Bowen Island Undercurrent July 1 2021

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COVID19 NUMBERS: Zero new cases on Bowen last week

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Thursday, July 1, 2021 • A1 inc.

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THURSDAY, JULY 1 , 2021

CAPE JEWEL

VOL. 47 NO. 26

BIUndercurrent

BowUndercurrent www.bowenislandundercurrent.com

B.I. Conservancy stewards to rare species PAGE 6

Trust spar?

THE ISLANDS TRUST’S POLICY STATEMENT ROUSES CONTROVERSY

BRONWYN BEAIRSTO

Editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com

EMILY MCCULLUM PHOTO

MANDATORY BEACH DAYS: As a brutal, record-crushing heat wave settled across the Pacific Northwest and Western

Canada over the weekend and early this week, several Bowen restaurants and businesses closed because of unsafe temperatures (and many Bowen Islanders discovered the B.I. Pub has air conditioning). Bowen doesn’t have an Environment Canada weather station but both Sechelt and Gibsons broke all-time records with 40.8 C recorded Monday. Home thermometers on Bowen read temperatures topping 42 C. The muni doesn’t have the facilities for cooling stations but it does have many public beaches for cooling (bowenislandundercurrent.com/local-news/staying-cool-where-to-swim-on-bowen-and-where-not-to-3910433).

Mayor urges‘reflection’on Canada Day BRONWYN BEAIRSTO

Editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com

In a statement, Bowen Mayor Gary Ander stopped short of cancelling Canada Day altogether, as several Canadian communities have done.

While Bowen’s usual day of festivities isn’t going ahead, Ander pointed to both the pandemic and the countrywide social media groundswell to not

Enthusiastic.

celebrate the day in the face of recent discoveries of more than a thousand unmarked graves of Indigenous children who attended state-mandated residential schools.

“Canadians across the country are acknowledging historical tragedies, tragedies, and inequities and trying to come to terms with the loss, grief and trauma,” said Ander. “On Bowen Island,

Responsive.

Personable.

as we seek to deepen our understanding, and recognize the experience of all Canadians, we are encouraging a date of reflection on what it means to be a Canadian today.”

“We look forward to hosting a community celebration later this year, when we can come together in a safe fashion,” he said.

CONTINUED ON P. 9

Should new private docks for car-accessible properties be banned across the Trust? How can policy best address the climate and biodiversity crises? Does housing belong in Trust policy? And the age-old governmental question – what’s adequate consultation?

Conversation is bubbling over the Islands Trust’s draft policy statement, Islands 2050, set to head to Trust Council for first reading next week.

Where Bowen has our Official Community Plan (that envisions the future of our community – our density, our climate targets, our land use) the Islands Trust has the policy statement. The 30-page document guides decision making across the Trust area, including on Bowen Island. But, the current iteration is from 1994 (though there have been amendments).

In 2017, Trust Council voted to enter into a multi-year amendment process and consultations began in 2019 (including Bowen presentations), continuing through the COVID-encumbered 2020. In March, Trust Council dedicated a day to discussing the policy before staff went on to craft the earliest drafts of the new statement.

The new statement draws on three pillars – reconciliation, climate change and affordable housing. While rooting in the Trust’s “preserve and protect” objective, the draft statement takes a different approach from its predecessors on everything from how it’s structured, to how it addresses relationships with Indigenous peoples and stewardship, to agriculture, to forestry, to sea and foreshore infrastructure. It bans docks for car-accessible properties, desalination facilities, as well as hard sea barriers like seawalls (rather promoting soft shoreline protection). It works to align with the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.

Knowledgeable.

There has never been a better time to be a Seller of real estate on Bowen Island, provided that you have a plan in place for where you’ll go after you sell. The market here continues to have record low inventory with strong demand from Buyers.

If you have been sitting on the fence and thinking about putting your house on the market, now might be a good time to have a chat.

It’s a big decision to sell the family home, so take the time to get a second opinion on what your house is worth. A market analysis doesn’t cost you a thing.

604.220.7085

buyonbowen.com

CONTINUED ON P. 8

A2 • Thursday, July 1, 2021

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Events July 6, 2021 4:00 pm

Seeking Public Comment

Seeking Public Comment

Board of Variance applications

Development Variance Permit applications

The Board of Variance is meeting to consider two applications for minor variances.

Community Grants Advisory Committee

July 7, 2021 5:00 pm Heritage Commission

Council will be considering two applications for Development Variance Permits at its meeting on:

Board of Variance Meeting 9:30 AM on Tuesday, July 6, 2021 Online via Zoom

Regular Council Meeting 6:15 PM on Monday, July 12, 2021 Online via Zoom

1289 Scarborough Rd (BOV-20210167)

1228 Ocean view Rd (DVP-20210041) Application seeks to reduce rear setback for construction of a garage/ studio.

Application seeks to reduce rear and side setbacks to facilitate replacement of two existing sheds with one accessory building that will serve as a garage and workshop.

All meetings are online via Zoom and

open to the public, unless noted otherwise.

Help stop COVID-19:

1082 Miller Rd (DVP-20210047)

650 Carter Rd (BOV-20210173)

Get vaccinated - everyone over 12 is eligible

Application seeks to reduce side and visibility setbacks to facilitate construction of roof structures over the existing entry and an existing sandbox.

Stay home if you’re sick

The applications may be viewed online at bowenislandmunicipality.ca/planning or at Municipal Hall (hours of operation below).

Clean your hands frequently

Written submissions are accepted up to seven calendar days before July 6 and may be delivered to Municipal Hall (contact information below):

2 m or 6 feet

• • • •

Keep a safe physical distance

In person By mail By fax By email to planning@bimbc.ca

ADVERTISEMENT July 1, 2021

The applications may be viewed online at bowenislandmunicipality.ca/planning or at Municipal Hall (hours of operation below).

Written submissions may be delivered to Municipal Hall (contact information below):

Questions? Please contact Emma Chow, Island Community Planner at 604-947-4255 ext 247 or by e-mail at echow@bimbc.ca

Contact Bowen Island Municipality Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

These variances would: • Allow a 5.5 metre high retaining wall along the north property line; • Allow a 3.7 metre high cedar trellis and fence along the east property line, for a building entrance and to shield a generator.

