Forest and Range Practices Act update

At a Special Open Council meeting held April 14th, the Quesnel Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development office, briefed Council on changes to the Forest and Range Practices Act.

The Quesnel timber supply area will be the first in B.C. to implement this fundamental shift to forest practices, which will see government, in collaboration with Indigenous Nations and community stakeholders, take more control of how the landbase is managed at a local level.

A Forest Landscape Plan will take a holistic view of our current resources by identifying type and quantity of fibre, defining where harvesting can and cannot occur and setting local priorities and objectives based on community values, such as economic diversity, recreation, community safety, and other local priorities.

The new process is an exciting opportunity for Quesnel, allowing for innovative opportunities, certainty in investments and efficiencies and effectiveness in forest management to ensure a sustainable resource.

2020 City of Quesnel Financial Statements

Council approved the City of Quesnel 2020 Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2020, after hearing KPMG's clean auditors' report.

Overdose Alert Devices

The Quesnel Shelter and Support Society, together with two UNBC graduate students are working on a project for Bridges Supportive Housing - A 'pulse oximeter' is a device that will provide real-time blood oxygen monitoring.  This wearable device will help prevent overdose, by alerting staff if a resident is in distress.
The development team is seeking funding to help bring the project to completion.

City of Quesnel Board of Variance

What is a Board of Variance?  A local government that has adopted a zoning bylaw must establish a Board of Variance (a group of 3 citizens appointed by Council).  The Board hears a public request to vary the requirements of the zoning bylaw and, makes a determination.

The City will be seeking applicants for one appointment to the Board of Variance for a 3 year term.

Business Support Hotline

Quesnel's business supports during COVID-19 are being recognized across the province!  The Business Support hotline was established early in the pandemic to check in with our local business community to gauge current need and pressing issues, eligibility for COVID-19 grant funding and provide supports and assistance where able.  37% of businesses noted that business was down temporarily, but improving and, the biggest challenge noted was inventory and supply chain issues.

Additionally, a survey is currently circulating to gauge impacts of COVID-19 on non-profit organizations. 

Community Garden

Council approved an occupancy agreement with the Baker Creek Enhancement Society for use of a portion of City lands located west of 601 Johnston Avenue, as a community garden.

Airports Capital Assistance Program

Council approved the City entering into an Airports Capital Assistance Program contribution agreement for up to $7,162,526 for rehabilitation of the runway, taxiway and apron at the Quesnel Regional Airport.

Outdoor Cafe Request - Mr. Mikes' Restaurant

Council approved Mr. Mikes' request for an outdoor cafe space in front of their business on Reid Street.

Bylaws:

• Bylaw 1899 - South Quesnel Business Improvement Area - Final Adoption
• Bylaw 1902 - Fire Protection, Prevention and Emergency Services - First, Second, Third Readings
• Bylaws 1903 and 1904 - OCP/Zoning Amendment (Hoy Street) - Stood Down
• Bylaw 1908 - Outdoor Cafe Amendment - Final Adoption