Merritt Herald, November 13, 2025 by Merritt Herald

The District of Logan Lake has notified Interior Health about a potential algae bloom in the lake.

CITY LOOKING AT INCREASING DEVELOPMENT COSTS

Cost charges are currently well below Southern Interior average

Development cost charges (DCCs) on new developments may be increasing as the City of Merritt considers new price points on the revenue-generating tax.

During an Oct. 21 Committee of the Whole meeting, city staff presented city council with proposed changes to the DCC bylaws.

DCCs are taxes put on housing units in development. Funds levied by DCCs are put back into city-run infrastructure projects related to city-growth. Such projects can include everything from road or new police facilities, to water and sewage system upgrades. Infrastructure like recreation centres or new libraries do not count towards this fund.

INCREASE: continued on page 3

A MOMENT OF SILENCE

The Herald was at both the Civic Centre and Shulus Remembrance Day ceremonies to capture the moment.

Want news straight to your inbox? Scan the QR code to subscribe to our daily newsletter.

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

GOT NEWS?

Contact Jake or Ty at newsroom@merrittherald.com or call 250-378-4241

INCREASE IN COST CHARGES COULD HELP FUND CITY PROJECTS

CITY: continued from page 1

The City of Merritt currently has a variety of infrastructure projects to be completed and that are not fully funded.

The City is currently looking at upgrades to its water and sewage system per its Official Community Plan.

There are also plans to reconstruct Armstrong and Voght Streets.

The total capital costs of the projects listed sits around around $68.2 million.

Low-density development targeted

M erritt’s DCC bylaws haven’t changed since 2007. When looking at low, medium and high density housing, Merritt’s current average DCC sits at around $6,420 per unit,

the figure changing depending on what density of housing it is.

Current DCC cost-levels put the city on the lower end of the cost-scale when compared to other municipalities in the Southern Interior. The next closest municipality in terms of cost would be Salmon Arm, which has an average DCC of around $7,507 for low, medium and high density developments.

The proposed bylaw would see Merritt’s DCCs rise by two to three times its current rate priced at an average of $17,493 per unit for low, medium and high density developments. These new rates would be comparable to rates in West Kelowna.

Coun. Manuel Olguin queried staff on whether these new rates would

have a negative effect on development activity, particularly with low and medium density housing.

In response, Chief Administrative Officer Rick Green told council that the increase in DCC rates are targeted towards low-density housing units. Green said the province has been pushing Merritt (through general housing policy) to develop more high-density housing like apartments. Green said high DCCs are a way of discouraging low-density units.

DCCs for industrial developments will also be experiencing high increases under the proposed DCCs by around nine times.

The increases are based on forecasted development, said Green.

Council seemingly

agreed that an increase of some kind is due. They are not yet settled on what a number might be, as the proposed rate increases were deemed too high.

Public feedback considered

The City also listed feedback to the proposed

DCCs gathered during an engagement period from Aug. 15 until Oct. 12 with online feedback as well as an in-person open house. Some suggested that the proposed DCCs are too high and that they would “stifle” growth. Some also said that the City does not have enough current housing to absorb an increase in DCC costs and slower development.

Others said the DCCs would still be a relatively small cost in the grandscheme of construction, predicting no real effects on rates of development. Another piece of feedback said they don’t think the City is a place to be addressing any infrastructure projects even with an increase to DCs.

Council would need to look at the DCC bylaw again at a later date before conducting three readings during a regular council meeting to pass it.

PHOTO/CITY OF MERRITT

A bar graph shows Merritt’s current development cost charges for low-density residential compared to the rest of the Southern Interior, as well as the proposed increase.

PHOTO/CITY OF MERRITT

A separate graph shows Merritt’s current development cost charges for high-density residential compared to the rest of the Southern Interior, as well as the proposed increase.

GARCIA STREET LAND

REZONED TO HIGH DENSITY

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE

Saturday, Nov. 15 • 10 am - 5 pm

Ashala Harvie - Jewelry

Almerina Rizzardo - Stain glass

Barb Bernier - Painter

Pat Tombe - Wooden bowls

Karen McKenna - Fabric bags

Richard Tenisch - Silver jewelry

Tanja Barg - Plant hangers /candles

Donna Caruso - Children’s clothing

Karolyn Dyke - Hardanger Embroidery

Angelina Brooymans - Photography and Framing

2074 Quilchena Ave. P.O. Box 2413 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 250-378-0813

TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com

Another piece of high-density housing may be coming to Merritt in the near future, as a section of land on Garcia St. has been rezoned.

During the Oct. 28 city council meeting, it was proposed that a portion of the land on 2326 Garcia St., near the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena, be rezoned to support high density housing. Currently, the lot is entirely zoned as low-density residential. The rezoning would be placed in the backyard of the property, looking to affect what looks to be two shed-like structures.

During the council meeting, the motion was put under all three readings necessary to complete the motion, as council voted unanimously each time in favour.

Rezoning the area to high density falls in line with the City of Merritt’s official Community Plan (OCP). The plan accounts to have a “diverse” variety of housing, with a focus on multi-unit medium- and high-density buildings. The push for high-density housing is backed by the B.C. government in an effort to curb an ongoing housing crisis.

A blueprint shows the portion of 2326 Garcia Street that has recently been rezoned from low-density residential to high-density residential.

POTENTIAL ALGAE

BLOOM IN LOGAN LAKE

TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com

The District of Logan Lake is notifying the public about a potential case of algae bloom in Logan Lake.

The District said it has contacted Interior Health about the potential algae bloom.

In an email sent on Nov. 10 to the Herald, the District of Logan Lake said the algae bloom had still not been confirmed, but is still in contact with Interior Health and has notified BC Algae Watch, a government agency.

The District also said it will be conducting sampling of the lake later this week. It is warning the public to take preliminary precaution against algae bloom.

“As a precaution we are asking the public to monitor the water and if you see anything that looks like blue-green algae to stay out of the lake where cyanobacteria blooms are visible, avoid swimming and

recreational activities and if exposure occurs, rinse off with clean water. Consider providing pets and livestock with an alternate source of drinking water,” the District wrote in a statement.

“Cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, commonly grow in shallow, slow or still moving waters, and are a natural part of the aquatic environment. Excessive growth can cause cyanobacteria blooms to form and may cause the water to look or smell bad. Cyanobacteria can also produce toxins called microcystins, which can be poisonous to people, pets or livestock. Always use caution when there is a bloom.”

Exposure to cyanobacteria could result in dizziness, cramps, diarrhea, skin rash or mouth blisters.

Interior Health recommends people stay away from water activities or from consuming fish in places with potential cyanobacteria blooms.

ONE DEAD AFTER ROLLOVER

One person is dead following a two-vehicle collision on Hwy. 5 between Merritt and Kamloops.

JAKE COURTEPATTE

newsroom@merrittherald.com

One person is dead following a two-vehicle collision on Highway 5 north of Merritt.

Just before 8a.m. on Nov. 10, officers responded to a rollover in the southbound lanes approximately ten kilometres from Merritt after a Honda Accord rear-ended a semi-truck. The semi was travelling in the slow lane at the time, with the car coming to a stop in the ditch.