Verbal submissions may also be made to the Board at the meeting. • • For instructions on how to participate, please go to: • bowenislandmunicipality.ca/board-of-variance •

Wear a mask in indoor public spaces

PAID

Application seeks to permit a number of variances for the development of a 24-unit supportive housing development by the Snug Cove House Society.

604-947-4255 604-947-0193 bim@bimbc.ca

Bowen Island Municipal Hall 981 Artisan Lane Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca

Hours: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Monday to Friday Closed statutory holidays

In person By mail By fax By email to mayorandcouncil@bimbc.ca

Verbal submissions may also be made to Council at the meeting.

For instructions on how to participate, please go to: bowenislandmunicipality.ca/council-meetings

Find us on Facebook Bowen Island Municipality

Subscribe to our mailing list bowenislandmunicipality.ca/subscribe

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Thursday, July 1, 2021 • A3

There’s an introduction to building Indigenous awareness July 1 In a time when Bowen Islanders have been reckoning with the colonial and genocidal realities of Canada, and asking “what can I do,” facilitator Pulxaneeks ( Pul-ha-neeks ) from Xaunksiala First Nation is holding a 90-minute virtual Introduction to Indigenous Awareness Building presentation.

The cut-off for registration is 3 p.m. July 1.

The event coincides with Canada Day, in a time when Canada Day is getting a lot of increased scrutiny, but the timing is coincidental. Pulxaneeks noted the irony of the date when she scheduled it three months ago, “but it’s not specifically for what’s been happening, it just happened to fall on that day.”

Pulxaneeks, a facilitator since 2003, runs Heart to Heart Indigenous Relations Consulting. She is from the Eagle Clan of the Xanuksiala First Nation, and was raised in the coastal Indigenous village she was born in and in the colonial “Canadian” mainstream society. “The work she offers of Indigenous Awareness Building comes from the unique understanding that has come from being exposed to both cultures,” says her website.

The July 1 event includes acknowledgement and honouring, introductions of practicing allys, a grounding in five points of clarity, an introduction to the four pillars of Indigenous right relationship making and active receiving and listening.

“It involves a lot of guiding, a lot of inviting people to drop into their heart,” Pulxaneeks said of her work. Pulxaneeks describes this presentation as “just the tip of the iceberg,” of what she offers. For those interested in continuing, she has a six-part series to come in the fall. “[It’s] a lot of honouring why we’re here, a lot of

acknowledging what’s at the root, giving a space for heart to be heard. A lot of times people will go through their whole lives and not have the opportunity to just speak to these big things that are within them,” said Pulxaneeks. “They learn things and they don’t have anywhere to bring it. They’re aware of the information and what’s going on, but don’t have anywhere to talk about it.

“I’m here to create more understanding and possibility of connection.”

“Someone would be interested in this because they have some things that are weighing on their heart and on their mind regarding Indigenous people and feeling lost or confused or conflicted,” she said. “That’s who I want to help, who I want to reach out to.”

While Pulxaneeks has lived on Bowen since fall 2018, she’s moving to Duncan next week. Had she stayed, her plan was to see built an Indigenous Awareness Committee with representatives from across the island.

“That was one of my long-term goals living there,” she said. “The aim with this is for folks to be more supported in understanding how to put their privilege to right use in the honoring of their Indigenous Host and the countless sacrifices that have been made for us to live as we do. Indigenous People are 4.8% the population in Canada, and one of the ways that happened is just beginning to make the headlines.

“I really see Bowen as having a huge capacity to step more into right relationship with your hosts,” she said. “Just how people kind of shrink in their seat when I ask them if they know any Squamish Nation people who live on the island – and they’re like ‘we’re really white.’ And how they’re willing to be with that and be uncomfortable with it.

“That is a symptom of allyship that has been

unguided and ungrounded and in need of direction.”

Pulxaneeks also wants to find people to help Pauline Le Bel with the work and relationships she’s been building with Squamish people for decades. “She’s got a massive list of things that she wants to do,” said Pulxaneeks. “She’s our cherished elder and I want to see her supported in all of her endeavours.

“She’s got the list, she’s got the connections, she’s got the relationships, but she’s only one human.”

While Pulxaneeks is moving away, she has built strong connections here and plans to return for events with Shasta Martinuk and Brian Hoover and plans on doing events on their property when restrictions lift.

The event is July 1 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and is $75 plus tax. For more information visit eventbrite. ca/e/intro-to-indigenous-awareness-building-90-min-presentation-tickets-152937527261.

Find more information about Pulxaneeks’ work at indigenousrelationsconsultation.com (Indigenous Relations Consultation dot com).

Pulxaneeks invited me to reflect on my reaching out to her to write this story, why I wanted to amplify it. Inserting ourselves like this is not something journalists usually do, but there’s also very much a need to decolonize journalism and place ourselves in where we come from. I’m coming from a place where I don’t have deep connections or relationships with Squamish people, and feel too feel lost in decolonization discussions, despite being around them my entire life. And I think many Bowen Islanders feel the same way. My job is to amplify people, topics, subjects islanders need or want to hear about and a lot of us need to reach outside our bubbles of comfort to join a healing process.

Property taxes are due July 2 Roads Crewperson - EXTENDED Property tax payments are due by 4:30 pm on Friday, July 2, 2021. Please note that Municipal Hall is closed on Thursday, July 1 for Canada Day, but payments can still be made online or dropped in the after-hours drop box.

• • • • • •

How you can pay Online or telephone banking Mail a cheque Drop box or in person at Municipal Hall Mortgage company Defer taxes Credit card (online only, service fee applies)

Please contact us if you have any questions at 604-947-4255 or bim@bimbc.ca.

Bowen Island Municipality seeks to fill a vacancy for an existing Roads Crewperson position in Public Works.

The Roads Crewperson is an outside labourer and will primarily be responsible for assisting with the maintenance of the Municipality’s roads and drainage as well as some labour tasks related to other Municipal infrastructure. In addition, winter maintenance requirements would consist of snow clearing from roadways and applying anti-ice material amongst other duties.

