String of robberies in Vernon

Castanet:
It was a busy day for RCMP in the North Okanagan. A string of robberies and attempted robberies kept Vernon RCMP moving. The first took place around 5:45 p.m. at the Dollar Store in Vernon Square. RCMP spokesperson, Gord Molendyk, says a man entered the store and demanded money. “When the teller didn’t comply, the suspect left the store headed towards Highway 97. Then at 7:20 p.m. the Money Mart on 27th Street reported an attempted robbery. A man entered the store, produced a knife and demanded that the clerk give him money,” says Molendyk. He says that teller also refused to comply with the suspect’s demands. “The suspect got frustrated and left heading south from the business. Then just before 9 p.m., a call of a third robbery came in from the Esso station on 27th Street where a man entered the business and approached the teller and demanded cash. The suspect did leave with an undisclosed amount of cash.” Molendyk says the suspect was seen getting into a newer model two door Pontiac type vehicle, silver in color. “The suspect in all three cases is described as a man in his 20s, skinny with light brown or blond hair. The height varies but is approximately 5’6“. In each case, the clothing worn by the robber is different.”

City’s top cop leaving the force

JOE FRIES Wednesday, December 31, 2008 Penticton Herald:

Penticton RCMP Insp. Dan Fudge won’t have to plead his case for more cops before city council any more. The 56-year-old head of the local police detachment is retiring from his duties next month and taking up a posting as a regional superintendent with B.C. Sheriff Services. "It wasn’t an easy decision," Fudge said in a telephone interview Tuesday from Los Angeles, where he is vacationing. "I thought maybe it was time to do something different." Since taking over as Penticton’s top cop nearly nine years ago, Fudge has continually pressed the city to budget for more officers, and, for the most part, he was successful. The detachment grew from 38 members in 2003 to 45 members in 2007. But his requests were never rubber-stamped and he fought hard for those new officers.

"Like any public organization, there’s always the issue of resources and finances. It’s about what you need, what you want and what you can afford. And there’s always that balance," Fudge said. "We’re probably going to be entering some difficult times now, and perhaps it’s time for me to look at other options." Since joining the RCMP 36 years ago, Fudge has been stationed in six different provinces or territories. In Penticton, he battled a fluctuating crime rate that was still above the provincial average in 2007. Fudge, however, attributed part of that statistic to a population increase during tourist season that is not reflected in the data. He also maintains that the top issue facing crime-fighters is drugs. And Fudge believes more needs to be done to win the battle besides locking up bad guys. "Don’t get me wrong -- I think enforcement is important. But I think in the long-term, the issue of drugs needs to be solved through education and counselling services and those kinds of things."

Fudge said there will likely be a gap between when he leaves at a yet-to-be-determined date in January and when his successor is hired. He indicated the RCMP would work with city hall to come up with some candidates to take over as inspector. The outgoing chief was also very active with the Cops For Kids charity, work he hopes to keep up in some capacity. Mayor Dan Ashton could not be reached for comment Tuesday.

How low will it go?

Kelowna‘s average house price is based on the average selling price of all the single-family fully detached homes sold on the Multiple Listing Service.

1997: $155,450
1998: $176,905
1999: $186,762
2000: $183,443
2001: $200,337
2002: $219,797
2003: $262,085
2004: $287,351
2005: $355,380
2006: $425,263
2007: $497,322

April 2008: $550,000
Nov. 2008: $461,000
End of 2009 forecast: $426,00

Edmonton mayor refuses pay raise

CBC NEWS:

Given current economic conditions, Edmonton Mayor Stephen Mandel says it wouldn't be right for him to accept the $8,000-pay increase he is entitled to receive in 2009. Without the raise, Mandel's annual salary will stay at $135,694, the same amount he was paid in 2008. "I asked people to tighten their belt during the budget, and so it would be improper for me now to say that … I'm going to take a raise, which I don't think is reasonable given the state of the times and the economy," he said. City councillors are also due for a 5.5 per cent pay increase Jan. 1, bringing their annual pay to $79,287. Mandel said his decision is a personal one, and it was not made to pressure council members to follow his lead. Council salaries are revised yearly, based on Alberta's average weekly earnings for the previous year, as reported by Statistics Canada.

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Castanet Poll:

Question: Should elected officials be allowed to refuse entitled pay raises?

Yes

194

No

13

Total Votes: 207

Seniors Evac

Betty Selin & Kate Bouey - Vernon 105.7 SUN FM

The call came in as a roof collapse at a senior's facility Monday morning in Vernon, fortunately the damage was not to the roof, but ceiling. Okanagan Landing Fire Chief Ed Forslund says they found a broken sprinkler pipe in the ceiling and water was leaking into the floor below. Forslund says more than 25 seniors were evacuated from the west wing of the new Creekside Landing care home. Forslund says the residents, many in wheel chairs, were taken to a part of the building deemed safe. Creekside owner Kevin Svoboda says affected residents have been moved to other areas of Creekside or to a sister facility, Heritage Square. He says even the chapel and some meeting rooms have been converted to make residents as comfortable as possible. He will be at the site Tuesday and hopes to meet with seniors and their families by Wednesday.

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Seniors evacuated CHBC VIDEO
Web posted on Tuesday, 30 December 2008

A Vernon senior’s facility was partically evacuated this morning. Not because of a collapsed roof, as many people first thought, but because of a broken sprinkler head

Six bodies found in hunt for snowmobilers

CTV BC FERNIE, B.C. -- Police say six bodies have been recovered from the scene of two avalanches that struck 11 snowmobilers in southeastern B.C. The six bodies are being removed from the scene near Fernie by helicopter.Two men are still unaccounted for. Three other men had survived and walked to safety after the back-to-back avalanches on Sunday. Police had said earlier that they still had hope for the men, all in their mid-20s and from Sparwood, but time was not on their side.Search efforts were delayed by the need to bomb snow in the area to reduce the chance of more avalanches impeding rescuers.

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2008-12-29 17:09 PST Fernie - Avalanche Update - Seven Bodies Recovered RCMP

Fernie: A search team of approximately 50 trained search and rescue personnel and volunteers along with two RCMP avalanche dogs combed the area of yesterday’s avalanche today with the hope of finding any survivors. Tragically, the bodies of seven men were dug out of the snow. One more snowmobiler is still missing. The search had to be called off at 3:30 PM due to heavy snowfall and dense low cloud at the search site that substantially increased the avalanche hazard for rescuers. Search efforts will resume at first light Tuesday.

The bodies of the seven recovered men were transported to Fernie where they await positive identification from family members. The names of the victims will likely be released on Tuesday pending notification of all next of kin.

Further updates will be posted to www.bc.rcmp.ca as they become available.

Missing snowmobilers found

Rachael Kimola - Dec 29, 2008 CASTANET:

Search and Rescue in the North Okanagan are wrapping up after a long, cold night. Vernon Search and Rescue were called to Hunter’s Range near Enderby around 11 p.m. Sunday to search for a group of snowmobilers who had not returned when they had said they would. Leigh Pearson, SAR manager, says the five missing men, all Okanagan residents, have made contact and will be coming out of the woods soon. “One of the men managed to make contact with his wife via cell phone Monday morning, so we know they are okay and they insist on making it out of the woods on their own. We are just going to wait on scene until they are out,” says Pearson. He says he believes the five men were snowmobiling when they got stuck in the snow. “It can happen very easily where the tread of the snowmobile gets caught. They tried to gig themselves out, but got exhausted, so they stopped and made contact in the morning. It looks like this is going to be a happy ending.”

Pearson says this is the second time in the last week searches were called out to Hunter’s Range. “At 5 p.m., December 26, the members were called out by the RCMP to search for a lone missing snowmobiler. He was reported missing when he did not return home when scheduled to do so. Members located the male at approximately 9 p.m. He had become stuck in the fresh snow.” He says this has been a record year for Vernon SAR, with 44 searches taking place in 2008. The previous record was 40 searches in 2003.