Police, Merritt Fire Rescue and BC Emergency Health Services all responded to the scene, where the lone occupant of

the Honda, a Kamloops man, was extracted from the vehicle and declared dead at the scene.

The semi-truck driver was uninjured and is cooperating with the investigation. Southbound lanes of Highway 5 were temporarily closed due to the incident, but have since reopened.

“This was a tragic incident, and police send their condolences to the driver’s friends and family,” said RCMP spokesperson. Cpl. Brett Urano. “Merritt RCMP would like to thank all those who assisted at the scene, including witnesses and first responders.”

VIEWPOINT

ART-TASTIC!

THANUMI JAYASINGHE AGE 5

LETTERS to the Editor A STANDUP

JOB BY OUR LOCAL HEALTHCARE WORKERS

Editor,

I am writing to commend the staff at the Nicola Valley Emergency Department for the outstanding care I received recently. Considering all the negative publicity for closures that our hospital has received I think that there should be equal commentary on the positive and thorough job done by our healthcare professionals, e specially under strained conditions.

So, a big shout out to the Nicola Valley Emergency Clinic for their consistently high standard of care when I received treatment. Thank you!

SPEED LIMIT REDUCTION NEEDED ON OLD HIGHWAY

Editor,

To the huge travel flow on the old Highway 5A on the Merritt/Quilchena/Stump Lake/Kamloops route, I’d like to have the speed limit go from 90km/h to 80km/h. This would be of more use to the public in general as well as a great thing moving forward, and I can’t wait to see this happen.

Community members, teachers and students... Submit your artwork to newsroom@merrittherald.com for a chance to be featured in print each week!

Submissions are printed on a first come, first serve basis.

– Roger Robichaud Merritt, B.C.

– Gilbert Mike Merritt, B.C.

VIEWPOINT

THE ARTS COUNCIL ROUND UP

Meet our new Directors!

We had a fantastic AGM on October 21; thank you to everyone who came. And a special thank you to our new directors, who stepped up and agreed to help us in our mission to Connect Community Through the Arts. We have six (6!) new directors, and we can’t wait to share with you what our team of 15 is up to for this coming year, after our goal planning session.

Left to right: Linda Suzuki, Matthew Pygott, Crystal Carle, Jennifer Chemago, and Linda Barr. Missing in the picture: Shannon Dunn, our new curator!

Then it was time for Vice-President Lynn Arnold-Cox to share a few heartfelt words about our President Mischelle Pierce. We are so grateful to have her as captain of our ship, navigating the choppy charity waters with grit, grace, and gusto. If you know Mischelle, you know how passionate she is about the arts and we are thrilled that she agreed to another two-year term as President of the NVCAC. Thank you, Mischelle!

Donate your Empties to the NVCAC

Did you know? You can donate your empties at the Return It Depot on Clapperton Avenue to the Nicola Valley Community Arts Council! Thank you for your support, every dollar goes towards our mission of Connecting Community Through The Arts.

The Merritt Herald welcomes your letters, on any subject, addressed to the editor. Letters may be edited for length, taste and clarity. Please keep letters to 300 words or less.

Email letters to: newsroom@merrittherald.com.

AND SCHOOL BOARD TAKE OATHS OF OFFICE

The inaugural meetings of both the new Merritt City Council and the Merritt District School Board will take place Monday evening.

Beginning at 6 p.m. school trustees Richard Magnuson, Linda Barr, Elizabeth Laird, Marguerite Kempin and Molly Lauder will take their oath of office at the school board offices.

And at 7.30 p.m. city council, consisting of Mayor Clara Norgaard and aldermen Bob Brown, Glenn Henderson, Rick Typusiak, John Hilton, David Laird and Tom Fox will be sworn in for three-year terms at the Merritt Civic Centre.

Mayor Clara Norgaard defeated incumbent mayor Bob Baird and former alderman Jim Cade in the November 17 election.

For the first time both school board and council members all take office simultaneously, and will all serve three-year terms.

Learn more by booking your no

PHOTO/NICOLA

Business Licence Bylaw

Notice is hereby given of a public input opportunity, during the REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING, for those who consider they are affected by the proposed amendments to the Business Licence Bylaw. Those wishing to provide input can attend in person and sign up to speak during the meeting.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2025

COUNCIL CHAMBER, 2185 VOGHT STREET, MERRIT BC

PROVIDE INPUT: We welcome your input on November 25, 2025, at 6:00 pm. You may sign up to speak at the meeting by attending in person at City Hall, Council Chamber, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC, at 6:00 pm. You may also provide a written submission at any time prior to the meeting by sending it to the Director of Corporate Services at info@merritt.ca.

MORE INFORMATION: Relevant background material and copies of the bylaw are available for review at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC, Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, from November 14, 2025 to November 25, 2025 or at www.merritt.ca/agendas-minutes.

4INFO@MERRITT.CA

Pursuant to Sections 24, 26 and 94 of the Community Charter, the City of Merritt hereby gives notice of its intention to dispose, by way of lease, the City owned lot located at 2025 Mamette Ave, Merritt, BC, legally described as Lot 2, Plan 22544, District Lot 174, Kamloops Division, PID #006-810-853, (as shown on the map) to be used as the Merritt Curling Centre.

The disposition is by way of lease to the Merritt Curling Club. The term of the lease will be for 5 years, beginning in 2025, with one option to renew for a further term of five years. The rent will be based on the seasonal energy consumption used, estimated to be $8,000 per year.

Questions? Contact Dave Zakall at dzakall@merritt ca or

SLIDE BLAMED FOR TRAIN DERAILMENT

Rail cars are shown derailed near Cherry Creek on Nov. 6, 2025.

CANADIAN PRESS

Rail operator Canadian Pacific Kansas City says a rock slide may be partially to blame for a derailment near Kamloops, B.C., that resulted in the spill of more than 70,000 litres of jet fuel alongside a local lake.

CPKC Indigenous relations and government affairs director Mike LoVecchio said during a public information meeting in Savona, B.C., Monday night that the exact cause of the derailment is still under investigation.

LoVecchio said the Transportation Safety Board’s investigation could take years to complete, but a rock slide is among the elements being “closely considered.”

The derailment on Nov. 1 near Cherry Creek, about 20 kilometres west of Kamloops, happened in one of the busiest rail corridors between Calgary and Vancouver.

Two of the 17 rail cars involved were carrying jet fuel that was released in the derailment, and LoVecchio says the spill has been the focus of the rail operator’s response since the beginning.

No one was injured in the derailment, and the rail operator says water sampling at nearby Kamloops Lake has shown results remaining below B.C’s drinking-water quality guidelines, while testing is ongoing.

“Crews today completed the removal of the last remaining rail car from site,” LoVecchio said at the meeting. “Additional railway material remains to be cleared away, but the removal of the final car represents the end of our on-site recovery.”

He added that the operator has seen reports suggesting a rock slide may have contributed to the derailment, but no official cause has been determined.

“Our investigation involves eliminating potential causes as well as naming them,” LoVecchio said. “That takes time.

“Our analysis thus far does not indicate, however, that there’s any connection to other incidents along the main line.”

