AHN September 28, 2023

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Auroras light up the Peace region nights

Monday night’s auroras were spectacular in the North Peace, as they painted the skies with vibrant hues of green and red.

Monday’s northern lights are thought to have been caused by a coronal mass ejection (CME), taking place on September 16.

A G2-class moderate geomagnetic storm watch has been issued by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), with more auroras expected this fall.

by Jenn Nicole

TW Buck Reporter/Photographer

Photos

Vehicle collision in Charlie Lake Monday morning

A white SUV appeared to have collided with a transport truck this morning, while exiting Jackfish Frontage Rd onto Highway 97 in Charlie Lake, BC.

Highway 97 was down to single lane northbound while RCMP and crews were working on scene.

PRRD defers decision on Kelly Lake Community Centre

Tom Summer Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Peace River Regional District has a deferred a recommendation to enter into a use, occupancy, and funding agreement with the Kelly Lake Community Centre Society, and will address at their October 26, 2023 meeting.

At their September 14, 2023 board meeting, PRRD directors expressed concerns they’ve heard the society lacks local representation from the Kelly Lake community, with members from outside the community making up the society’s board.

Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka said he was under the impression that the society’s board members are from Beaver Lodge, Grande Prairie, and Hythe, when it was expected they would be from the communities of Kelly Lake Cree Nation, Kelly Lake Indian Band, and the Kelly Lake Metis Society.

“My understanding is that they have all representation from each group, that’s what the society is made up of ” said PRRD Chair Leonard Hiebert, noting he can’t verify Krakowka’s claims.

PRRD CAO Shawn Dahlen said the society Krakowka referred to is a different one.

“It was my understanding we did have local representation there - it was also my understanding that everyone has had access,” he said.

Chetwynd Mayor Allen Courtoreille said he’s heard similar concerns to Krakowka’s.

“I’ve heard the same thing as director Krakowka has mentioned, so maybe we need to be able to have a look at this again, or make sure that we are in a position where we’re not being brought back to this table on saying ‘you guys did the wrong thing again’ - all information needs to be out there,” said Courtoreille.

“It is quite concerning to myself, if we have a building that the PRRD is going to give to a society that doesn’t represent all the people there,” he added.

Hiebert clarified that the PRRD is not giving the building to the society outright, they would be operating it on behalf of the regional district.

Pouce Coupe Mayor Danielle Veach said she’s heard the same things as Krakowka and Courtoreille.

“Have we received anything from them, from the community stating that they’ve brought it forward to community members and have met with them regarding this agreement or is this something that has been done between the two boards?” she asked.

Dahlen said the PRRD has provided opportunities to ensure the community centre has been all inclusive, but noted there’s no requirements for the society to be local.

We have no response from the RCMP to this point, we will update when further details arrive.

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“I think it’s an opportunity for us to be able to reach out to the community to ensure that whoever takes over this contract as a society to operate the regional district facility that it is all inclusive,” added Dahlen.

Hiebert is the PRRD liaison for the Kelly Lake community, and proposed deferring the agreement recommendation until local representation is confirmed.

“I know that they have representation from each member or from all the groups on the society, I just can’t verify that they’re actually from the community,” said Hiebert.

A service area was established in 2006 by the PRRD to provide an annual financial contribution to assist with the maintenance and operational expenses of the facility, and the new agreement would have been for a five-year period.

The agreement stipulates the centre can be used for recrea-

tional, cultural and educational programs, activities and services for the Kelly Lake Community, and that it may be rented out for private or community gatherings.

The society would be required to provide the PRRD an annual budget with an operating grant request, financial statements, proof of liability insurance, and annual report outlining maintenance, summary of events, improvements, and health permits.

Tom Summer, Alaska Highway News, Local Journalism Initiative. Have a story idea or opinion? Email tsummer@ ahnfsj.ca

FYI: MLA hosts FSJ BBQ

The community of Fort St. John was invited on Wednesday, to the front of local MLA Dan Davies office for a hotdog BBQ lunch, and the opportunity to chat with Davies.

A BBQ and tent had been set up on the sidewalk of the newly opened 100 Street, which has been closed for most of the summer for construction.

Dan Davies was elected MLA for

Peace River North in 2017, and was re-elected in 2020. Before his election to the Legislature, He served as a Fort St. John city councillor for 12 years.

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TW BUCK PHOTOS

As a North American energy company, Enbridge believes that our business can play a critical role in advancing reconciliation, and that means acknowledging the truth and learning from the past As we learn more, we strive to create a path that we can walk, together, towards reconciliation

What can you do?

On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we encourage all to take time to listen and learn about the history and culture of Indigenous peoples. Discuss

reconciliation means

identify ways to take action Support Indigenous artists; listen to Indigenous musicians

Fort St. John celebrates opening of new RCMP detachment

Tom Summer Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The City of Fort St. John and the Fort St. John RCMP Detach-

ment celebrated the opening of the newly constructed police detachment this past Friday.