Lottery office stays out of debate

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: December 26, 2008

A provincial agency is not wading into the debate over how many slot machines should be allowed in Vernon. The B.C. Lottery Corporation is aware of Coun. Jack Gilroy’s plans to ask council in January to reconsider a bylaw that restricts the number of slot machines in Vernon. But it won’t get directly involved in the process. “That’s a matter for the city to decide,” said Greg Walker, BCLC’s manager of public affairs. In September, the previous council decided to set a limit of 300 slot machines in the community, although BCLC and Lake City Casinos wanted 400 for a new casino on Anderson Way. City officials have previously stated that even with the bylaw limiting slot machines to 300, Lake City Casino can still have 400 because the devices were shown in designs submitted to the city. But that would make the operation legally non-conforming under bylaw, something BCLC is not used to being in for the slot machines it owns.

Walker says no decision has been made on whether 300 slots will be placed inside the casino once it opens in May, or if it will go against the bylaw and install 400 machines. “We will look at the marketplace closer to the opening and then make a determination on the numbers,” he said. However, a letter from the City of Vernon confirming the possibility of 400 machines may influence BCLC’s actions. “We are prepared to proceed on the basis of that letter,” said Walker. “But our preference is that the focus on the casino be put in the bylaw, including the number of slot machines.” Some former members of council wanted a limit on slot machines as a way of getting Lake City Casinos to provide assistance for a social responsibility fund. However, Lake City Casinos refused to provide financial assistance and Gilroy says permitting additional slot machines will give the city monetary resources to handle infrastructure needs as well as address pressing social issues.

Grants available for water projects

Morning Star Dec 26

There’s up to $300,000 available in grants for innovative and collaborative projects in 2009 that promote water conservation and water quality improvements in the valley. Proposals must have a stamp of approval from the local council or regional district board before being forwarded to the Okanagan Basin Water Board’s grant program, explains program administrator Genevieve Dunbar. Eligible applicants include local governments, non-profit community groups and irrigation or improvement districts. She says they hope to see proposals for projects which could serve as models for other groups in the valley, and projects which will affect policy, so it’s not just a one-off impact. Collaboration with partners and achieving matching funding is a bonus for an applicant. Often the OBWB funds can be used to leverage larger amounts, with grants from other sources as well, she said.

The board would also like to see applications for projects related to the Okanagan Sustainable Water Strategy prepared by the Okanagan Water Stewardship Council and released to the public in October. It’s available online at www.obwb.ca. Usually they receive applications for double the amount of money available, she noted, so the successful projects are generally pretty good. This is the fourth year of the grant program, which has given out $1.1 million for 59 projects. Dunbar said projects previously funded through the program have led to significant improvements in water conservation and water quality and have leveraged a substantial amount of external funding from senior governments and other donors. The deadline for application is Feb. 13, and must include the resolution of support from the local government body.

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Council dealing with less than rosy outlook

Penticton Western:

Facing one of the toughest budgets the City of Penticton has seen in a number of years, council made the right move on Monday when it brought out the axe. Or, in this case, the garden shears. The decision to trim the budget for hanging baskets in the city’s downtown was a necessary evil. While snipping $16,500 is just a drop in the bucket, the mood in council chambers these days is one that every little cut is going to help come budget time. Coun. Judy Sentes is correct in her assessment that Penticton is a tourist destination and keeping it beautified with flowers only adds to that ambience. With an economy based largely on tourism, making the downtown look appealing is important but, the time has come to start approaching things differently. Time to think outside of the box.

There is a slowdown worldwide and the legislation that was passed without a second thought, now needs to be scrutinized to ensure that it is getting the maximum benefit for the least amount of dollars. The city contract originally called for 115 hanging baskets ringing in at a cost of $33,000. That number translates to $286.95 per basket, which accounts for the growing, hanging and maintenance costs. Surely, there are other alternatives out there that are more affordable for the city while maintaining the appearance of the downtown area.

Even the Downtown Penticton Association agreed that considering the forecast for the economy the community cannot suffer for flowers. It is also understood by council and businesses that there is a value in keeping the city colourful. The last thing anyone wants is the impression of a cold welcome for visitors. Coun. Andrew Jakubeit, who remains president of the Downtown Penticton Association until the end of December, said that now is the time to look in other directions such as different vendors or smaller baskets. As budget talks begin to heat up, it can be expected that this cut will not be the deepest and the non-essential services will be the first to bleed.

Council tries to cut tax hike

By Mike Simmons - Salmon Arm Observer

After cutting wants and needs from departments across the city, Salmon Arm council voted to defer its decision on the 2009 budget until the new year. As it stands, the city budget would create a three per cent increase in general taxation. On top of that is the transportation parcel tax of $120 per parcel, doubled from $60 last year, and a two per cent increase in sewer user fees. A further addition is a 7.3 per cent increase in water user fees to pay for the new water treatment plant. For a resident owning what the city has designated as an average priced home in Salmon Arm valued at $297,875, the three per cent increase would amount to $34.91.The transportation parcel tax was created in 2003 to build funds for asphaltic overlays on the city road network. Water and sewer user fees would increase to $451.71 in 2009 for a resident who paid $433.85 in 2008, an increase of $18.77.

Primary items in the 2009 city budget responsible for the tax increase include wages, implementation of the pesticide bylaw and increases in policing costs. Wage increases added up to $261,905. The increase includes CUPE employees, as well as projected fire department salaries, with two years retroactive pay. The fire department contract is currently under negotiation. Another primary source of the increase is the implementation of the bylaw banning cosmetic pesticide use on public property. Increases to parks, transportation and bylaw enforcement budgets related to the bylaw originally totalled $302,790. Council has reduced this to $162,790 so far. Policing cost increases are due to the addition of a half-time clerical position at $34,000, six months allocation for a 19th constable at $63,235 and a cost increase from the RCMP E Division at $67,582. Shuswap Greenways was included in the new budget. Council approved $45,000 for development, signage, construction and planning of the city’s greenways network. Removal of asbestos from a storage room at Memorial Arena was also approved, after it was determined the water shutoff for the building is situated in the room.

Mayor Marty Bootsma said the budget is a little tougher this year because of the economy. “Everybody always says it isn’t going to be easy, but in nine years I’ve never heard anyone say it is going to be easy.” Bootsma pointed out there are still demands to be met, and making further reductions will be difficult unless council wants to sacrifice more services. He noted a big part of the increase is the asphaltic overlay program for city roads. “If we don’t spend the money now, it’s going to cost us a whole lot more later.” Bootsma said the pesticide initiative is proving to be quite expensive. “I think we’re going to have to have a good hard look at our practices.” He said he would consider bringing forward some minor changes to the bylaw in the new year, allowing spot spraying of sidewalks and hard surfaces. He pointed out allowing weeds to deteriorate hard surfaces leads to hidden expenses such as long-term maintenance costs.

Coun. Kevin Flynn later moved to defer the budget decision, due to the tax reduction not being as much as he would like, and Coun. Ken Jamieson’s absence. “I still feel it should be something that all councillors vote on.” Newly elected Jamieson was present for the first day of the budget deliberations, but left at noon on the second day, Dec. 11. Flynn said the three per cent general increase was not as low as he wanted to go. He pegged the cumulative increases at closer overall to seven per cent. “I would like to have some more time to look at where we have cut.” Jamieson said he is not expecting the budget to change substantially in the new year. He said any politician would like to see the tax rate further reduced, but it is important the city does its best to maintain services. He pointed out there is little council can do to affect policing costs or wage settlements, and some services just have to get done. “A good part of the increase is due to forces we have little control in.” Regarding his early departure, Jamieson said council got a good amount of the work done, and the deferment allowed time for further consideration of the budget.“It is a process that doesn’t have to be done in a short period of time.”

Coun. Alan Harrison said deferment would give council a little more time to reflect. “Where we’re at, I think it would not be really accurate to say we have a three per cent tax increase.” Harrison pointed out accumulated increases would add up to an approximate eight per cent increase on residential tax bills. “We need to be up front with residents when they ask us.”Coun. Chad Eliason said this year’s budget process involved much cutting from all departments, but he felt people would be happy with the results. Coun. Debbie Cannon said council did not want to come back with a huge tax increase. She said she didn’t feel council could move the budget forward without Jamieson, or without more time to consider. Cannon said the amounts budgeted for implementation of the pesticide bylaw were a little overdone, including $35,000 for a pickup truck that would be used for multiple purposes. “I really felt in the budget process that there were a lot of expenses that were tagged because of the pesticide bylaw.”