The meeting was attended by several Kamloops-area residents and local officials, including former Tk’emlups te Secwepemc chief Shane Gottfriedson, who lives in nearby Tobiano, B.C.

Gottfriedson told the meeting that he is concerned about track maintenance near waterways, given that a rock slide is a possible cause.

“If this was a rock slide and there was regular inspections, there would have been a flag that came up and would have stopped all of the traffic,” he said, adding that he wants to know how much maintenance and capital have been put into the rail corridor where the derailment happened.

“We live in this area, all of us. We rely on that water. Every single one of us that sit here drink that water,” he told the meeting.

“There’s a major salmon stream that comes up here, and this year this lake was full of fish. How much of an impact is that going to have on our watershed?”

LoVecchio said in response that while the rail operator is not ruling out any factor in the derailment yet, the company has a “very robust” maintenance program. He added that CPKC remains fully committed to cleaning up the site.

Wednesday, Nov. 19 at 7 PM 2336 Jackson Avenue FOR MORE INFO CONTACT: 250-378-7655

Nicola Valley Museum and Archives

Annual General Meeting

Thursday, November 13th at 7pm 1675 Tutill Court @ Senior’s Centre

Annual Review

Voting on Bylaw Changes

Refreshments Will Be Provided

nicolavalleymuseum.org (250) 378-4145 nvma@telus.net

Guest Speaker: Robin Humphrey

Speaking on traditional Indigenous tattooing methodology and symbology Elections of Officers and Directors

is called for

Thursday, November 20 at 5:30 pm

A nomination for 5 members to the Board of Directors will take place prior to the meeting. Eligible members will be sent a package by mail which will include nomination and voting details.

Only individuals with current membership can vote or be nominated for office.

Membership application deadline is Nov.19, 2025 at 3:00 pm. Any applications received after this date/time will not be eligible to vote for the Board of Directors or at the November 20, 2025 Annual General Meeting.

MAJOR PIPELINE DEVALUATION COULD SPELL LOST TAX REVENUE

reporter@merrittherald.com

Merritt will be included in the communities suffering a loss of taxes due to the proposed devaluation of pipelines running through British Columbia.

In September, municipalities and the TNRD were warned of proposed changes coming to the BC Assessment valuation of multiple pipelines funnelling oil through the province. In the following weeks, more information was revealed.

In an Oct. 23 Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD) meeting BC Assessment presented to the council that it was planning on revaluing multiple pipelines running through BC.

Chris Whyte with BC Assessment said they have worked actively with a majority of B.C. energy companies (Enbridge, Trans Mountain, TC Energy, Canadian Natural Resources, EnCana and Pacific Northern Gas) since 2016 to review the cost model of the pipelines in the province.

The current pipeline value was evaluated based on construction costs from the 1980s, according to Whyte.

Whyte said a new standard for valuation of said pipelines that take into account physical depreciation would be adopted in the changes.

“Ninety-four per cent of pipeline mains that are in place in B.C. are 60 years (old) or older, with some pipelines in B.C. reaching 74 years and 68 years. As such, depreciation was increased,” Whyte said.

The reassessment sees the values of said pipelines drop by $300 million, or a 27 per cent drop.

“In summary, this review was conducted to reflect current industry costs that were not previously reflected in the cost model,” Whyte said.

The devaluation means in some communities, tens of thousands of dollars in tax revenue is lost.

The City of Merritt’s jurisdiction hosts sections of the Enbridge and Trans Mountain pipeline. It will be seeing a $71,400 loss of property taxes according to the current 2020-30 financial plan.

For the city of Merritt, this loss represents a fraction of its total tax revenue in 2024. Still, the City’s Chief Financial Officer Kevin Nakatami said during an Oct. 16 financial and audit meeting that this is

“another per centage” city council has to take into account to maintain a balanced budget.

Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz is taking a stance against the revaluation, saying it isn’t fair and doesn’t reflect the millions of cubic metres of oil passing through these pipelines each month and the income generated from that.

Whyte claimed that BC Assessment went

with the method of fixed depreciation due to the fact that making an assessment based on income and profit on the pipeline would take too much effort to gather the depreciation.

The City stated in its public 2026-2030 financial plan there is no way to pass on this loss of tax revenue onto other Class 2 industrial properties, putting more strain on regular taxpayers.

Goetz realizes Merritt is not being hit as hard by the devaluation as other communities are, yet he still believes that the burden is unfair and adds more worry to taxpayers.

Other municipalities will be hit harder. The district of Clearwater, for example, will be facing around $250,000 and $300,000,

MAYOR: continued on page 12

COLDWATER INDIAN BAND NOTICE OF ELECTION

An Election has been called for the electors of the Coldwater Band to elect one (1) Chief and ten (10) Councillors for the next term of office, in accordance with the Coldwater Indian Band Custom Election Policy (2024).

NOMINATION MEETING

December 8, 2025

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Nominations for Chief

6:15 PM – 8:00 PM: Nominations for Councillors Coldwater Band Hall, 109 400th St, Merritt, BC MS Teams Meeting ID: 2490917684438 Passcode: LC93Ug3q

Electors, who are eighteen (18) years of age or older and have been a registered Member for at least one (1) year, can nominate candidates at the Nomination Meeting and vote in the election.

To be eligible for candidacy, an Elector must:

a) have some knowledge of Nłeʔkepmxcin and cultural values;

b) not have been convicted of a Criminal Offence, unless either the Criminal Offence has been pardoned or the conviction for the Criminal Offence is five years old or older from the date of the Election;

c) not have been convicted of a Major Criminal Offence, unless pardoned;

d) not be in arrears of debt obligations to Coldwater in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) ;

e) not be declared mentally incompetent, mentally incapable or equivalent under provincial or federal laws;

f) not have been declared ineligible to run for office in the Election under section 24.12(f) of the Custom Election Policy;

g) subject to section 4.3, not have resigned or have been removed from office in accordance wi th the Custom Election Policy in the most recent term of office;

h) be available, if elected, for a minimum of 25 hours of orientation within the first two weeks of the term of office and further orientation and training as may be required, at times to be determined by Council and administration.

In addition, Candidates for the position of Chief must have held the position of Councillor for at least one (1) full term of office

Nominees must be present at the Nomination Meeting to confirm their intent to accept their nomination.

To become a candidate, nominees must deliver to the Electoral Officer by 8:00 PM on December 10, 2025:

1) A completed Candidate Declaration; and

2) A criminal record check dated not more than 6 months prior to the date of the Nomination Meeting OR proof that they have applied for a criminal record check.

→ The Criminal Record Check must be submitted to the Electoral Officer no later than December 16, 2025

*There will be no vote if all positions are filled by acclamation.

