Year in review 2015: Much changed in downtown Maple Ridgee. 12
Municipal: Mayor Becker reflects on first year. 3
Politics: Ruimy getting settled in Ottawa. 9 Fr i d ay, J a n u a r y 1 , 2 016 ¡ mapleridgenews.com ¡ est. 1978 ¡ (office) 604-467-1122 ¡ (del iver y ) 6 0 4 - 4 6 6 - 6 3 9 7
Year in Review top stories of 2015
Business: Ridge council halts microbrew’s licence. 4
Sports:: Pride pitcher headedd to Phoenix. 21
Arts: Hansel and Gretel panto. 17
Municipal: New digital sign goes up, up . 4
Provincial: More than 30 perr cent of transit ballots are in.
Sports: Hunt has jersey retired in Stockton. 29
Homes: Regional housing prices continue to climb. 19
Sportts: Burrards chasing playyoff spot. 26
Education: School buses cut in budget. 3
Friday, Ju ly 10, 2015 ¡ ma p lerid g ene ws.com ¡ est. 1978 ¡ (office) 604-467-1122 ¡ (de liver y) 604-466-6397
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By Neil Corbett ncorbett@mapleridgenews.com
By Neil Corbett ncorbett@mapleridgenews.com
As Maple Ridge grapples with its homeless problem, trying to find accommodations for approx i m at e l y 65 people in the Cliff Avenue camp and more throughout the Becker city, neighbour Pitt Meadows deals with a much smaller number of street people. Generally, they are referred to Maple Ridge or Coquitlam. “I hear about it, and I see it,� Pitt Meadows Mayor John Becker said of the homeless issue. “Our numbers are proportionate to our population.� Pitt Meadows has a population of just 18,000, while Maple Ridge has 76,000, according to the 2011 census. Becker points out that Pitt Meadows has no local supports for homeless people, and they are referred to Maple Ridge, where there are more services to assist them, including the Salvation Army Caring Place. “We don’t have the facilities or services that draw the disadvantaged. It’s a different environment,� said Becker. Unlike larger Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows City Hall has no “social planning bureaucracy,� and there are no provincial supports, said Becker.
Education Minister Mike Bernier announced a new school will be built on Burke Mountain in Coquitlam on Monday, then toured the fastest-growing areas of Maple Ridge with Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows MLA Doug Bing. “It’s always good to have a face-toface with the new minister,� said Bing. And while a proposed new school in the Albion area has not been announced, having Bernier see the need first hand is significant in the process, Bing added. “It’s helpful to get it on the radar screen, and get it in the queue,� he said. “There is definitely a need.�
Overdoses putting stress on system By Neil Corbett ncorbett@mapleridgenews.com
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Diggin’ it Curtis Brown of Golden Ears elementary takes part in the school’s production of Dig It on Wednesday. The play was a musical tale of ancient Greek, Roman and Chinese Civilizations. Tim Fitzgerald/THE NEWS
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Pitt Meadows council has put the SmartCentres development on the backburner. Council voted to indefinitely defer rezoning for the proposed commercial district near the corner of Lougheed Highway and Harris Road, with no timetable to bring the issue back to the table. Couns. David Murray, Janis Elkerton, Mike Stark and Bruce Bell voted for the indefinite deferral, despite the position taken by Mayor John Becker and Couns. Tracy Miyashita and Bill Dingwall that some timeline, even months away, was appropriate. After the vote, Miyashita and Dingwall wanted it recorded that they opposed the deferral motion. See Connector, 5
1HZ SRVLWLRQV IRU KRPHOHVV WDVN IRUFH The Alouette Home Start Society, which used to hire two outreach workers, lost most of its funding Dec. 31, after the federal government changed to the Housing First model, which puts money into providing homes for street people, rather than emergency services. As a result, Alouette pared its outreach services from two fulltime positions to a half-time job, and closed the emergency bed part of its Iron Horse Youth Safe House on Jan. 31. While the Home Start society
The federal funding gap that cost Maple Ridge its street outreach workers late last year is being filled by the city for at least six months. Council approved hiring four street outreach workers for six months, at a cost of $160,000, on Tuesday.
now has provincial funding for one worker to help youth, women, people leaving institutions and aboriginals, executive-director Stephanie Ediger said the loss of the general outreach workers, who connect with anyone on the street, “has resulted in a lot of needs that need to be addressed, that we need additional resources.� The number of homeless people hasn’t increased, but they are now more visible, she added. “The numbers of visible homeless have increased because
there’s no place to go.� Ediger doesn’t know if Alouette will be hiring the workers using the city’s funds. “I have no information on that, at this point. We haven’t been in the discussions.� In addition to approving money for outreach workers, council approved another recommendation from the Mayor’s Homelessness Solutions Task Force, to pay $75,000 for a consultant to recommend how to improve delivery of social services in Maple Ridge. See Homeless, 15
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The number of homeless people hasn’t increased in Maple Ridge, but they are now more visible.
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Housing: Fixed-income seniors niors fear rent hikes with subsidy loss. s. 3
Easter: Cities host annual egg hunts. 9
Community: Pitt recognizes top firefighter. 13
See Services, 9
Maple Ridge Mayor Nicole Read, flanked by NDP MLA David Eby, addresses media at the Cliff Avenue homeless camp on Wednesday.
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utside one tent on the Cliff Avenue camp, a Star Wars figurine stood guard, deterring any possible intruders, while a few metres down shopping carts and bike parts lined the curb. In a shady spot beneath the trees, someone was passed out in a tent, oblivious to Vancouver NDP MLA David Eby’s visit on a
Tim Fitzgerald/THE NEWS
Lisa Sullivan is worried about safety for children in the area.
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6FKRRO EXVHV RQ FKRS EORFN students if the district, looking for $1.7 million in budget cuts, eliminates busing. School board chair Mike Murray interprets a response from TransLink to mean that it won’t have the resources to help unless the ongoing transportation plebiscite passes. In its last budget, the board added school bus fees, set at $215 for an individual student. This year it is again looking for cuts, and Murray said eliminating busing is one option being considered. It could save the district $700,000 per year. Murray noted the vast majority of students either walk to school
By Neil Corbett ncorbett@mapleridgenews.com
The Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows School District is considering eliminating regular busing and has asked TransLink to help service more rural routes. However, the regional transportation authority claims it can’t comply unless it gets more money. The school board send a letter to TransLink asking what level of transit service it could provide to
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or get rides from their parents. Eliminating regular busing would impact 369 registered student riders. When the school bus fees were added last year, 100 riders stopped taking the bus, making the cost per student almost $1,900 per year. Murray Murray said the district has no legal obligation to provide bus service, but the board will not cut bus service for special needs students – four buses and a taxi serve 30 special needs students, at an annual cost of $250,000.
See Buses, 5
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At home Caitlyn McKenzie of Circus Lab performs a trapeze demonstration outdoors at the Albion Fairgrounds during the Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows Home Show on Friday. The three-day event featured more than 375 exhibitors. See more, page 9.
&LW\ ZDQWV VD\ RQ PHGLFDO JURZV the location of these potential sites known to the public and hold a public meeting and consider the comments of our citizens in determining if such a facility should be considered for licensing in our city,� Nicole Read said in a release Friday. The mayor wrote to fed- Read eral Health Minister Rona Ambrose, pointing out there’s no formal public process relating to locations of medical marijuana facili-
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ties in Maple Ridge. The city is currently dealing with community opposition to a medical marijuana plant being built in Whonnock on 272nd Street, despite protests from neighbours. “The situation in Whonnock highlights the issues around the failures in the current Health Canada process,� Read said. “Our citizens expect to have a robust public process around the loca-
tion of these facilities, yet there is none,� she added. “To be very clear, we understand that there is a market for the medical use of marijuana, and the goal is to establish a national network of licensed growers.� But Read said the city is concerned about the process that involves. “We will continue to vigorously press the federal government to establish a public process relating to the location of medical marijuana production facilities.�
By Neil Corbett ncorbett@mapleridgenews.com
THE NEWS/files
Construction has already started on a greenhouse in Whonnock.
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Cooling off Provincial: Changes to support payments a big help. 3
Arts: Diamond ‘young at heart.’ 13
Kerrie Naples of Maple Ridge cools off, thanks to the Pitt Meadows fire department, as she makes her way along Harris Road during the Athletes in Kind eightkilometre charity run as part of Canada Day celebrations on Wednesday. See more Canada Day images, page 8. See race results, page 20. Sports: Minor hockey season wrapping up. 14
We d ne s d ay, Ma rc h 1 1 , 2 0 1 5 ¡ m ap l e ri d g e n e w s. co m ¡ est. 1978 ¡ (o ffice) 604-467-1122 ¡ (d eliver y ) 604-466-6397
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Sheridan Hill residents Darcey Heath (left) and Rachel Robichaud and stand just above their homes, where a new gravel quarry would excavate.
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Pitt Meadows residents who are rallying to stop a quarry that would take 30 metres off the top of Sheridan Hill were celebrating an early victory on Tuesday morning. About 40 protestors with placards met on Tuesday morning at the office of Pitt MeadowsMaple Ridge MLA Doug Bing.
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While Bing was not there to speak with them, staff had some encouraging words. They were in touch with the Ministry of Mines and said it will be requiring a full public consultation process of the quarry operators. Pitt Meadows Mayor John Becker has also heard a full public consultation process will take place, which the ministry confirmed on Tuesday. It will include a public meeting in June. Rachel Robichaud, one of the organizers of the quarry protesters, said a public consultation is significant because it means an
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initial March 13 deadline for the city and Katzie First Nations to offer comments would be extended. “It’s a small victory – a start,� she said. About 150 people met at her property on McNeil Road on Saturday to organize their opposition to the quarry. Most own houses that would be close to the proposed quarry. There is already a quarry on the north side of Sheridan Hill that has operated since the 1960s. See Quarry, 4
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Maple Ridge led the way in stuffing TransLink’s mail-in referendum on transit expansion into the trash can. Seventy-seven per cent of those who voted in Maple Ridge said no to raising the provincial sales tax by half a per cent to pay for
better transportation in Metro Vancouver. Pitt Meadows followed closely with a 72-percent no vote. “I’m disappointed, but not surprised,� said Pitt Meadows Mayor John Becker. He thinks people voted no because of their anger Becker with TransLink and not because of the Mayors’ Council Transportation and Transit Plan. “It does not appear to be a re-
jection or condemnation of the plan itself.� The mayors rolled out the plan for the provincially ordered referendum. The plan called for a SkyTrain extension in Vancouver, light rail in Surrey, express bus lines in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, as well as more West Coast Express service. Becker said polling and opinions showed that people were op-
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posed to the tax and TransLink, not the plan. “We, as a mayor’s council, need to be careful not to throw out the baby with the bath [water]. He wants to keep this plan and deal with antipathy to any kind of additional taxes. “Mainly, it’s people’s mistrust, misunderstanding of TransLink.� After the results Thursday, the Mayors’ Council demanded progress on reforming TransLink. See Plebiscite, 5
THE NEWS/files
West Coast Express was supposed to be expanded under the proposed plan.
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Arts: Pig presents Murder at Banquet. 23
Tim Fitzgerald/THE NEWS
Former MP Randy Kamp and Conservative candidate Mike Murray monitor the federal election results on Monday.
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Liberal MP-elect Dan Ruimy keeps a close eye on the election results as they roll in on TV during the 2015 federal election Monday.