Coun. Ivan Idzan said he knew some councillors would prefer to further reduce the increase to 2.5 per cent. He added he doesn’t know where the reduction would come from, as council has already reduced the budget well beyond what staff recommended to meet the city’s operational needs. Deliberations on the budget will resume Jan. 12 at the first council meeting of 2009.

Wasted no longer

By Cat George - Peninsula News Review Published: December 23, 2008

Wastewater energy captured to heat local institutions. Effluent in, heat out: that’ll be the new equation at the Saanich Peninsula Wastewater Treatment Plant, as $2.98-million in funding from the federal Gas Tax Fund will allow the plant to build an energy recovery system that will capture thermal energy from the effluent. The thermal energy will then be passed down the line to provide hot water and space heating, not only at the treatment centre itself, but at a number of surrounding institutions. “This is truly a remarkable project,” said Gary Lunn, MP for Saanich-Gulf Islands. “It’s one that I’m quite passionate about.” Lunn, who returned from duties in Ottawa to make the funding announcement, joked that “the only way they let me come home is if I have to make an announcement.” The gas tax fund, with funds distributed in a partnership between the federal government, provincial government, and the Union of BC Municipalities, targets infrastructure projects that can provide cleaner water, air, or reduced greenhouse gas emissions for a community. The wastewater energy recovery system will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by tapping an alternate source of energy for four facilities: the treatment plant, Panorama Recreation Centre, the Centre for Plant Health, and the new Kelset school.

The project will be on the cutting edge of waste recovery technology as up until now the maximum distance from the heat recovery source to end users has been 500 metres. This project will take that to 600 metres. Transmission pipes will be sized to enable maximum energy capture from the effluent, which will allow for future energy users to be added on, and there will also be a micro-turbine installed at the wastewater treatment plant outfall to generate electricity. “This kind of technology is drawing praise around the world,” said Lunn, who is currently Minister for Sport. “We’re using the same technology to heat the athletes’ village for the 2010 Olympics.” Lunn referred to the current economic situation and the necessity for forward-thinking infrastructure projects. “We’re in pretty tough economic times, we’re seeing belt-tightening,” he said. “When we do innovative projects like this, it’s wonderful.” Ida Chong, MLA for Oak Bay-Gordon Head, was also on hand for the announcement, noting that Saanich North and the Islands MLA Murray Coell was out of town. “It’s important that we find ways to take waste and turn it into a resource,” she said, adding that she has visited many wastewater facilities and knows the impact a project like this can have. “When you get state of the art technology, people will come out to look at that,” she said. “It will free up dollars for other operating expenses.”

Oak Bay mayor Chris Causton was at the announcement as well, in his role as a Union of BC Municipalities executive member. UBCM administers the gas tax fund in BC, in collaboration with both the federal and provincial governments. “This is deja vu,” Causton said. “I opened this place in February 2000, as chair of the CRD board.” He mentioned that at the time, there were a lot of odour problems with the plant that have since, he said, been dealt with. “Congratulations to the staff and the CRD for managing that.” He added that this was the third gas tax funded-project in the CRD (the first two were the E&N Rail Trail and the CRD’s fleet expansion for BC Transit) and that he hoped to see more in the future. Construction on the project is expected to begin in the spring of 2009.

U.S. NATIONAL DEBT CLOCK

The Outstanding Public Debt as of 23 Dec 2008 at 08:19:07 PM GMT is:

The estimated population of the United States is 305,328,528
so each citizen's share of this debt is $34,756.49.

The National Debt has continued to increase an average of
$3.55 billion per day since September 28, 2007!

Cash, drugs & weapons seized

Castanet: Dec 22, 2008 / 1:00 pm

RCMP in Vernon seized large quantities of drugs, cash, weapons and stolen property following a raid Friday on a home in the 6500 block of Longacre Drive. Police spokesman, Gord Molendyk, says the raid followed several weeks of investigation into the activities of local individuals that were involved in the trafficking of controlled substances. "Police took 6 people into custody and assisted the Ministry of Children and families with the apprehension of an 18-month-old child that was also in the residence," says Molendyk. "Inside the residence Police located approximately 7 ounces of heroin, 8 ounces of crack cocaine and approximately $30,000 cash." Molendyk says stolen stereo equipment, and weapons including compound bows and simulated handguns.

"A seizure of this size is expected to have a significant impact on the availability of drugs in the local market. The heroin seizure is believed to be the largest heroin seizure on record in the Vernon area. This would work out to approx 2000 street purchases of Heroin and 1000 purchases of cocaine." Further charges are expected to be laid.
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RCMP News Release: 2008-12-22 13:23 PST
On Friday December 19, 2008, Members of the Vernon RCMP seized a large sum of cash, several ounces of heroin and cocaine as well as weapons and stolen property from an address in the 6500 block of Longacre Drive in Vernon. After weeks of investigation into the activities of local individuals that were involved in the trafficking of controlled substances, the file culminated in the execution of a search warrant on Long Acre Drive. Police took 6 persons into custody and assisted the Ministry of Children and families with the apprehension of an 18 month old child that was also in the residence.

Inside the residence Police located approximately 7 ounces of heroin, 8 ounces of crack cocaine and approximately $30,000 cash. In addition police recovered stolen stereo equipment, and weapons including compound bows and simulated handguns. A seizure of this size is expected to have a significant impact on the availability of drugs in the local market. The heroin seizure is believed to be the largest heroin seizure on record in the Vernon area. This would work out to approx 2000 street purchases of Heroin and 1000 purchases for cocaine.

Police are continuing their investigation in to the drugs, weapons and property seized from the dwelling, and are expecting to lay further drug related charges in the near future. The two people one male 26 and a female 18 were taken before the Justice of the peace and were released to appear at a future date.

Wallin, Duffy among 18 named to fill Senate seats

CBC NEWS:
Prime Minister Stephen Harper named 18 people to the Senate on Monday, filling all the vacancies in an effort to balance out the Liberal-dominated chamber before the possibility of an election in the new year. Among those appointed to regionally distributed seats in the upper house were former broadcaster Pamela Wallin (Sask.), Olympian Nancy Greene Raine (B.C.) and CTV personality Mike Duffy (P.E.I.).

Others named:

• Former MP Fabian Manning (N.L.).
• Lawyer Fred Dickson (N.S.).
• Stephen Greene, former deputy chief of staff to N.S. Premier Rodney MacDonald (N.S.).
• N.S. businessman Michael L. MacDonald (N.S.).
• Long-time New Brunswick MLA and cabinet minister Percy Mockler (N.B.).
• Lawyer John D. Wallace (N.B.).
• National chief of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples Patrick Brazeau (Que.).
• Former MP and teacher Suzanne Fortin-Duplessis (Que.).
• Director of Via Rail Canada Leo Housakos (Que.).
• Former Quebec MNA Michel Rivard (Que.).
• Nicole Eaton, member of the prominent Eaton family (Ont.).
• Businessman Irving Gerstein (Ont.).
• Co-founder of the Corean Canadian Coactive (C3) society Yonah Martin (B.C.).
• Provincial cabinet minister Richard Neufeld (B.C.).
• Former Yukon MLA Hector Daniel Lang (Yukon).

Esplanade cash granted

By Willa Condy - Trail-Rossland News

A $165,000 grant towards the Esplanade project including the overlook viewing deck seating area is appreciated by Trail — even if the project was already done by the city. “It is kind of unique, they are actually giving us the funds after the project is completed, which is particularly sweet,” said Mayor Dieter Bogs after Monday’s council meeting. Bogs credits Tom Christensen, minister of children and family development for taking up the issue of the B.C. Spirit Squares program after coming through the area and hearing what the city had done on the project. “A lot of it was due to his background work,” said Bogs. The B.C. Spirit Squares program is helping to create or improve outdoor public meeting spaces in recognition of B.C. 150, the 150th anniversary of the founding of B.C.

City plants seeds for the future

December 20, 2008 Penticton Western:

Penticton city council has agreed to commit $51,500 in funds towards the Trees for Tomorrow program. If the city’s grant application is accepted, they will receive matching funds from the province. “The project looks great and something we really need in this community because we have signed on as partners in the climate action charter,” said Coun. Garry Litke. “Our goal is to achieve carbon neutrality by 2012 and this will help. Of course there is a financial incentive and that is the return of our carbon tax over the next number of years which could be significant if we achieve that goal.” The Trees for Tomorrow program is a provincial government initiative with a goal of planting four million trees in B.C. as part of a five-year action plan to reduce greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, beautify communities and make our cities greener and healthier. The program in Penticton will promote the province’s objectives, support the B.C. Climate Action Charter (signed by the City of Penticton), reduce the effects of the mountain pine beetle, replace trees lost during the severe wind storms of recent years and enhance the city.