VOTE ONLINE

OPENS: January 10, 2026, at 8:00 AM CLOSES: January 16, 2026, at 8:00 PM

VOTE IN PERSON

8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

At the following dates and poll locations in Merritt, BC:

January 17 & 18, 2026

Coldwater School

January 19 & 20, 2026

Coldwater Band Hall

ELECTION DAY

January 24, 2026

Coldwater Band Hall

Electors may vote online, in person at a poll, or by mail-in ballot

For more information or assistance please contact the Electoral Officer at OneFeather: Email: nominations@onefeather.ca | Toll Free: 1-855-923-3006 www.onefeather.ca/nations/coldwater

Country Christmas Committee presents

MERRITT COUNTRY CHRISTMAS WEEK

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24 - SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2025

MERRITT COMMUNITY & CHRISTMAS TREE

LIGHT UP W/SING-ALONG

Monday, November 24

6 pm at Spirit Square

NVIT CHRISTMAS MOVIE NIGHT

How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

Tuesday, November 25

NVIT Auditorium - doors open at 6 pm, movie 6:30 pm

ADVENTURES IN TOYLAND

Wednesday, November 26

Merritt Civic Center

Matinee at noon (doors open at 11 am)

Evening at 5 pm (doors open at 4 pm)

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CONCERT

LIGHT-UP CHRISTMAS PARADE

Friday, November 28

7 pm start (parade line up starts 5:00pm)

Watch the parade as it happens on the Country Christmas Facebook Page. See map below for parade route or visit MERRITT.CA/CHRISTMAS

Thursday, November 27

7 pm at Merritt Civic Center (doors open at 6 pm)

PICTURES WITH SANTA

Merritt Civic Center

Friday, November 28: 8 pm to 9 pm

Saturday, November 29: 11am to 1 pm

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS CRAFTS

Merritt Civic Center

Presented by: Nicola Valley Arts Council

Saturday, November 29: 11am to 2 pm

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

Merritt Civic Center

Presented by: Basque Society

Sunday, November 30:10 am - noon

MAYOR, MLA TO WORK AGAINST PIPELINE DEVALUATION

which amounts to a larger portion of its tax revenue at around 11 per cent.

Goetz plans to take action, working with Fraser-Nicola MLA Tony Luck to oppose the changes in Victoria. Elsewhere, Kamloops MLA Peter Milobar had already tabled a private member’s bill during BC Legislature on Oct. 30 that would allow municipalities to increase tax caps for Class 2 properties if the pipeline devaluation goes through.

The changes to the pipeline could be finalized in December when the BC Assessment Board of Directors have approved, and the rates have been reviewed by Legislative Counsel and approved by the B.C. Minister of Finance Brenda Bailey. Bailey admitted during BC Legislature on Oct. 30 that she feels concerned about the devaluation and for taxpayers who will have to pick up the difference. She will be reviewing the assessment this month.

SKILLS

PHOTO/KINDER MORGAN Construction workers examine one section of the Trans Mountain pipeline. MAJOR:

FIREHOUSE TRAFFIC LIGHT OPERATIONAL

TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com

Merritt Fire Rescue Department’s (MFRD) new traffic lights are now operational at the fire station.

The new traffic signal in front of the fire department at the intersection of Nicola Highway and Cleasby St. It is operated remotely by the fire department and allows firefighters to safely exit the station while responding to calls. MFRD reminds drivers that they must stop when the light is active and yield to emergency vehicles.

The signal activates in three steps.

- Flashing yellow signal - 5 seconds: Alerts motorists to slow down while allowing them to proceed with caution, yielding to vehicles already in the intersection.

- Solid Yellow Signal - 4.5 seconds: Warns motorists to prepare to stop, as the flashing red signal is about to appear. The driver of a vehicle approaching the signal must cause it to stop before the marked stop line, before the signal, unless the stop cannot be made safely.

- Flashing Red Signal - 50 seconds: Requires all traffic to come to a complete stop before the marked stop line and to proceed only when it is safe to do so. This phase provides pre-emption to allow fire apparatus to safely enter the roadway.

You’re invited to our upcoming open house to learn about our pipeline optimization plans in British Columbia and Alberta.

These proposed projects are designed to increase capacity and optimize performance. This will further strengthen Canada’s ability to move energy safely, efficiently and competitively to global markets. Meet our team, ask questions and share your thoughts. Your opinion matters—we look forward to seeing you.

MERRITT

Monday, November 24, 2025

5 – 7:30 pm

NVIT – gymnasium 4155 Belshaw Street

SMILE COOKIES FOR A MERRITT CAUSE

FRIENDS &Neighbours

JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald.com

Tim Hortons’ annual Smile Cookie campaign is back, and Merrittonians once again have the opportunity to help out a worthy local cause while enjoying a holiday treat.

Merritt Youth and Family Resources Society (MYFRS) is the recipient of the funds raised locally through the campaign, after a boost of over $1,200 during the 2024 campaign to help grow the organization’s reach.

“We are a charitable not-for-profit society, and we don’t get a lot of grants,” said Lenora Fletcher, executive director for MYFRS. “So in order to help our families, things like this can go a long way.”

MYFRS provides a wider range of aid in what is called ‘family-centric’ care as opposed to simply focusing on the child.

Fletcher recalled sending a family home with a few bags of groceries just a few days before speaking to the Herald.

“So that means if there’s needs outside of what the child has, we will provide that kind of support. Say they may need some food to take home, or they need help providing some clothes, we provide that support to the family as a whole.”

The not-for-profit field is no simple task - with tight budgets and a less-than-booming economy, organizations like MYFRS are seeing their hands in many different cookie jars (pun intended) to help families make ends meet.

“We try to step up and help where we can to provide all those little things.”

Volunteers wanted

The issues, however, are not always based in finances. Despite being around since 1978, Fletcher said that to this day she gets people saying they have never heard of the organization, and wants to get the word out there for those in need and those who would like to help out.

“We are getting a lot of new families that are new to the community, they haven’t had a chance to connect in, so having opportunities like this to create awareness does make a difference.”

And as for many not-for-profits, volunteerism is the heart of the organization. Volunteers are always welcome to aid with a variety of different rewarding tasks, like working with the kids, organizing, cleaning, cooking, etc.

“It all depends on where their interests lie. When we do have ones like elders who really want to connect with the kids, we’ve got a couple who said that they want to come read stories, sing songs with the kids.”

Any age is welcome to come volunteer, including secondary students looking for a rewarding way to fulfill their volunteer hours.

Any families that would like to connect with MFYRS can call at 250-378-4878, email myfrsed@telus.net, or connect with them on their Facebook page.

The Tim Hortons Smile Cookie campaign runs from Nov. 17 to 23, with 100 per cent of profits going to local charities across Canada.

The Holiday Smile Cookie is a festive white chocolate sugar cookie featuring red and green sprinkles and a hand-decorated white icing smile.

MERRITT, NICOMEN MAKE AGREEMENT

TY LIM

reporter@merrittherald.com

The City of Merritt will be entering into an information sharing agreement with the Nicomen Indian Band.

The agreement, which was presented by city staff as being primarily for “relationship-building” shares information about emergency support services delivery a nd information if the City declares a state of local emergency.

“There is essentially no operational ask here,” said a city staff member.

“I think on a relationship building note, there is value in this agreement. I think it’s a good step that the city can take towards truth and reconciliation, building relationships with our neighbours.”

The Nicomen band is represented in the Cit(w) Nlaka’pamux Assembly. It is located near Lytton, around 20km east of the village.

The City of Merritt said the band had also reached out to the TNRD and the City of Kamloops with this request.