If the results could be foretold by the mood at the campaign headquarters Monday, the election in Pitt MeadowsMaple Ridge was over before it began. Sombre faces and muted talk prevailed at both the NDP and Conservative camps early in the evening, followed by the surprise victory of Liberal candidate Dan Ruimy. “It’s quite a surprise,� Conservative candidate Mike Murray said shortly after conceding defeat. After talking with NDP candidate Bob D’Eith, “We really thought both of us would be neck and neck,� Murray added. “If I lose, I’m going to lose to the NDP.� The Liberals won only five per cent of the vote in the 2011 election in Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge, Murray pointed out. “Shocking,� he called Monday’s result. See Election, 8
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he new MP for Pitt Meadows-Maple Ridge admitted he was shocked by Monday night’s election results. “Not in our wildest dreams could we have imagined this day would come,� Dan Ruimy told his supporters in his victory speech. “Not in a million years could we have imagined here in Pitt Meadows-
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The Fraser River is warm, and the chinook salmon run is weeks behind, as the fish wait to spawn. Temperatures have soared to 40 C and beyond in the B.C. Interior, breaking records. That, combined with no rainfall, has water levels dropping in rivers around the province. Warm water is potentially life threatening to the ocean-going fish, stresses them as they spawn, and they will wait to enter fresh water until it cools. Once they start spawning, they can’t return to the ocean.
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Maple Ridge is about to start its $5.5-million renovation of the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre pool, but on Monday Coun. Gordy Robson continued brainstorming alternatives to Robson that plan. Robson said earlier that the current pool should be bulldozed and a new, larger pool be built in its place. Then at council’s strategic planning session, he suggested a new pool be built on the three acres of land the city owns on Selkirk Avenue between 226th and 227th streets. “If you want to go spend it, spend it. But I’d like to look at the concept of tearing the pool down and build the proper one that we could use for tourism in our community,� he told councillors. The existing pool could be kept open while construction is underway, then once the new pool is complete, the existing Leisure Centre could be torn down and a convention centre, with a small hotel could be built in its place, as originally planned. He wanted council to delay proceeding with the engineering study for the pool renovations until council had heard from the YMCA, which has built several pools in Metro Vancouver in partnership with municipalities.
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Municipal: Pitt Meadows accused of fowl play. 3
Sporrts: Sights set on Paralympics. 26
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that is not a factor. Recreation user groups, such as Ridge Meadows Minor Hockey, should still be able to access fields and ice surfaces in Pitt Meadows, she said. Maple Ridge residential property owners are facing a proposed 3.33 per cent tax hike this year, but that does not include the parks and rec funding. On Thursday, from 6-8 p.m., there will be a budget session in council chambers.
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“It’s not like we’re going to the bank and get $110 million, and then spend it,� she said. Read said more information will be made available through a communications plan that is being developed. The borrowing conversation comes at a time when Maple Ridge has told Pitt Meadows it is pulling out of the joint parks and leisure services agreement, but Read said
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Arts: Another door opens for couple. 19
Cities and the people who live within them should be able to have a say in where medical marijuana operations set up within their boundaries, says the mayor of Maple Ridge. “It should be a formal requirement that Health Canada make
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Safety: Desire shown for higherr distracted driving fines. 18
Homes: Formal gardens H of the world. 12
have expressed a desire to have shovel-ready projects, with the municipality’s share of funding in place. “All we’re hearing is the federal government is ready to spend,� said Read. Council will engage in what Read said should Read be should be an “exciting conversation,� but it will not result in an immediate $110 million debt for the city.
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This year’s budget discussion in Maple Ridge will include the prospect of approving up to $110 million in borrowing for parks and recreation infrastructure. Mayor Nicole Read declined to name specific projects, but called the $110 million a “high-level
funding envelope.� In general, she said the community has “an at-capacity aquatic centre, not enough ice, and not enough fields.� At the same time, Maple Ridge is “bursting at the seams in terms of participation in sports.� She added: “I don’t think we have the amenities in this community to support a city of this size.� With the federal government offering to help pay for new infrastructure for cities, councillors
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Teachers weren’t anticipating a loss in the B.C. Court of Appeal, but they considered it the most conservative one they would face, said Maple Ridge Teachers’ Association president George Serra. “We knew if we were going to lose somewhere, this is the court where we would have lost,� said Serra, explaining why last week’s ruling was not a shock. “It is disappointing.� The B.C. Court of Appeal ruled in favour of the B.C. government in the long-running dispute with the B.C. Teachers’ Federation over the removal of class size and special needs support formulas for classrooms.
By Neil Corbett ncorbett@mapleridgenews.com
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He said the district has a moral obligation to these students, if nothing else. TransLink told the board that it is not allowed to provide exclusive school bus service. The Motor Vehicle Act states that school trips can be provided only if is not an exclusive school-specific service. “Any of our transit services must be a public route for use by all customers, not just students,� said the written response from Daniel Freeman, transit network manager.
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camp, despite the city having hired four outreach workers to try to connect people with services. And work goes on to try find people homes, Mayor Nicole Read said at the camp. But it takes time to find landlords and rental units for people even though B.C. Housing is now offering about 50 rental supplements in Maple Ridge. “Right now, it’s a matter of finding those spaces,� she said. “We know there are levers the city can pull to get more housing stock in the city.�
Contributed
Education Minister Mike Bernier visited Albion elementary on Monday, as well as Thomas Haney secondary, after announcing funding for a new elementary school in Coquitlam. Bernier then visited with local school board officials to hear about the need for a new elementary school in Albion.
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Maple Ridge will be without a coordinator for its Bear Aware program this year after the city failed to apply for provincial funding. Dan Mikolay has served as the WildSafeBC program coordinator for the past two years. However, unless the city comes up with the funding itself, the program won’t run this year. According to Frank Ritcey, provincial coordinator for WildSafeBC, which oversees the Bear Aware program, any community applying for funding must commit at least $2,500 of its own. If accepted, he said, the communities are entitled to about $8,000 for wages. WildSafeBC also provides training and tool kits. Conservation officer Todd Hunter, who oversees the area from Coquitlam to Mission, made a pitch to council Monday in hopes the city can come up with the funds to keep the program going. “I don’t want to lose it,� he said. “Last year we had quite a low number of calls on incidents compared to other years. The less bears we have to relocate or destroy the better, so I’d like to keep on that trend and have that coordinator position in place.� He said Maple Ridge had to put down six bears in 2014, down from 12 in 2013. He said as many as 30 bears have had to be destroyed in the region due mostly to people leaving out garbage.
The school district added bus fees last year to help cope with a budget shortfall, and 100 students opted out.
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sweltering Wednesday afternoon. Eby said it’s now been two months since the camp behind the Salvation Army Caring Place in Maple Ridge reached its present size and pointed out that other tent cities have been removed. “Yet, here there seems to be total inaction.� With the heat, angry bystanders, lack of water and sanitation, “I think from any perspective, there is a tragedy waiting to happen. “We cannot leave this the way it is. The province has to step up and solve this problem.� About 60 people remain at the
See School, 5
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Maple Ridge that a Liberal could win this riding.� The riding has been a Conservative stronghold, held by Randy Kamp since he was elected 2004. Before that, Grand McNally had it for the Reform Party and Canadian Alliance, since 1997. But it was taken by the Liberals, as Justin Trudeau’s party swept to a majority government Monday with 184 seats, defeating Stephen Harper’s Conservatives, who earned 99 seats. Ruimy told supporters that when he first announced his intention to run for the Liberal party, the lo-
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cal bookstore owner heard from doubters. “People asked [told] me: ‘The NDP are too strong here, the Conservatives are too strong here. You’re not going to make it. Did you not see the numbers from the last election: 28,000 to 18,000 to 2,700.� In the 2011 federal election, the Conservatives won Pitt-MeadowsMaple Ridge-Mission with more than 10 times the number of votes the Liberals received in the riding. Randy Kamp had 28,803 votes, while the NDP’s Craig Spiers received 18,835. Liberal Mandeep
Bhuller had 2,739 votes. “On that first day I said I am going to win this riding, and I’ve never wavered from that. And here we are today,� said Ruimy. He won a close three-way race. Ruimy got 17,605 votes, for 34 per cent of the vote in the riding. Conservative Mike Murray was second with 16,373 votes, or 31 per cent, and Bob D’Eith of the NDP was third with 15,450 votes, or 30 per cent. Green Party candidate Peter Tam was fourth with 2,202 votes, or four per cent, while independent candidate Steve Ranta had 516. See Liberals, 4 With windshield replacement,
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www.mapleridgenews.com - THE NEWS -- Friday, January 1, 2016 -- 3
Maple Ridge, moving forward in 2016 School and recreation facilities are priorities By Neil Corbett ncorbett@mapleridgenews.com
I
n 2016, Maple Ridge council will continue to fight homelessness, work toward a new school in Albion, and borrow up to $110 million to build a new aquatic centre and other recreation facilities. “The importance of an elementary school in Albion remains a top priority, so our relationship with the school district is very important,” said Mayor Nicole Read. Education Minister Mike Bernier visited the district on Nov. 30, and toured Albion elementary, which is 30 per cent above capacity. The message to him from the Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows school board was that a new school in the still-growing neighbourhood is overdue. Dealing with the homeless camp on Cliff Avenue and street people occupied much of city hall’s attention in 2015, and Read said council will build on that work in the new year. She had promised to take on homelessness while campaigning in 2014, but council’s efforts were more than just an election promise. “It was a really important issue on so many fronts,” she said. “We were successful, which was important – it speaks to who we are as a city, and what our staff is capable of, that we got voluntary decampment. That is
Tim Fitzgerald/THE NEWS
Maple Ridge Mayor Nicole Read is proud of what the city accomplished this past year. not an easy thing to do. “It was the product of people working on the ground, with authentic compassion and empathy, for months.” She said the use of rent subsidies allotted by B.C. Housing was the key. “It gave us the opportunity to get people connected to housing, and off the street. And I think we’ve
changed a number of lives for the better, said Read. “Now it’s about really working with B.C. Housing to change the way that we use resources to deal with homelessness.” Read said she joined city workers at the homeless camp. “I was down there a lot, and I had people coming frequently to meet with me in my office,” she said.
Top stories 2015
People from the group offered their ideas about what to do in Maple Ridge, and what had not worked in the past. It was important they be heard. Read is proud of what the city accomplished, having housed 77 people.. She said the city will continue dialogue with the province, and is still working on the city’s resilience initiative. “We’ll be having a community
forum, so the work we continue with that is going to be important. We need to build a resilient community. We need to be invested in prevention.” Council has determined it can borrow up to $110 million to get caught up on new recreation facilities that are lacking in the fast-growing community. More ice arenas and artificial turf fields have long been requested by user groups, and last month the city learned that the Leisure Centre pool would face disruptive closures in order to accomplish a $5.5 million retrofit. Council has determined to keep the pools operational while it builds a second aquatic centre. Council is also considering an amenity fee that it will charge residential developers, to help fund such facilities in the future. According to staff, such a fee would have garnered an average of $3.2 million over each of the past five years, for a total of $16 million. That would have gone a long way to buying recreation facilities, noted Read, but it will also be a significant resource to pay back any borrowed funds in the future. She said Maple Ridge has a good development community, and “They are a huge part of achieving our objectives.” “I would never take this conversation about borrowing money lightly. We need to go into that cautiously, analytically, and make sure we make the right decision,” said Read. See Read, 4
First year like ‘drinking from fire hose’ Maple Ridge announced it is leaving the longtime partnership with Pitt Meadows known as the joint leisure services agreement. That will make it difficult hit another zero budget. “This year we have a very different environment,” said Becker.