This project will put 290 trees in parks, along boulevards, trail corridors, in the SOEC parking lot and within natural greenbelts. The total cost of Penticton’s program is $101,500. The grant will contribute 50 per cent of the cost of the program, up to a maximum of $50,000 to plant a mixture of ornamental trees and native species such as ponderosa pines. Coun. Mike Pearce challenged city staff to find ways to compensate that money through programs such as birth forests, where citizens can purchase a tree in honour of a newborn child. This would only be the first phase of the Trees for Tomorrow program. It is expected the community will be involved in the tree planting program through school participation, Earth Day, Arbour Day festivities and service club participation.

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http://www.treesfortomorrow.gov.bc.ca/

Projects selected for funding must meet the following criteria:

• ecologically sound project and site plan;
• volunteer and community engagement;
• partnered funding;
• linkages with other provincial government initiatives; and
• stewardship, monitoring and long-term sustainability plans.

The first application intake deadline is January 16, 2009.

Customers claim Ticketmaster is ’scalping‘ Bryan Adams concert fans

Elisha Dacey 2008-12-21 Kelowna Courier:

When Mike Oughtred tried to buy tickets at Ticketmaster.ca to the upcoming Bryan Adams concert at the Kelowna Community Theatre, he clicked on the “Tickets Now” box when he discovered it was sold out. What he found there were two dozen more tickets for sale – all at more than twice the $125 original ticket price and some at more than four times the original price. “I thought, what the hell is that,” said Oughtred, who is the sales manager at Kelowna Nissan. Ticketsnow.ticketmaster.com is a Ticketmaster-owned website that resells premium tickets at a premium price. Oughtred calls it scalping. “It‘s like they‘re making tickets deliberately more. If Ticketmaster wanted to sell the tickets at $450, then they should sell the tickets at $450. Of course, no one would buy them.”

The Bryan Adams concert, to be held Feb. 9, sold out in less than two minutes. As of 2 p.m. on Friday afternoon, there were 24 tickets available for the show through TicketsNow.com. Tickets ranged in price from $299 to $525 and were scattered throughout the venue. Amy Coburn also tried and failed to buy tickets for herself and her friend online. “It‘s scalping, pure and simple,” said the 41-year-old real estate agent. “It‘s one thing for other companies or people to buy tickets and sell them online, because then everyone gets a fair chance to get their hands on the tickets. “But when you control the tickets, it‘s really unfair to hold some back and then sell them for three times the price. That‘s disgusting and it should be illegal.” Oughtred said the Bryan Adams tickets for sale at TicketsNow must have come straight from Ticketmaster, as they were on the resell website “two minutes after the tickets went on sale.”

Albert Lopez, spokesperson for Ticketmaster, said Ticketmaster does own the website, but is not doing anything illegal, nor is the company holding tickets back to sell at a higher price. “It‘s a bit of a misconception,” said Lopez. “We run the site, but all of the tickets are being sold by licensed brokers. We absolutely do not hold tickets back. We are under a contract agreement with the artist to sell the tickets at a certain price. “What Ticketsnow.com does do is offer customers a safe, guaranteed place to purchase resell tickets,” added Lopez, who used the example of 14 people in Vancouver being sold counterfeit tickets to the recent AC/DC concert on free classified website Craigslist. Lopez said ticket resells are not illegal, and said the website is able to handle 140,000 ticket transactions an hour, which is why resell tickets went up to the site so quickly after the Kelowna concert sold out. Coburn said she doesn‘t like the practice and thinks Ticketmaster shouldn‘t be in a position to allow people to resell their own tickets.“I guess there‘s a market for it, but it still makes me upset. I think Ticketmaster should sell its tickets once and then stay out of it.”

Coldstream firefighter back in the ranks

By Jennifer Smith - Vernon Morning Star Published: December 19, 2008

Christmas has come early at the Coldstream Fire Department. The firefighter’s former chief and comrade, Leo Lecavalier, has been invited back to the department as a volunteer member. “I can re-join the fire department,” said Lecavalier, who was dismissed by the former Coldstream council Aug. 1. The new council, under the leadership of Mayor Jim Garlick, has unanimously voted to invite Lecavalier back as a member. That decision came on the same night the new council voted to dismiss Wendy Kay, chief administrative officer. Garlick says there is no relation between the two, at least none that he can talk about. “It was something we were moving towards on anyway,” said Garlick, who personally delivered a letter to Lecavalier with the news.

Lecavalier’s return may also evolve into a return to his former position after the fire hall’s annual general meeting, which includes the chief election, Jan. 9. “This gives the members an opportunity to, if I run, re-elect me,” said Lecavalier. “Right now, I’m planning on putting my name back in. “I think I owe that to the community and the members.” Lecavalier says the news has been greeted warmly by the firefighters. “The guys were just itching for me to come back.” Deputy chief Lawrie Skolrood, who has been acting as chief during Lecavalier’s time away, says his return is unquestionably good news. “There definitely was some jubilation, for sure,” said Skolrood, of the members’ reaction. “Everybody’s pleased that it is resolved. “It’s a start, for sure.”

Both Garlick and Lecavalier agree that the next step is to work on council’s relationship with the fire department. “There’s a lot of things that have to be resolved and worked out,” said Lecavalier. “You can’t do this to volunteers, treat them like this.” He said a priority is looking at the future structure of the fire hall and maintaining a volunteer fire department as long as possible. While he is optimistic about the future, Lecavalier is disappointed with the events of the situation. “It’s sad that there’s been so many people hurt though this,” said Lecavalier, thanking the community, the firefighters, their families and his own family for all their support. “If there’s a lesson for anybody here...treat people a little more respectfully.”

Coldstream resolutions declassified

COLDSTREAMER:
Declassified Motion from Confidential to Non-Confidential
At their Regular Meeting held December 17, 2008, Council discussed the above and adopted the following Resolutions:

1. “THAT Leo Lecavalier be allowed to join the Coldstream Fire Department if he wishes.”
2. “THAT Mayor Garlick be directed to send a letter to Leo Lecavalier informing Leo Lecavalier of Council’s Resolution, with a copy of the letter to be sent to Coldstream and Lavington Fire Departments.”
-------------------------------------------------------

Apparently, Mr Lecavalier has since rejoined the Coldstream Fire Department.

-------------------------------
Lady let go CHBC VIDEO
Web posted on Friday, 19 December 2008

Coldstream officials are keeping very quiet about the firing of the district's administrator.

Penticton taxpayers get break on sewage plant upgrade

12/20/2008 Penticton Herald
A $30-million upgrade to Penticton‘s sewage treatment plant has gained a $10.3-million boost from federal gas tax revenues. Pointing to the project‘s green technologies in capturing methane to produce power for the plant and using heat energy for nearby commercial operations and industries, Okanagan-Coquihalla MP Stockwell Day announced the funding allocation Friday. “This has a reducing effect related to greenhouse (gas emissions) and other areas of economic sustainability,” he said. “We‘re just very pleased to be a part of it.” Also on hand at the city‘s waste water treatment plant were Penticton Mayor Dan Ashton, Chief Jonathan Kruger of the Penticton Indian band, Penticton-Okanagan Valley MLA Bill Barisoff and Robert Hobson of Kelowna, president of the Union of B.C. Municipalities.

Ottawa is also contributing $2.48 million in gas tax revenues to the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen for 18 projects related to infrastructure, planning, environmental sustainability and other community enhancements. Penticton will receive $592,000 of this funding to retrofit the Penticton Community Centre to improve energy efficiency. Summerland will receive $178,000 for a lakeshore walkway and $94,000 for bus shelters and roadway pullouts. The expansion of the sewage treatment plant also allows for the extension of sewer service to Penticton Indian band lands along the west side of the Okanagan River Channel. Kruger applauded the funding allocation, noting it will play a significant role in the band‘s economic development plans. “When you get into economic development, you need sewer, water – all that infrastructure,” he said. “Every community that I have talked to says in order to be successful, you have to have the infrastructure. That‘s the bottom line.”