This is a full time position at 35 hours per week normally between 8:00 am to 3:30 pm, Monday Do you claim a home owner grant? through Friday; these times may be adjusted to meet From 2021, municipalities can no longer process home owner grants. The easiest way to claim your grant is online, specific requirements.

or you can call 1-888-355-2700. You must apply for your grant by July 2, 2021. Unclaimed home owner grants are considered unpaid taxes and are subject to penalties.

NOTE: The jurisdiction number for Bowen Island Municipality is 321.

Do you defer your taxes?

Since 2020, municipalities have not been able to process deferments. You can apply for or renew your tax deferral online or call 1-888-355-2700. You must complete your application by July 2, 2021 to avoid late penalties. bowenislandmunicipality.ca/property-taxes

For the 5,000-odd people of Bowen Island-Lions Bay community health service area, BCCDC data shows that for the week of June 22 to June 28: • The average daily case positivity rate was zero.

• 82 per cent of people 12+ have at least one vaccine dose • 83 per cent of people 18+ have at least one vaccine dose • 78 per cent of adults 18 to 49 have had one vaccine dose.

• 87 per cent of people 50 and over have at least one vaccine dose.

Note: the vaccination percentages this week are lower than last week’s. We’re asking the BCCDC for clarification.

There are no Bowen vaccination clinics listed on the VCH site.

Dogs on beaches in the summer Dogs are not permitted on Bowen Bay Beach, Tunstall Bay Beach and Sandy Beach during the months of July and August.

Used oil collection at BIRD A used oil collection facility is available at the Bowen Island Recycling Depot. Bring your used oil, antifreeze and oil filters and ask an employee for assistance.

A limit of 20 litres per person/household applies.

Please do not leave containers outside, and do not bring unknown substances.

Please submit your cover letter, resume, and references via mail or email by 4:00 pm on Friday July 9, 2021 to: Kat Stephens Human Resources Coordinator 981 Artisan Lane, Bowen Island, BC, V0N 1G2 Email: hr@bimbc.ca We thank all applicants, but only those being considered for interviews will be contacted.

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

BRONWYN BEAIRSTO

Editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com

No new COVID cases on Bowen

A4 • Thursday, July 1, 2021

bowenislandundercurrent.com

VIEWPOINTS LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Province reopens Ecclestone dock public comments DEAR EDITOR: A few weeks ago, Bowen Island Municipal Council granted a variance for a property owner to build a private dock on Ecclestone Beach, notwithstanding community input, which was 90 per cent against the dock.

Last week the Friends of Ecclestone Public Beach were successful in getting the Province of BC (FLNRORD), which makes the final decision about whether to allow the dock on Crown land, to re-open public comments on this private dock application.

Public comments will be accepted by the province until July 15. The province makes the final decision, so we still have a chance to stop the dock.

Our issues with the proposed dock: 1) The proposed dock size – 37.1 meters (121.7 feet) long, six metres (19.7 feet) above the ocean floor and located in provincial jurisdiction, will completely overwhelm this small, but treasured pocket beach, permanently impairing the recreational and aesthetic values of the beach and ecologically impacting the shoreline.

2) Ecclestone is a small pocket beach and the only family-friendly public beach on the outer shore of Deep Bay. For a century, the public accessed this beach via a public road and a short pathway across private property. The property then changed hands several times, and public access was no longer allowed. The current owners proposed to legalize public usage, but only in exchange for being allowed to build a private dock at the public beach.

3) Ecclestone Beach is the only safe pull-out on this entire shoreline – and the proposed location and size of the private dock will interfere with water access to the beach by swimmers (who at low tide, enter the water at the same place as the proposed dock) and boaters; and potentially poses navigational and safety risks.

4) The current proposed siting of the dock contravened Bowen’s Land Use Bylaw and thus required a variance.

The location and size of the private dock is too close to the adjacent road allowance and will permanently block future opportunities for legal public access to the foreshore from the road, including the community’s proposed public staircase.

5) Allowing such private docks with huge anchor blocks dragging the sea floor undermines current efforts to restore marine habitat in Deep Bay where volunteers are replanting eel grass as refuge for juvenile salmon and hundreds of other species of fish and invertebrates.

What can you do?

It’s our letters to the province that will make the difference – and numbers matter.

Each member of a household can write.

Kids who want to swim and play on an unspoiled Ecclestone beach can also have their say and even draw pictures to send to the Province.

But the window’s very tight – we only have until July 15 to send our letters. At the top of your letter please include the Crown land file number: 2412347.

Use the link below and enter the file number 2412347 that takes you to the dock application from the property owners, Timothy Klauke and Rosemary Toye.

You can then upload your letter: comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca.

If you want to go an extra distance, after sending your letter via the portal, you can also mail a hard copy to the Province: Project Manager, FLNRORD, 200-10428 153rd Street, Surrey, B.C. V3R 1E1.

You may also wish to email your letter to FLNRORD Minister Katrine Conroy at: FLNR.Minister@gov.bc.ca Please join us and write your letters today.

Gillian Darling, Heather Hodson, Leah Cline; On behalf of Friends of Ecclestone Public Beach

There was a lot to digest in the draft Islands Trust Policy Statement update, such that it probably requires a few readings to really start to understand (it starts on p. 17 of next week’s agenda islandstrust.bc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/TC_2021-07-07-8_SM_AGD_PKG_FINAL.pdf ). But one of the most striking lines for me, was that Bowen and Saturna were the only two – of the Trust’s 13 areas and municipality – to not pass Standing Resolutions on Reconciliation throughout 2019 and 2020. Nearly all of our sibling Trust islands and the province have committed to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, what has Bowen done? –Bronwyn Beairsto, editor THE WRITE STUFF. The Undercurrent encourages reader participation in your community newspaper. You must include your full name and a daytime phone number (for verification only). The editor reserves the right to edit for clarity, legality, brevity and taste. Please limit to under 500 words. HERE’S HOW: To submit a letter to the editor, fax 604-947-0148 or mail it to #102, 495 Government Rd., PO Box 130, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0 or email editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com.

All Advertising and news copy content are copyright of the Undercurrent Newspaper. All editorial content submitted to the Undercurrent becomes the property of the publication.

The Undercurrent is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, art work and photographs.

#102–495 Bowen Trunk Road, PO Box 130, Bowen Island BC, V0N 1G0 Phone: 604.947.2442 Fax: 604.947.0148 bowenislandundercurrent.com DEADLINE for advertising Monday, 4 p.m. DEADLINE for editorial Tuesday 5 p.m.