The new building replaces the previous 35-year-old de -

tachment, with a modern design featuring mass timber and a 145-kilowatt photovoltaic system, representing a $51.4 million investment. It’s expected the detachment will consume

80 percent less energy, equal to roughly $60,000 in annual savings.

“We would like to thank the City of Fort St. John and the community for this magnificent Detachment. It is so important for our police officers and staff to work out of a purpose-built building designed for law enforcement,” said Detachment Commander Inspector Tony Hanson in a September 18 press release by the city.

Mayor Lilia Hansen attended the opening and shared her comments in the same press release.

“We are immensely proud to mark this significant milestone in our community’s history with the opening of the new Fort St. John RCMP Detachment. This collaborative effort not only enhances our city’s safety and security but also underscores our commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Hansen.

The detachment houses over 90 employees, including 65 RCMP officers funded both provincially and municipally, along with 25 support staff - all responsible for an area of roughly 46,700 square kilometres.

The City of Fort St. John, funded the majority of the project through money secured through the Peace River Agreement, while RCMP will contribute through annual lease payments. A $1.5 million grant was also secured to help with funding, utilizing the Green Municipal Fund – funded by the Government of Canada.

Tom Summer, Alaska Highway News, Local Journalism Initiative. Have a story idea or opinion? Email tsummer@ ahnfsj.ca

A decade of Spark celebrated with endowment fund

Last week at the 10th anniversary of the Spark Women’s Leadership Conference, the establishment of an endowment fund that will support the educational endeavours of the women of northeast BC was announced.

With an initial investment of $50,000, this fund will support it’s first recipients in the fall of 2024. It will be available for women who are residents of northeastern BC and age 25 and over who can demonstrate financial need and a commitment to community through volunteer endeavours.

Hundreds of women have attended Spark over the past ten years, and with the establishment of this endowment fund the legacy of the event will continue to live on.

“This has been a goal of the steering committee since the early years of Spark and we are so proud and excited that it has finally come to fruition,” says Jennifer Moore, founding steering committee member of Spark. “It’s through women helping women that we can truly build amazing communities.”

Spark was established 10 years ago by a local group of business owners, executives, community leaders and

Taylor Bridge repairs bring traffic delays to Highway 97

The Taylor Bridge repairs began on Monday, September 11 and are scheduled to continue until September 30.

The bridge will be single-lane alternating traffic while the repairs take place between 7pm and 3am, during these

times traffic will be led by a pilot car. Get news delivered to your inbox six days a week, subscribe to our newsletter.

tbuck@ahnfsj.ca

entrepreneurs who were frustrated at always having to travel out of the region for professional development.

The Spark group knew that northeastern BC is a region with tremendous talent, energy, passion, and drive and the Spark Women’s Leadership Conference provides a unique, local opportunity for learning and connection.

TW Buck

Reporter/Photographer

‘Hands off Our Kids’ protest marches in Peace Region

TW Buck Reporter/Photographer

On Wednesday morning, a group of around 300 people rallied outside the City Hall in Fort St. John, before marching down to Centennial Park in support of the ‘Hands off Children’ protests taking place from coast to coast.

The protest is addressing gender education in the classroom, specifically elementary schools.

According to the ‘Hands off Children’ website, their mission

includes nurturing children’s growth in a safe environment and promoting critical thinking by means of quality education.

A peaceful rally was taking place across Centennial Park from the protest, where individuals were invited to educate themselves on SOGI.

A similar rally was held in Dawson Creek, bottom left photo.

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tbuck@ahnfsj.ca

LAKESHORE 4-H C ommunit y C l ub

M a n y p e o p l e t h i n k o f 4 - H a s s o m e t h i n g f o r o n l y r u r a l k i d s w h o l i v e o n a f a r m 4 - H i s m u c h m o re t h a n j u s t r a i s i n g a n d s h o w i n g a n a n i m a l T h e re a re m a n y p ro j e c t s o ff e re d b y 4 - H B r i t i s h C o l u m b i a t h a t k i d s c a n p a r t i c i p a t e i n e v e n i f t h e y d o n ’t l i v e i n t o w n T h e s e p ro j e c t s a l l o w k i d s t o p a r t i c i p a t e i n a l l t h e b e n e fi t s o f 4 - H , i n c l u d i n g t h e t r a v e l , s c h o l a r s h i p , a n d e d u c a t i o n a l o p p o r t u n i t i e s , w h i l e l e a r n i n g n e w t h i n g s a n d p a r t i c i p a t i n g i n a l l p a r t s o f 4 - H S o m e o f t h e s e p ro j e c t s a re : a d o p ta - g r a n d p a re n t , s m a l l e n g i n e s ,