Ashton described the funding announcement for the sewer system as a “very exciting moment” for the city. “It will alleviate some of the fears that council had about some of the (sewer rate) increases that they may have had to look at,” he said. Last March, Penticton council approved borrowing the first $15 million for the project, which will be funded through an average $72-per-household increase in sewer rates. However, the $10.3-million grant means the city will likely not have to borrow a further $9.6 million that was approved by council in September. “We know infrastructure improvements are required, and we‘re grateful and extremely excited that the federal government and the province are listening,” Ashton said. Day noted the funding represents part of more than $1 billion in gas tax revenues to be distributed this year. By 2013, that allocation is expected to grow to more than $2 billion a year. “The government of Canada recognizes that stable, reliable infrastructure funding delivered at an accelerated rate will help our economy and improve communities across the country,” he said. Day said although times are tough during the current economic downturn, the economy is cyclical in nature and he fully expects it to rebound in the future. Although the gas tax is federal revenue, the provincial Ministry of Community Development determines which projects are allocated funding, which is then administered by the UBCM. Final design work on the Penticton sewage treatment plant upgrade is underway, with construction due to begin next June and be completed by 2010.

Few details on departure

Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: December 19, 2008 4:00 PM

The historic O’Keefe Ranch is facing more uncertainty. There is currently no management at the City of Vernon-owned attraction at the same time that a financial shortfall exists and plans for an RV park are in doubt. “Tom Danyk is no longer the ranch manager as of last Wednesday at noon,” said Rod Drennan, president of the O’Keefe Ranch and Interior Heritage Society, which runs the site. Drennan would not say if Danyk’s departure was his decision or that of the board’s, and he would not comment on whether Danyk’s contract had not been renewed. Danyk, who had been manager since 2004, would not comment on the situation.

While the city is the owner of the ranch, any actions involving Danyk’s departure were taken by the society board. However, Mayor Wayne Lippert has been made aware of the board’s decision. “The board is having to make some tough decisions and they need some direction on where to go to make the ranch self-sufficient,” said Lippert. “Tom Danyk has done a good job but there’s recognition that they need to go in a new direction.” It’s not been determined how the society will handle the vacant position of manager. “The board will review the situation very early in the new year,” said Drennan, adding that there are presently no pressing matters that require a new manager immediately.“We are now in a period of closure until the end of April.”

Council setting early agenda

EDITORIAL Morning Star Dec19 :

Coldstream's new council isn't wasting any time when it comes to setting a course completely different than its predecessor. In just one day, it issued walking papers to chief administrator Wendy Kay and reinstated Leo Lecavalier, who had been removed as a member of the volunteer fire department by the previous council. These actions will appeal to those Coldstream residents who had been demanding a change in how the municipality operates. And particularly, those who gave an overwhelming mandate to Jim Garlick as mayor won't believe their vote went to waste. But there has to be more to these decisions than capturing headlines or pandering to supporters.

Simply reinstating Lecavalier isn't enough to repair the poor relationship between the district and the fire hall. Measures must be put in place to ensure that the municipality can't just overrule the wishes of the volunteers when it comes to their membership and who their chief is. In terms of the other issue, council must understand that a community of almost 10,000 people and an organization as complex as a municipality requires a chief administrative officer. Delegating duties long-term to other employees will neither be effective or realistic. It should also be pointed out that individuals with local government experience are in high demand and short supply. Just finding the right fit for Coldstream will be a challenge. In some ways, the two decisions made by Coldstream council last week were not unexpected. What will be more difficult is how the politicians move ahead from here.

Waste problem not wanted in district

By Jennifer Smith - Vernon Morning Star Published: December 19, 2008 4:00 PM

Coldstream feels Vernon is dumping their poopy problems on them. The City of Vernon will be trucking three to four loads of sewer biosolids a week to the landfill. The material is generally taken to the Ogogrow fertilizer plant in the Commonage but the city is trying to reduce production there to get a handle on an odour problem. “All it is doing is moving the problem closer to Coldstream,” said Coun. Doug Dirk. A better solution, he says, is the fertilizer plant needs to be built with an increased capacity so it can handle the loads from Vernon and Kelowna (both of which own the facility). “I don’t think that plant has ever worked the way it was supposed to,” said Coun. Pat Cochrane, who is familiar with the situation as a former Vernon councillor.

Approval of dumping biosolids at the landfill is still needed from the Ministry of Environment, and the North Okanagan Regional District is insisting other alternatives to dumping be the material be researched. It was also suggested that since 70 per cent of the waste from the biosolids facility comes Kelowna, that they be the ones to take the sludge.

Bad behaviour leads to minimum drink prices in N.S.

CTV HALIFAX -- The Nova Scotia government is setting the minimum price that can be charged for alcoholic drinks by bars. Workforce Development Minister Mark Parent says the increase is aimed at encouraging people to drink responsibly after it held consultations across the province. "The response from civic leaders, health experts and bar owners, to name but a few, has been clear," said Parent. Taverns, bars and lounges can no longer sell beer or alcohol for less than $2.50 per serving, which is considered to be 12 ounces of beer, five ounces of wine or one ounce of spirits. Minimum drink prices have been a source of controversy in the province since several people were arrested last December after a brawl outside a Halifax night club. The minimum price went into effect immediately when it was announced on Friday. Earlier this month, 10 doctors at Dalhousie University Health called for a minimum drink price of $2.50 or $3 because of problems they saw as a result of the over consumption of alcohol on campus. And municipal councillors in the university town of Antigonish called for minimum drink prices. Antigonish Mayor Carl Chisholm said council was worried that bargain beverages could lead to vandalism and fighting, or harm university students who might overindulge.

Kay Fired

Kate Bouey - Vernon 105.7 SUN FM

Coldstream's Chief Administrative Officer Wendy Kay is speaking to her lawyer after being turfed from her job at the district. A terse press release issued by the mayor wishes Kay well. Kay told Sun FM that she had not been officially told she'd lost her job. Mayor Jim Garlick admits the circumstances are not the best. Garlick said the dismissal was not ``completely'' linked to the controversy over ex fire chief Leo Lecavalier but the Mayor indicated that efforts would be made to reinstate him. Kay was put on leave by Coldsteam council on Monday. She'd been employed by the District for 15 years.

November inflation dips to 2 per cent

CBC News:

Canada's inflation rate tumbled to two per cent in November as recession-ravaged businesses cut prices to keep customers coming, Statistics Canada reported Friday. The national consumer price index increase dropped to 2.0 per cent in the month compared with October's 2.6 per cent figure. November's reading represented an even larger drop compared with the September CPI of 3.4 per cent. "The slowdown in November was due primarily to gasoline prices, which were 14.4 per cent below November 2007 levels, and far offset increases for food and shelter items," said Statistics Canada in a press release announcing the November numbers.

Early morning fire at Tolko (KELOWNA)

Glen Morrison - Power Dec 19, 2008 / 6:00 am CASTANET:

Tolko's Kelowna mill has substantial damage to one of it's dryer buildings after a fire early Friday morning. The fire started about 2:15. It took a little more than an hour to put out as it had worked it's way into massive wooden beams in the roof, leaving fire crews exposed to the wind off the lake in -15 degree Celsius weather.

Coldstream council cans administrator

By Jennifer Smith - Vernon Morning Star Published: December 18, 2008

A mere week before Christmas, Coldstream’s new council has axed a key component to the administrative workings of the community. “Wendy Kay is no longer working for the District of Coldstream,” said Mayor Jim Garlick. “It’s without cause,” he said of the reasoning. The decision to dismiss Kay, the chief administrative officer, was made at an in-camera council meeting Wednesday. That decision came after Kay was put on a paid leave, effective just a day before, on Tuesday. “We wish her well on her new endeavours,” said Garlick.

Kay has worked at the District of Coldstream for 15 years. She has held the CAO position since 2005, before which she was director of corporate administration. The timing of the decision is the most disappointing for Kay. “What are we, seven days away from Christmas,” said the mother of four kids. “I am a sole bread winner, my husband is retired.” Under her employment contract, Kay will receive a severance package but numbers are not yet known.