Bowen Island Undercurrent Subscription Rates: Mailed 1 year subscription on Bowen Island: $55, including GST. Within Canada: $85 including GST Newsstand (Single Copy) $1.50 per copy, including GST

ISSN 7819-5040

National NewsMedia Council.

EDITOR Bronwyn Beairsto editor@bowenisland undercurrent.com

ADVERTISING Tracey Wait ads@bowenisland undercurrent.com

CARTOONIST Ron Woodall

PUBLISHER Peter Kvarnstrom publisher@bowenisland undercurrent.com 2011 CCNA

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2011

SPECIAL THANK-YOU Audrey Grescoe

The Undercurrent is a member of the National NewsMedia Council of Canada, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please email editor@bowenislandundercurrent. com or call 604-947-2442.

If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the website at mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Thursday, July 1, 2021 • A5

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Virtual hearing not good Celebrating three years of enough for LUB changes Catching Stars Gallery DEAR EDITOR: A suggestion regarding the Land Use Bylaw amendments public hearing scheduled for July 12 and how Bowen Island Municipality is progressing with respect to the more relaxed public health COVID restrictions on public meetings.

While Zoom meetings have been essential during COVID19, and have been an invaluable tool for many organizations and businesses to be able to continue their operations keeping employees and the public safe, we are sure that we can all agree that Zoom meetings have their limitations.

Personally, we have not found that council meetings held

by Zoom and broadcast on YouTube have contributed to a feeling of community engagement and respectful dialogue between council and the community.

We are currently in Step 3 of B.C.’s Restart Plan, reducing restrictions.

Given that the attendance at Zoom/YouTube council meetings averages fewer than 30 people, it seems like a good time for municipal administration and Mayor and council to indicate their support for in-person community engagement on the important issue of proposed major changes to Bowen Island’s Land Use Bylaw, and announce that the public hearing on LUB Bylaw 528, 2020, will be held in person, with the appropriate COVID-19 safety protocols in place.

Alternatively, if the municipal administration, Mayor, and council are not comfortable with an in-person public hearing at this time, it would seem sensible to postpone this important public consultation until September, when we will be in Step 4 of the Restart Plan. Given that the proposed LUB amendments have been in the works for almost three years (as part of strategic priority 2018), a delay of a few more weeks would, surely, not cause any problems. As municipal planning staff are obviously extremely busy on building and development permits (as described on the front page of the June 24 Undercurrent), they would most likely appreciate the additional time to focus on processing these permits to meet Bowen residents’ immediate needs.

Staff and council would do well to demonstrate full transparency, open-mindedness, and engagement by postponing a complex public hearing of such importance to all of us on Bowen Island until we can all meet in person again.

Brian Buckingham and Margaret Underhill

DEAR EDITOR: Catching Stars Gallery celebrated its third anniversary on June 26 and celebrate we did! It was thrilling to see everyone who braved the heat and came out to raise a glass of Blue Mermaid cocktail and sample some delights with us including themed cupcakes by Shura Good Cake!

Our intention with starting Catching Stars Gallery was to support local artists by creating a beautiful gallery space where they could show and sell their artworks and be part of a cooperative. Bowen Island is a very creative place and nature is inspiring and draws many artists here. Being able to share their stories of what inspires them in their artworks creates that personal connection when art lovers visit the gallery.

We now have almost 50 artists represented at Catching Stars Gallery and we recently welcomed three new artists into the fold. We are delighted to introduce Mokajade’s Roshaan Ganief, Anyuta Gusakova, and John Givins to you.

Find out more on our website and social media and stop in the gallery to see what’s new for home and garden. Lots of great gift ideas too!

Through COVID-19, we have stayed open as much as possible in order to keep our artists’ work available as well as have a space for locals and visitors alike to enjoy the creativity of our many local artists. Many people have commented on how important art and inspiration have been throughout COVID-19 and have really been appreciating having a space to go to and have some semblance of social connection.

One person in particular came in and said that his wife was in a long-term care home and he couldn’t visit her, and he decided to come to Bowen Island for a retreat. He commented on how healing it was to be in the gallery, to be surrounded by beautiful art, and to have an interesting conversation with the artists. That is why we started our business and it’s situations like that that keep us connected and creative.

We are very grateful for the continued support of our patrons and our local community and we are looking forward to many more anniversaries with all of you!

Emilie, Thiago and Kathleen on behalf of everyone at Catching Stars Gallery!

KATHLEEN AINSCOUGH PHOTO

Double vaccinated: Jude Neale gives a hug at the opening of ‘Where We Stood’ at the Hearth Gallery a couple of weeks ago.The exhibit from visual artist Jane Kenyon and poet Jude Neale is on until Monday.

Don’t forget we have a newsletter – bowenislandundercurrent.com/account/mailinglist!

Happy summertime!

Out of the Blue is having a Trunk Show!

10am - 6pm Friday July 9th & Saturday July 10th

DEPARTS SUN to THURS FRI & SA. ed SNUG COVE 11:15PM ns suspend5AM ru HORSESHOE BAY 12:30AM muter m o c d n a t igh Afternoon Commuter Runs S Late n

Mon - Fri Horseshoe Bay - Snug Cove

We’re still here for essential services such as ambulance transport and we’re here for your private charter needs. Please feel free to call us with your questions as we chart these waters together.

Proudly Celebrating 42 Years of Trusted Transport for Bowen Island & Howe Sound The Joseph Ribkoff Rep will be here with tonnes of their clothing. You can try things on, get some fashion tips and if he doesn't have something in your size, they will ship it to you for free.

You could come with friends or just book a time for you.

Hope to see you at the show!

- Maryam (604) 802-1468 www.outofthebluebowen.ca

Telephone: 604-947-2243 Cellular: 604-250-2630 Tug & Barge services Special Event Cruises PRIVATE CHARTERS AVAILABLE ANYTIME

email: cormorantmarine@telus.net web: cormorantwatertaxi.com

604-947-2243

Since 1978

A6 • Thursday, June 24, 2021

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Turns out, new Conservancy park is truly worth, well, conserving BOWEN ISLAND CONSERVANCY DISCOVERS THAT IT OWNS A RARE TREASURE: CAPE ROGER CURTIS PROPERTY

LOUISE LOIK

Bowen Island Conservancy

Bowen Island Conservancy board volunteers were thrilled recently to receive confirmation that the land purchased at Cape Roger Curtis is an ecological “jewel of Howe Sound.” In spite of the three driveways and clearings for three houses, it retains a wild community of rare and threatened plants, animals, and ecosystems, states a recent rare plants assessment.