Merritt doesn’t expect other bands to follow-up with the same information request, with this being an isolated event.

The motion was unanimously carried by council.

PHOTOS/JAKE COURTEPATTE

MERRITT CENOTAPH

SPORTS

COACH LAUDED ON NATIONAL STAGE

TY LIM reporter@merrittherald. com

Nicola Valley youth coach Bernard “Buzz” Manuel has made national headlines, as he became the recipient of a national coaching award.

Manuel, a member

of the Upper Nicola Band, was one of the two recipients of the National Indigenous Coaching Award by the Aboriginal Sport Circle.

He was given the award in Ottawa on Oct. 25 as he was honoured for his

commitment building youth and community as well as promoting Indigenous identity.

In an interview with the Herald, Manuel said it was a huge honour to be represented on the n ational stage.

Manuel was chosen

as the recipient for this award for his coaching deeds across multiple sports. For years he’s coached lacrosse, minor hockey and recently he’s taken to coaching archery in his home community as well as in

Kamloops.

Still, a recent highlight of his accomplishments would undoubtedly be his role as an assistant coach during the lacrosse World Sixes Vancouver last October.

Manuel played a key role coaching Team Indigenous against some Olympic-caliber opponents in Team Canada and Team Mexico. Team Indigenous put up strong performances against Team Mexico in particular, losing one game by only a single goal margin.

“For us to play at that high-level, at the international stage was a big feat in itself,” said Manuel, who added that Team Indigenous was put together on short notice of 10 days.

Manuel was a key figure in the locker rooms for these games, being a major source to instil team culture.

“(I) provided the

cultural outlet for the team, where we helped out with the pregame talks, building a team through motivation, cultural identity and then starting each of our games off with one of our traditional songs,” Manuel said.

“We all grew game by game. And for us to build on that, build upon our own cultural identity. It really made us feel a lot stronger, and the boys did come together and they played with more confidence in each and every game.”

Elsewhere, Manuel has been actively involved with a program called Fueling Youth Performance, a training regime geared towards Indigenous youth.

For some youth, the program provides them with the professional training service and regime they’ve never had the opportunity to participate in before.

Manuel’s personal philosophy for coaching doesn’t end with sports. He believes that coaching youth means helping them develop as people as well.

“Be a better person today than who you were yesterday,” Manuel said. “I really stressed that with the youth.”

Manuel is still an athlete himself. Recently he competed in the Masters division track and field in Calgary. He carries philosophy with his own a thletic career as well.

“Being active gives me a clear mind, clear vision and it definitely makes me strive for that one per cent better each day.” He said the next step for him as a coach will be coaching archery at the B.C. Winter Games. Next year, he aims to coach lacrosse at the next B.C. Summer Games.

Bernard “Buzz” Manuel (centre) is honoured with the National Indigenous Coaching Award.

HUNDREDS COMING FOR SKATING COMP

JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald.com

For the first time in decades, the Nicola Valley Skating Club will be hosting a competition drawing hundreds of athletes from across the Southern Interior.

Around 300 skaters will take to the ice at the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena from Nov. 28-30 for the 2025 Okanagan Interclub Competition. Of those competing in all levels from Star 1 and up, 13 skaters will be representing the hometown club and providing a chance for Merrittonians to see some great hometown talent.

“Our skaters are really looking forward to it,” said NVSC Coach Diana Lorenz. “They have worked really hard, but they are also looking forward to

seeing the competition on their own home ice.”

It will be the first time since the 1980s that a competition of this calibre has been hosted in the Nicola Valley. The NVSC won the bid two years ago after a long and successful process.

All are welcome to watch what is set to be a showcase of a variety of different talents, while Lorenz says that volunteers are also needed to have the competition go off without a hitch.

Volunteering duties could include everything from wrangling skaters, to registration, security and more.

Those looking to volunteer can do so by emailing Lorenz at professionalcoachdiana@gmail.com or by checking out their Facebook page.

CENTENNIALS TAME RIVAL GRIZZLIES

TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com

The Merritt Centennials split the weekend, taking and losing one game each in two exciting matches.

Friday, Nov. 7 - Merritt Centennials 4 - Revelstoke Grizzlies 2

The Centennials took home their eighth win of the season while taking on the Revelstoke Grizzlies.

Merritt had previously played Revelstoke in October, where a goal in the dying moments of the game sent the Centennials packing in front of the home crowd.

Nearly a month later the Centennials struck back in another competitive match. The first period saw the Centennials score early. A penalty in the first minute by the Grizzlies’ Jake Phillips-Watts gave the Cents a man advantage coming out of the gates.

Less than two minutes later, defender Gairen Bona picked up his fourth goal of the season and kickstarted the Merritt offence.

At the 8:31 mark of the first period, Faris Meddeb came out and scored for Revelstoke. Immediately after the goal he was given a 10-minute penalty for misconduct.

Defences on both teams tightened their efforts later in the period with both teams going scoreless until after the halfway point of the second period.

At 11:05 of the middle frame, Revelstoke’s Dayton Abbott received a two-minute penalty for slashing, allowing the Centennials’ Callum MacLean to score

LIM Dawson Butler sidesteps a Grizzlies

on the man advantage, putting the Cents in the lead again.

A minute later, Kyle Dodd scored his seventh goal of the season for the Grizzlies, equalizing the game.

The match fell quiet again in the third. It wasn’t until 12:08 that the adept goalscorer Steven Foster opened up the G rizzlies defence and gave the Cents the lead on another power play.

Shortly after, MacLean scored another

for the Centennials. The team then held the two goal lead until the end of the game.

Saturday, Nov. 8 - Merritt Centennials 2 - Kelowna Chiefs 7

It was a frustrating night for the Centennials and their supporters as they took on one of the top teams in the KJHL’s Bull Division in the Kelowna Chiefs in

their home stadium in Rutland.

Just a week before this match, the Centennials handed the Chiefs just their second loss of the season in a blowout match with Merritt winning by a margin of four goals.

Coming to the Chiefs’ home arena, pressure was on Merritt to continue the team’s good form.

Unfortunately, it was a match in which Merritt seemed to never find its footing, neither offensively nor defensively. It was a slow game to open, but a penalty on Cents forward Marshall Wagner after a check to the head gave the Chiefs the power play and the momentum needed to finally score at 11:39 of the first. The game went quiet again until the second. It didn’t take too long in the middle frame, as the Chiefs soon scored again at 6:50 with a goal from Brenden Stirbu, making the game 2-0 Kelowna. Soon after, the gates were opened for a flood of goals. In just under two minutes of play, the Cents let in three goals from Evan Murray, Phinneas Bermel and Owen Miller, making it 5-0 and gutting any chance of a Centennials comeback.

Thankfully in the third, Evan Thachuk was able to claw something back for Merritt, scoring his first of the season. Two more goals by the Chiefs added insult to injury, as Merritt found themselves down 7-1.

At the end of the game, Dawson Butler was able to take back another consolation goal for Merritt.

The Merritt Centennials will look to next weekend, hoping to capitalize on two games in front of a home crowd as they play the Osoyoos Coyotes on Nov. 14 and the Williams Lake Mustangs on Nov. 16.