In 2007, Kay earned $104,729 and had expenses of $9,083 (which included a vehicle allowance). When the North Okanagan Regional District paid out severance to its former chief administrative officer Barry Gagnon, it was paid as a yearly salary of $167,547. He resigned in 2006 and payment continued to 2008. Despite the situation, Kay plans to take some time to spend with her family. “This is the first time in 12 years my kids have come home and I’ve been here,” she said. She is also optimistic about the future, saying: “Every door opens a new opportunity.” As for her old job, it is being worked on. “We’re working to deal with the position of CAO,” said Garlick, adding that there is a system for the interim where other employees will work collectively to pick up the slack. The decision to dismiss Kay was made by council, but Garlick cannot say which councillors voted for or against the dismissal. “That’s all in-camera.”

The chief administrative officer directs planning, co-ordination and control of all municipal operations in accordance with the objectives, policies and plans approved by council. The CAO reports directly to council and acts as their primary policy advisor.

107.5 KISSFM Poll (As at 8PM)

What sort of tax increase should Vernon council be striving for? [26 votes total] Zero (4) 15% 1 to 2 % (8) 31% Over 2 % (2) 8% Tax decrease (12) 46%

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Vernon Budget

Kate Bouey - Vernon Sun FM

Vernon City Council has begun to look at the city's 2009 spending plans. Mayor Wayne Lippert says a ``zero'' budget could be an option. Although property assessments have been frozen, Lippert says it could have a huge impact on whether a resident will pay higher taxes.Resident Al Gilder complained to city council yesterday about a possible tax hike for people in Okanagan Landing. Gilder says he was slapped with a 23-percent hike last year but things in his neighbourhood haven't changed for the better. Gilder says council has added services that people don't want. But another member of the public, Jim Bodkin, urged council to upgrade services and maximize casino revenue.

The RCMP will remain the biggest budget expenditure for the City of Vernon next year. Inspector Steve McVarnock urged council, at a meeting yesterday/Wednesday, to approve four unfunded constables, to help the police cope with its high number of calls. McVarnock says Vernon is understrength and needs more bodies out on the road. He says the Vernon detachment had 330 calls per constable in 2007, a caseload 1/3 higher than for police on the Lower Mainland.

Councillor Bob Spiers says one issue is the funds for fire rescue services which could be rolled into general taxation next year. Council's next budget meeting will take place January 7th.

Dec. 17 Special COW Meeting Agenda (Budget)

SPECIAL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
COUNCIL CHAMBERS WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17TH, 2008 9:00 AM

December 17, 2008

• Agenda - 210Kb
  Agenda Package - 1.41MB
  
• December 8 Agenda - 173Kb
  Agenda Package 1 - 202KB
  Agenda Package 2 - 103KB Manager, Finance Memo
  Agenda Package 3 - 8.97MB CAPITAL REOUESTS
  Agenda Package 4 - 3.72MB DIVISIONAL SUMMARIES
  Agenda Package 5 - 7.28MB SUPPLEMENTARY BUDGET REOUESTS
  

PUBLIC INPUT E.
Opportunity to be provided to the public to speak to the budget.

City turns down pay increase

By Francisco Canjura - Castlegar News Published: December 16, 2008

City council unanimously rejected a 2.07 per cent increase to their salary. Earlier this year, council approved the report of an independent committee that reviewed council indemnities. The committee recommended council indemnities not be adjusted beyond an amount equal to the percent increase in the B.C. consumer price index for the 12 month period ending October 31 of the previous year. Had council voted in favour of the 2.07 increase, they would have seen a slight increase in pay. The mayor would receive, in 2008, $22,848 up from what he will receive and has received in previous years $22, 446. Council would have received an extra $201 a year had they accepted the deal. Councillor Deb McIntosh said council felt that because of the current economic situation, it would not be appropriate for mayor and council to receive an increase. “We’re happy not to take the increase and hunker down like everyone else. “We thought that was the best thing to do at this point in time,” McIntosh said. She said although the increase was minimal, council thought that was the best decision to make.“Everyone else out there is hurting as well and we’re certainly willing to not take the increase and keep the money in general revenues to maybe offer people other grants,” McIntosh said. Councillor Kevin Chernoff said he also didn’t want to take the increase this year because of the current economic times. “The citizens are hurting. Our food banks are at record numbers this year, we have a lot of unemployment and I just don’t think it was right to increase that when we can probably use those funds in other places to help the community,” Chernoff said.

However, council did agree the exempt staff salary be adjusted to reflect a cost of living increase of 2.07 per cent effective January 1, 2009. They also agreed that the rates and stipends paid to Castlegar volunteer firefighters be increased by 2.07 per cent.

Signatures forged in alleged gas contracts scam

Updated: Tue Dec. 16 2008 15:17:57 The Canadian Press

TRAIL, B.C. -- The RCMP say several householders in Castlegar have complained about being fraudulently signed up for natural gas contracts. Police say the residents had their gas service switched from Terasen to a fixed-term contract with another supplier, apparently with the aid of forged signatures. Natural gas suppliers use independent agents or contractors to sell contracts to consumers. In this case, police say the scheme appears to have gone on without the knowledge of Terasen or the supplier.

Financial plan includes 4.5% tax hike (KELOWNA)

by Wayne Moore - Dec 16, 2008 CASTANET:

The average Kelowna homeowner could pay an additional $73 in municipal taxes in 2009. The tax impact is for the average Kelowna home valued at $495,000. That figure was part of the preliminary financial plan unveiled Monday by Kelowna Financial Director, Keith Grayston.

The financial plan includes an overall tax increase of 4.49 %, 1.79 % for the Mission Aquatic Centre and 2.7% for other budget impacts. The 2009 tax demand of $90.925 million is up more than $6.5 million from the 2008 tax demand of $84.4 million. The tax plan also includes an estimated $2.75 million in new construction revenues. Grayston says the new construction figures are based on initial estimates provided by BC Assessment. "We have since received subsequent information that indicates that level may be over stated," says Grayston. "We may be back with an adjustment at final budget once we have more details with lock in of the assessments. Apparently it has caused a bit of a change for the new construction revenues that we have." Grayston says the 2008 and 2009 tax demand has been adjusted slightly because library services have been taken out of the budget.

There will be a separate taxing requisition for those. While council won't begin debating the budget line by line until January 7, at least one councillor already thinks the increase is too high. "I'm having a little trouble with 4.49% in these economic times, so I guess we'll be looking at areas where we can make some changes to that," says Councillor, Andre Blanleil. "I understand we have the pool in there, but I think we need to do a little belt tightening and that's obviously something we'll deal with at budget time." In breaking down the figures, Grayson says the actual operating budget in 2009 is pegged at $81.3 million, an increase of $6 million over 2008, the capital program budget has increased from $20.7 million to $21.5 million. He adds general revenues, those revenues not associated with a particular department, increase by nearly $300,000 from $11.6 million to $11.9 million.

In 2008, council was presented with a budget increase of 6.48%. After lengthy deliberations, that number was eventually pared down to 5.66%.

City optimistic about $10m sewer grant (Penticton)

Penticton Herald Staff Tuesday, December 16, 2008

The City of Penticton is eyeing a possible $10-million senior government grant for the upcoming $30-million sewage treatment plant expansion. Mitch Moroziuk, the city‘s director of engineering and development services, told city council Monday an announcement on the city‘s application is expected by the end of December. “We have been receiving successful consideration to date and there is an expected announcement by the end of the year,” he said.
The city has applied for funding under the Gas Tax and Innovation Strategies program through the Union of B.C. Municipalities. An earlier application for two-thirds federal-provincial funding under the Canada-B.C. municipal infrastructure program was rejected in April. However, Penticton did secure a $10,000 grant for an energy recovery study.

Last March, council approved borrowing the first $15 million for the project, which will be funded through an average $72 per household increase in sewer rates. City treasurer Doug Leahy said if the $10 million grant is received, the city will likely not have to borrow a further $9.6 million which was approved by council in September. Meanwhile, council voted unanimously Monday to award an $879,000 contract (including provincial sales tax) to Aqua-Aerobic Systems Inc. to supply effluent filters for the plant. The Illinois-based company had submitted the lower of two tenders received. The city had budgeted $1.2 million for the equipment. Detail design work on the project is now underway, with construction due to begin next June and be completed by 2010. Moroziuk said the upgrade will replace existing equipment in risk of wearing out and include upgrades to greener technology. In addition to the $21-million upgrade of the 27-year-old plant, project funding includes $6 million for a lift station, mains and effluent lines in the south end of Penticton. The city earlier this year reached an agreement with the Penticton Indian Band to extend sewer service to band lands on the west side of the Okanagan River Channel. The band will contribute capital and operating funds for the project.