b i c y c l e , a g ro f o re s t r y, g a rd e n i n g , f o o d s , s e w i n g , p h o t o g r a p h y, a n d l e a t h e rc r a f t T h e re a re a l s o a n i m a l p ro j e c t s t h a t c a n b e d o n e w h i l e l i v i n g i n a s u b - d i v i s i o n o r i n t o w n , s u c h a s r a b b i t s , d o g , h o n e y b e e , a n d p o u l t r y G o t o w w w 4 h b c c a / p ro j e c t s f o r m o re i n f o r m a t i o n o n v a r i o u s p ro j e c t s o ff e re d b y 4 - H B r i t i s h C o l u m b i a I f y o u h a v e a n y q u e s t i o n s a b o u t a n y o f t h e s e p ro j e c t s o r t h e 4 - H p ro g r a m i n g e n e r a l , fi n d u s o n F a c e b o o k a t N o r t h P e a c e D i s t r i c t 4 - H a n d s e n d u s a m e s s a g e

Proud Parents Br yce & Jenna

96 Street closed for repairs

KAMRYN ANN C AROTHERS

September 4, 2023

Length: n/a

Weight: 6 lbs 12 oz

Time: 8:34 am

TAU RU S – A P R 21/M AY 21

You have a no -nonsense bearing that immediately has people drawing close to you and trusting you Taurus Put that out in full force as you tr y to win favor on the job this week

G E M I N I – M AY 22/J U N 21

Gemini, don t let your quest for excitement pull you in too many different direc tions right now You need to stick to one plan for a cer tain amount of time and see things through

C A N C E R – J U N 22/J U L 22

Ever yone wants a piece of you right now, Cancer I t is equally flattering and exhausting You ll have to be choosy regarding where and with whom to dedicate your time

L E O – J U L 23/AU G 23

Listen to the messages swirling around in your head right now, Leo Your intuition has been on target so there is no reason to doubt yourself now Keep moving for ward

V I RG O – AU G 24/S E P T 22

Virgo, is a par ticular relationship getting too intense for you? I t might be the time to ease up a bit and take a step back Distance could provide the clarity you need

L I B R A – S E P T 23/O C T 23

Libra, you do not need to struggle if you simply call in a few favors

Reach out to your network of people and figure out how you can make things work

S CO R P I O – O C T 24/N OV 22

Scorpio, do not chase people down, simply wait for them to come to you with your natural magnetism You don’t want to exer t energy this week unnecessarily

S AG I T TA R I U S – N OV 23/D E C 21

Sagittarius, rather than showing people all of your cards, hold some information close to the vest and maintain a bit of myster y O thers likely will be intrigued

C A P R I CO R N – D E C 22/J A N 20

Capricorn you may find that things are ver y profitable for you this week If you are an entrepreneur, business will be solid If you perhaps sell on the side, money will flow

AQ UA R I U S – J A N 21/F E B 18

Aquarius, for quite some time you have been focusing on ever yone but yourself You have to change your ways if you can get the rest and healing that you need right now

P I S C E S – F E B 19/M A R 20

There is no doubt that you’ve earned a few commendations, Pisces But this week you need to accept congratulations without being boastful Exhibit both humility and pride

B.C. United Party leader Kevin Falcon was blunt when asked last week whether he is worried whether other members of his caucus may follow Abbotsford South MLA Bruce Banman’s lead and bolt to the B.C. Conservative Party.

“No, I remain very confident that there will be no others,” was his terse response to that question from my Global BC colleague Richard Zussman.

But more caucus defections may be the least of Falcon’s worries, quite frankly.

He should be much more concerned that an apparently growing B.C. Conservative presence will siphon off enough votes from his party in a whole bunch of ridings come the next provincial election, to the point where the NDP would win in a cakewalk.

So far, at least, Falcon is choosing to ignore the threat.

“I don’t spend a lot of time worrying about the B.C. Conservatives,” he said in the same interview, dismissing that party as a small knot of disorganized enthusiasts who lack organization and candidates.

But Banman’s bolt to that party has certainly changed the playing field.

His move means that for the first time in almost 50 years, the B.C. Conservative Party will have two MLAs in the legislature and will qualify for taxpayer-funded financial resources and be allowed to participate in the daily Question Period (and no doubt will be included in the leaders’ televised debate come the next election campaign), all of which adds up to a high much higher profile.

And with that will likely come an uptick in voter support (the party is already leading B.C. United in some polls). Maybe not enough to win many (or even any) seats outright, but enough to potentially inflict serious harm on the B.C. United Party in many Interior and Northern ridings (as the B.C. Reform Party did to the B.C. Liberals in 1996).

tbuck@ahnfsj.ca

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That 1996 election bears a closer look, considering the situation that seems to be forming in this province.

