Issuu

THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2026

PAGE 2

Company eyes former BC Rail corridor PAGE 3

IS THE PLAN FOR RAIL?

SQUAMISH’S MOST UNWANTED BEETLE FINALLY DRIVEN OUT

A rope access crew did it for free. A helicopter finished the job. After 10 days, the VW Beetle is off The Papoose

LIZ MCDONALD

emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca

The bug that became the bane of BC Parks is officially history. After nine days dangling above Highway 99, the Volkswagen Beetle that shut down a climbing areas is finally on the ground

Authorities say thorough reviews and many approvals needed before LNG export facility could grow BUG BE GONE: Continued on 4

The removal happened in two stages On April 8th, contractors from Crux Trades—an industrial rope access company—detached the hollowed-out car from the Papoose cliff

face and secured it in a net. The next morning, Black Tusk Helicopter came in for the longline pickup

“I think it went pretty smoothly,” said Megan Kobitzch, BC Parks area supervisor for Squamish. “They were very qualified for the work They’re an industrial rope access company, although they don’t take cars off cliffsides too often.”

PHOTOS BY PATRICK BELL (INSERT) MYKEL THUNCHER/FOR THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

The VW Bug is no more. (Insert) The crushed vehicle at Allied Salvage & Metals.

RAIL COMPANY EYES FORMER BC RAIL CORRIDOR AS DISCONTINUANCE DEADLINE LOOMS

A U.S.-based short-line operator is conducting due diligence on the Squamish-to-100 Mile House corridor, with a coalition pushing to preserve the line before a July 11 deadline

LIZ MCDONALD emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca

Reinvigorating commercial rail in Squamish is gaining momentum, but the clock is ticking.

CN Rail issued a notice of discontinuance in July 2025 for roughly 344 kilometres of track running from Brackendale, just north of Squamish, to Exeter near 100 Mile House. Under Transport Canada’s process, interested parties have until July 11 to put forward a viable proposal After that date, the track could be sold or torn up

Gerry Bisaillon, vice-president of design and development at Columbia Rail, visited Squamish, the North Shore and Lillooet to tour facilities and meet with prospective partners March 26. The U.S.-based short-line operator is conducting due diligence on becoming the operator of the former BC Rail corridor.

He was joined by Trudy Klassen, a Prince George city councillor leading advocacy efforts along the corridor, and District of Squamish Coun Eric Andersen

Columbia Rail operates roughly 480 kilometres of track across Washington, Idaho, and Oregon Unlike Class 1 railways such as CN, short-line operators focus on smaller volumes and local industry switching—what Bisaillon calls “first-mile” service for businesses large railways don’t directly serve, or don’t serve frequently enough to support the transportation needs of the business.

“We believe in the value proposition of rail It’s

an environmentally sound, responsible form of transportation,” he said “We’d like to work in a partnership model, developing new industries and attracting new industries to the rail.”

But capability is not the same as financial viability. Bisaillon said building a business case will take time and may require initial government subsidization of maintenance costs on a declining scale.

“There has to be a kickstart to the line in order to create critical mass or density, so that the line

becomes self-sustaining and then can continue to grow,” he said

During their visit, the team also toured Squamish Terminals and Site B, where Bisaillon said he sees strong potential for the port and rail to work together—moving mine concentrate and lumber southbound, and inbound goods like modular housing components northbound via vessel and rail.

Klassen said the coalition has contacted 24 short-line operators. Columbia Rail is the only

one to conduct formal on-sitedue diligence. She has been co-ordinating a group of mayors along the corridor who meet regularly by video call, alongside First Nations leadership and local government representatives. A central goal is ensuring First Nations have the opportunity to co-own the line

“We anticipate that First Nations will very shortly be taking leadership of what that co-ownership model would look like,” Klassen said. “That’s not something that we want to determine for them.”

She also made the economic case for short-line rail as a cost-saving tool for northern businesses, where trucking can cost seven to 10 times more than rail for equivalent freight.