Cache Creek councillor invited back to SILGA

Published: December 15, 2008 Ash- Cache Journal :

Cache Creek Councillor Ida Makaro has been re-appointed to the Board of Directors for the Southern Interior Local Government Association (SILGA) to fill one of the vacancies created following the recent municipal elections. Makaro is a life member who served on the executive of SILGA (formerly known as the Okanagan Mainline Municipal Association, OMMA) for the past 10 years, as president from 2000 to 2002 and as then as past president and nomination committee chair until May of last year. SILGA, whose membership is comprised of municipalities and regional governments of the South, Central and North Okanagan from Osoyoos to Revelstoke, including Kamloops and the local governments within the Gold Country area, is one of six area associations under the wing of the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM).

There were six vacancies created after the recent civic elections (Nov. 15) on the 11 member board of SILGA, two of which were by directors who did not seek office in the election and the other four were failed candidates. One of the positions vacated was that of president which had been filled by former Ashcroft councillor, Jackie Tegart and is now filled by Coun. Kevin Flynn of Salmon Arm. In addition to Makaro, the other five who were selected to serve until the AGM is held in Osoyoos in late April 2009, includes Mayor Wayne Lippert of Vernon, Coun. Ryan Nitchie of Armstrong, Coun. Bert Walker of Clearwater, Coun. Brian Given of Kelowna and Mayor Stu Wells of Osoyoos. The remaining incumbent board members include Coun. Pat Wallace of Kamloops, Coun. Harry Kroeker of Merritt, Coun. Noreen Guenther of Lake Country and past president, Director Rhona Martin of the Columbia Shuswap Regional District.

The newly formed executive will be meeting in Kamloops on Jan. 14, 2009.

City budget process starts soon

by Kim Calloway - Power Castanet:

Dec 14, 2008 Kelowna's new city council starts tackling the 2009 budget Monday, December 15. With four new councilors on board, Mayor Sharon Shepherd agrees there will be a steep learning curve, but she's told the newcomers they shouldn't be afraid to ask questions. Monday, city staff will publicly unveil their spending plans and revenue projections for the coming new year. They'll also project a proposed percentage-increase on property taxes to make the budget balance.

On January 7, council will go through big binders of documents page by page, setting the 2009 budget and trying to keep a lid on property tax increases.

Spending approved for new cop shop

by Wayne Moore -Dec 14, 2008 CASTANET:
The District of Westside has taken over borrowing authority for the much delayed RCMP Detachment. Council approved borrowing more than $8.2 million from the Municipal Finance Authority of British Columbia as part of the 2009 spring issue. The amount authorized through an Alternative Approval Process put forward by the Regional District in July 2006, is $8,260,859. RCMP had hoped to be in the new 16,000 square foot detachment a year ago, however, the project has been delayed numerous times as plans were scaled back and costs began to escalate. In November, Westside Council decided to re-tender the project after costs jumped nearly $1.2 million to $9.4 million. The re-tendering is underway, and Mayor Doug Findlater says early indications are tenders costs are coming down. "Six months ago, there was a lot less interest in the project. We have lots of interest now," says Findlater. "With interest comes competition which seems to be driving the price down." Findlater says if tenders are less, then the municipality will be able to borrow less. Council is hoping to have the tenders awarded in time for construction to begin in the spring. It's anticipated construction will take about 14 months.

Planned Mountie pay increases rolled back

CTV News Centre:

The government is rolling back planned pay increases for members of the RCMP by 0.5 per cent over the next two years, CTV News has learned. The Mounties were expecting pay increases of 2 per cent in 2009 and 2010 as well as a 1.5 per cent market adjustment in 2009. Instead the pay increases are being decreased to 1.5 per cent and there will be no market adjustment. Commissioner William Elliott broke the news to the force members in an email sent Friday afternoon. "We have now been advised that on December 11, 2008, (the) Treasury Board modified its previous decision dated June 19, 2008, on RCMP member's compensation by amending the rates of pay for the second and third years of the most recent three-year compensation arrangement to limit the previously approved increase to 1.5 per cent," Elliott wrote."I know you will be disappointed at this development."

Sources told CTV that cabinet was not informed of the Treasury Board decision. The Conservatives are worried that the decision could blow back on them since many police officers are believed to be Tory supporters. Under Canadian law the RCMP cannot engage in collective bargaining and pay is determined by the Treasury Board. According to the RCMP website, a constable with three-years experience is paid $74,539 a year.The force is planning to hire 1,700 new cadets each year for the next few years as many officers are hitting retirement age. In June, Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced that RCMP cadets would start being paid for their 24 weeks of training in an effort to entice recruits.

Rally For Water Protection

Starlee Speers-Vernon 107.5 SUNFM:

A snowfall warning didn't seem to dilute the turnout for a rally calling for better water protection in the North Okanagan. Forty people braved the weather in Vernon on Friday to send a message to governments to take full responsibility for water quality. The concern is that effluent is being dumped at the headwaters of Coldstream and Vance creeks at Silver Star Provincial Park, which then flow into Kalamalka Lake. Okanagan-Shuswap Green party candidate Huguette Allen says the group is urging government to stop putting things in the water supply that can't be removed.

More information can be found at www.savesilverstarpark.org

Parks proposal panned

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: December 12, 2008

Politicians are not willing to revisit controversial plans for sports facilities on a chunk of Coldstream farm land. The Greater Vernon Advisory Committee will not take action on a suggestion from businessman Jack Borden to reconsider recreational activities on part of the Coldstream Ranch on Aberdeen Road if agricultural uses are included. “I was laughing about it,” said Gyula Kiss, Coldstream’s alternate director, when asked for his view on Borden’s concept. Late last year, GVAC proposed purchasing 118 acres of land from Coldstream Ranch for a sports complex. However, a majority of Coldstream residents voted against forwarding an application for non-farm use on the property to the Agricultural Land Commission. And Kiss is convinced that public opinion hasn’t changed. “It was a clear message from the community that they want it retained in one piece for agriculture,” he said.

As part of his proposal, Borden says 25 per cent of the property could be dedicated for intensive agriculture. “Community groups could form an association for community involvement to garden on the dedicated land,” he wrote in a letter to GVAC. “GVAC could consider a broader term of reference for recreation and use this dedicated land for recreational purposes for seniors and families where their recreation is gardening.” Borden insists this concept would increase agricultural production on the land, beautify the property and the ALC would likely support the initiative. “(It would) provide the seniors in our community with more opportunities to recreate and gain benefit from the taxes they pay for Greater Vernon parks. Remember that not many seniors — plus 65 — are playing baseball or football,” he said. “Please give these ideas some consideration. The deal is not dead. Nothing is over until it is over.”But that isn’t the view of GVAC’s chairman, pointing out that Borden’s letter was received and filed with no debate. “If members of the committee want to reconsider it (Aberdeen Road), they can bring it forward, but there are other parks plans we’re looking at,” said Wayne Lippert.

Public welcome to offer budget input

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: December 12, 2008

Vernonites are being encouraged to take an active role in the city’s budget process. Council will hold a special meeting Wednesday from 9 a.m. until noon at city hall to work on the 2009 budget, and the session will include a chance for residents to provide input. “People always talk about taxes and what’s going on. We want people to play more of a part in the process and to understand the process a bit more,” said Mayor Wayne Lippert. A draft budget recently put before council suggested a 2.5 per cent residential tax increase, but Lippert says that’s not written in stone. “It’s just a starting point where staff have looked at the numbers,” he said. “Council will make those decisions during the process. At the end of the day, we will do whatever is needed to serve the needs of the community.” Establishing a budget is providing a steep learning curve for new members of council. “I have some questions around things that I have experience with such as tourism and economic development, but with other areas like road repair, I’m looking at it for the first time in my life,” said Coun. Mary-Jo O’Keefe. Until she gets more information, O’Keefe says it is premature to speculate on what form of tax increase, if any, she would prefer.

