250,000
Community Adjustment Fund 4 $ 1,663,400 $ 5,545,186
Total 135 $ 11,590,734 $ 68,620,118
Page 51 of 59
April 30, 2012 File: 1960-01 The Honourable Christy Clark Premier of British Columbia PO Box 9041 Station Prov. Govt. Victoria BC V8W 9E2
Dear Premier Clark:
Re: Expert Panel Review of Business Taxation and Municipal Revenue Sources Review
At the Regular Council meeting of April 24, 2012, Port Moody City Council considered a letter from the Capital Regional District requesting that consideration be given to collaboration between the Province and local governments on the Expert Panel Review of Business Taxation and the Municipal Revenue Sources Review. Port Moody Council subsequently passed the following resolution:
THAT the letter dated April 3, 2012 from the Capital Regional District to the Honourable Christy Clark be received.
THAT a letter be sent to the BC Premier, with copies to the Minister responsible for Finance, Community, Sport and Cultural Development, the local MLA, the UBCM and the UBCM member municipalities, which requests that:
the expert panel appointed to review the municipal property taxation of business be amended to include local government representation through UBCM or specific individual local governments;
the Municipal Revenue Sources Review at the ministry be a collaborative process involving local government representatives through Government Finance Officers Association of BC (GFOABC), Local Government Management Association (LGMA) or specific municipalities.
The City of Port Moody respectfully requests that consideration be given to collaboration between the Province and local governments on these important issues. As both of these reviews directly impact local governments, it is important to ensure that the perspectives of local governments are clearly understood and represented.
Yours truly,
M.E. (Mike) Clay Mayor cc: Geoff Young, Chair, Capital Regional District Board Honourable Ida Chong, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Mr. Heath Slee, President, Union of British Columbia Municipalities All UBCM Member Municipalities Giuseppe Trasolini, MLA, Port Moody-Coquitlam
Document: 176613 Page 52 of 59 From: ICBC Public Engagement [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Monday, May 07, 2012 4:44 PM To: ICBC Public Engagement Subject: Invitation to Fort St. John Stakeholder Meeting: ICBC Basic Vehicle Insurance Rating System Public and Stakeholder Consultation and Engagement
ICBC is undertaking a province‐wide consultation and engagement process to seek feedback from our customers and stakeholders on options for a fairer, more driver‐based system that would result in lower‐risk drivers paying less and higher‐risk drivers paying more. Have your say.
You are invited to attend the following stakeholder meeting as part of the public and stakeholder consultation and engagement:
DATE Wednesday, May 30, 2012 TIME 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm LOCATION Quality Inn Northern Grand Hotel, 9830 100th Avenue, Fort St. John
Please confirm your attendance by reply email to [email protected] or call 1‐855‐681‐0411 and indicate which meeting you will be attending. As space is limited attendance will be determined on a first come, first serve basis.
Please RSVP with the following information: o First and last name o Meeting date and time (as noted above) o Contact information (phone and/or email)
A Consultation Discussion Guide and Feedback Form will be available online at publicengagement.icbc.com beginning May 14, 2012.
Have your say about potential options to create a fairer Basic vehicle insurance system that would result in lower‐risk drivers paying less and higher‐risk drivers paying more.
We invite you to provide your feedback before the June 22, 2012 deadline by: • Attending an Open House(See schedule below) • Completing an online Feedback Form publicengagement.icbc.com • Accessing Consultation and Engagement Materials Online– available May 14, 2012 at publicengagement.icbc.com • Providing a Written Submission: o Email: [email protected]
Page 53 of 59 o Mail: P.O. Box 4004, Vancouver, B.C. V6B 3Z4
Open House Schedule In addition to attending a stakeholder meeting, we encourage you to attend one of the following public open houses (you can drop in the open house at any time during the posted hours):
We look forward to meeting with you to help shape the future of our Basic vehicle insurance rating system.