By Neil Corbett ncorbett@mapleridgenews.com
H
ow would Mayor John Becker describe 2015, and the first year for his new council in Pitt Meadows? “Like drinking out of a fire hose, a lot of the time,” he answered, evoking one of his favourite visuals. The anniversary of John Becker’s return to Pitt Meadows council after the municipal elections of November 2014 has just passed, and on the eve of a new year, he discussed his first year as mayor, and what 2016 will bring. The lawyer ran with a team that included councillors Bruce Bell, Janis Elkerton, David Murray and Mike Stark, and they all got elected. They ran on a “Four Ts” platform, based on conversations with residents, that promising improved transportation, taxation, teamwork and transparency.
Zero taxes His team reached an early goal – a zero tax increase, and it might have been the most important promise to keep, said Becker.
the yes campaign.” It was controversial, and the public ultimately was unwilling to accept a half-percent increase in their provincial sales tax in order to fund $7.5 billion in transit and transportation improvements. “And of course that labour of love continues until today, and will likely continue well through 2016,” said Becker.
TTop op sstories or es 2015
Transit referendum
Tim Fitzgerald/THE NEWS
John Becker and council had a busy year. “People could look at that and calculate it – it’s very much a tangible.” But he warns taxpayers not to expect another in the 2016 budget. “This year we’re focussed certainly on getting the best value for our residents, but given the demands on us, we’re certainly not – and never did pretend that you could – maintaining a zero tax increase.” Still, he said it did the organization good to look at “significant spends” and consider whether they are neces-
sary, rather than “perpetuate the status quo” and add programs, services and personnel. Economic development was the casualty, and the city’s 2014 expenditure of $235,000 was “reduced to zero,” signaling the end of the Pitt Meadows Economic Development Corporation. This year, the city is adding an environmental protection officer, and will have to rebuild the parks and recreation department, after
Becker had done nine years as a councillor, and worked closely with former mayor Don McLean on a number of initiatives, so the nature of his new position held few surprises. “What I did not anticipate was the events, which followed shortly after the election, which have occupied a great deal of time for both myself, and council as well,” he said. The regional plebiscite on TransLink funding models took a lot of time, and Becker felt the city had an obligation to get facts to the public, and let them vote. As a member of the mayor’s council, he felt obligated to back the plan. “I felt it was then incumbent on me to proceed publicly supporting
Sheridan quarry Another unforeseen issue was a proposed gravel quarry on Sheridan Hill, and council joined hundreds of concerned citizens in opposing the Meadows Quarry application to the Ministry of Mines. “It was a big news event,” said Becker. “It was an issue that brought a lot of people together, in a way that an event like Pitt Meadows Day wouldn’t.” Meadows Quarries of Maple Ridge has proposed a new quarry on the southern portion of Sheridan Hill that would take the top off the Pitt Meadows landmark. See Becker, 8
4 -- Friday, January 1, 2016 -- THE NEWS - www.mapleridgenews.com
‘Renewed interest in Ridge’ Read from 3
She said the aquatic centre has emerged as the No. 1 priority for council, while fields offer “huge bang for the buck.” Council meets on Nov. 11 to continue its debate about priority projects. “I think we’re having a really important conversation about the things that are needed in this community, and I think the list that we come out with is going to be a clear reflection of where we’re behind.” The year started with SmartCentres backing out of land swap with the city, and the loss of a potential mall proposed for the Albion Flats. But Read said the city enjoyed a positive outcome, with Walmart moving into the Haney Place Mall, taking over from Target, after that American retail giant’s brief sojourn in Canada. “Walmart in the town centre was crucial – to be able to have a retailer like that in the downtown,” said Read. “We made that phone call the moment we heard that Target was closing.” She said city hall was committed to filling that space with a solid retailer. “It’s a really key cornerstone to downtown.” The mayor said the mall
Tim Fitzgerald/THE NEWS
Securing Walmart as an anchor tenant at Haney Place Mall was important to council and the downtown. looked good during the Christmas season. “It’s busy. That’s what matters. That’s what we want down there.” She said the Albion flats, the area just south of Planet Ice, can be removed from the Agricultural Land Reserve, and will figure into community’s plans in the future. “There’s a lot of different opportunities developing,” she said. “The commercial development community has heard my message that we are hungry,
so bring us your ideas. That’s manifesting in a number of opportunities that they will be exploring in the new year. There’s a new interest in Maple Ridge, a renewed interest.” Read and her council were elected in November of 2014, and while there were only two members of council returned, Read said they were not a bunch of rookies. “We have experience on council. Coming in, I knew Craig [Speirs] from working with him a number of years ago on the heritage commission, and have a lot of respect for him.” “Gordy [Robson] has an incredible memory for everything that’s evolved in the city, and having been a former mayor and knowing what works, what doesn’t, he is a solid, sound resource as well. “And then obviously Bob [Masse] and Corisa [Bell] have experience on council, and recent experience, which is valuable because they can provide context for things that are still emerging, or not totally closed from the last council. “And Kiersten [Duncan] and Tyler [Shymkiw] are a breath of fresh air for the community as well. “This council is a pleasure to work with really.”
www.mapleridgenews.com - THE NEWS -- Friday, January 1, 2016 -- 5
Sky’s the limit for Pitt Meadows airport Looking ahead after turbulent year By Neil Corbett ncorbett@mapleridgenews.com
There was some turbulence for the Pitt Meadows Airport in 2015, as its member municipalities fought over control of what local politicians agree will be a major economic driver in the future. Also, members of the public declared their opposition to future airport expansion, just as airport operators announce a proposed runway extension and other improvements. But Murray Day returned for another term as president of the Pitt Meadows Airport Society and he sees clear skies ahead for YPK in 2016. “Our priority will be looking at the runway safety enhancements,” said Day, adding that the self-funded $2.5 million project has been planned by the society for many years. “Having the two cities meet their obligations, and work together as members
THE NEWS/files
Runway enhancements are on the airport’s agenda. partners in the airport,” is another key to a successful 2016, Day said. On July 29, the day before the Pitt Meadows Airport Society’s annual general meeting, the City of Pitt Meadows asked Maple Ridge to relinquish control of YPK. The two cities are members of a society that appoints a board to operate the facility. Maple Ridge Mayor Nicole Read took the position
that the airport is a longterm asset that is of strategic value to her city, and has great economic potential going forward. She responded to Pitt Meadows by letter the same day: “Our council was looking forward to engaging with Pitt Meadows council and the board of directors towards a new vision for the our airport. The airport is a regional asset. Further, ma-
jor industrial and residential areas of Maple Ridge are in very close proximity to the airport and are affected by airport activities,” she wrote. “As such, we remain clear in our position that we have no intention of divesting ourselves of our interest in our joint asset.” The letter from Pitt Meadows to Maple Ridge cited frustrations with the two cities failing to reach consensus in strategic plan-
ning, and the composition of the board. In November, residential neighbours of the airport, organized through social media, determined to oppose runway expansion, for fear it will lead to more and bigger aircraft using the airport, creating more noise. On Nov. 25, the society hosted an open house at the airport. Day said more than 200 people attended that meeting and offered feedback, and in the middle of January the society plans a meeting to review comments. From an initial look at the results, he said, residents worry about noise and the potential growth of the airport to accommodate large jet aircraft. And there was also positive comments from the business community at the airport who appreciate the improvements. On the agenda is a plan to expand the main runway by almost 100 m (300 ft.) to 1,524 m (5,000 ft.) in total, add lights and other safety features.
Day said the business plan is to attract new aviation business to YPK. As the Vancouver International Airport grows, some smaller businesses may be squeezed out, and the society would like Pitt Meadows to be a good option for them. The runway enhancements would allow these businesses to attract a wider range of aircraft, which might come to the airport for painting, maintenance or other services, he said. Smaller jets are already able to land at the airport now, and do. The runway expansion would make it safer for them, particularly on takeoffs, and give them space to turn around at the end of the runway. The lighting at the airport is old, and the society would like to replace it with modern LEDs, which are cost effective and provide more light. Day said the airport, which has been among the most active in Canada in terms of flights, is seen to have a bright future by the people who do business there. “Overall, we’re looking forward to positive steps in 2016 and beyond,” he said.
Top stories 20 015 15
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6 -- Friday, January 1, 2016 -- THE NEWS - www.mapleridgenews.com
THE NEWS/opinion
Published and printed by Black Press at 22611 – Dewdney Trunk Road, Maple Ridge, B.C., V2X 3K1
Ingrid Rice
News Views
Looking ahead The past year was an interesting one in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, and 2016 promises the same. The new year started with two new mayors and councils, elected at the end of 2014. In Maple Ridge, Nicole Read made her stamp immediately, forming committees on government transparency and a homelessness initiative. The latter led to the formation of a homeless camp on Cliff Avenue and the opening of a new temporary shelter on Lougheed Highway in downtown Maple Ridge. By all accounts, the downtown is better for it. But the shelter is set to close at the end of March. Its clients need places to go. Discussions on a permanent facility are also to start in 2016. The end of 2015 also saw the beginning of talks to borrow up to $110 million to build new parks and recreation facilities, including a new pool, ice rink, soccer fields and stadium. How to pay back debt must be weighed against the need for such facilities. Another life-altering concept was pitched in Pitt Meadows by Mayor John Becker during the holiday season: building an underpass at the CP Rail tracks on Harris Road. CP wants to be able to build longer trains, which would conceivably stretch from its intermodal yard across Harris Road. CP would help pay for this underpass, which would not only give it the ability to link longer trains, but to do so more frequently. That would create more noise, possibly affecting other neighbourhoods. Consider also that longer trains mean longer waits at other CP crossings, from the Maple Meadows border to Albion. Be careful what you wish for, on all fronts. – The News
Jim Coulter, publisher publisher@mapleridgenews.com Michael Hall, editor editor@mapleridgenews.com Lisa Prophet, advertising manager admanager@mapleridgenews.com Brian Yip, circulation manager circulation@mapleridgenews.com Editorial Reporters: Phil Melnychuk, Neil Corbett, Tim Fitzgerald Advertising Consultants: Karen Derosia, Maggie Prince, Ashley Scott Ad control: Mel Onodi Creative services: Kristine Pierlot, Annette WaterBeek, Classified: 604-575-5555 22611 – Dewdney Trunk Road, Maple Ridge, B.C., V2X 3K1 Office: 604-467-1122 Delivery: 604-466-6397 Website: mapleridgenews.com Email: newsroom@mapleridgenews.com The News is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province's newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and the complaint holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to B.C. Press Council, 201 Selby St., Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 2R2. For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www. bcpresscouncil.org. AAM audited circulation (Dec. 31, 2013): Wednesday - 30,514; Friday – 30,511.