NICOLA VALLEY COMMUNITY

Contact

HELPING CHILDREN NAVIGATE THE DIGITAL WORLD

HARIT JOSHI

Contributed

Last week, Collettville Elementary School sent out an email to parents announcing their new i nitiative to equip its students with digital literacy. The email is a reassurance that the school authorities truly value the feedback they receive from parents and put an action plan in place soon.

The White Hatter program is aimed to educate children between age 9-14 (Grades 4-7) with vital information on how to safely navigate the internet when it comes to privacy and security as well as providing guidance to caution students from hackers, cyberbullies and predators of the virtual world. The program also promises to inculcate “healthy,

appropriate and balanced tech habits”.

These programs will continue throughout this academic year with “virtual presentations” or “live broadcasts” in Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer (June). Programs like these are a welcome move as it provides students with the correct information, guidance and the expertise to tread cautiously with the murkier side of the internet. It also informs them to take everything that’s on the internet with a grain of salt. While Australia has taken extreme steps to ban access to social media for children under 16, several European nations are contemplating introducing parental consent and controls to ensure a secured way for their

children to use the internet and handle the social media boom maturely.

The success of these steps is not yet known, but banning social media platforms or having parental consents is unlikely to resolve any real purpose.

There could be a high possibility that these curious minds would want to explore the reason for restrictions, leading to go a ny distance to gain access, potentially exposing them to the dangers of the unknown territory. It’s virtually impossible to develop a foolproof system to ensure children’s safety in the connected social world.

British Columbia banned use of mobile phones in the schools for the current academic year. The rule has had a positive impact as students

are distractionfree albeit until the time they are in school. Once back home, they have all the access to their gadgets.

Ever wonder whether the content on their mobile phones is age-appropriate? What kind of websites or apps they are browsing through? Did you dig deep to understand whether the mobile games are not disguised potential dangers in the form of entertainment?

In this age of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the vulnerability of getting manipulated is a real sc are. The kind of information children consume will shape their thoughts and minds. No amount of filtering or monitoring tools can guarantee 100 per cent effectiveness.

Restrictions and policing may not yield desired results — giving rise to potential conflicts in the parent-child relationship is another issue to deal with.

However, what will prevail though in the long run is the development of critical thinking skills, understanding the pros a nd cons and empowering them to make the right choices.

With the Collettville school also amplifying the same message to the students along with parents, it will most likely help children navigate the challenges of the virtual world. For, the solution lies in right knowledge and constant dialogue with the children. Befriending, not frightening them is the mantra.

Harit Joshi is a

Communications Administrative Assistant with K’en T’em in Merritt.

■ Approved mini-storage

■ On-siterentals

■ Secured

■ SaleofNew&Used storagecontainers

1750HillStreet ■ Phone:250-315-3000

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU

Crossroads Community Church

2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911

Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

Merritt Baptist Church 2499 Coutlee Avenue (at Orme) Sunday service 10 am, Phone (250)378-2464

Merritt Lutheran Fellowship in St. Michael's Anglican Hall • 250-378-9899 Service Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:30 p.m.

Sacred Heart Catholic Church Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919 Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.

St. Michael’s Anglican Church

1990 Chapman St. • 250-378-3772

Service Times: 2nd and 4th Sundays only - 10:00 a.m.

Trinity United Church Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735

Service Time every Sunday - 10 am

Somang Mission Community Church (SMC) 1755 Coldwater Ave. (The Cadet Hall) Sunday Service Time: 4:00 pm • 250-280-1268

Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church 1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502

Service Times: Sunday 10 am

Motion Church Merritt Sundays 10 am

Coquihalla Middle School (2975 Clapperton Ave) www.wearemotionchurch.ca/merritt

CLASSIFIEDS

DEADLINE: MONDAY at noon. for that week’s paper.

When you provide an opportunity for a dying person to tell their story, it tells them that their life had value.

www.merritthospice.org

Email: merritthospice@shaw.ca

In Loving Memory of Prem Singh Momrath (1945–2025)

With profound sadness, the family announces the passing of our pillar, Prem Singh Momrath — a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend.

Prem Singh passed away peacefully on November 2, 2025, at the age of 80, as he awaited his daily tea with his beloved wife of 64 years. Born in Sargodha, Pakistan, in 1945, Prem Singh grew up surrounded by family and developed a lifelong connection to his roots. One of six siblings — two sisters and three brothers — he found his greatest joy in helping others and spending time with those he loved.

Each Loss

Each loss is very different, The pain is so severe. Will I ever stop missing

This one I loved so dear?

• Wages: starting $20 to $28 (depends on experience & attendance)

• Steady day shift work

• Students welcome to apply

• No experience necessary

Will train

MERRITT &DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY

Listening is sacred. Whenever you can do that for someone, you are honouring them.

www.merritthospice.org

Email: merritthospice@shaw.ca

In 1970, Prem Singh immigrated to Canada with his best friend, arriving in Vancouver, B.C., where he took on various jobs to build a new life. He worked tirelessly — delivering newspapers, shoveling snow, and taking on any work that came his way — always with pride and determination.

After a brief period working at a sawmill in Clearwater, B.C., Prem Singh came to Merritt, B.C. to visit family friends — but he never left. He quickly formed lasting connections within the community and soon secured employment at Aspen Planers, where he remained for the rest of his career. Prem began as a general labourer and later discovered his passion as a saw filer. Through hard work and perseverance, he built a strong foundation for his family, reflecting his unwavering commitment to honesty, humility, and dedication.

He was blessed with a loving wife, Piar Kaur, his children Surinder (Varinder), Jesse (Kelly), and Rajdeep (Jasprit), and his grandchildren Bundeep (Rumman), Pavan, Gurvir, Liam, Ethan, Arjun, and Rohnik, who were the pride and joy of his life.

Prem Singh was predeceased by his father Mehar Singh (India), mother Darupti Kaur (India), brother Tarsem Singh (U.K.), and sister Sheila Kaur (India).

Good times we had together, The moments that we shared We didn’t have to tell each other

How much we really cared.

I never dreamed you’d go away, Never thought of sorrow.

So sure you’d always be here

Took for granted each tomorrow.

Now my life is all confused

Since you went away. You took a part of me

And for help daily pray.

But when God sent you to me

SOCIETY

There is much talk these days about ‘closure’. Saying good-bye to someone we love, even after they have died, doesn’t require that we put an end to the relationship.

His life was devoted to supporting and uplifting his family in every way possible, including helping numerous relatives immigrate to and settle in Canada — a legacy for which we are endlessly grateful.

He cared deeply for everyone around him and truly possessed a heart of gold. He will be dearly missed by his beloved wife, children, grandchildren, extended family, and friends.

A Sikh funeral service was held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, followed by the Antim Ardas (prayer service) and Guru Ka Langar at the Merritt Sikh Temple. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the care providers at the Nicola Valley Medical Centre and the Nicola Valley Hospital & Health Centre for their compassion and support.

May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory continue to inspire compassion, strength, and love in all who carry him in their hearts. We find solace in the teaching of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and the eternal wisdom of the Guru Granth Sahib.

He never said that you were mine, That I could keep you always –

Only borrowed for a time.