Sincerely, Kellee Irwin Vice‐President, Personal Insurance Insurance Corporation of British Columbia
Page 54 of 59 The Canadian Press - ONLINE EDITION
Imperial weighing West Coast LNG plans, not committing shipping oil west By: Lauren Krugel, The Canadian Press
CALGARY - Imperial Oil Ltd. is looking at jumping on the West Coast LNG bandwagon so that the gas it produces in northeastern B.C. can fetch a higher price in Asia than it would in North America, the company's CEO said Wednesday. The thinking on the oilsands side is different, however. Bruce March said Imperial has signed on to neither Enbridge's nor Kinder Morgan's proposals to link oilsands crude to Asia via the West Coast, as it expects the U.S. to remain a strong market for Canadian crude for decades to come. March said its LNG — or liquefied natural gas — plans are in the very early stages and a site has not yet been chosen for a plant to cool natural gas into a liquid state, enabling it to be transported by tanker overseas. The acreage Imperial (TSX:IMO) has in northeastern British Columbia's Horn River Basin contains dry gas, which is trading at 10-year lows around US$2 per 1,000 cubic feet. Several companies have been ditching dry gas drilling in favour of areas that contain more lucrative liquids. In Asia, the fuel would be worth about five times more than it currently is in North America, where burgeoning supplies from shale formations across the continent have far outpaced demand. "There appears to be huge and substantial growth opportunities for gas demand in Asia," March told reporters following Imperial's annual meeting. "That's the most promising sign. That, in combination with the near-term outlook for gas in North America, makes this an opportunity that a lot of companies look at, including ours." Encana Corp. (TSX:ECA) and U.S. partners Apache and EOG are furthest along in their plans to build an LNG plant in Kitimat, B.C. Shell also has a proposal in the works, and Nexen Inc. (TSX:NXY) and Talisman (TSX:TLM) are weighing their LNG options, too. March said Imperial has not committed to ship crude from its vast oilsands operations on Enbridge's Northern Gateway pipeline to Kitimat or Kinder Morgan's expanded Trans Mountain line to the B.C. Lower Mainland. "I can confirm that we haven't done anything with either at this time," he said. "You have to make an opinion yourself of how fast they will go forward," March said of the West Coast proposals, which have drawn controversy for their potential environmental impacts. Five other oilsands producers — Suncor Energy Inc. (TSX:SU), MEG Energy (TSX:MEG), Nexen, Total E&P Canada and Cenovus Energy Inc. (TSX:CVE) — have revealed themselves as Northern Gateway backers. Many in the industry want to diversify Canada's energy export markets beyond the U.S. and believe they can get a better price for their product in energy-hungry Asia. The $5.5-billion Northern Gateway proposal is in the midst of a lengthy regulatory process that isn't expected to wrap up until late 2013. It's faced stiff opposition from First Nations groups in B.C. who fear a spill could damage the local ecosystem. If built, it would ship 525,000 barrels per day from Alberta to Kitimat and 193,000 barrels of imported condensates inland for use in the oilsands. The Trans Mountain line currently delivers 300,000 barrels of crude to the B.C. Lower Mainland daily, and concerns have been raised about more oil tankers sailing in and out of the Vancouver area if it's expanded to carry 850,000 barrels per day.
Page 55 of 59 The U.S. will continue to be thirsty for Canada's oil for a long time, as refineries in the Gulf Coast are already configured to handle heavy crude, like that from the oilsands, March said. "Gosh, you know, when you look at the capacity for the Gulf Coast refineries to run the diluted bitumen crudes that will likely be the growth crudes, if you could get the pipeline capacity to it, it would be decades before we would fill that," he said. March said he expects TransCanada Corp.'s (TSX:TRP) Keystone XL system between Alberta and the Texas coast will be approved in its entirety after the U.S. presidential election in November, no matter which party wins. He expects proposals by Enbridge Inc. to get more Canadian crude to the Gulf, including the reversal and twinning of the Seaway pipeline between the Gulf and Cushing, Okla., to go ahead as well. Imperial shares dropped four cents to $45.93 on the Toronto Stock Exchange.
Page 56 of 59
MLA Pat Pimm outlines the announced road improvements. IMAGE: ERICA FISHER Province announces 2012/2013 Peace River North road upgrades Peace River North MLA Pat Pimm has announced the provincial government’s plan for northeast B.C.’s roads over the next 12 months. It includes $24 million for improving the safety and conditions of both highways and side roads in the North Peace and Northern Rockies area.
Pimm says the roads that have been identified for resurfacing or paving are roads that he and the Ministry of Transportation have heard complaints about from residents.
“I would think that all of these roads are ones that we’ve heard different folks talk about,” he said. “It’s always nice to be able to make some progress.”
Page 57 of 59 However, some projects they want to see have been put on the back burner due to conflicts like sewer work.
In Fort St. John, phase 2 of work on 86 Street near the new hospital from 109 Avenue to 100 Avenue will be completed, including walking paths and lighting. The road to the 100 Street look out will also be paved, along with portions of Hilltop Road, Rimrock Road by Jackfish Dundee’s, Charlie Lake South by the school, and the Old Hudson’s Hope Road. Various side roads in the region will be strengthened, gravelled and graded, including Altona Road, Clayhurst Ferry 108 Road and the Clayhurst 111 Hill.
Fort Nelson will see construction of the Fort Nelson Gateway Intersection, which includes left turn slots, deceleration lanes and signals on Highway 97N at the intersection of the Airport Connector Road. A design and cost estimate will also be taken for increasing the load capacity of the Fort Nelson River Bridge on Highway 77, north of Fort Nelson.
In addition, an enhanced dust suppression program will be undertaken for roads impacted by the oil and gas industry, like Altona Road, Beryl Prairie Road and Clayhurst Ferry 108 Road.