The baseline study indicates that the coastal bluffs have high ecological value, marking this as “the best example of this type of ecology in the Lower Mainland area.” There are rare, threatened and endangered ecosystems that make up the entire property with at least seven “at risk” animal species as well as diverse invertebrates who live in the trees, beneath the trees, in mosses, between the rocks, in tide pools, and along the shores.

Plants that normally are found on southern Gulf Islands are also here, and unique in the region.

Even without a full assessment of plant and animal species, it is already clear that this conserva-

tion area is important in terms of biodiversity at a provincial level.

“The conservation area will be a living museum,” says board member Bob Turner. “A place to learn about plant, animal and insect species, impacts of climate change, in addition to so many other elements that factor into the web of life in a forest, along the shores, on the rocky headland and even in the water.”

At a glance the value of the biodiversity in the area might not be immediately appreciated. There are tiny plants, for instance, that sprout up in the spring, disappearing quickly from view but critical in holding onto valuable moisture in the soil, and preventing the erosion of topsoil that sits atop a rocky headland. This supports the existence of other fragile but important species, invertebrates, and larger creatures. There is a delicate web of life that occurs on the headlands, but in the forest too, where wet soil is easily compacted by footsteps. Trampling removes oxygen from the soil, which makes it less hospitable to plants that hold the soil in place, or kills them altogether. This allows for soil erosion and loss of both plant and animal species. It’s easy to underestimate

how important the small life forms can be within a bigger picture, or to appreciate how much long-term damage can be done by footsteps.

Luckily, the report indicates that some of the forest ecosystems are less sensitive to some foot traffic, allowing for an interpretive trail system through those areas once enough baseline research is completed.

The report goes on to say “since the ecosystems of the Cape are only found in a small zone of the Pacific Northwest of North America and nowhere else in the world, the rarity of these systems can also be considered on a global level.“ Even from the roadside, you get a sense of what has been saved.

The area is home to the elders, the trees that are two to threehundred-years-old. Further along, amongst these elders, there are the old growth trees, some of them stunted, hiding their age behind their slow growing strategy.

The chunky southern shore, battered by winds and waves and baked in the sun is where some of the most precious species, like the Seaside Junipers, take hold. The Seaside Junipers were once believed to be rare Rocky

PHOTO COURTESY OF LOUISE LOIK

Fragile and slow-growing reindeer lichen grow at at the cape amongst other diverse plant species.

Mountain Junipers but were then identified as even less common.

On the bluffs are junipers and fragile reindeer lichen that slowly creep in an ethereal cloud across the rock, with no capacity to ward off the impact of dog paws and boots that rip it from its fragile hold or crush the smaller, more fragile and short-lived species.

Inland, there is craggy rock, ravines, and a mix of trees, vines, reeds, flowers and shrubs. Arching fountains of tall ferns grow along nurse logs covered in a velvety moss, and frogs, salamanders, birds, bats and banana slugs find nourishment in what remains a refuge for the wild creatures of the forest.

Altogether, this unusual chunk

of land and shore has a value that is inestimable in terms of the rich genetic bank of flora and fauna.

The ecological value also provides value for society on a psychological level. Where there is a deluge of news about dying oceans, logged old growth, and a growing number of species at the brink of extinction, here there is a rare “win” for the environment that all may enjoy. There is hope for regeneration, survival of the wild, and the potential for gratifying handson experience in restoration and learning and exploration.

“This isn’t a park; this is our community’s legacy, one that will endure for generations,” says Turner.

A supportive residence for Bowen seniors is close to reality!

PATRICK WEILER MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR WEST VANCOUVER-SUNSHINE COAST-SEA TO SKY COUNTRY

@PatrickBWeiler

Sometimes it’s just the simple pleasure of encounters with friends and acquaintances.

Snug Cove House gives you the choice of staying in the community you know and love.

Happy Canada Day Let us recommit today and every day to justice and reconciliation and ensure Canada lives up to its ideals. patrick.weiler@parl.gc.ca Tel.: 604-913-2660 | Fax.: 604-913-2664

Find out more, and complete our survey at: snugcovehouse.com

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Demolition in store for orchard cottage #12 BRONWYN BEAIRSTO

Editor

Yet another Davies Orchard cottage is set to come down.

Metro Vancouver, which owns the orchard as part of Crippen Park, is planning to demolish Cottage #12 – the cottage immediately behind Tuscany and below a large and healthy Douglas fir.

“It’s in such poor condition, it’s simply not restorable,” Jeffrey Fitzpatrick, manager of design and development at Metro Vancouver Regional Parks told the Undercurrent.

“There’s really nothing left to restore.”

The building’s location under the large tree, which is itself a significant part of the orchard, also contributed to the demolition decision, indicated Fitzpatrick.

The cottage is one of six remaining Union Steamships era cottages in an orchard once dominated by the simple bungalows. Despite local outcry, Metro Vancouver demolished

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Thursday, June 24, 2021 • A7

TEDx comes to Bowen

four of the buildings in 2018, and had a plan to restore the rest, though the plan was set aside due to lack of funding.

The cottage is also on Bowen Island’s recently established heritage register.

Metro Parks received a $450,000 grant earlier this year for the orchard project (it had asked for $1 million), which has allowed the Davies Orchard revitalization project to advance. This means moving forward in restoring the surviving cottages, including one in use cottage in need of significant repair and another non-occupied cottage in need of repair, said Fitzpatrick.

The matter of the cottage to be demolished came up at the June 14 Bowen municipal council meeting, but councillors largely accepted Metro’s assessment that the cottage needed to come down.

“Any demolition is not immanent,” said Coun. Maureen Nicholson at the meeting.

“Nothing is going to be moving particularly quickly regarding demolition.”