“That’s where short-line rail is something that we seriously need to look at doing much more of, especially in the north, where the distances are vast and opportunities to get product to market are limited,” she said.

While freight is the primary focus, Bisaillon said passenger service could coexist on the line and would only improve the business case.

“The more traffic we can get running on the line, the sooner the line becomes feasible,” he said

Andersen highlighted the revitalization as part of Squamish’s broader identity and the need to raise the municipality’s profile in national transportation conversations.

“Squamish has always been a portal for the Interior, not only for freight coming down, but for tourists heading north,” he said. “We need to be put back on the map for major transportation infrastructure for Western Canada. That’s how Squamish got started as a community—as a railway community.”

PHOTO BY LIZ MCDONALD/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

Gerry Bisaillon (left), Trudy Klassen (middle) and Eric Andersen (right) gather outside the District of Squamish’s municipal hall They toured sites and met with prospective partners between the North Shore and Lilloet, as Columbia Rail considers operating a rail line CN Rail has decided to call quits.

GOT NEWS?

Email your news tip or story idea to: jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca ipace@lodestarmedia.ca

jthuncher@lodestarmedia ca emcdonald@lodestarmedia ca ipace@lodestarmedia ca

OFFICIALS VOW FULL REVIEW IF WOODFIBRE LNG SEEKS TO INCREASE CAPACITY

After federal Energy and Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson suggested at a Texas conference that Woodfibre LNG could grow two or three times beyond its current permits, local and federal officials say they have received no formal request to expand the Squamish-based export facility

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

In the wake of news that federal Energy and Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson recently told an LNG conference in Texas that the Woodfibre LNG’s scale could grow two or three times beyond its current permits, officials with Squamish Nation, the District of Squamish and the federal government say they have not had any official request from the Squamishbased company to expand its capacity

According to Sxwíxwtn Wilson Williams, chairperson of Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) the Nation has not received any formal application from Woodfibre LNG (WLNG) regarding a potential increase to its facility’s capacity

“Should WLNG submit such an application to amend the Squamish Nation Environmental Assessment Agreement (SNEAA), the Nation in its role as a regulator on this project—would subject it to a full review under the SNEAA, consistent with the processes that would also be undertaken by both the provincial and federal governments,” he said

‘WE

WILL CONTINUE TO ENGAGE’

A spokesperson for the District of Squamish told The Squamish Chief that the municipality has also not been advised by the federal government nor WLNG of any plans to expand production beyond 2.1 million tonnes per year.

“The District’s approach to LNG development continues to be rooted in council’s intent that any development in our community is integrated into Squamish’s long-term vision—to be a leader and steward, sustaining ecological and human health while supporting resilient neighbourhoods and a thriving, diverse economy for all,” the spokesperson said, adding that the municipality will continue conducting “thorough reviews” of any applications by project proponents—such as Woodfibre LNG and FortisBC for their Eagle MountainWoodfibre Gas Pipeline Project that will deliver natural gas to WLNG for liquefaction—that are submitted to the District for authorizations or permits such as blasting, noise, and building development and construction.

“We will continue to engage regularly with project proponents and project regulators, including the BC Environmental Assessment Office, Squamish Nation and BC Energy Regulator, to help mitigate and address community concerns on currently permitted issues and applications under consideration We will also continue to work with the proponents directly to work collaboratively to address emergent issues during construction and ensure community safety plans are in place in advance of LNG operations.”

‘DEEPLY

DISAPPOINTED’

Mayor Armand Hurford, for his part, noted there has long been speculation in the community that there is likely a desire by the proponent to increase the output of the facility.

“Now we are hearing confirmation of these ambitions from media reports of a federal minister’s comments at a conference outside of Canada,” he said

“I am deeply disappointed that the true scale and scope of these plans were withheld by the proponent rather than communicated openly and directly to the community. This lack of transparency has fractured trust in a way that will not easily be repaired.”