In 1996 the B.C. Liberals – having cruised atop the opinion polls for months – were supposed to be headed for an easy victory over the incumbent NDP, which had run afoul of a host of controversies and scandals while in government.

But on election night the fledgling B.C. Reform Party “split” the anti-NDP vote in certain ridings and gained enough votes itself to allow the NDP to win about seven seats that should otherwise have gone to the B.C. Liberals. That, plus the fact the B.C. Reformers won two seats themselves allowed the NDP to win reelection despite losing the popular vote to the B.C. Liberals.

And now that kind of potential votesplitting is on the horizon again.

If the B.C. Conservatives boost their votes by even a mere 10 percentage points in ridings located in regions that elect Conservative MPs by hefty margins (a scenario that is by no means far-fetched) that would likely give the NDP at least four to six seats, it normally would not win (a 15 point increase would likely put another half dozen seats in play).

For the moment, B.C. United caucus members are taking heart from what happened in 2013, when the B.C. Conservatives were hovering around 20 per cent in some opinion polls, won a spot in the leader’s debate and then crashed and burned in an election won in an upset by the B.C Liberals.

However, today’s situation seems markedly different. Rather than ignoring a growing threat from the rear, the B.C. United Party would be wise to take that threat more seriously, otherwise a 1996 scenario – not a 2013 one – may prove to repeat itself.

Keith Baldrey is chief political reporter for Global BC.

The road was closed as crews are working on 96 Street today, repairing and paving the road from 100 Ave to 96 Ave.

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Baldrey: Now with two MLAs, BC Conservatives have a ‘much higher profile’

A Site C update

Our reporter TW Buck was on hand last week for a tour of the Site C facility, and to get an update on the progressing work

The Halfway River boat launch will be permanently closed starting September 23, 2023.

As they prepare to fill the reservoir, BC Hydro is monitoring slope stability along the

shoreline, and has achieved a significant milestone, with the completion of tunnel conversion.

They have installed four large rings inside one of the two diversion tunnels. These rings will play a key role in reservoir filling, which could start as early as this fall.

This week from the Senior’s Hall

Pamela den Ouden

Columnist

Returning to Fort St. John after being out of the country for the first half of September, I see that summer is over and fall is in full swing with cooler temperatures, windy days, and golden leaves swirling in the streets! In fact, I could have used gloves and a toque when I went walking this morning. Maybe we’ll get some warm days yet!

B-I-N-G-O!

Bingo is off to a great start with games every Wednesday, alternating between afternoons at 1 p.m. and evenings at 7 p.m. Come out and support this social event! But come early or you might not get a seat!

Calling all music lovers!

Strumming, singing, even dancing! Starting Thursday, Oct. 5, there will be jam sessions at the Seniors’ Hall every Thursday. Join us from 2-4 p.m. with your musical instrument, voice, or dancing shoes!

Saturday Market From Oct. 14-Dec. 16, vendors can rent a table at the Saturday Market at the Seniors’ Hall. From 10 a.m.-3 p.m., there will be food, crafts, and all sorts of wares from local vendors. Thinking ahead to Christmas? Have food or crafts to sell? Call Wendy Clayson at 250-785-9193 for details and to book a table.

Marcel Pinette

The 55+ BC Summer Games were a ringer for Marcel Pinette, who brought home three medals in horseshoes: gold in each of senior men’s and mixed women and men’s, and silver in men’s doubles. From spring to fall, he practices every day at the horseshoe pit he’s built in his backyard. His secret: “I go out there to have fun,” said Pinette. He’s willing to teach anybody—young or old—to play.

Opportunity to serve!

Northern Health (NH) is seeking interested parties, including Registered Not for Profit Organizations, to provide

Meals on Wheels services to approximately 40 clients in the Fort St. John area. Meals on Wheels (MoW) is a program that prepares and delivers meals for clients to help ensure they can remain healthy, wellnourished, and independent in their homes. The program promotes health and supports independence by providing quality nutritious, safe, and affordable meals to people in need, following Canada’s Food Guide.

NH supports the program with the costs of meal preparation and delivery, under contract with a provider who can offer services Monday through Friday, provide a variety of meal types, and ensure safe delivery to clients’ homes. For more information about providing this important program, please contact NH Community Services by emailing sherry. sawka@northernhealth.ca.

SONS – Save Our Northern Seniors SONS has operated since

June 2004, working to pursue all avenues of support for community residents—rural or urban; residential care; supportive, independent or assisted living; adult daycare, home care, and emergency care.

Shout Out! Thanks to the great folks at Urban Systems for their help in taking down the tables after Bingo, and in making some signs for Seniors’ Hall events. Everyone needs good neighbours like that!

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Input sought from Fort Nelson First Nation on Muskwa-Kechika Management Area

Tom Summer Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

BC Parks is developing management plans for protected areas in the Muskwa-Kechika Management Area, and have launched an online survey to gather feedback from the Fort Nelson First Nation community’s perspectives on the protected areas within the Muskwa-Kechika. Their input will be used to create a draft management plan.