It’s anticipated that there will be another public input session at the end of January and the 2009 budget will be adopted in March.

Slot limits back on the table

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: December 12, 2008

A politician is pushing to overturn a controversial restriction on the number of slot machines in Vernon. Coun. Jack Gilroy plans to ask his colleagues in January to reconsider a decision made by the former council in September to set a limit of 300 slot machines in the community, 100 less than was sought by Lake City Casinos. “The difference (between 300 and 400 machines) is about $300,000 that goes to the city,” said Gilroy, referring to provincial rules that provide casino revenue to municipalities. He believes $300,000 translates into about a two per cent increase in taxes, so more slot machines would benefit residents. “Council should be looking at it with the way the economy and financing is. We could do a lot with that money,” he said. Some former members of council wanted a limit on slot machines as a way of getting Lake City Casinos to provide assistance for a social responsibility fund and there was also a concern about gambling addiction. Gilroy says he’s also concerned about the impact of problem gambling on families and individuals, but he’s not convinced 100 more machines will make the situation worse. “Problem gamblers are going to gamble whether there are 300 or 400 machines,” he said. “We are a leader with social issues and that all comes from gaming funds. Why would you cut off the hand that allows you to do the things that we do in the community?”

City officials have previously stated that even with the bylaw limiting slot machines to 300, Lake City Casino can still have 400 machines at its Anderson Way location because they were shown in designs submitted to the city. But the business would be legally non-conforming under bylaw, and the B.C. Lottery Corporation — which owns the machines — has stated it doesn’t prefer that option.As a private citizen, Bob Spiers raised questions about an expanded casino, and now as a councillor, he isn’t sure if the city should look at reversing the restriction of 300 machines. “I supported the original thought (bylaw) and there’s nothing stopping them from going to 400, but we’ll have to wait and see what the discussion at council is,” he said.

Vancouver mayor dumps city manager

CBC NEWS:
In his first week on job, Vancouver's new mayor has announced a major shakeup at city hall. Mayor Gregor Robertson and his new city council announced Friday they have decided to replace the city's top bureaucrat, city manager Judy Rogers. In her place, the council has already hired Penny Ballem, a former deputy minister of health for B.C.'s Liberal government. Ballem, who was one of Canada's most experienced deputy health ministers, resigned from that position in June 2006 over concerns about how the Campbell government was running the province's health care system. Robertson said the decision was made this morning, and Judy Rogers has accepted a severance package in line with her 20 years of employment with the city. Rogers, who has served as city manager since 1999, was the highest paid employee at city hall with a pay package worth $292,000 in 2007. The departure of Rogers is the second change in the top management at city hall under the new mayor and council.The city's chief financial officer, Estelle Lo, resigned just after the Nov. 15 civic election.

Economy won't affect local taxation (KELOWNA)

by Wayne Moore - Dec 12, 2008 CASTANET:
Kelowna taxpayers won't necessarily get a break on taxes, despite the recent downturn in the economy. Director of Financial Services, Paul Macklem, is in the process of preparing the 2009 municipal budget. The documents will be complete before Christmas, however, council will not get a chance to debate the budget until January 7. Normally, budget deliberations take place in December, however, during election years the process is delayed a few weeks while new councillors are brought up to speed on council responsibilities and procedures. Despite the economic picture, Macklem says there is a level of service taxpayers expect. "Our role today is to put together a budget that represents the cost of whatever services are anticipated and may or may not be required from council's perspective. It would be up to council to then decide whether the level of service is something they wish to proceed with relative to the taxation and cost impact," says Macklem.

During the recent Citizen Survey, conducted prior to the downturn in the economy, about 60 per cent of Kelowna taxpayers said they would prefer maintaining current service levels and current tax levels. A survey taken during the recent election campaign also found a majority of residents favour maintaining taxation and service levels while nearly half also support raising taxes for road infrastructure. "From a staff perspective, what we have not wanted to do is panic in the throws of where the economy is today. If this turnaround happens very quickly, we wouldn't want to make the kinds of moves that could put services in jeopardy." Macklem says, regardless of the economic climate, infrastructure is not something that should ever be compromised. "We shouldn't be taxing hard when times are good and not taxing when times are tough. Leaving your infrastructure not maintained properly will bite you in the long run. It is important to keep that up."

He says in times like this, it's the luxuries that are cut out, not the necessities. "It's hard to believe we would embark on it (Mission Aquatic Centre) if it were up for discussion today. In the end though, it's up to council." In 2008, Kelowna taxpayers were handed a 5.66% budget increase. Nearly half of that increase, 2.9%, was directly related to the $44 million Mission Aquatic Centre. The 2009 budget will begin with a tax hit at 1.71% related to the Mission Pool along with annualized cost from 2008 for RCMP and transit construction. In 2008, the provisional budget included an increase of close to 7% before council pared that down to 5.66%.

Macklem adds Canadian cities are much better off than some U.S. cities during tougher times due to the way taxes are collected. "We don't rely on local sales taxes. So, when you get hit by a downtown, it's not quite as devastating as many American cities."

Now this is a Roundabout !

The Magic Roundabout in Swindon, England was constructed in 1972 and consists of one large roundabout containing five mini-roundabouts. It is located near the County Ground, home of Swindon Town F.C. Its name comes from the popular children's television series The Magic Roundabout.

In 2005, it was voted the worst roundabout in a survey by a UK insurance company.[3] In September 2007, the Magic Roundabout was named as one of the World's Worst Junctions by a UK motoring magazine.[4] In December 2007, BBC News reported a survey identifying The Magic Roundabout as one of the "10 Scariest Junctions in the United Kingdom".[5]

B.C. under-reporting Olympics costs by $170M, auditor general says

CBC NEWS:
The Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games will cost at least $170 million more than what the province has budgeted, the auditor general said Thursday. John Doyle said the province's official budget does not reflect the full cost of staging the Games because it does not included some related costs and financial risks. Doyle was supposed to release a full report Thursday, reviewing the government's cost estimates for the Olympics. But he said the government has not given him all the information he needed to finish the report. "The province has linked itself to a narrow view of what is required to be presented," Doyle told CBC News in a telephone interview. "I am still of the view, as were my two predecessors, that there is a lot of activity that is taking place that needs to be disclosed, and I don't think it's difficult for the province to actually provide that information." Items that will hike the provincial investment include the costs of security, health services such as the new anti-doping lab, and services from BC Hydro, the B.C. Lottery Corp. and the Insurance Corp. of British Columbia, Doyle said. The budget should also factor in the costs of various cultural legacies, he said. The auditor general is recommending the government change how it defines Games-related costs and to report on them publicly.

Biosolids headed for the dump

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: December 11, 2008

A situation that’s been causing a stink for some residents could now be dumped on the regional district. On Wednesday, the North Okanagan Regional District board agreed to a City of Vernon request to truck three to four loads of sewer biosolids a week to the landfill. The material is generally taken to the Ogogrow fertilizer plant in the Commonage but the city is trying to reduce production there to get a handle on an odour problem. “There is more product going into the facility than it can handle,” said Wayne Lippert, a NORD director and Vernon’s mayor. “We need to get it (material) down to a level it was designed for so we can prove it can handle that amount.”

If no odour occurs under reduced production for six months, the cities of Vernon and Kelowna – which own the plant – would then move ahead with expansion to handle increased loads of biosolids. The odour from the facility has drawn fire from many nearby residents. “If you get a whiff of it, it’s kind of ugly,” said director Jack Gilroy, who also sits on Vernon council.

Under the deal with NORD, disposal of the biosolids at the Greater Vernon landfill will continue for six months, with a further extension of six months possible. About $1,000 a load would be paid in tipping fees. However, Ministry of Environment approval is still required and NORD is insisting that other alternatives to dumping the material be researched. Will Hansma, Spallumcheen director, suggested that the biosolids could be spread out on farmer’s fields as a source of fertilizer. “What a waste, what a waste,” he said of taking the material to the landfill. The only opposition to Vernon’s request for access to the landfill came from Doug Dirk, Coldstream director. “Once we head in this direction, the need to find alternate solutions drops away. I don’t want this to be the solution,” he said of the landfill

The biosolids facility became operational in 2006, and 30 per cent of the volume comes from Vernon and the rest from Kelowna.