‘SUBJECT TO THE APPROPRIATE AND RIGOROUS

REGULATORY PROCESSES’

When Patrick Weiler, Member of Parliament for West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country, was asked for his comments on what the minister, his fellow government colleague, had said, his communication representative forwarded our question to Carolyn Svonkin, director of communications for the Office of the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources.

“No additional construction proposal has been submitted to regulators at this time,” she said “Any future change in project scope would be subject to the appropriate and rigorous regulatory processes, reviews and approvals, including approval under the Squamish Nation Environmental Assessment Agreement and a provincial environmental assessment, led by British Columbia,” she added.

“The environmental assessment takes into account potential environmental, economic, social, cultural and health effects, and seeks input from scientific professionals, Indigenous groups, proponents, the public, local governments, and federal and provincial agencies It would also be subject to relevant federal

I am deeply disappointed that the true scale and scope of these plans were withheld by the proponent rather than communicated openly and directly to the community.

MAYOR ARMAND HURFORD

permits, for example from the Department of Transport and Fisheries and Oceans.”

‘PROUD OF THE WORK WE ARE DOING’

When first asked about this earlier this month, Woodfibre LNG spokesperson Sean Beardow originally said that the company’s priority remains “the safe and successful delivery of Woodfibre LNG’s approved project, a 2.1 million tonne per year LNG export facility, and our focus remains on delivering that project as approved.”

On April 9, Beardow repeated that assertion and told The Squamish Chief the company knows any future changes to its plan will be subject to lots of review and approvals.

“We are aware of recent commentary regarding potential future expansion,” he said.

“While global energy demand and energy security are evolving, our focus continues to be delivering the approved project responsibly and in full compliance with all regulatory requirements. Any future change in project scope would be subject to the appropriate regulatory processes, reviews and approvals. Woodfibre LNG respects that process, and nothing beyond the approved project could proceed without following it,” he said.

“We are proud of the work we are doing to deliver Canadian energy to the world responsibly, in a way that respects Indigenous priorities and values and operates within a clear regulatory framework. We will continue to engage transparently and responsibly as the project progresses.”

PHOTO COURTESY WOODFIBRE LNG

Two large modules for the Woodfibre LNG facility arrive by ship in January

COUNCIL GIVES FINAL APPROVAL TO SIX-STOREY MIXED-USE PROJECT ON LONG-VACANT DOWNTOWN LOT

A six-storey development planned for the southeast corner of Pemberton and Third is advancing to its next stage following council’s approval of key legal agreements. The project includes 45 parking stalls, restaurant-ready ventilation in the commercial area and laneway vehicle access

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

The long empty downtown lot is finally getting some attention

After final approvals at council on April 7, shovels could soon be in the ground for a housing development at 38140 Third Ave., at the southeast corner of Pemberton and Third avenues.

Council approved first, second and third reading for a rezoning application for the property back in June of 2025, which paved the way for the six-storey mixed-use building with 45 residential units and 524 square metres of ground floor commercial space.

At its meeting April 7, council voted 6-1 for final adoption and for the mayor and District corporate officer to execute the project’s Land Development Agreement (LDA), with a few mostly timing changes from when it was presented last summer, in terms of when things are to be delivered.

Coun Lauren Greenlaw was the sole dissenting vote, though she did not speak to her opposition at the meeting.

An LDA is a contractual agreement between the District and the landowner, which outlines expectations around the delivery of amenities and new construction.

This development will include a mix of unit types including studio, one, two and three-bedroom units, and 45 parking stalls, with four commercial and residential shared stalls

For the commercial space, there will be the installation of kitchen ventilation to support the possibility of a restaurant on the site.

The applicant, Coast Development, will make a financial contribution to Moto Car Share Cooperative to secure car share memberships for each residential unit, as part of its Community Amenity Contribution (CAC).

BUG

GONE:

Continued from 1

When BC Parks put the job out to tender, something unexpected happened: companies started competing to do it for free.