Judi Gedye, a former resident of the orchard cottages and one of the vocal opponents to the other cottages’ demolition, resigned from the municipality’s Heritage Commission over issue.

When the cottages came down in 2018, one of the cottages torn down had been stabilized but Cottage #12 had not. “[Metro has] left it for another three years, they’ve done nothing to stabilize it,” said Gedye. She joined the Heritage Commission to get the remaining cottages on the heritage register.

When council didn’t refer the cottage’s fate back to the commission, to engage with Metro on Bowen’s heritage, it was the last straw.

Malcolm Wigham (on the truck), Department of Fisheries and Oceans Salmon Enhancement Program community cdvisor, hands buckets of coho salmon fry to Bowen Island Fish & Wildlife Club volunteers Bruce Greyell and Barry Pynn. They are pictured near the Horse Bridge in Crippen Park and this batch of coho were released into Terminal Creek.

In total, 8,100 coho were released into four salmon bearing creeks on Bowen Island: Terminal Creek, Killarney Creek, Grafton Creek, and Explosives Creek. Earlier this year, 100,000 chum fry were released into

the Lagoon and Davies Creek. Pink, chum, and coho salmon are raised by BIFWC volunteers under DFO supervision every year at the Terminal Creek Salmon Hatchery located in Crippen Park and owned by Metro Vancouver Parks. This year’s salmon releases followed COVID-19 safety protocols which limited the number of participants. We are looking forward to a return to ‘normal’ next year with more volunteer participation, school and community tours, and reintroducing the BICS ‘Salmon in the Classroom’ program.

Tim Pardee, BIFWC

Bowen’s first TEDx event is coming up this weekend.

Sophie Walters is hosting the event on Woods Road, socially distanced and outside. While there is room for 25 audience members, chosen through a ticket lottery, the talks are also recorded and put online on the TEDx platform.

Years ago, when she was in grade six, Walters did a TEDx talk with another Bowen Islander. “It is such an amazing experience and so that was the moment of inspiration,” she said.

These days, it was hanging out at the coffee shop that got Walters scheming. “I go to Tell Your Friends almost every day that they’re open, and just hearing all of the people talk about what they do… [I thought], we need to have a platform.”

It was just as the pandemic started that Walters was thinking how nice it would be to have some sort of event. Now, conditions have lightened enough for the idea to go ahead. “It’s really a passion project,” she relayed, “because I love the idea that you can share your ideas, and what you are really passionate about.”

So, with the help of a neighbourhood grant from the Bowen Island Community Foundation, TEDx Bowen Island will have five speakers contemplate how has a small community inspired big ideas.

The five speakers selected are: Shahar Rabi, Ellen White, Peter Boronkay, Jae Mather and Cicely Ashley.

Walters hopes the talks will continue annually, including hopefully a TEDx for kids.

Having an event?

Listings are always free in our weekly community calendar.

Please email your listing to Bronwyn by Tuesday 5 p.m. for that week's edition.

Patient of the Week

editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com

VAQUITA

Thank you!

Vaquita made her way to Bowen Island all the way from Iowa with her family after being found as a pregnant stray. She endearingly adopted her new family, who nursed her through an eye injury and found homes for all of her kittens. Vaquita has never met a stranger and charmed everyone at BVS. She is now living the good life on Bowen with her sister Orca!

REGULAR HOURS Tuesday to Friday 9- 5 Saturday 9- 1 Closed Sunday and Monday

To schedule appointments, please call

604.947.9247

or email reception@bowenvet.com

A8 • Thursday, July 1, 2021

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Bowen Trustees split: slow down or speed up?

CONTINUED FROM P. 1

On this Canada Day, we mark the anniversary of Confederation which took place 154 years ago. As we reflect on what it means to be Canadian, we acknowledge our country is in mourning for the loss of so many young lives at residential schools. May we all stand together in respect and understanding of our Indigenous communities across this country.

Places of Worship Welcome You BOWEN ISLAND UNITED CHURCH Now offering a youtube channel of reflections and hymn/songs with Reverend Lorraine Ashdown and Lynn Williams. youtubewatch?v=tejV7Y6jo

FOOD BANK DROP-OFF

ST. GERARD’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Masses are live streamed everyday.

Times posted at holyrosarycathedral.org Contact Angela Powell 604-947-2515

CATES HILL CHAPEL

www.cateshillchapel.com 604-947-4260 (661 Carter Rd.)

Now offering worship services via Zoom.

A link available on website.

Pastor: Phil Adkins

@BowUndercurrent @ @BowUndercurrent

“It’s not business as usual,” described Bowen Trustee Sue Ellen Fast, who also sits on the Trust’s executive committee.

But sweeping changes proposed in the document – and its timeline – have prompted outcry among islanders across the Trust area. Bowen’s two trustees – Fast and Michael Kaile – sit on either side of a multifaceted debate, much of which comes down to consultation.

“It’s a complicated document. And given its far reaching nature, a lot of people are turning around and saying, I didn’t know anything about this,” said Kaile. Instead of passing first reading of a document that he says will be subject to substantive changes, Kaile wants council to simply receive the document for information.

“Islands Trust have made a case out that they have had consultation, but it’s very, very shallow. And it will certainly not pass the smell test for genuine people understanding what’s going on,” he said.

Points of concern for Kaile include the Trust wading into affordable housing, questions of jurisdiction (docks, oil tankers, sea walls) and prescriptive language.

But for Fast, time is of the essence. “Here we are, in a human-caused climate-related heat emergency. And so, the idea, to me, of delaying the policy statement update, which hasn’t been updated for 25 years, so that addressing climate change is delayed seems a little crazy.

“I actually like the draft because these burning hot issues of our time are addressed ...like reconciliation and climate change and affordable housing and nature protection.”

Pointing to the past 18 months of consultations, Fast said she doesn’t see this process as rushed. “I see it as urgent that we take action to adjust the policies.

“I think policy matters, regulations matter when we’re dealing with planetary crisis, like what we’ve got in front of us here, to

build a better future.”

Fast also says that the current timeline has policy statement adoption, at the earliest, in fall 2022. “All [first reading] means is, here is what we’re working with at this point. So we’ve got something to refer out.”

Kaile acknowledges that it would be a mistake to pontificate over the statement years – “That would be wrong, just as it would be wrong to run this through to first reading on July the eighth,” he said.