Passages of ’15: Stephen Harper I first met Stephen Harper when he was running for the Canadian Alliance leadership in 2002. Speaking to a group of Fraser Valley members concerned that the party had split over the leadership of Stockwell Day, B.C. Views Harper didn’t mince words because a local Tom Fletcher reporter had showed up on a Saturday morning. He explained his prediction that no matter who leads the conservative movement started by Preston Manning, the national media would work against it. “The press is owned by big-L liberals and staffed by small-L liberals,” Harper said. “Preston was too cerebral; Stock was not cerebral enough. I’m not sure where I will be, but the media will always be on the other side.” Harper’s cold war with national media is a theme that runs through his decade as prime minister, peaking in 2015 with the most slanted election coverage I’ve ever witnessed. The celebration continues over Justin Trudeau’s victory, with the supposedly non-partisan federal bureaucracy cheering along with much of the national media. Harper’s assessment of major newspaper ownership is no longer accurate, except for the Toronto Star. But the dying tradition of owners looking up from their accounting ledgers to endorse a political party con-
tinued, with the Postmedia chain and the Globe and Mail pointing out that Trudeau’s rash promises didn’t add up. Endorsements were a brief interruption in the media assault on Harper’s record. His government’s plan to welcome 10,000 refugees, unveiled way back in January 2015, was portrayed as heartless and feeble, while Trudeau’s 25,000 by Christmas represented the generous character of the true Canada. As it turns out, the Liberals have been hard pressed to reach even the 10,000 mark. But they’ve put out a rash new promise to make it 50,000 at some point in the future, so the media’s new-found message of sunshine, hope and change continues. Those modest $10 billion annual deficits that Trudeau promised, and Harper warned against? Borrowing and spending will far exceed that, but we’re assured that’s because they were based on inflated Conservative financial forecasts. In fact, independent private sector forecasts are now the key reference for government budgets at the federal and provincial level. None of them predicted the further slump in energy prices that continued through 2015. And cooking the books before an election isn’t really possible any more, thanks to the establishment of the Parliamentary Budget Office. That was a Harper innovation, along with scheduled elections. And that Trudeau pledge to raise taxes on the wealthiest Canadians and use the proceeds to finance a tax cut for the middle class? That one didn’t add up either. For
one thing, wealthy people have a variety of legal ways to reduce their taxable income. Here’s an actual front-page headline from the Globe and Mail, reporting this unfortunate fact, well after the election: “The way Liberals gauged response to new tax rate explains gap.” So it was just an understandable oversight, you see. Trudeau’s star turn in Paris, where he pronounced that “Canada is back” in the battle to control the world’s weather? The official submission from his bloated delegation to the UN climate meetings was actually the existing Conservative plan, which includes phasing out coal-fired electricity generation.
Trudeau’s star turn in Paris, where he pronounced that “Canada is back” in the battle to control the world’s weather? Harper generally represented a preference for the individual over the state, a concept that at one time was known as “liberalism.” This was illustrated by his preference for parents rather than a nanny state to administer child care. He advocated free trade, small government and low taxes. We’ll see how that legacy survives the new government and its media cheering section. Tom Fletcher is legislature reporter and columnist for Black Press.
This week’s question: Do you support an underpass at the CP Rail crossing on Harris Road? @ Online poll: cast your vote at mapleridgenews.com, or e-mail your vote and comments to editor@mapleridgenews.com
www.mapleridgenews.com - THE NEWS -- Friday, January 1, 2016 -- 7 Contact 604-467-1122 ext. 218 editor@mapleridgenews.com
THE NEWS/letters ‘Give it a whirl’ ‘Perfect storm is brewing’ Editor, The News: Re: Changes coming for Sally Ann (The News, Dec. 4). So John Becker “praised” the Salvation Army, and Darryl Pilgrim was “encouraged” by the Pitt Meadows mayor’s comments and didn’t know why the comments were made by Maple Ridge council about the Salvation Army. (The News, Friday, December 4) Sounds like the Salvation Army and the City of Pitt Meadows are a match made in heaven! Let’s share the wealth and give it a whirl! Geoff McElgunn Maple Ridge
online comments ‘Out of touch’ Harry F. Hartwig · Re: Ridge should be the envy of all. Following the letter from Roderick Rhodes, I agree 100 per cent. The mayor and council are absolutely out of touch with reality. To take money from not so rich taxpayers of Maple Ridge and put it all into a (slot machine) to see if they could win. Well, mayor and council, you are lacking intelligence on a big scale. We have other, more pressing projects to look after than fields and swimming pools. We need a school for Silver Valley and the Rock Ridge developments. What about sidewalks and road upgrades to Silver Valley on 232nd Street, north of Fern Crescent, including lighting. So put you little brain cells together and run this city like it should be run.
Make Jackson a park Sean Orcutt · Long list of parks projects considered by Maple Ridge. I hope there’s some money for Jackson Farm – park sign, park benches, picnic tables, historical markers and parking stalls. Some of these things, along with a perimeter trail could be done at a minimal cost to taxpayers and the city, with partnership from corporate donors and with the handson volunteer help of the Friends of Jackson Farm. It wouldn’t take much to make it an official park.
Canada Post in ‘dire need’ David Vockeroth · ‘Your mail isn’t safe here.’ I ship from the main post office in Maple Ridge several times a week and am constantly overhearing similar stories as I wait in line. Canada Post’s service is in dire need of improvement. The staff at the front counter have their hands full and are as frustrated as anyone.
Letters to the editor should include full name and address, as well as daytime phone number for verification. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.
Wayne Cox and Todd Talbot
@ E-mail letters to editor@mapleridgenews.com.
Editor, The News: Re: New rules to heat up housing market (The News, Dec. 18). I was pleased to read your article about the new mortgage down payment rules. These new rules are but one factor that will impact the housing market in the coming year, and it’s important for consumers to be informed. I was dismayed, however, to find that your article only covered part of the story, the realtors’ side. Although the housing market may be temporarily buoyed by the rush to buy homes before the new rules take effect, the ultimate effect is likely to fuel a correction in the market in the coming year and beyond. What your article didn’t mention, but was just as significant, if not more significant, as the new down payment rules, is that the U.S. federal reserve recently hiked interest rates for the first time in nearly a decade. The Bank Of Canada rates follow the fed’s rates 90 per cent of the time. But even if the Bank of Canada lowers rates, even goes to negative rates (as some interpret the minis-
THE NEWS/files
A market correction could occur in the coming year. ter’s remarks), the fed’s hike (the first of many over the next two years) will impact Canadian bond rates, which drive mortgage rates. The simple fact is, Canadians, including folks in Maple Ridge, will be paying higher mortgage rates in the coming year. For folks with existing mortgages that will reset in the next two years, they could be in for quite a shock: someone with a current mortgage at 2.5 per cent could be look-
ing at a reset to 5.0 per cent in 2017. Add in the likelihood of Canada falling into a recession due to the collapse of oil prices, growing unemployment, and 2016 looks like a perfect storm for the housing bubble to pop. You published a column a few months ago, warning that the market is overheated, and Canadians are holding record debt. I know the paper gets significant advertising revenue from
‘We need to put a lid on flying drones’ Editor, The News: Re: Earning your drone-flying wings (The News, Dec. 22). Thank you so much for reminding me what a waste of good airspace the current drone craze is. And, yes, even as the Ministry of Transport orders that no flights should take place nearer than nine kilometres from an airport, I have already seen one this summer over
my home in Osprey Village – much closer than the airport limit and up high enough to create a flight hazard. Of course, Jonathan Reichert of your story disagrees with the 90-metre-high ceiling limit, calling it ‘’boring.’’ Who cares, where aircraft and public safety is involved. There are so many low-level aircraft flights from the Pitt airport, it is only a matter of
time before an aircraft hits one of these. As a regular pilot from Pitt, it is one more thing to watch for. The hobby is generally one of males eager to invade the space of others with their newest lookie-loo toy and film whatever it is they see. There have already been instances of spying drones, and blocking firefighters this sum-
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The City of Maple Ridge gives notice that it is seeking public opinion on the following Food Primary Licence amendment application. Applicant: Browns Socialhouse Establishment Location: 20490 Lougheed Highway, Maple Ridge Current Hours of Liquor Sales: Monday to Sunday - 9:00 am to 12:00 am Proposed Hours of Liquor Sales: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Sunday – 9:00 am to 12:00 am; Thursday, Friday & Saturday - 9:00 am to 1:00 am There are no proposed changes to the occupant capacity. Current onsite parking meets requirements. Persons who consider themselves affected by this application are requested to make written submissions in the form of a letter addressed to Jaci Diachuk, Administrative Program Assistant, 11995 Haney Place, Maple Ridge, BC V2X 6A9. You may send your letter by regular mail or e-mail to jdiachuk@ mapleridge.ca Written submissions will be accepted until 4:00 pm January 15, 2016. Please note that all submissions will be considered a public document and all information contained in it will be publicly available. For further information or clarification only, on the proposed Food Primary Licence Amendment Application, contact Jaci Diachuk, Administrative Program Assistant at 604-467-7391 between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm Monday to Friday. 11995 Haney Place, Maple Ridge, BC V2X 6A9 Tel: 604-463-5221 • Fax: 604-467-7329
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A loss of key staff, including CAO Kim Grout, hit council in early November. Grout will be the new CEO of the B.C. Agricultural Land Commission, while manager of legislative services Kelley Kenney is leaving Pitt Meadows to take the same position with the Comox Valley Regional District. Manager of development services Anne Berry is moving to Vancouver Island for a promotion, and engineering services coordinator Ike de Boer and deputy clerk Linda Kelly are both retiring. It created another un-
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They two recently renegotiated service agreements, and the process was smoother than ever. “We had a new level of trust and respect,� said Becker.
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The gravel operation would blast and remove 240,000 tonnes of rock per year over five years, reducing the elevation of the hill by 30 metres, from 45 to 75 m. The plan sparked a petition of more than 3,000 names, and a citizen protest in Victoria. The opposition to the quarry continues into 2016, and Pitt Meadows residents have been joined by the Katzie First Nation, who say Sheridan Hill is part of their genesis story. Becker said Pitt Meadows city hall and the band office are closer for being united in their quarry opposition. “It also accelerated the growth in the working relationship between our council and the Katzie First Nation band council, and that was a very good thing.�
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foreseen challenge for council, conceded Becker, noting that the loss of the CAO in particular leaves a big hole in the organization. “Losing Kim was disruptive, because you lose that institutional memory,� said Becker, adding that losing so many good people all at once is impossible to plan for. Council is proceeding to hire with a recruitment committee of council, deciding not to proceed with a “headhunter.� In the meantime, director of financial services Mark Roberts will be the acting CAO, and Becker said the existing staff is “backfilling� as best they can.
Transportation Many of the most urgent issues for Pitt residents fall under a broad “transportation� umbrella, from speeding traffic to poor transit service. Becker recently announced council has been working behind the scenes with senior government and CP Rail on a railway underpass at Harris Road – a $20plus million project that would resolve many issues with north-south traffic flow through Pitt Meadows. He noted that thirdparty stakeholders insist on confidentiality as a condition of conversation with the city.