“The vast network of parks provides connectivity across the landscape to maintain the majestic mountain ecosystems, as well as the habitat upon which the diverse and abundant wildlife depend,” reads a draft vision statement on the survey page. “With a long history of use and travel, the parks remain locations where First Nations members practice their

social, ceremonial, and cultural activities.”

The Muskwa-Kechika Management Area totals 6.4 million hectares, with 1.17 million hectares being preserved land. Protected areas included in the draft plan are as follows:

Dall River Old Growth Park

Denetiah Park and Corridor Protected Area

Dune Za Keyih Park and Protected Area

Finlay-Russel Park and Protected Area

Graham-Laurier Park

Horneline Creek Park

Kwadacha Wilderness Park

Liard River Corridor Parks, Protected Area

Liard River Hot Springs Park

Muncho Lake Park

Ospika Cones Ecological Reserve

Prophet River Hot Springs Park

Scatter River Old Growth Park

Sikanni Chief River Ecological Reserve

Stone Mountain Park

Toad River Hot Springs Park

Tom Summer, Alaska High-

way News, Local Journalism Initiative. Have a story idea or opinion? Email tsummer@ ahnfsj.ca

PST exemption on heating costs for Northern BC homes proposed by UBCM

Jeremy Hainsworth Reporter

Northern B.C. communities should be exempt from the five per cent provincial sales tax (PST) on fossil fuels for heating, Union of B.C. Municipalities (UBCM) delegates voted Sept. 22.

A Dawson Creek resolution said the province initiated the tax in 2022 on all fossil fuel home heating systems, including central forced air furnaces,

unit heaters, fireplaces, boilers, storage water heaters, instantaneous water heaters, air conditioners and even replacement parts for such systems.

Dawson Creek said the resolution should be endorsed considering the inefficiencies of electric heat pumps in heating northern homes when temperatures drop to -20 degrees Celsius or below.

The resolutions committee advised that the UBCM executive considered, but did

not endorse, a resolution that asked the province to reverse its decision to add the PST back onto all fossil fuel and hot water appliances to encourage B.C. residents to revert to electric heat pumps and hot water tanks.

However, the committee noted that, in 2013, members endorsed a resolution asking the province to reinstate the PST in an equitable manner to:

• provide exemption or re -

imbursement of PST charges on energy purchased for the purpose of generating energy for resale

• introduce former exemptions on production machinery and equipment for equipment purchased by district energy systems, and

• maintain, as per the former PST regulations, the PST exemption on the sale of heat to residential district energy consumers.

The committee noted Dawson Creek as the sponsor municipality specifically identified the northern regions of B.C. as the exemption area.

Still, the committee asked what other regions of the province that experience extreme cold temperatures that cannot be heated by fossil fuel free systems only.

Fort St. John representatives at UBCM convention

TW Buck Reporter/Photographer

The convention which is a week-long, is taking place in Vancouver and the City of Fort St. John Council and Chief Administrative Officer are currently attending the event.

Local governments are brought together at these week-long conventions with a common goal, to learn from each other and to lobby the provincial government through policy and formal resolution sessions.

Fort St. John has submitted three resolutions this year for consideration in regard to registering fees on title in an effort to increase transparency, the creation of a economic immigration program that provides local governments the ability to streamline and approve foreign workers.

A resolution of additional treatment capacity in rural and remote communities was also submitted.

In addition, the city is scheduled to meet with several Cabinet Ministers and Shadow Ministers during one-on-one meetings to discuss multiple local issues including:

Foreign worker programs

Overdose preventions site

Addiction treatment and prevention programs in rural and remote communities.

Alaska highway intersection safety

Additional classroom space for middle schools in School District 60 RCMP funding and tax fairness considerations and issues

Funding and value of post-secondary education in northern and indigenous communities

Viable housing projects

Update on the Blueberry First Nation decision

Update on Taylor Bridge Project

Boulevard maintenance and highway responsibilities

Local area service and latecomer fees registered on title

Hosting provincial sporting events in the province

By maintaining a membership with the North Central Government Association, the Union of BC Municipalities, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and attending these conventions the City of Fort St. John is committed to addressing a wide range of local issues, while collaborating with various levels of government to improve the quality of life for our residents.

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Blizzard mountain bike champs

Nine riders out at Beatton park for the 28th running of the Club Mountain Bike Championships.

Past winners Robin Sipe and Pat Ferris were in attendance. The days winner of the two lap 11.5 km event was Benaiah Jarnagin in 44:23 minutes!