Now, He’s called you home, I’m sad and I shed tears.

Yet I’m glad He loaned you to me

And we had these many years.

ForkliftSnowBlade,PlusMore!! ing:View 1DayOnly-Fri(Sept19)-9am-4pm teOn-Si -6248PleasantValleyRoad,Vernon PickUp-2Days-Mon/Tue(Sept22/23)-9am-4pm

***REGISTER/BIDNOW***

ONLINE TIMED • IN-HOUSE • VERNON HUGE MULTI ESTATE AUCTION SATURDAY, NOV 15TH - 8 AM (lots start closing) *** REGISTER / BID NOW ***

LargeSelectionofTools&Misc.ItemsincludingWelders,Generators, AirCompressor,Oxy/ActTorchSets, PipeThreaders,ChainBlocks&Roller Trolleys,Airline,WeldingCable,Toolboxes,PalletJack,Grinders,Corded& CordlessTools, Winch, StorageCabinets, HD PalletShelv ng Units,Welding PalletS Units,W ding Shields,OfficeItems,DumpBins,OutdoorTankCage,TruckBoxes, ForkliftSnowBlade,PlusMore!! Viewing: 1DayOnly-Fri(Sept19)-9am-4pm On-Site -6248PleasantValleyRoad,Vernon PickUp-2Days-Mon/Tue(Sept22/23)-9am-4pm

Bi dOnlineorA bs entee Bids A cc ept ed

ONLINETIMED•CLOSEOUTAUCTION NORJAYINDUSTRIESINC.•VERNON SATURDAY,SEPT20TH-8AM(lotsstartclosing) ***REGISTER/BIDNOW*** LargeSelectionofTools&Misc.ItemsincludingWelders,Generators, AirCompressor,Oxy/ActTorchSets, PipeThreaders,ChainBlocks&Roller Trolleys,Airline,WeldingCable,Toolboxes,PalletJack,Grinders,Corded& CordlessTools, Winch, StorageCabinets, HD PalletShelv ng Units,Welding PalletS Units,W ng Shields,OfficeItems,DumpBins,OutdoorTankCage,TruckBoxes, ForkliftSnowBlade,PlusMore!! Viewing: 1DayOnly-Fri(Sept19)-9am-4pm On-Site -6248PleasantValleyRoad,Vernon PickUp-2Days-Mon/Tue(Sept22/23)-9am-4pm

Photos&linktosales@ dodds auc tion.com

Photos&linktosales@ dodds auc tion.com 3311-28Avenue,Vernon• Subjecttoadditions&deletions CALL FORMOR EI NFOR MATI ON ONLINETIMED•CLOSEOUTAUCTION NORJAYINDUSTRIESINC.•VERNON

Partial List Includes: High-End Jewellery, Coins, Stamps, Antiques, Collectables, Native Items, Diecast & Hot Wheels, China, Crystal, Pottery, Guitars, Records, Large Selection of Furniture, Area Carpets, Freezers, TVs, Stereos, Comics, Huge Selection of Books, Plus More!!

https://doddsauction.com/

3311-28Avenue,Vernon• Subjecttoadditions&deletions CALL FORMOR EI NFOR MATI ON

AirCompressor,Oxy/ActTorchSets, PipeThreaders,ChainBlocks&Roller Trolleys,Airline,WeldingCable,Toolboxes,PalletJack,Grinders,Corded& sTools,lesCord nch,Wi ts,neorageCabiSt HD

https://doddsauction.com/

Photos&linktosales@ dodds auc tion.com 3311-28Avenue,Vernon• Subjecttoadditions&deletions CALL FORMOR EI NFOR MATI ON ONLINETIMED•CLOSEOUTAUCTION NORJAYINDUSTRIESINC.•VERNON SATURDAY,SEPT20TH-8AM(lotsstartclosing) ***REGISTER/BIDNOW*** LargeSelectionofTools&Misc.ItemsincludingWelders,Generators, AirCompressor,Oxy/ActTorchSets, PipeThreaders,ChainBlocks&Roller Trolleys,Airline,WeldingCable,Toolboxes,PalletJack,Grinders,Corded& CordlessTools, Winch, StorageCabinets, HD PalletShelv ng Units,Welding PalletS Units,W ng Shields,OfficeItems,DumpBins,OutdoorTankCage,TruckBoxes, ForkliftSnowBlade,PlusMore!! Viewing: 1DayOnly-Fri(Sept19)-9am-4pm On-Site -6248PleasantValleyRoad,Vernon PickUp-2Days-Mon/Tue(Sept22/23)-9am-4pm

***REGISTER/BIDNOW*** LargeSelectionofTools&Misc.ItemsincludingWelders,Generators, AirCompressor,Oxy/ActTorchSets, PipeThreaders,ChainBlocks&Roller Trolleys,Airline,WeldingCable,Toolboxes,PalletJack,Grinders,Corded& sTools,lesCord nch,Wi ts,neorageCabiSt HD helvtSlePal ng ngdielUnits,W tSlePal Units,W ngdi Shields,OfficeItems,DumpBins,OutdoorTankCage,TruckBoxes, ForkliftSnowBlade,PlusMore!! ing:View 1DayOnly-Fri(Sept19)-9am-4pm teOn-Si -6248PleasantValleyRoad,Vernon PickUp-2Days-Mon/Tue(Sept22/23)-9am-4pm /com.onhttps://doddsaucti

NORJAYINDUSTRIESINC.•VERNON SATURDAY,SEPT20TH-8AM(lotsstartclosing) ***REGISTER/BIDNOW*** LargeSelectionofTools&Misc.ItemsincludingWelders,Generators, AirCompressor,Oxy/ActTorchSets, PipeThreaders,ChainBlocks&Roller Trolleys,Airline,WeldingCable,Toolboxes,PalletJack,Grinders,Corded& CordlessTools, Winch, StorageCabinets, HD PalletShelv ng Units,Welding PalletS Units,W ng Shields,OfficeItems,DumpBins,OutdoorTankCage,TruckBoxes, ForkliftSnowBlade,PlusMore!! Viewing: 1DayOnly-Fri(Sept19)-9am-4pm

Bi dOnlineorA bs entee Bids A cc ept

https://doddsauction com/ Dodds

https://doddsauction com/

Bi dOnlineorA bs entee Bids A cc ept ed DODDSAUCTION250-545-3259

Viewing - Dodds Showroom - Vernon Thu/Fri (Nov 13/14) - 8 am - 4 pm

Viewing: 1DayOnly-Fri(Sept19)-9am-4pm On-Site -6248PleasantValleyRoad,Vernon PickUp-2Days-Mon/Tue(Sept22/23)-9am-4pm

https://doddsauction.com/

NOTICE OF PROPOSED CHANGES TO BOARD PROCEDURE BYLAW No. 2788, 2022

Public Notice – Free Disposal Day

June 16th & 17th from 8am - 4pm

Lower Nicola Eco-Depot, 2348 Woodward Road

In accordance with section 94 of the Community Charter, notice is hereby given that the Thompson-Nicola Regional District Board of Directors will consider amending Board Procedure Bylaw No. 2788, 2022 with Board Procedure Bylaw No. 2895, 2025 at the Regular Board Meeting scheduled for November 6, 2025 at 1:30 PM at the TNRD Civic Building, located on the 4th Floor, 465 Victoria Street, Kamloops, BC V2C 2A9.