“They were not only qualified, but they came in at zero cost to the province,” she said

The timing was a significant relief. The no-cost removal landed at BC Parks’ fiscal year end, sparing a tight budget that could have affected day-to-day operations.

The developer will make a $50,000 contribution toward a District-approved public art piece on public property as part of the project, as a CAC contribution

The building will have a green roof design. Vehicle access will be from the laneway.

The developer will be upgrading Third Avenue and Pemberton Avenue frontages—land abutting the street—with parking and protected bike lanes and will include a new public staircase to the laneway.

“It would have come out of our operating budget, which would have taken resources away from maintaining parks—or flying poop out, or doing important work we need to do every year to maintain these park systems.”

Crux Trades also took care to protect the rock face, adding wheels to the frame so the cliff wouldn’t be scraped during the haul

The company plans to remove the bolts drilled in to hang the car in the first place.

“Safety’s paramount,” said Jason Porter of Crux Trades “We get to the top of the cliff,

As locals in the area know well, the property was home for nearly a decade to a single detached dilapidated and empty house.

The structure was deconstructed in 2024, with 82% of the debris repurposed, according to a staff report to council.

The Ministry of Transportation and Transit was required to provide approval for this rezoning, which they did on Feb. 4, according to Kerry Hamilton, a planner at the District

The provincial government prevents local

inspect the rigging that’s already in place to ensure there aren’t any dangers, before we commit ourselves to going down the rock face—then we rappel down to the Beetle, do a full systems check, check the integrity of the Beetle, check the safeties. Nothing was going to fall off or injure ourselves. Then we secured the load and hauled it up to the top of the cliff to a good heli lift point.”

Porter also had a verdict on the anonymous pranksters’ engineering work—giving them six and a half out of 10

“There were a number of issues which we

governments from holding public hearings related to rezoning applications for developments that are primarily residential and are consistent with the town’s Official Community Plan. This development meets that criteria, thus, a public hearing was not held.

However, the project was posted to the District of Squamish development review website and a development sign was posted on the site

Next, a development permit for the project will be brought before council at a future meeting.

identified. However, overall it was structurally sound—nothing was about to fall off the cliff or cause any damage or harm However, it wouldn’t have passed any inspection for our purposes,” he said

It’s still unknown who hung the car there.

The stunt has the hallmarks of a UBC engineering tradition—the same red Beetle design has appeared on bridges and towers across decades. BC Parks and the RCMP are jointly investigating. No one has been publicly identified

The Papoose climbing area has reopened.

PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAM SH CHIEF

The property at 38140 Third Ave.

FORMER SEA TO SKY MLA CANDIDATE JOUSTS FOR BC CONSERVATIVE LEADERSHIP DURING DEBATE

Yuri Fulmer previously ran for the West Vancouver-Sea to Sky riding in 2024

STEVEN CHUA For Lodestar Media

Yuri Fulmer is a familiar face to those in the Sea to Sky area—he ran for the local MLA seat here in 2024, but was defeated by the Green Party’s Jeremy Valeriote.

But that didn’t end Fulmer’s political ambitions.

April 8, he sparred with several other candidates to lead the BC Conservative Party during a debate hosted by Juno News at the Anvil Centre in New Westminster.

Aside from Fulmer, leadership hopefuls Kerry-Lynne Findlay, Iain Black and Warren Hamm were present.

However, two other candidates in the race, Kamloops-Centre MLA Peter Milobar and Caroline Elliott, declined to attend.

The former Sea to Sky candidate touched on several pressing issues in the province, but he gave a particularly spirited response when candidates were asked about DRIPA, the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous

Peoples Act.

“Let me be incredibly clear. If this is not the biggest issue of our lifetimes, I don’t know what is,” said Fulmer on April 8 at the debate

“Never before in Canadian history since Confederation have your private property rights been challenged by your government. This is an outrage in our province and it needs to be dealt with.”

He called on DRIPA to be repealed

The legislation has been the subject of much debate, calling into question whether Indigenous title impacts private property

Some notable examples include a BC Supreme Court case that gave the Cowichan Nation title over private property in Richmond, and the Gitxaala Nation’s dispute over mineral rights.