1. Benaiah Jarnagin 44:23

2. Landis Dell 45:06

3. Ezra Jarnagin 45:36

4. Thomas Young 50:39

5. Sam Keats 51:58

6. Pat Ferris 56:15

1 lap

1. Truman Jarnagin 33:38

2. Hunter LeClerc 39:08

Coastal GasLink fined $364,000 in penalties

3. Robin Sipe 39:09

Thanks to Barb Jarnagin for timing and Pat Ferris for setting up the circuit. Davide Loro was 8th at the Cultus Lake - standard Triathlon in a time of 2:46:15 hours for the 50 - 54 age class.

action to address continued concerns with erosion and sediment control for the project,” wrote the EAO in a media release.

Urgent issues identified can also be addressed by warnings or stop-work orders, in addition to the financial penalties, they added.

Coastal GasLink has been prioritized by the EAO for compliance monitoring, with nearly 100 inspections since 2019, when the project started.

tended to prevent negative environmental, social, cultural, health or economic impacts of a project or impacts to First Nations,” writes the EAO.

Coastal GasLink received their certificate in 2014, and requires them to create an environmental management plan, with measure to protect wetlands and waterways from erosion caused sediment that can impact water quality and fish habitat.

Coastal GasLink has been issued two administrative penalties totalling $346,000 by the Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) for non-compliance with requirements of its environmental assessment certificate.

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The fines were issued on September 19, 2023.

The first penalty of $340,000 was for deficiencies with erosion and sediment control measures identified by EAO compliance and enforcement officers during four inspections along the pipeline route in April and May 2022.

A second penalty of $6,000 was issued for providing false and misleading information in

October 2022 over maintenance inspection records.

It’s not the first time the EAO has fined Coastal GasLink, with previous and repeated noncompliance penalties issued in January 2023 for $213,600, May 2022 for $170,100, and February 2022 for $72,500 - all for failing to adequately control erosion and sediment.

“The EAO takes matters of compliance with the conditions of all environmental assessment certificates very seriously and has escalated enforcement

Those inspections resulted in 59 issued warnings, and 30 orders, including 13 stop-work orders. More than $800,000 in fines have been issued.

Coastal GasLink entered into a compliance agreement in July 2022 with the province, mandating more proactive measures for 100 kilometres pipeline construction that had yet to be completed.

When projects in BC receive an environmental assessment certificate, it contains legally binding requirements that must be followed.

“These requirements are in-

The 2014 environmental assessment certificate for the project requires CGL to develop and follow an environmental management plan, including measures to protect sensitive wetlands and waterways from sediment caused by erosion that can negatively impact water quality and fish habitat.

Additional fines are being considered by the EAO against Coastal GasLink for multiple stop-work orders issued in spring 2023 during a period of wet weather.

Tom Summer, Alaska Highway News, Local Journalism Initiative. Have a story idea or opinion? Email tsummer@ ahnfsj.ca

BC local governments to ask province for more support over drug decriminalization

Local politicians in British Columbia have passed all three resolutions addressing their concerns about the rollout of drug decriminalization polices in the province, including asking for more funding to help those who are addicted and expanding prohibitions to parks and sports fields.

Delegates at the Union of BC Municipalities convention in Vancouver voted to request the province “immediately” provide funding for addiction support services such as treatment, detox, overdose prevention and safe supply on a “geographically accessible” basis.

FSJ: 250.785.5631

Ryan Wallace: rwallace@ahnfsj.ca

DC: 250.782.4888

Janis Kmet: jkmet@dcdn.ca

Nicole Palfy: npalfy@dcdn.ca

Dan Przybylski: horizon@dcdn.ca

www.alaskahighwaynews.ca

The resolutions also include a request that the province increase annual funding to the Justice Institute of B.C. for training new officers to meet community needs.

Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry spoke to local leaders at the convention earlier this week asking for patience on the program, saying more arrests for those who use illicit drugs won’t address the complex issues of addiction.

The most contentious debate during voting came around the request for the province to “further regulate the possession and use of illicit drugs” in places “where children also gather,” including bus stops and beaches beyond park spaces.

The federal government gave the province approval for changes to the decriminalization program earlier this month, banning illicit drug possession within 15 metres of any structures in a playground, spray park, wading pool or skate park starting Sept. 18.

Tom Summer Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Evacuation order issued by PRRD for Stoddart Creek wildfire

Tom Summer Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

At the recommendation of the BC Wildfire Service, the Peace River Regional District has issued an Evacuation Order area for the Stoddart Creek wildfire, which has reignited. The order was given on September 15.

Stoddart Creek Evacuation

Order #5 is now in effect in the following areas:

Following the southern boundary of Blueberry River First Nations reserve lands and

the Blueberry River east to the bridge on the Prespatou Road, South along Prespatou Road to a point 3.2 km north of 264 Road

Due west to a point 3.2 km east of the Beatton Airport Road

Due north to a point of intersection with the Blueberry River And includes the following addresses:

S eptemb er 2023

are issued on the recommendation of BC Wildfire when there is an immediate threat to life safety. Anyone under the age of 19 is required to evacuate by law.