Key changes to the Bylaw include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Public Notice Place: Revised to confirm the public notice place as the public notice board located on the 4th Floor Reception Area of the TNRD Civic Building.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Board of Directors of the Thompson-Nicola Regional District gives notice that it will hold a Public Hearing in the TNRD Boardroom, 4th Floor - 465 Victoria Street, Kamloops, BC, to consider proposed Bylaw No. 2897, 2025.

What is Temporary Use Permit No. TUP 81, Bylaw No. 2897,2025?

Residents of the TNRD, this is a great time to do some spring cleaning and save money on tipping fees. The event is now over a 2 day period to accommodate any waste created by this year’s flooding event. If you have flood damaged material on your property, this is your chance to bring it in free of charge.

• Disqualification: Provisions have been included to reinforce legislative requirements around disqualification of Board members.

• Question Period: Reduction in time spent during question period to align with best practices and to ensure questions are regarding an item on the agenda.

To consider the issuance of a Temporary Use Permit to enable seasonal asphalt production (between April 1st and November 1st) for up to a maximum of three years at the subject property on Hwy 97, Hamilton Hill, BC, PID: 013-006-088, as shown outlined in the adjacent map.

Bring in one load of material per household for free on event day. One load definition: up to 8 foot (full sized) truck box OR up to 8 foot trailer. Does not apply tobusiness or commercial loads.

• Closed Meetings: Added provisions to ensure confidentiality when attending meetings electronically.

• Points of Order: Additional language to clarify the process for Members to raise Points of Order.

Fees will be waived for the following material types:

• Electronic Access to Public Meetings: Added language to clarify expectations for publicly available recorded meetings.

Household garbage

Tires on rim

Bylaw No. 2895 will be available for viewing on the agenda for the November 6, 2025 Regular Board meeting at https://tnrd.civicweb.net/portal/

All persons who believe that their interest in property may be affected by the proposed bylaw shall be afforded a reasonable opportunity to provide input at the Public Hearing. Anyone who wishes to present at the Hearing virtually (via Zoom) must contact Legislative Services prior to noon on November 18, 2025, to arrange virtual access. Anyone may also make written submissions on the matter of Bylaw 2897 (via the options below), which must be received at our office prior to noon on November 18, 2025. The entire content of all submissions will be made public and form part of the public record for this matter.

How do I get more information?

Copies of the proposed Bylaw and all supporting information can be inspected from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday (except statutory holidays) at our office, from November 3, 2025, until 1:30 p.m. on the day of the Hearing; or please contact us via any of the options below. For info & submissions

Demolition/renovation/ construction material Mattresses, couches, & other furniture

Cooling appliances (fridge, freezer, A/C unit)

Asphalt shingles

Requests for copies of the proposed Bylaw, questions and comments can be directed to Marnie Jeremiah, Corporate Officer, at 250-377-7065 or mjeremiah@ tnrd.ca.

Concrete & asphalt

Wood waste

Please secure your load before leaving home! Please remember- it’s always free to recycle!

Forest Operations Maps Notice

Tolko’s Southern Interior Woodlands Forest Operational Map (FOM) is available for public review and comments online at: https://fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects

For additional information call us at 1-877-377-8673

Review and comment period: November 14th, 2025, to December 14th, 2025.

The FOM is also available for in-person review and comments at 4280 Highway 6, Lumby, BC, during business hours of 8:00am to 4:00pm, Monday to Friday except on Stat Holidays. Comments can also be submitted by email at TolkoWoodlandsCommunications@tolko.com

The FOM is valid for 3 years during which the FOM may be relied upon to apply for a cutting permit or road permit to harvest a cutblock or construct a road shown on the FOM.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice that Stuwix Resources has posted Forest Operations Map(s) (FOM) to https://fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects for public review and comment.

FOM NameLandscape UnitFOM NameLandscape Unit 2025-010Spius 2025-013Coldwater 2025-011Upper Nicola2025-014Similkameen 2025-012Tulameen

Review period starts November 13th ending 30 days after and the information may be used for up to 3 years.

Public may also view the FOM(s) weekdays 8-4pm at 2-98 Hwy 8, Merritt BC, V1K 0A7 – 250-378-2277 or comments e-mailed to planningforester@stuwix.com

Marnie Jeremiah Corporate Officer

CAREER FAIR

MINE LIFE EXTENSION PROJECT CAREER FAIR

Saturday November 22 and Sunday November 23, 2025

10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Saturday November 22

MINE LIFE EXTENSION PROJECT CAREER FAIR

NVIT Gymnasium

and Sunday November 23, 2025

Saturday November 22 and Sunday November 23, 2025

Nicola Valley Institute of Technology

10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

4155 Belshaw St, Merritt, BC V1K 1R1

NVIT Gymnasium

Saturday November 22 and Sunday November 23, 2025

10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Nicola Valley Institute of Technology

10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Teck Highland Valley Copper (HVC) is excited to host a two-day Career Fair at NVIT, open to all members of the community. This event will spotlight awarded contractors involved in the HVC Mine Life Extension (MLE) project and provide a unique opportunity to:

NVIT Gymnasium

4155 Belshaw St, Merritt, BC V1K 1R1

NVIT Gymnasium

•Discover current and upcoming employment opportunities

Nicola Valley Institute of Technology

•Connect directly with contractors and explore career paths

Nicola Valley Institute of Technology

4155 Belshaw St, Merritt, BC V1K 1R1

•Build valuable relationships and expand your professional network

4155 Belshaw St, Merritt, BC V1K 1R1

•Discover current and upcoming employment opportunities

Whether you’re actively seeking work or simply curious about what’s ahead, attend to learn more about the opportunities available through the HVC MLE project. Lunch will be provided.

Teck Highland Valley Copper (HVC) is excited to host a two-day Career members of the community. This event will spotlight awarded contractors Mine Life Extension (MLE) project and provide a unique opportunity

•Connect directly with contractors and explore career paths

Daily Door Prizes and Trade spotlight speakers and more.

•Build valuable relationships and expand your professional network

•Discover current and upcoming employment opportunities

Have questions?

Whether you’re actively seeking work or simply curious about what’s ahead, attend to learn more about the opportunities available through the HVC MLE project. Lunch will be provided.

•Connect directly with contractors and explore career paths

•Build valuable relationships and expand your professional network

Please contact VHOIndigenousRelations@teck.com for more information.

Daily Door Prizes and Trade spotlight speakers and more.

•Build valuable relationships and expand your professional network

Whether you’re actively seeking work or simply curious about what’s more about the opportunities available through the HVC MLE project.

Whether you’re actively seeking work or simply curious about what’s ahead, attend to learn more about the opportunities available through the HVC MLE project. Lunch will be provided.

Have questions?

Daily Door Prizes and Trade spotlight speakers and more.

Please contact VHOIndigenousRelations@teck.com for more information.

Have questions?

Please contact VHOIndigenousRelations@teck.com