Teamwork The past council was sometimes criticized for being dysfunctional. Becker and his team ran on a platform that
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promised teamwork, but Becker agreed that there is generally good cooperation by members of the team, although there is some friction. He has promoted procedures where every councillor has a chance to put an issue before the community and before council. “One councillor who has a hobby horse can get that on the agenda, without even the need for a seconder,� said Becker. “Folks that have something they’re particularly committed to – we have room in our procedural bylaw for that.� Their issue would need a seconder to get a motion on the table for discussion. He expects there to be debates. “You’re going to have differences of opinion on issues of substance, and you’re going to have differences of opinion on issues of style and presentation,� he said. “I said to council that one of the things I would like to see in 2016, is for me to do a better job making sure that the environment is open and respectful and transparent, and that no matter where your lawn signs were last time that everyone feels comfortable expressing an opinion and pushing something forward.�
The year ahead Council enters 2016 with a clear set of priorities for 2016, said Becker. “We need to get a CAO in position. We need to get this parks and rec thing clearly on track. We need to work with Maple Ridge and figure out what’s going on with the airport.� Budget discussions are under way, and council needs to fit in a new environmental officer position. And then there are two Onni projects – on a 245-unit townhouse subdivision, and the other a business park. “They are the two biggest development projects, together, that we’ve ever seen in Pitt Meadows. It’s elicited unprecedented participatory democracy from this council, but we will have to more those along and council will have to make a decision,� said Becker.
www.mapleridgenews.com - THE NEWS -- Friday, January 1, 2016 -- 9
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Where ever Dan Ruimy goes, people talk to him about the Syrian refugees and Canada’s role, led by the new Liberal government in Ottawa, in saving a fraction of them from the horrors of the civil-wartorn country. People want to help, says the new MP for Pitt Meadows-Maple Ridge. “Everywhere I go, I’m hearing people tell me how proud they are for the fact that we are doing this. There’s a real good feeling out there.” Where he hears they’re going, “There’s an outpouring of acceptance.” Ruimy said that the refugees who are coming to Canada, around 10,000 by the year end, are those who’ve spent years in refugee camps. It’s a fulfillment of a Liberal campaign promise during the Oct. 19 federal election to bring over 25,000 Syrian refugees by the end of the year. That’s since been scaled back to 10,000 by the new year and 15,000 in the first few months of 2016, although the government may initially fall short of those targets. Ruimy said that when the refugees arrive here, they will be dispersed throughout communities across Canada, allowing for better integration. “But we are cherry picking the ones that come here and can integrate into our society,” he added. “I’m proud of it. It’s done a lot for how people view us and for how people view our country. Ruimy was elected Pitt
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Dan Ruimy reacts to polling numbers on election night in October, when he was elected MP for Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows. Meadows-Maple Ridge MP in the Oct. 19 Liberal victory led by leader Justin Trudeau that swept the country and defeated the Conservatives. While he’s been in Ottawa just a few weeks, Ruimy already has an office there. He’s also sworn an oath of allegiance to the sovereign, and signed the Test Roll – a pledge to conduct himself or herself in the best interests of Canada. Ruimy has hired 1.5 staff in Ottawa, one which includes a University of Ottawa student from Maple Ridge. With 200 new MPs, the bureaucracy is trying to get everyone settled into their offices. It’s taking some time getting the new politicians into the system so they can start acting as Members of Parliament. But while MPs are still finding their desks, cabinet ministers are already running their ministries. “We all have to learn to be patient. Things don’t
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move as fast as we want them to, sometimes,” Ruimy said. He’s also found a spot for his new Maple Ridge constituency office, which will open in January on Lougheed Highway in downtown Maple Ridge, just west of the Tim Horton’s on 224th Street. He still stops in at his downtown shop, Bean Around Books, which staff are now running. Ruimy wants his new MP’s office to have enough room to hold community roundtable meetings, on which he campaigned. He hopes people can gather to find solutions to issues, rather than always seek government help. “I’m trying to be as visible as possible.” While parliamentary secretaries have been named, four of whom are from B.C., Ruimy expects to join the immigration and human resource development
committees. He’s also talked to local politicians in an attempt to narrow the number of local issues on which he can focus to help Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows. “What are the things we really want? I want to make sure I’m representing what our cities want.” For the present, Ruimy remains idealistic, unwilling to jeopardize the glow of victory or accept that the reality of politics is that no one can be happy all the time. Neither does he want to temper expectations by using finances as a way to back away from some of the promises. “We campaigned on certain things that we felt were needed for the country. I don’t think any of that has changed.” He noted that the Finance Minister Bill Morneau will be crossing Canada this year getting input on the federal budget.
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10 -- Friday, January 1, 2016 -- THE NEWS - www.mapleridgenews.com
Temporary shelter will begin to wind down Council yet to discuss what comes next By Phil M elnyc h u k pmelnychuk@mapleridgenews.com
Almost as soon as it opened up, the Maple Ridge temporary homeless shelter will begin to close down. With Christmas over, staff at the shelter at 22239 Lougheed Highway will start looking to find permanent homes for the 40 people who are now staying at the shelter, following its Oct. 1 opening. “That truly becomes a very targeted focus over the last little while,” said Sean Spear, with Rain City Housing, the agency that’s operating the shelter until it closes on March 31. Spear made the comments in December as people were dropping off Christmas gifts to the shelter. But with a low vacancy rate, finding homes for anyone is a challenge, let alone someone who’s dealing with substance abuse or mental health issues. With B.C. Housing funding the shelter, the City of Maple Ridge was able to offer accommodation to residents of the Cliff Avenue homeless camp that sprung up last spring next to the Salvation Army’s Caring Place.
THE NEWS/files
The temporary shelter helped clear Cliff Avenue of the homeless camp that spring up there last spring. That allowed the camp to be disbanded voluntarily, removing a sore point in the community that had festered for six months. Mayor Nicole Read has made housing and homelessness her priority during her first year as mayor. “This is something we need to stare down. It’s happening in every community. This significantly addicted, street-entrenched population, it requires steady work and encouragement,” she said in December. But when the temporary shelter closes this spring, there will be no full-time shelter to welcome
those who are still addicted, or who are ill or haven’t been able to find a place to live. What exactly will replace the temporary shelter remains undecided. The topic hasn’t yet been considered by council, says Coun. Corisa Bell. Any plans for another shelter, she added, should have started last fall, as the opening of the temporary shelter was announced. The public also needs to be involved. “We definitely need to have a discussion in order to have a plan going forward for the commu-
nity.” Bell said Maple Ridge has to decide if it wants to become known as a shelter city. “It’s part of the process that when you make services available, it becomes a regional service.” With the 40-bed temporary shelter still at capacity and the Salvation Army saying it’s housed 100 people, “all those individuals cannot possibly be from Maple Ridge.” “We just need to have a discussion if that’s what our city wants to be known for,” Bell said. She wants to see the statistics on exactly how many people have been housed. If the numbers prove that’s it’s working, “we should talk about it,” she said. Maple Ridge resident Matt Kelso says if there’s going to be a permanent shelter, the planning and discussion of a new shelter should have started last year. Read, though, says she wants to see the city maintain the progress it has made. “We have to stay in front of the numbers. That’s critical.” She believes the city should have a limited number of shelter beds, with a “very hard target” of how many days a person can stay in a shelter without being connected to housing.
“Now, it’s about really working with B.C. Housing to change the way that we use resources to deal with homelessness,” she said. Last year, the city also asked B.C. Housing to cut the $1 million year it gives to the Salvation Army Caring Places’ emergency shelter, saying that model no longer worked. However, the province has recently confirmed its support for the Salvation Army shelter. “Definitely, it is the province that puts the resources into the Salvation Army, but at the end of the day we’re the city that it’s located in,” she said, adding that taxpayers have spent significant resources on the issue, and the local council should have a voice. “We got 77 people housed. Some of those people were actually in and out of that shelter for a long period of time,” said Read. “The shelter model is not working as it needs to, and its masking the size of the problem in this region.” She said the city must have a limited number of shelter beds. “Our message remains the same: we need to be a community with less shelter beds and a greater commitment to getting people housed when they land on the street.”
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www.mapleridgenews.com - THE NEWS -- Friday, January 1, 2016 -- 11
‘22 new ambulances needed’ Paramedics from front
“If I have a stroke or a seizure, and both ambulances are tied up, and it takes an hour for a bus to come from Burnaby, that will probably kill me,� he said. He listens to emergency communications on a scanner, and said it is not unusual for both ambulances to be tied up with patients. Kelso said the population of homeless people in Maple Ridge puts greater demand on emergency services, and he has heard the ambulances responding to drug overdoses just six minutes apart. The drug fentanyl, a synthetic drug used like heroin, is causing more overdoses. Kelso said he does not want the ambulance issue to become clouded by people critical of how the issue of homelessness and drug use is being handled in Maple Ridge. “Let’s unite behind something,� he said. He plans to get to work immediately, collecting signatures outside of grocery stores for his new petition. John Strohmaier, spokesperson for the Paramedics union, CUPE local 873, appreciates the public support.
with a patient until hospital staff take them into care, and crowded emergency rooms mean these emergency responders can stay tied up for hours. “The resources have not kept up with the ever-increasing number of calls,� said Strohmaier. The 22 proposed cars would ideally be staffed for 24 hours by two paramedics each. However, the union has asked government to at least consider single responder units, to get to emergencies quickly. It is also promoting the idea of community paramedics, who offer limited medical services to lower-priority patients right in their homes, rather than transporting them to hospital emergency wards. Full-time firefighters pick up the slack to ensure that patients get a fast emergency response, but Strohmaier said that isn’t a permanent solution. “There is a reliance of fire departments, and fire departments do a great job as first responders,� he said. “But people in need of medical care and
transport need an ambulance service.� He noted that firefighters can’t transport patients, and “their treatments are very basic as well.� Pitt Meadows Fire Chief Don Jolley agreed with that assessment. He said the treatments offered by firefighters are “not even remotely close to what paramedics can do. “My personal view is the ambulance service is seriously understaffed in the Lower Mainland, in general,� he said, and added that Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows are included in that. About one-third of the call volume in Pitt Meadows is as first responders in a health emergency, he said. Local firefighters have seen long waits for an ambulance to arrive. He sees weeding out non-emergency calls as an important part of the solution. If there is a drug overdose, that is a serious health issue, but the ambulance that would respond to that call might be tied up by someone who calls in with a broken toe. “Firefighters play an important role as first
responders,� said Jolley, but expecting the fire service to fill in those gaps is not the solution.� Backing the paramedics, Jolley expressed frustration with any desire on the part of government to study the issue further. “They have lots and lots of data, but the province is turning its back on the need,� he said. A spokesperson for the B.C. Emergency Health Services, which oversees the Ambulance Service, said the group is conducting a deployment and demand review of its own, and the results will be known early in the new year. She said a petition from a community for increased service would be taken into consideration. “We do take all feedback seriously, and we value input from municipalities on how to improve patient care,� said Prit Grewal.
“We certainly hope they have some chance for success,� he said, noting his group is still advocating for improved service across the province. A recent union investigation found 22 new ambulances are needed in Greater Vancouver. Then service would be able to meet the national standard of 8:59 (nine minutes) response time for a Code 3 emergency call, the union contends. “As far as Maple Ridge is concerned, I would be surprised if we ever meet that standard,� he said. Paramedics must stay
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12 -- Friday, January 1, 2016 -- THE NEWS - www.mapleridgenews.com
More to come in downtown Ridge Post-secondary options on agenda By Phil M elnyc h u k pmelnychuk@mapleridgenews.com
There are still empty spaces, vacant lots throughout Maple Ridge’s downtown, just not as many as before. With the arrival of a film studio, Rexall Drugs and this year’s opening of Walmart in the vacant spot formerly occupied by Zellers, then Target, the central area is active. “We get a lot of negative feedback from the downtown, but there are not a lot of empty spots anymore,” said Coun. Craig Speirs. He’s also happy with this year’s change in ownership in the Haney Place Mall, now owned by Smart Real Estate Investment Trust. “Now we have a deep-pocketed owner of that mall.” Maybe the new owner will continue improvements or make further major changes to the mall, he said. Speirs added that work will continue to try to make the downtown a people-friendly place. He favours repairing the plumbing of the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre, a $6-million project, instead of tearing down the entire complex and replacing it with a hotel or convention centre.
THE NEWS/files
Walmart opened in the former Target location at Haney Place Mall, which has a new owner, early in December. Instead, the latter could possibly go in the old Mussallem Motors dealership on 223rd Street and Lougheed Highway, or in the location of the Haney Plaza on Dewdney Trunk Road and 222nd Street. Downtown businessman and council colleague Bob Masse says the arrival of Walmart is a bellwether for economic development of a city, that shows confidence. “All I’ve heard is good
things,” Masse said. This year’s purchase by Falcon Homes of the city’s three acres on Selkirk Avenue and 226th Street for $7 million will allow that developer to continue building its condos, and increasing the population base, across from the Haney Place Mall. That will project will take place over time. Meanwhile, in the same area, the city has almost finished building a
new sidewalk along Selkirk, south of the mall, improving the pedestrian environment. The final stage of the downtown improvement project, rebuilding Lougheed Highway between 226th and 224th streets, has yet to begin. Masse pointed out that the earlier incentives for building condos in the downtown have expired, and are now replaced by those that encourage commercial development.
