Page 4 | COAST MOUNTAIN NEWS | Thursday, December 23, 2010
CCRD still focused on clean up operations BY KEVIN O’NEILL The regular monthly meeting of the Central Coast Regional District was held on December 9. My apologies for the length of time between these columns…like many of you, all my free time has been dedicated to getting my flooddamaged house back to a livable condition. And needless to say, the operations
of the CCRD have been largely focused on the aftermath of September’s flood. Emergency Program Coordinator Steve Waugh presented a lengthy report detailing his activities since the flood and expressing profound gratitude, as do the directors, to all the government agencies that have worked together to facilitate the rebuilding of our valley’s infrastructure.
We would like to thank all of our customers and friends and wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
Bella Coola Valley Seafoods (250) 982 2713
Happy Holidays to you and yours and a very...... Merry Christmas! From the Central Coast Regional District
These recovery efforts will continue to receive his full attention in the coming weeks. As regards other matters, Ferry Advisory Committee representative Steve Waugh (a man who certainly wears his many hats well!) highlighted current negotiations between BC Ferries and the province that will result in a new four year funding agreement. Steve urged that regional associations and other interested parties renew lobbying efforts directed at both maintaining if not increasing our present level of service and also securing a greater financial
commitment from Victoria. He noted that Klemtu will no longer be part of the Queen of Chilliwack’s route, thereby increasing the feasibility of more direct sailings into Bella Coola. The board received a delegation from the Hagensborg Water District to discuss ongoing efforts to secure funding for the proposed point-ofuse treatment system as well as infrastructure improvements. The directors noted the need to develop policy that will assist in evaluating projects like this that require the CCRD'S support/ partnership in accessing grants that are
often the object of competing regional interests. Ultimately, the CCRD hopes to support those proposals that have the best chance of success while benefiting the greatest number of area residents.
The CCRD happily received the news that the new owner of Ocean Falls Power, Boralex Ltd., plans to reconstruct the collapsed causeway… yahoo! Finally, the directors authorized
spending on new signage that will hereafter designate the Bella Coola valley a disaster-free zone. Seriously, may we all enjoy a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year!
Central Coast Regional District Board of Directors extends thanks Dear Editor, On behalf of the board of directors of the Central Coast Regional District, I would like to offer my sincere appreciation to the many agencies and individuals who have stepped up to the challenge on behalf of the residents of the Bella Coola Valley, during the recent flood disaster. Many of our community members have experienced significant hardship in the past few months, and the recovery will continue well into the future. The level of
support received from so many has helped make the path to recovery a little less daunting, and illustrates why we choose to live in our beautiful Valley. We are truly grateful to the provincial and federal government agency representatives who assisted with the early response, the local businesses that put their private interests aside to work on behalf of the community, the non-governmental organizations and denominational groups that identified early needs and set to work to meet those needs, and
the many, many individuals who worked tirelessly to help their neighbours. As CCRD Emergency Operations transition further away from response and through recovery activities, it is heartwarming to hear of and see the immense generosity of many of those same organizations and individuals. Countless more from across the province and beyond, have been charitable, and for many flood-affected families, this kindness will help bring the spirit of the season into their homes.
May the brightest star of Christmas shine in your heart all year Our heartfelt thanks to all our friends and customers for your years of support and friendship To Bea & Peter - we wish you continued success at Swan Goose Carole, Gene & Paula The Country Faire
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Thanks to all who have donated, fundraised and recently organized to ensure delivery of warm blankets and new toys for affected community families. Your thoughtfulness is overwhelming and we are extremely grateful. On behalf of the CCRD board of directors and staff, thank you to all of you who have worked to make a difference to rebuild the infrastructure, homes and spirit of our community. Sincerely, Christine Hyde, Chair
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Bella Coola Air Best wishes for a safe and happy holiday season Phone: (250) 982-2545
STAFF: Editor: Caitlin Thompson Contributors: Kevin O'Neill, Stephen Waugh, Consultant: Angela Hall