When it comes to the online debate heating up, Fast takes a positive spin. “We can have a vigorous debate about it. But I don’t think controversy’s bad. I think it’s good to get discussion going.”

“Now, I’m not sure that an anonymous letter is the best way to do it,” she said.

An anonymous mass mailout distributed on several major Trust islands, including Bowen, alleged that the new policy includes “centralization to more regionally based land use planning…and the elimination of the uniqueness of each island,” and the “removal of residents, local economy and community health and well-being as planning considerations on the islands.”

The Islands Trust released its own frequently asked questions sheet, calling the allegations “false,” pointing to passages in the draft document.

Fast said at BIM’s June 28 council meeting that the post office had reached out to her to apologize for the mailout and to say that it should not have been distributed.

Online, the “Islands Trust policy and purpose discussion” Facebook group gained more than 1,000 members in just a week as islanders dissect the new draft statement.

The Islands Trust is holding an information session followed by a town hall meeting July 7 over Zoom, starting at 6:30 p.m. (Find more information at islandstrust.bc.ca/ event/trust-council-special-meeting-1/).

The council meeting runs 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. the next day.

Queen of Capilano Ferry Schedule June 25 to September 6 2021

DEPART BOWEN ISLAND

DE EPART HORSESHOE BAY

5:20 am except Su undays 6:20 am 7:20 am 8:35 am 9:35 am 10:40 am 12:05 pm 1:15 pm 2:40 pm 4:00 pm except Wednesdays 5:10 pm 6:15 pm 7:20 pm except Saturdays 8:50 pm 9:50 pm 10:50 pm

5:50 am 6:50 am 8:00 am 9:05 am except Wednesdays 10:10 am 11:15 am 12:40 pm 1:55 pm 3:20 pm 4:40 pm 5:45 pm 6:50 pm 7:50 pm except Saturdays 9:20 pm 10:20 pm

Note: Schedules subject to change without notice: Please check BCFERRIES.COM Schedule changes on statutory holidays

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Bylaw regulating gathering, camping, smoking, fireworks in public places passes third reading CONTINUED FROM P. 1

“In the meantime, this Canada Day, please check out the activities supported by Bowen Island Community Recreation, and take some time for a quieter, more thoughtful day,” he said in the statement. “A series of interpretive signs will be placed throughout Quarry Park on Canada Day, aimed at encouraging thoughtful reflection during a time of change and challenge. Bring your smartphone to scan the QR codes for access to videos and online resources.”

Briefs from the June 28 regular council meeting:

A goodbye: It was chief financial officer Raj Hayre’s final council meeting. Hayre joined the municipality in early 2018 and has been the face of all things financial in the years since. “It’s been a very extraordinarily busy time,” said Ander. “But he’s done a great job for us.

“Despite all the challenges, he leaves us in a very good nick, as they would say, with all of the capital projects nicely under control.

“We’ve certainly enjoyed his candor and his operation.”

Protecting a park: Bowen Island Conservancy and Bowen Island Municipality will enter into a protective covenant for the conservancy’s 32-acre property at Cape Roger Curtis. The covenant is intended to protect the land from development in perpetuity and to reduce its BC Assessment value (currently about $9.3 million). See Louise Loik’s story on p. 6 for more details Using public spaces: Third reading of a bylaw regulating use of public spaces passed.

The bylaw imposes a host of prohibitions and permitting requirements for municipally managed public spaces. Among the prohibitions without permit: allow one’s animals to damage vegetation; abandon possessions; create or modify pathways or trails; smoke or use a vape; place or keep possessions in public places so as to be unsightly; hold or participate in gatherings and events – formal or informal – of 20 people or more; post ads, bills or posters other than in designated areas or community notice boards; set off fireworks or pyrotechnics; or camp. (For a full list of restrictions, see council agenda.)

The bylaw, drawn up initially in response to an encampment behind the library, has grown to encompass other uses of public spaces that bylaw services encounters.

It also introduces a permitting process for allowing use of municipal lands to hold activities, something there isn’t a mechanism for in existing bylaws.

Under the bylaw, people experiencing homelessness may have a temporary shelter between 7 p.m. and 9 a.m. but the shelter and belongings must be removed by 9 a.m. It also cannot be “within 10 metres of any structure, wharf, building, right of way, access road, Access Area, street, sidewalk, trail, picnic area, ecologically sensitive area, beach, heritage site, signage, information kiosk, restroom, public amenity, sports field, memorial, parking, municipal playground, bike park, skateboard park, disc golf course, or playscape.”

Councillors were generally amenable to the bylaw, “I think people do expect rules in public places,” said Coun. Sue Ellen Fast, “And I think this also is an invitation – ‘you can get a permit, yes, here’s how.’”

“There are tools that we can use or not use, depending on what’s going on,” said Ander.

The exception was Coun. Rob Wynen who has consistently voted against the bylaw – “When we’re restricting use of public space, that’s a pretty high bar for me,” said Wynen.

“I just need to really feel that it’s very necessary and that we don’t have overreach, and that there is really broad public understanding on what’s happening here,” he said.

The bylaw just needs to pass adoption.

Granting: Community grants were awarded to Caring Circle ($15,000); Bowen lsland Community Festival Association ($2,200); Bowen Children’s Centre ($8,500); Light Up Bowen ($2,200); Thrive Bowen ($5,000); and Bowen Island Resilient Community Housing ($8,500).

Climate Action Revenue Incentive Program (CARIP) grants were awarded to Uncharted Waters: The Young Voices of Howe Sound documentary film project ($1,500) and Thrive Bowen ($2,500).

A forum: Council agreed to host the 2021 Howe Sound Community Forum, gathering the elected officials of the communities around Howe Sound. (Bowen was supposed to host the event in 2020 but it was cancelled because of some global emergency.)

Post-COVID hybridity? When will in-person meetings resume? Given the hopefully waning hold of the pandemic, when in-person council business may resume got some airtime. In discussion with CAO Liam Edwards, council agreed to proceed with finding a way to hold hybrid meetings in the future. There was an attempt last fall to hold in-person/Zoom hybrid meetings but the technology couldn’t support the endeavour. Staff will investigate technologies to allow hybridity and report back to council.