“So we definitely want to encourage more economic development, more jobs.” Council recently gave first reading to a proposal to put 450 homes for one of the gateways to the downtown, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure lands on Lougheed Highway, west of Kanaka Way.
But council wants to ensure that the Haney Bypass will be improved along with that. Maple Ridge Mayor Nicole Read has pressed her case with the ministry for widening the bypass and for improving the intersections at either end, 222nd Street and Kanaka Way. Work continues on Meridian Meats and Seafood building at the corner of 227th Street and Dewdney Trunk Road. One of Masse’s pet projects is the opening of a post secondary institute in Maple Ridge. The concept is to have major universities offer firstyear courses in Maple Ridge, allowing students to pick and choose from a variety. They can then transfer to second year of whatever program they choose. University of the Fraser Valley, SFU, Douglas College, Kwantlen Polytechnic University and BCIT have all shown interest. “The big hang up is the government’s real reluctance to commit to capital costs,” said Masse. “How big a facility do we really need?” Another meeting takes place in March. “The whole point is to make education far more accessible, because it hasn’t been.” A study showed that Maple Ridge has lower participation rates in post secondary education because of a lack of access.
Top storiies 2015
City and TLink talking about express bus Extending east-west route top of list By Phil M elnyc h u k pmelnychuk@mapleridgenews.com
The mayors’ regional plan for transit improvements was put into a state of suspended animation last May, when voters rejected a sales tax hike that would have paid for it. Part of the plan, though, is still being talked about – the muchdiscussed, long-awaited express bus service between Maple Ridge and the new SkyTrain line in Coquitlam, which opens in 2017. Coun. Gordy Robson says the project is again being discussed by City of Maple Ridge staff and TransLink. “I think they realize it won’t take any more equipment,” said Robson. It’s just a matter of making the existing bus routes more direct, allowing an express service, with limited stops, to connect Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows to the new rapid transit line. Maple Ridge council, in the fall,
THE NEWS/files
Maple Ridge is again discussing an express bus route to the Coquitlam SkyTrain. looked at how to implement its new Strategic Transportation Plan, passed in 2014. The plan sets out general goals over two decades for roads, transit, cyclists and pedestrians. Top of the list is continuing to extend another four-lane east-west traffic artery. The widening to four lanes of 128th Avenue, from 210th to 216 streets, is almost complete, with work starting next year on the stretch from 216th to 224th streets. But extending those four lanes
farther east, to 240th Street, remains the long-term goal. “The emphasis on Abernethy is increasing dramatically because of our need for industrial land,” Robson said. Having another four-lane eastwest road, at least connecting to 240th Street, would improve access to the city’s industrial area at the north end of 256th Street. Robson said he’d like to see 128th Avenue extended to 240th Street within the current council’s term, in the next three years, adding
some of the right of way is already in place. Other roads are slated for major expansion over the next 20 years. Widening Dewdney Trunk Road to four lanes between 240th and 248th streets is one of the projects. That will extend the second major east-west artery in the city, also bringing it closer to Maple Ridge’s industrial area. As well, 232nd Street should be four-laned from Abernethy Way, north to 132nd Avenue. Those are all local projects, however. The city continues to press for the province to do its part by widening the Haney Bypass to four lanes for the entire bypass, as well as widening the Lougheed Highway east of 272nd Street. Improving the Haney Bypass is “definitely a priority. We’ve had such a tragic number of deaths on that strip of road. So absolutely that would be the main focus to keep working on that with the province,” said Coun. Corisa Bell. She added that the city is looking for opportunities to partner with
the senior governments for any funds that become available. Council could be in a position to press the province for that because a housing and condo project proposed for nearby Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure lands requires council’s approval and, so far, has only received first reading. Maple Ridge’s transportation plan also proposes building some kind of connector to the Albion Industrial Area, possibly an overpass; as well as a “Thornhill Connector” that would join that area east of 248th Street, to the Lougheed Highway. One way to do that would be to extend Jackson Road south to Lougheed Hwy. Creating another east-west road, between 252nd and 268th streets, along the slope of Grant’s Hill, connecting with 112th Avenue and Kanaka Way, and building a new route to 272nd Street, is also on the wish list. All told, the road network plan, over 20 years, would ring in at $150 million.
Top o stori s ories 2015 2 015
www.mapleridgenews.com - THE NEWS -- Friday, January 1, 2016 -- 13
Sports
nervous system play a decisive role in fort, burning muscles) actually originates fatigue. in the brain as a protective mechanism In one of these studies, the group of that keeps the body from getting too close cyclists who just rinsed their to a life-threatening situation. mouths with (but did not swalThis theory, more commonly low) a carbohydrate drink rode called the central governor longer compared to the control theory, views fatigue as a progroup, whose members didn’t tective emotion rather than a get the carbohydrate drink. physiologic, muscular process. The study indicates that the This theory agrees to some taste receptors in the mouth extent with a couple of other were signaling the brain that it phenomena we’ve known about was safe to continue because fuel for years. was being restored, even though One is that even when we try no fuel was actually ingested. to maximally contract a muscle Kinected An interesting study was also to 100% of its capacity, we never Kerry Senchyna done, once again, on cyclists ridachieve 100% of the muscle fiing stationary bikes in a climate controlled bres firing. This has always been viewed as room while varying heat and humidity. a protective mechanism to avoid muscles One group of cyclists rode under normal from being injured at full ability. temperate conditions while two other The other phenomenon of brain influgroups rode at the same elevated tempera- ence is that when we are injured our ture and humidity. brains modify our pain perceptions. If we The two temperature groups were given are fearful, stressed, depressed or otherfeedback about the ambient temperature wise experiencing negative emotions, our and their own body’s core temperature. brains will amplify pain perception. When However, one of the high temperature we are happier, our brains lower pain groups was given incorrect information, perception. making members think that the temperaThough not all the mechanisms of the tures were lower than they actually were. brain’s influence on fatigue and perforThis ‘deceived’ group thus had the same mance are fully understood yet, it appears physiologic conditions, but perceived that that the brain plays a dominant, even they were ‘safer’ and had a lower perceived singular role in fatigue. exertion. They performed just as well as Neuroscience is making some amazing the control group, which was exercising at discoveries lately and it will be interesting normal temperature and humidity. what new developments are in store in the The correct-feedback temperature group future. fatigued and stopped earlier than the other two groups. Kerry Senchyna holds a bachelor of The proposed mechanism for this effect science degree in kinesiology and is owner is that our perception of fatigue (discomof West Coast Kinesiology.
Flames set for Winter Classic sports@mapleridgenews.com
The Ridge Meadows Flames will face off against a pair of division rivals Jan. 2 and 3 as part of the Pacific Junior Hockey League’s Winter Classic celebrating its 50th birthday.
All teams will take part in the three-day event at the Minoru Arena in Richmond starting on New Year’s day. The Flames will open the weekend when they take on the Abbotsford Pilots on Saturday, Jan. 2 at 1 p.m. The Flames
Carrier of the Week
have dropped both games against the Pilots this year, each by one goal. The Pilots edged the Flames 2-1 at Planet Ice on Oct. 16 and again 5-4 in overtime in Abbotsford on Nov. 13. The Pilots sit one point behind the Mission City
Outlaws for first place in the Harold Brittain division with 40. The Outlaws dropped their last five outings. The Flames wrap up the weekend when they take on the Aldergrove Kodiaks Sunday, Jan. 3 at 1 p.m. The Flames sit in fourth place in the division with 29 points,
three behind Aldergrove. The Kodiaks lead the season series 2-1, taking the first two games 5-2 in Aldergrove on Sept. 16 and 3-1 at Planet Ice Oct. 19. The Flames won a wild shootout 10-7 the last time the two teams met in Aldergrove on Nov. 18.
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at the best price in Maple Ridge Your Loc al Jeweller since 1979 UI TUSFFU t Monday - Thursday 9:30 - 5:30 t Friday 9:30 - 8:00 Saturday 9:30 - 5:00 t email: goldrush@telus.net
BC’S LARGEST AGRICULTURE EVENT OF THE YEAR!
2016
W
hen you get to the end of a workout or a sprint session and fatigue begins to set in, breathing becomes harder, muscles start to burn like they’re on fire, coordination becomes faulty, and you are forced to slow down or even stop. What is the barrier – what determines fatigue? Is it some physiologic process in your muscles or does fatigue exist elsewhere? Athletes have long noticed that no matter how tired you are, it’s much easier to overcome fatigue when there is suddenly a chance for you to go on an offensive rush compared to the times when you have to go back and help on defense. The offensive scenario has a potential reward of scoring, while no such immediate reward exists when back-checking. We are all familiar with trying to overcome fatigue through mental exhortation, such as a coach or an exercise instructor yelling encouragement. The mental contribution to fatigue has always been known to exist, but recent studies on a diverse range of mental input have shown that this may be the primary factor controlling fatigue. One study done at Bangor University showed that cyclists were able to overcome fatigue and persist cycling longer when they were shown positive subliminal pictures or phrases compared to a group who were shown negative or discouraging pictures or phrases. Fatigue was overcome by up to 17 per cent better performance in the ‘positive’ group. Another set of studies using hydration have also shown how the brain and central
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Over 280 Exhibitors Covering 20,000 sq. ft.!
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A14 -- Friday, January 1, 2016 -- THE NEWS - www.mapleridgenews.com
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INDEX IN BRIEF FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS ......... 1-8 COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS.. 9-57 TRAVEL .................................61-76 CHILDREN............................. 80-98 EMPLOYMENT .................... 102-198 BUSINESS SERVICES............ 203-387 PETS & LIVESTOCK............... 453-483 MERCHANDISE FOR SALE .... 503-587 REAL ESTATE ..................... 603-696 RENTALS .......................... 703-757 AUTOMOTIVE.................... 804-862 MARINE ........................... 903-920
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FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS 4
FUNERAL HOMES
EMPLOYMENT/EDUCATION
FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS 4
FUNERAL HOMES
115
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
EDUCATION
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
21
33
COMING EVENTS
INFORMATION WITNESSES WANTED
For a multi-car accident in Maple Ridge by a Hit and Run Driver, on August 5, 2015 around 4:30PM, near 203rd & Lougheed Highway (20200 Lougheed Highway). A stolen white 2007 Toyota Camry (Plate BC345V) eastbound, went over the median, hit a 2007 green Ford Focus (Plate 817KRG), then westbound later hit two other cars. If you witnessed this accident, please contact Todd Brayer, Lundrie & Company 604-257-3588 or 604-401-9795 todd@lundrielaw.com
.