If you need assistance to evacuate from the area, such as for transportation, mobil-

ity, health, or other needs, please advise the person providing this notice or call 1-800-670-7773.

The order does not affect First Nations communities or municipalities as they issue their own orders and alerts.

However, Blueberry River First Nation has launched a level 1 alert for their Emergency Operations Centre, with an order for Elders and members with chronic illnesses to leave the community.

The City of Fort St. John has

opened an Emergency Support Services Reception Centre at the North Peace Arena (9805 - 96 Avenue, Fort St. John).

The Stoddart Creek fire is currently listed as out of control at 29,505.9 hectares, according the BC Wildfire Service website.

Tom Summer, Alaska Highway News, Local Journalism Initiative. Have a story idea or opinion? Email tsummer@ ahnfsj.ca

B E A N A N G E L – H E L P R A I S E $350,000

This season, the Foundation’s annual Be An Angel Campaign mailout, and Light a Moose Radiothon is set to raise $350 000! The mailout which can be expected in the first week of Oc tober will contain a beautiful paper Angel Ornament and details on how you can help us reach our goal Your gift of a donation, along with the Angel, can be returned in memor y or in honor of a loved one, and each ornament will be hung on our Angel Tree located in the For t St John Totem Mall from November 12 until the first week of Januar y Collectable Angle pins are available at the For t St John Hospital Foundation office We invite you to stop by and pick yours up

The For t St John Hospital Foundation was pleased to receive a nomination from the community for the Non Profit Award, at the 16th annual City of For t St John Community Awards

Thank you for this nomination and your suppor t in enhancing patient care in the Nor th Peace, and congratulations to all the winners! And a big thank you to the City of For t St John for hosting this wonder ful community event

G E N E R O U S $2,200 D O N AT I O N

F R O M B O B S L AT E R M E M O R I A L

D I S C G O L F TO U R N A M E N T

In a hear tfelt gesture, the Slater family paid a visit to the FSJ Hospital Foundation to present a generous donation of $2,200 This donation was the fruit of the recently concluded Bob Slater Memorial Disc Golf Tournament hosted by the FSJ Disc Spor ts Club lead by tournament director Elana Warkentin and Assistant Tournament Director Clint Warkentin

During their visit the Slater family shared fond memories of their beloved Bob Lori Slater, Bob’s wife, affectionately remembered him saying “Bob was a humble soul who shied away from the spotlight He had a deep passion for loud music and cherished his time on the disc golf course She went on to say He would even lend a hand in maintaining the course and assist in locating wayward discs ” Lori expressed her gratitude, saying, Bob s unwavering suppor t allowed me to be actively engage in our community, and I couldn’t have done it without him ” Bob Slater, a dedicated worker at Canfor Taylor Pulp Warehouse until his retirement, sadly passed away in April 2023 His memor y will forever be honored on the Memorial Wall in the FSJ Hospital , ser ving as a testament to his enduring legac y of generosity and community spirit

L to R Kelly Amboe (Executive Director of the FSJ Hospital Foundation), D ylan Wiebe, Orova Flegg & Morgan Wiebe

L to R Lori Slater Lisa Wiebe Heather McCracken & Brett McCracken

for future community 50/50 and our upcoming raffle Online West Jet Raffle tickets will be available to purchase December 1 to 15!

Cr ystal Auger

M A A R T E N & B LU E Y

Ever y year, Bluey Day s top fundraiser is recognized by receiving the prestigious TOP BLUEY DAY FUNDRASER trophy (affectionately named BLUEY ) This trophy is awarded to the individual who raises the most amount of money for the campaign year

This year, Team J & K ( Jim Reeder and Kelly Fell) raised a total of $26,272 They graciously declined to have their names on the trophy since they had their names the previous years So we presented the trophy to the nex t highest fundraiser--MAARTEN VANKOOY who raised a total of $6 724!

RCMP looking for Cody Mark Magnusson

TW Buck Reporter/Photographer

RCMP are currently looking for 40-year-old Magnusson, who is believed to be in the Fort St John area.

Recommended reads for you: Evacuation order issued by PRRD for Stoddart Creek wildfire

Taylor Bridge maintenance update Multiple Warrants for Magnusson have been issued in Kamloops, BC, and Beaverlodge, AB. In Kamloops he’s wanted for: Mischief, Being Unlawfully in a Dwelling House, and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5,000. In Beaverlodge he is wanted for: Exceeding Maximum Speed in a Construction Zone, Obstruction, and Driving a Motor Vehicle while Unauthorized.

Magnusson is described as:

Caucasian male, 6 feet (183 cm) tall, 190 lbs (86 kgs), Brown hair – short and balding, Green eyes.