Yard Sale Legion parking lot; 10 am - 2 pm; Masks / social distancing mandatory

(Ages 8+). Virtual event.

Registration is required.

More info: bowenlibrary.ca/

Friends of BI Library is accepting book donations 1 pm to 3 pm first Saturday of every month at the Library Annex. Check Library website for donation criteria.

BIFC clothing event BICS grass field 1-3 pm; BIFC is cleaning out its existing inventory of used and new clothing by holding a by donation Clothing Giveaway

Islands Trust policy statement info session and town hall Online 6:30 pm Learn more: bit. ly/3h54vZ7

BAA Farmers’ Market BICS, 10 am - noon, Made, grown, baked on Bowen.

Bring a mask and cash and please follow the signs.

TUESDAY JULY 6

CALENDAR SATURDAY JULY 3

Summer Reading Club Bowen Island Library 2-3 pm “Read graphic novels with author Molly Ostertag

WEDNESDAY JULY 7

Thursday, July 1, 2021 • A9

Only 10 Racquet Sport Memberships left!

Tunstall Bay Community Association is welcoming 10 additional Racquet Sport memberships for the season. We are currently 70% sold out—first come, first served!

Come see our brand new court facilities: *2 Tennis Courts *2 Pickleball Courts *1 Basketball court *2 Four-square courts We welcome new members from all over the island. Available spaces will fill quickly —contact us today! www.tunstallbay.org “Members” or email membership@tunstallbay.org

A supportive residence for Bowen seniors is close to reality!

Your guests will always be welcome in the Snug Cove House dining room, which serves three meals daily. And of course you can also entertain in your own kitchenette-equipped apartment or the top floor view lounge.

THURSDAY JULY 8

Summer Reading Club 2-3 pm Author Michael Hutchinson (Ages 8+).

Virtual Event. Registration is required. More info: bowenlibrary.ca/

Find out more, and complete our survey at: snugcovehouse.com

A10 • Thursday, July 1, 2021

bowenislandundercurrent.com

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Call or email to place your ad, Monday through Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm

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Thursday, July 1, 2021 • A11

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A12 • Thursday, July 1, 2021

bowenislandundercurrent.com

Get to know your neighbour

NEXT IN THE SERIES: MARGARET GRAY

Vancouver, and just came back, mostly due to COVID in February.

So I’ve been back here for the last six months or so.

How’s that?

Amazing. I was just at Tunstall reading my book. And then I come back here and on the way back.

I see two or three friends who waved to me from their cars. It’s really wonderful to be back and kind of shocking that it took me this long to get here.

Where on Bowen do you live?

When did you come to Bowen?

It would have been a couple of days after July 10, 1991, which is when I was born. So I am one of those born and raised kids.

That answers my next question – how did you come to be on Bowen?

My parents lived here. And so I did as well.

Have you always lived here? Or did you leave and come back?

I lived here until I was about 22 or so. And then spent the last eight or nine years in the city,

Eaglecliff Fill the ferry lineup gap or don’t fill the gap? One hundred per cent, fill the gap. And if you don’t, why?

What’s your favourite Bowen fact or story?

That I have been involved with at least five first-place blue ribbons with the Union Steamship Marina’s Bowfest float. I think the broader favourite thing about Bowen is Bowfest in the sense of community and the history and nostalgia behind so many of our favourite events in the summertime and particularly the nonsense and fun of the Bowfest parade. It’s those kinds of things that I’m missing the most with

COVID-19, of just being able to come together as a community and wear stupid costumes and dress up with your friends, coworkers or whoever. I’m looking forward to the future with more Bowfest and hopefully more first place blue ribbons. We will see.

What’s something Bowen Islanders have in common?

I think just that they care for each other, which is really rare and very beautiful.

What’s your favourite COVID19 balm or activity?

Hiking every morning with my dog, who is now not allowed off leash since she discovered deer when we moved here.

Notice of Public Hearing HAVE YOUR SAY. Public Hearing July 12, 2021 4:30 pm Online via Zoom or watch on YouTube

Questions?

Contact Daniel Martin, Manager of Planning and Development

604-947-4255

Land Use Bylaw Amendments Bylaw No. 528, 2020

About the bylaw I have lost my beautiful cat, Paris. She was last seen in the forest on south side of the Grafton lake near Harding and Trunk roads. This happened on Thursday night June 24th.

She is an adorable older cat, with a low swinging belly, and much much loved. If you have seen her, anywhere, please let me know. 604 790 0793 604 376 4632

The proposed changes include additions, removals, amendments, and consolidation of various land use definitions, changes to setback exceptions (buildings and structures that can be built in required setbacks), changes to Home Occupation regulations for Auto Repair, and changes to the method to calculate building heights.

Bylaw timeline Committee of the Whole

1st External Open Reading Referrals House

January 2020

December 2020

March 2021

PUBLIC 2nd HEARING Reading

May 2021

3rd Reading

July 2021

How to get more information

Final Decision

(Estimated) September 2021

Visit the municipal website to get the information package, including staff reports, presentations, and explanatory material at www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/planning. You can also request this information from Municipal Hall, 8:30 - 4:30, Monday- Friday (closed on statutory holidays)

Ways you can Have Your Say 1.

dmartin @bimbc.ca 2.

bowenisland municipality.ca /planning

LOST

Bowen Island Municipal Council is considering Bylaw No. 528 to make a series of amendments to Land Use Bylaw No. 57, 2002.

Speak at the Public Hearing: Monday, July 12 at 4:30 pm: • Register for the speakers list: email the Corporate Officer (hdallas@bimbc.ca) BEFORE the start of the hearing with subject line: Public Hearing - Verbal Submission.

• Get the Zoom meeting details at: bowenislandmunicipality.ca/council-meetings • Join the Zoom meeting and wait for your name to be called out.

Write to the attention of Mayor and Council: E-mail: mayorandcouncil@bimbc.ca

To ensure a fair process, written submissions are accepted up until the end of the public hearing. Council cannot consider any submissions received after the Public Hearing has ended. If your written submission is received after the public hearing has ended, your submission will be circulated to staff for information.

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Enjoy a relaxing sail on a C&C 38 “LUBA” Please call Shelley and Rob 778-954-7341 to book your private adventure.

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