“We often hear about lots of dust within the region, and good dust suppression makes a big, big difference,” Pimm argues.
The first work will begin in June, with the completion of the project to resurface kilometre 83 to kilometer 120 of Highway 77.
“That’s one that’s going to be a very big player as time goes on,” Pimm commented. “The Horn River production – that road take you right past the Horn River with good access there and also into the Liard Basin in the future so it’s a very important road for the Fort Nelson people.”
In total, this summer’s plan are expected to create 120 direct jobs.
Page 58 of 59
www.cila.ca Ph:(250)562-3368 FACTSFAX Issue #654 The Central Interior Logging Association’s Weekly Harvesting Industry Update May 04, 2012
Also serving members of the Northwest Loggers, Interior Logging Association, Western Silvicultural Contractors and BC Woodlot Owners
Changes to Wildfire Act Policy Our Deepest Sympathies The Ministry for Forests, Lands and Natural Resources has Condolences to the family of George Park, Jr. of Kamloops made some significant changes to Ministry policy around the BC, the worker fatally injured at Canfor’s Plateau Sawmill Wildfire Act. Due diligence is now being recognized to a near Vanderhoof May 3. Mr. Park was employed as a sub- greater degree as a defense against being charged with contractor performing maintenance on a piece of equipment in firefighting and loss-of-timber costs, and the reverse onus the mill. issue seems to be resolved via new policy. Mills Set up Safety Task Force Prior to the changes, the Ministry could try to hold a COFI CEO John Allen announced a Safety Task Force to look contractor responsible for costs/timber losses if they suspected at what’s going on in the mills in the aftermath of the Babine the contractor was negligent – and the contractor had to prove and Lakeland fires. The COFI task force will be comprised of his innocence. The new policy has wording to the effect that wood products manufacturing company representatives and the Ministry would have to prove negligence. external scientists, insurance engineers and experts, and other CILA members will be receiving more in-depth information in stakeholders. The Task Force will be mandated to: the upcoming May edition of the Members’ Monthly Update. Quantify combustion risks related to dust from both green CILA Employment Opportunities/Worker and dry wood Pool Identify best practices for dust mitigation from other The Employment Opportunities on the CILA webpage is being updated daily. Contractors looking for operators are industries that have issues related to dust in manufacturing encouraged to let the CILA know what you’re needing and Develop an industry-wide, auditable standard that can be we’ll get it out there. Meanwhile, we have developed a list of utilized to provide independent assurance of mill safety potential employees looking for work. We have Class 1 Undertake outreach to all wood products manufacturing Drivers and experienced equipment operators coming from companies in BC to create an industry-wide approach to other sectors wanting to get into forestry. We screen for safety that is inclusive of both large and small operators drugs, check references, and do other pre-employment screening, so if we have them on the list they've been This sounds very familiar to us in the harvesting sector. The interviewed and checked out. CILA members wanting access Forest Safety Taskforce of 2005 for the harvesting sector had to the Worker Pool list can call Kate at the CILA office, or many similar goals, and the BC Forest Safety Council and its email: [email protected]. programs were created as a result. We’ve had our challenges on the harvesting side too, but overall results have been very CILA AGM & Dinner Wednesday positive, and more workers are getting safely home to their The CILA’s AGM & Dinner will be held at the Twisted Cork families after a day of work. We wish the mill task force great this Wednesday May 9th at 5pm. CILA members and other success. We’re all in this together. Unsafe IS Unacceptable! interested contractors are welcome to attend. Rob Moonen from the BC Forest Safety Council will be in attendance to ILA Convention This Week report back to the Board on the changes being made to the The Interior Logging Association’s Annual Convention & SAFE Co’s audits promised in February. All CILA members AGM goes this week Thursday to Saturday. MFLNRO will be receiving a copy of the Annual Report in the mail next Minister Steve Thomson will be speaking at Friday’s week. Please RSVP to [email protected]. luncheon. This year’s theme is Training the Next Generation, The following people have put their names forward to be and will feature a job fair, as well as indoor displays. Other considered as Directors for 2012/13. All current Directors will topics include worker retention, post-beetle analysis, safety be remaining. and more. Janice Bleecker, Dean Mason & Company There’s still time to register. Go to www.interiorlogging.org. Ron Fawcett, White River Contracting Ltd. Jordan Nicolussi, Sibola Mountain Falling Ltd.
Hugh Delwo, Summit Insurance Brokers Ltd.
Ritchie Bros. Spring Sale in PG Thursday The Ritchie Bros. Auction goes this Thursday in Prince George, and looks to be a big sale, as the May sale usually is. Proud member of the CILA CILA staff will be there, meeting members and catching up on the news and situations in each community. Page 59 of 59 Celebrating 46 years as the voice of BC’s northern interior community-based forestry contractors