ANTIQUE SHOW
WHERE DO YOU TURN
Sunday, January 10th
7
OBITUARIES
7
Admission $2.00 We Buy Old & New Things 703 Terminal Ave. Vancouver 8:30am to 4:30pm Over 80 tables of antique & collectible treasures. Join us on Facebook For info 604 685 8843 Always buying Antiques & Collectibles
OBITUARIES
ULRIKSEN, Eleanor Waterworks Tech. School - Get certified in 6 weeks. Earn $18-22/hr. 1.250.886.3246
Passed away peacefully in her sleep with her husband by her side, on December 24th, 2015. Late of Maple Ridge, B.C., age 77 years. Predeceased by her grandson Coltin. Survived by her loving family, husband Carl; 3 sons, Glen (Wendy); Todd; and Jeff (Marianne); grandchildren, Curtis, Beth, Denin, Chantelle, and Braeden. Mom made Maple Ridge her home where she raised her family and made many friends. She enjoyed sewing and having her family over at Christmas, where she made everything extra special. Her smile and laughter will be missed by the many that knew her. Fly with the Angels mom and watch over us. Memorial Service Saturday, January 2nd, 2016 at 11:00 am in the Maple Ridge Funeral Chapel, 11969-216th Street. Rev. Bob Goos officiating. Condolences may be sent to www.mapleridgefuneral.ca David Angus (Gus) Pottie 1940 – 2015 Beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather passed away on Dec.25, 2015 with his family by his side after a lengthy battle with Lewy Bodies Dementia. Predeceased by his father, David Y.S. 1969; mother, Mary T. (Molly) 1982; sister, Sheena Froment 2015. Survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Gale Viola; 3 children, Lenette Charlton (Scott), Lisa Lynum, David Byron (Laura); 9 grandchildren, Ashley Hughes (James), Daniel Charlton (Carley), Kelsey Ferguson (Derek), Jaclyn Charlton, Lindsay Lynum, Brad Lynum, Tyson Pottie, Kyle Pottie, Trey Pottie and 6 Great Grandchildren; his precious dog Missy who was by his side throughout his journey. Born in Salmon Arm, B.C. David’s family moved to Haney (Maple Ridge) in 1944 where he grew up, married Gale and they raised their 3 children. David worked for Canadian Kenworth Trucks 1965 – 1982 then as a supervisor with Canada Post for the next 22 years retiring in 2004. In semi – retirement he worked as a Fuel Bargeman in Van. Harbour for ITB which he enjoyed immensely. David was a dedicated family man and particularly enjoyed working in his yard and garden which he took great pride in as he did in everything he endeavored to do in his life. He was an inspiration to us all. The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Delta View L.E.C. who cared for David especially the nurses and care givers of E.P. Service to be held Saturday January 9th at 11, at Garden Hill Funeral Chapel, l, 11765 117 224th Street, Maple Ridge, B.C. BC In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer Society of BC would be appreciated. Expressions of sympathy can be made at www.gardenhill.ca
L O C A L
print online
TO LEARN WHAT’S ON SALE?
TABLES ONLY $40 www.vancouverfleamarket.com
YOUR NEWSPAPER:
The link to your community 109 CAREER OPPORTUNITIES 33
INFORMATION
33
Foxridge Homes, a division of Qualico is recognized as the largest intergrated real estate company in Western Canada.
INFORMATION
Maple Ridge News Classified Christmas Deadlines and Publication Dates
In the Vancouver area we are rapidly expanding and currently building new homes in Surrey, Coquitlam, Maple Ridge and Langley. With our rapid growth we are recruiting for the following positions: • Labourers • Level 2 or 3 First Aid, trained in site safety personnel • Carpenter/Back Framer/Foreman • Pre Occupancy/Warranty Service Representatives • Foundation Foreman/Supervisor • Foundation Crews • Framing Crews We offer an excellent benefits program and an excellent remuneration package. Forward your resume and covering letter to: Foxridgecareers@qualico.com
TUESDAY, DEC. 22ND Classified Deadline Mon, Dec 21, 9am
THURSDAY, DEC. 24TH
109 CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
115
EDUCATION
115
EDUCATION
Classified Deadline Wed, Dec 23, 9am
TUESDAY, DEC. 29TH Classified Deadline Mon, Dec 28, 9am
THURSDAY, DEC. 31ST Classified Deadline Wed, Dec 30, 11am
To book Classifieds call 604-575-5555
The office will be closed Dec 25, Dec 28 & Jan 1
STUCK, BORED, UNDERPAID OR JUST READY FOR A CHANGE?
Explore MEDICAL/DENTAL
OFFICE MANAGEMENT Medical Dental Office Procedures Dental Office Administration Anatomy & Psychology Transcription Medical Terminology Medical Pharmacology Bookkeeping Payroll 3 Week Work Experience
98
Funding may be available.
% GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT .46 RATE (2015)
DCC Campus located inside Retirement Concepts
Call now to receive a free information package
604-463-1174 www.discoverycommunitycollege.com
blackpressused.ca
Your Career Starts Here
www.mapleridgenews.com - THE NEWS -- Friday, January 1, 2016 -- A15
EMPLOYMENT/EDUCATION 108 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
EMPLOYMENT/EDUCATION
EMPLOYMENT/EDUCATION 115
EDUCATION
130
HELP WANTED
HOME/BUSINESS SERVICES 281
GARDENING
HOME/BUSINESS SERVICES 338
... in only 6-months starts March 21st, 2016
www.bccollegeofoptics.ca BC College Optics 604.581.0101
124
115
Call or text Dave (604)616-4103 ddlawnorder@gmail.com
Please Contact: Jo_anne@hotmail.com 778-861-4603
Prompt Delivery Available
134
Meadows Landscape Supply Ltd.
FARM WORKERS
130
• Food Service Supervisor $12.75/hr. + BeneďŹ ts Required F/T for Tim Hortons Maple Ridge locations. Various Shifts - Must be flexible for Nights / Overnights / Early Mornings / Weekends. Fax Resume Attn. Maple Ridge 604-278-6726 or e-mail: hurstcareers@gmail.com Operated by Epic Food Service
HELP WANTED
INTERIOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT SCHOOL. Hands-On Tasks. Start Weekly. GPS Training! Funding & Housing Avail! Job Aid! Already a HEO? Get certiďŹ cation proof. Call 1-866-399-3853 or go to: iheschool.com
356
SUPERVISOR; Dairy Queen 20492 Lougheed Hwy
(604)465-1311
GUTTER & ROOF Cleaning/Power Washing since 1982. WCB/Liability insurance. Simon, 604-230-0627
287
706 372
SUNDECKS
$75 OFF 1ST MONTH
Haney Motor Hotel
APARTMENT/CONDO
22222 Lougheed Hwy., Maple Ridge Inquire in person between 9am - 3pm or
MAPLE RIDGE
1 & 2 Bdrms available $880/mo & $980/mo
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Great Location
Queen Anne Apts. * Renovated Suites * *Large *Clean *Very Quiet
Call 604-467-3944
Furnished bdrm. Kitchen privileges. Maple Ridge & Mission. $450-$550. 604-467-0021, 778-868-5081
748 SHARED ACCOMMODATION
Includes: Heat, Hot Water
and Hydro
M.Ridge 1-2 rms avail in house.Pref prof/student, street prk, w/d. N/S. Jan 1st / 15th. $575. 604-506-5416
Near Shopping & Amenities.
ESTHETIC SERVICES
ROOMS FOR RENT
Rooms from $470/mo. Fully Furn, weekly maid service, cable TV, private bath, on bus route, 5/min walk to commuter rail.
JUNK REMOVAL By RECYCLE-IT! 604.587.5865 www.recycleitcanada.ca
SENIOR’S DISCOUNT
TRADITIONAL Chinese Massage 50min foot massage $30 30min body massage $25 604-459-5999 #9-12155 191B St, Pitt Meadows
HELP WANTED
746
RENTALS
HANDYPERSONS
Is looking for a mature & reliable individual for a supervisory position. Must be available nights & weekends. P/T only. Please drop off resume in person.
181
Rick Medhurst Sutton Group 1st West Realty 604-463-3000
New SRI Manufactured homes Singles $74,900. Doubles $94,900. PARK SPACES AVAILABLE REPOSSESSIONS 1974-2010 www.glenbrookhomes.net Chuck 604-830-1960 Trades. Financing. Permits.
283 GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS
MILLER Handyman Services, Low rates! Call Glenn at 604-619-3845 www.millersystems.ca
OFFICE/RETAIL
Unbelievable Rates, Starting at $495/month. Various sizes 320sf. - 2000sf. Various downtown locations. Updated and well maintained.
meadowslandscapesupply.com
283A
HOMES FOR RENT
Maple Ridge OfďŹ ce & Retail Space
RUBBISH REMOVAL
PERSONAL SERVICES
130
741
âœś Bark Mulch âœś Lawn & Garden Soil âœś Drain Gravel âœś Lava Rock âœś River Rock âœśPea Gravel
Five farm workers for Blue Magic Greenhouses Ltd. in Pitt Meadows. Work is labour intensive. Duties include pruning, planting, weeding, picking & other related duties rain or shine. Heavy lifting required. Min. wage. Expected to work 50 hrs/week, 6 days/week starting in March.. Email resume by January 13th to: bmgrh@shaw.ca
Excavator & Backhoe Operator Training. Be employable in 4-6wks. Call 604-546-7600. www.rayway.ca
1989 14x70 in Ruskin MHP w/View Fam./Pet ok. $42,900 w/$575pad Financing avail. 604-830-1960
7 Days / Week
HOTEL, RESTAURANT, FOOD SERVICES
EDUCATION
✠604-312-7674 ✠✠604-507-4606 ✠FLUID SOLUTIONS. Gas, plumbing, heating, reno’s, repairs. 20 years exp., reliable & courteous. Lic’d. Bonded. Jack 778-835-4416
736
MAPLE RIDGE: 4 Bdrm, 2 baths, $1600/mo plus utils & garbage. N/S, N/P. 1 Year lease min. Close to amen. Avail now. (604)272-0875 or (604)505-7936 MAPLE RIDGE W.End, 3 Bdrm rancher garage 4pce bath liv/din/fam rm newly reno’d throughout $1650 (604)841-4003
Furnaces, Boilers, Hot Water Heating, Hotwater Tanks, Drain/Duct Cleaning & Plumbing Jobs.
Flat $10 rate - Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows area.
Wage Negotiable Depending On Experience.
FARM WORKERS
FABLE Farms requires full-time greenhouse vegetable workers. No experience necessary. Mon-Sat start at 6:00 AM. Apply in person at 13460 Rippington Rd. Pitt Meadows or send resume to sales@fablefarms.ca, or fax to 6044601623. $10.49/hr.
“FAMILY CHRISTMAS TREE PICKUP�
Live Out Nanny
Req. for one child before & after school care in Pitt Meadows. Criminal background check req. and references.
RENTALS
633 MOBILE HOMES & PARKS
A Gas Fitter ✠Plumber
.www.coverallbc.com
OPTICAL TRAINING
PLUMBING
REAL ESTATE
749
604-463-2236 604-463-7450
STORAGE
12186-224 St, Maple Ridge CertiďŹ ed Crime Free Buildings
.Flagpersons & Lane Closure Techs required. Must have reliable vehicle. Must be certified & experienced. Union wages & benefits. Fax resume 604-513-3661 email: darlene.hibbs@shawbiz.ca
182
FINANCIAL SERVICES
Immediate Openings:
A-1 CONTRACTING. Renos. Bsmt, kitchens, baths, custom cabinets, tiling, plumbing, sundecks, fencing, reroofing. Dhillon 604-782-1936.
Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
300
Den’s GarDENing Services
. Need Cash? Own a vehicle? Borrow up to $25,000. SnapCarCash. 604-777-5046
HOME/BUSINESS SERVICES 203
Bookkeeping & Accounting Payroll, Year-end, Financial Statements, Income Taxes E-FILE Service Ph: 604-465-2123 Cellular: 604-788-0161
Earn Extra Cash! Available routes in Maple Ridge 40000064 - 111A Ave, 112 Ave, 237 St, 238 St, Kanaka Way 40100110 - 228 St, Fulton St, Gilley Ave, Ritchie Ave. 40100129 - 116 Ave, Burnett St, Lougheed Hwy. 40220250 - 125A Ave, 126 Ave, 220 St, 220A St. 40220257 - 124 Ave, 126 Ave, 219 St, Harkness Crt, Higgins Crt, Highview Pl, Isaac Cres. 40220262 - 124 Ave, 216 St, Exeter Ave, Spring Cres, Thornton Ave. 40220264 - 123 Ave, 124 Ave, 216 St Evans St, Manor Ave. 40310306 - 117 Ave, 118 Ave, 210 St, Barker Ave, Fraserview St, Penny Lane, Steeves St. 40310307 - 113 Ave, 114 Ave, 207 St, Lorne Ave. 40310309 - 116 Ave, 117 Ave, 211 St, Berry Ave, Fraserview St. 40310313 - 119 Ave, 210 St, 212 St, Cook St, Laity St. 40310314 - 117 Ave, 207 Ave, Camwood Ave, Graves St, Owen St, Thorne Ave. 40310315 - 117 Ave, 207 St, 209 St, Graves St, River Rd, Steeves St, Stoney Ave. 40400442 - 138B Ave, 232 St, 232A St, Blaney Rd, Silver Valley Rd.
236
CLEANING SERVICES
brian@mapleridgenews.com
âœśDump Site Now Openâœś SBroken Concrete RocksS $25.00 Per Metric Ton SMud - Dirt - Sod - ClayS $25.00 Per Metric Ton GrassSBranchesSLeavesSWeeds $59.00 Per Ton
604-465-1311
477
PETS
CATS GALORE, TLC has for adoption spayed & neutered adult cats. 604-309-5388 / 604-856-4866 GERMAN Shepherd pups. Working line. Black. 11 wks old, 1 left. $750. 604-820-4230, 604-302-7602 NEED A GOOD HOME for a good dog or a good dog for a good home? We adopt dogs! Call 604856-3647 or www.856-dogs.com
604- 467- 1118
242
CONCRETE & PLACING
HERFORT CONCRETE
NO JOB TOO SMALL Serving Lower Mainland 25 Years! *Prepare *Form *Place *Finish *Granite & Interlocking Block Walls *Stairs *Driveways *Exposed Aggregate *Stamped Concrete. *Interlocking Bricks *Sod Placement EXCELLENT REF’S -WCB Insured
548
FURNITURE
#1 Cash Buyer ~ Since 1987 ~ $$CASH $$ for your furniture, tools, electronics, antiques, appliances, computers & collectibles.
604-463-4449 604-209-6583
MOVING & STORAGE
AFFORDABLE MOVING www.affordablemoversbc.com
$45/Hr
From 1, 3, 5, 7 & 10 Ton Trucks Licensed ~ Reliable ~ 1 to 3 Men Free Estimate/Senior Discount Residential~Commercial~Pianos
551
Clean, Quiet Well Managed Bldg. 3 Blocks to W.C. Express W 1 & 2 Bdrm Suites W 3 Appliances W Secured Garage Parking W Adult Oriented W Ref’s Req’d & Absolutely No Pets
UNIQUE CONCRETE
DESIGN
F All types of concrete work F F Re & Re F Forming F Site prep FDriveways FExposed FStamped F Bobcat Work F WCB Insured
GARAGE SALES
Closing Out Sale #10 12350 Harris Road A great variety of household items and dĂŠcor, tools, books and much more! Items as low as $1.00 Friday, Saturday Sunday 11 am to 4pm
604-537-4140
257
DRYWALL
CASCADE DRYWALL. Res / Comm Drywall, taping, text. ceilings, t-bar. steel stud. Call Rob 604-218-2396.
www.paintspecial.com 778-322-2378 Lower Mainland 604-996-8128 Fraser Valley Running this ad for over 12yrs
PAINT SPECIAL 3 rooms for $299 2 coats any colour
(Ceiling & Trim extra) Price incls
Cloverdale High Performance paint. NO PAYMENT until Job is completed. Ask us about our Laminate Flooring.
Onsite Manager
604.465.7713
PORT COQUITLAM
1 bdrm suite - $775 2 bdrm corner suite - $925 S Includes heat/hot water S 1.5 blocks to various bus stops S 2 blocks to Safeway/medical S City park across street S Gated parking and Elevator S Adult oriented building S References required * SORRY NO DOGS * CALL FOR APPOINTMENT
TRANSPORTATION 845
SCRAP CAR REMOVAL
#1 FREE Scrap Vehicle REMOVAL ~~ ASK ABOUT $500 CREDIT ~~ $$$ PAID FOR SOME. 604.683.2200
ROYAL CRESCENT ESTATES 22588 Royal Crescent Avenue, Maple Ridge
Large Units. Close To Golden Ears Bridge, Shopping & More. GREAT RIVER VIEW!
• Autos • Trucks • Equipment Removal FREE TOWING 7 days/wk. We pay Up To $500 CA$H Rick Goodchild 604.551.9022 The Scrapper
OfďŹ ce: 604-463-0857 Cell: 604-375-1768 709 COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL PORT COQUITLAM 775-3000sqft. Ground floor commercial space. Office / retail / service type business. Facing onto city park. 2 blks from Lougheed/ Shaughnessy intersection. Call 604-464-3550.
Classifieds work.
Leo: 604-657-2375 / 604-462-8620
NORTH STARS PAINTING www.northstars-painting.com AMAZING WORK, AMAZING VALUE! 778.245.9069
Launch Ramp with 3 lines and ample parking for tracks and trailers
604.465.7221
Pitt Meadows
LOCAL & LONG DISTANCE
329 PAINTING & DECORATING
Moorage Rental Year or Semi-annual Outdoor Storage Available Starting At $30/month for Boats, RV’s, Cars, Trucks & Trailers
604-464-3550
Single Items to Entire Households 320
14179 Reichenback Rd
MERCHANDISE FOR SALE
ANYTHING OF VALUE
Details : mariescustomized cleaning@gmail.com
FREE ESTIMATES
604.476.2740
MISC SERVICES
* Insured * Experienced Maple Ridge, P. Meadows, Mission
778-231-9675, 778-231-9147
Circulation
317
House Cleaning Team
41011005 - 118B Ave, 119 Ave, 193 St, Blakely Rd. 41011022 - Bonson Rd, Maple Pl, Somerset Dr. 41021057 - 121B Ave, 122B Ave, 188 St, 189A St, Charnley Crt, Ford Rd.
Landscaping, Cleanups, Pruning, Hedges, Rubbish Removal, Topsoil, Gravel. Tree Topping, Chipping & Stump Grinding. FIREWOOD FOR SALE **Don’t FALL Behind**
Meadows Landscape Supply
Available routes in Pitt Meadows 41011026 - FairÂżeld Ave, Hammond Rd, Herring Pl, Wildcrest Ave.
PETS
604.465.2944
40000065 - 105 Ave, 105A Ave, 243 St, 244 St, Baker Pl, McClure Dr.
Maple Ridge Pitt Meadows NEWS
ACCOUNTING / TAX /BOOKKEEPING
Atlas Vinyl Sundecks - Your Complete Sundeck Specialist. Free estimates (778)285-2107
LANDSCAPING
JAGUAR LANDSCAPING Lawn & Garden Service. Design, Pruning, Lawns, Cleanups, Comm/ Res. (604)466-1369
Pitt Meadows Marina
19071 Ford Rd. Pitt Meadows
.
RAMP SERVICES AGENT
About Us: About Us: Swissport SwissportCanada Canada Inc. Inc. isis the the leading leading Ground Ground Services Services Provider Provider to the aviation industry. industry. Job Responsibilities: Job Responsibilities: Ĺ˜ /RDG DQG XQORDG SDVVHQJHU OXJJDJH DQG FDUJR • Load and unload passenger luggage and cargo Ĺ˜ 'ULYH DQG RU RSHUDWH JURXQG VXSSRUW HTXLSPHQW • Drive and/or operate ground support equipment Ĺ˜ 2WKHU GXWLHV DV DVVLJQHG • Other duties as assigned 4XDOLĹľFDWLRQV DQG &RPSHWHQFLHV Qualifications and Competencies: Ĺ˜ +ROG DQG PDLQWDLQ D YDOLG % & GULYHUV OLFHQVH DQG DELOLW\ WR REWDLQ DQG • Hold and maintain a valid B.C. drivers license and ability to obtain and PDLQWDLQ D <95 ' $ OLFHQVH maintain a YVR D/A license Ĺ˜ 0XVW EH DEOH WR ZRUN LQ LQFOHPHQW ZHDWKHU • Must be able to work in inclement weather Ĺ˜ )OH[LEOH WR ZRUN RQ YDULRXV VKLIWV • Flexible to work on various shifts GD\V HYHQLQJ QLJKWV ZHHNHQGV DQG KROLGD\V
(days, evening, nights, weekends, and holidays) Ĺ˜ /LIW KHDY\ REMHFWV WKDW FRXOG UHDFK SRXQGV NLORJUDPV
Ĺ˜ 0HHW 7UDQVSRUW &DQDGD UHTXLUHPHQWV VWLSXODWHG LQ WKH $LUSRUW • Lift heavy objects that could reach 70 pounds (32 kilograms) 5HVWULFWHG $UHD $FFHVV &OHDUDQFH 3URJUDP CASH BONUS RETENTION PROGRAM Pleasesend sendresume: resume:yvrhr@swissport.com yvrhr@swissport.comor or Fax: Fax: 604.207.9941 604.207.9941 Please or apply online:orwww.swissport.com apply online: www.swissport.com
Polo Club Apartments
563
MISC. WANTED
Have Unwanted Firearms? Have unwanted or inherited firearms in your possession? Don’t know how to dispose of them safely and legally? Contact Wanstalls and we will come and pick them up and pay you fair value for them. Wanstalls has been proudly serving the Lower Mainland firearms community since 1973. We are a government licensed firearms business with fully certified verifiers, armorers and appraisers.
Call today to set up an appointment 604-467-9232
Wanstalls Tactical & Sporting Arms
An economical solution to advertise your service!
16 -- Friday, January 1, 2016 -- THE NEWS - www.mapleridgenews.com
12 MONTHS FREE FINANCING OAC*
SALE ENDS JAN 3 Don’t Miss It
BOXING DAY SALE SAVE UP TO 50% OFF ON BEAUTIFULLY SELECTED ITEMS!
3 Piece Bancroft King Bed & Two Night Stands Regular $4098.00
Boxing Day Price $2898 No Tax Limited Quantities
LIMITED QUANTITIES Matching pieces available
Banf II Fabric Power Recliner Chair
Traditions Sofa
Made in Canada Regular: $1798.00
Boxing Day Price
$
Made in Canada Regular $1898.00
1298 No Tax
Boxing Day Price
1298
$
No Tax
Solid Wood Montreal 7Pc Dining Set Table & 6 Side Chairs
Norwood Power Leather Recliner Sofa
Regular: $2386.00
Made in Canada Regular $3498.00
Boxing Day Price
1848
$
Boxing Day Price
No Tax
2798
$ Although every precaution is taken, errors in prices and/or speci cations may occur in print. We reserve the right to correct any such errors. May not be used with any other promotion. Some special items may not be on display but are available via our special order program. *See store for details.
YA L E T O W N
I N T E R I O R S
Since 1989
www.lanestore.ca
1455 United Blvd., Coquitlam, BC
604.522.5144
Store Hours: Monday - Thursday 9:30am - 6:00pm Friday 9:30am - 9:00 pm Saturday 9:30am - 6:00 pm Sunday 11:00am - 5:00pm
No Tax
Proud Sponsor of the PNE Lottery Home