Magnusson is known to reside in the Dawson Creek area. Anyone with information to Magnusson’s whereabouts are asked to contact the local RCMP at 250) 787-8100.If individuals wish to remain anonymous, they are encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Get news delivered to your inbox six days a week, subscribe to our newsletter. tbuck@ahnfsj.ca

Prespatou 4-H Community Club fun with member Jessive Wiebe. SUBMITTED

It is with heavy hearts and fond memories that we bid farewell to a great man.

Ron Baker passed away on Thursday, August 31, 2023 in the Fort St. John Hospital with family by his side. He had dedicated his life to the Fort St. John area where he was born and raised. He returned to Fort St. John with his wife, Karen, and their daughter, Shauna, after completing his BSc in Engineering at the University of Alberta. Daughters, Erin and Colleen, were born in the next few years in Fort St. John. Ron, best known as the face of Altec Inspection Ltd., was recognized for his ingenuity and problem-solving capabilities, providing untold support and contributions to many, especially within the Oil and Gas Community. His twinkling eyes, contagious laughter, and pat response of “Just tickety, how ‘bout your own self?” will be etched in our hearts forever.

Ron is survived by Karen, his wife of 50 years; their three daughters, Shauna (Ken) Watson, Erin (Karl) Johnson and Colleen (Blair) Wandler; and their very special grandchildren, Ashley, Rylee, Brayden, Teigen, Krispin, Adlynn and Finn. He also leaves behind Owen (Audrey) Baker, Vivian Pharis, Gerry (Craig) Gillis, Terry (Bev) Baker; Michael (Dona) Baker; Kelly (Shelley) Baker and Marty (Manon) Baker, and much extended family. He was predeceased by his parents, Jack and Clarice Baker.

Ron’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Albiatly and the staff of the Fort St. John Hospital for their exceptional care.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Ron to the Ron Baker Memorial Scholarship Fund. Funds can be donated via etransfer to scholarship@altecinspection.ca or by cheque made payable to the Ron Baker Memorial Scholarship Fund and dropped of at the Altec Inspection Office. The family feels that it is fitting to offer a scholarship to a North Peace Secondary School graduating student with an aspiring future as an Engineer. There will be a service to celebrate and commemorate the life of Ron on October 2, 2023 at 2:00 pm at the Fort St. John Pomeroy Hotel and Casino. Ron was a friend and mentor to so many and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Condolences may be forwarded through www.hamresfuneral.com

TracTors 1984 Case 4690 4WD Tractor. Single tires. Great running condition. Asking $18,000. Call Doug 780-8640522 Case 1175 2WD Tractor with loader. Great running condition. Asking $15,000. Call Doug 780-864-0522

Have a 1947 Massey Ferguson Tractor. Looking to trade for something of similar value. 780-356-2411

Horses & Tack Looking for 3-horse angle-haul horse trailer. 250-759-4956

Wanted: large round horse hay bales within 45 minutes of Pouce Coupe, 250-786-5860 or Wonowon@shaw.ca

3521 Saddles & Tack Western Saddle for Sale. Also have Boots, Cinches, Bridle and Halter. Call 250-7893778

Dogs

Bordoodle Puppies! Ready Sept 23. Vetchecked. Will make very smart dogs! By Grande Prairie. 780882-3541 St. Pyrenees puppies! (3/4-St Bernard & 1/4-Pyrenees). Ready Sept 18. Vet-checked. By Grande Prairie.

780-882-3541

Notices / NomiNatioNs SAY NO to FAKE NEWS! 63% of Canadians can’t tell the difference between real and fake news. Support reliable LOCAL journalism. Join the list www.newspapersmatter.ca.

Houses for sale

Log House on Moberly Lake, in-law suite, oak hardwood floors, on 5 acres. $345,000. 250-795-7990

Mobile/ Pine

Land Act:

Danyluk

Westcoast Energy Inc (Enbridge) is proposing the Aspen Point Program, an expansion of the T-North s ection of its BC Pipeline system to s erve growing regional demand for natural gas and west coast LNG exports

Pleas e join us at an open hous e to learn about the propos ed Aspen Point Program and meet members of the project team who will be in attendance to share information, gather your input and answer any questions you may have

Snacks and refreshments will be s erved

Tuesday, Oct . 3, 2023

3 - 7 p m

Taylor Communit y Hall 9896 Cherry Ave W Taylor, BC V0C 2K0

Wednesday, Oct . 4, 2023

3 - 7 p m

Chet w ynd Tamarack Hall 4512 N Access Rd Chet w ynd, BC V0C 1J0

Thursday, Oct . 5, 2023

3 - 7 p m

The Pearkes Arts & Events Centre 10801 Dudley Drive Huds on’s Hope, BC V0C 1V0 For media inquiries, c all us at 1-888-992-0997 or email us at media@enbridge.com