Premier David Eby has called for a pause to DRIPA, citing unforeseen consequences But First Nations have pushed back, saying that if the act is put on hold, it would be a betrayal of trust.

During the April 8 debate, Fulmer also brandished his experience as an entrepreneur and a father.

He advocated for cutting down taxes, toughening up on crime, and increasing police presence.

“We need an expedited track for repeat offenders,” said Fulmer “We need more

Let me be incredibly clear. If this is not the biggest issue of our lifetimes, I don’t know what is.

YURI FULMER

police on the streets.”

The debate was not sanctioned by the B.C. Conservative Party. Official debates for that organization are expected to follow after the party’s April 18 membership deadline.

Juno News was launched in February 2025 by Candice Malcolm, formerly of the Toronto Sun, and Keean Bexte, previously of Rebel News

SUBMITTED PHOTO Yuri Fulmer

BC ENERGY REGULATOR WEIGHS FORTISBC REQUEST TO RAISE WATER DISCHARGE LIMITS AT WOODFIBRE LNG TUNNEL SITE

The BC Energy Regulator is reviewing a FortisBC application to amend its discharge permit for the Woodfibre LNG site in Squamish, a move that would allow significantly more treated water—and higher allowable levels of copper and aluminum—to be released into Átl’ḵa7tsem / Howe Sound during the final stages of tunnel construction.

JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

The BC Energy Regulator is currently considering an application by FortisBC, which is working on the Eagle Mountain Woodfibre Gas Pipeline, to amend its permit, which authorizes the discharge of effluent from the Woodfibre LNG site during the final stages of its tunnel construction.

FortisBC announced on April 9 that the 3.5-kilometres stretch of the tunnel beneath the Skwelwil’em Squamish Estuary is now complete.

Construction continues on the remaining 5.5-kilometre hard rock tunnel section beneath Monmouth Mountain, southwest of the estuary.

Once tunnelling is complete, installation will begin of the new natural gas pipelines within the tunnel, which will run from the BC Rail site to the Woodfibre LNG site.

The application for an amendment to its permit basically asks to increase the amount of treated water it can discharge back into Átl’ḵa7tsem Howe Sound during the remaining tunnel construction, as well as the amount of copper and aluminum that are allowed to be in the discharge.

The company says more water and minerals than expected have been encountered during construction of the tunnel.

“The amendment application requests that the permitted discharge volume be changed from 1,500 [cubic meters per day] to 6,815 m3/ day to allow for the treatment and discharge of additional volumes of water encountered due to water ingress within the tunnel,” reads the Environmental Protection Notice.

“Additionally, based on results of routine monitoring, which have identified regionally elevated concentrations of dissolved copper and total/dissolved aluminum, the application requests changes to discharge quality requirements from applicable (acute freshwater) BC Water Quality Guidelines to 0.00366 [milligrams per litre] for dissolved copper and to establish a numeric discharge water quality limit for dissolved aluminum at 2.42 mg/L.”

This application comes after the BC Energy Regulator (BCER) gave FortisBC a warning letter on Dec. 8, 2025, over the company’s failure to comply with its permit over this issue.

“Fortis has submitted reports of the sampling and monitoring program and provided comparisons to the respective [B.C. Water Quality Objectives (BCWQG)]. Between Nov. 19, 2024, and Oct.14, 2025, Fortis has reported ongoing total dissolved copper exceedances of the BCWQG contrary to the permit condition,” the warning letter reads.

Local environmental groups have weighed in on this issue.

My Sea to Sky and the Sunshine Coast Conservation Association made a joint submission to the BCER dated March 25, 2026, objecting to FortisBC’s application and scolding the regulator for not holding the company to account.

“FortisBC has failed to meet the conditions of its Waste Discharge Permit PE-110163 for over a year, discharging up to double the volume of wastewater into Átl’ḵa7tsem / Howe Sound, and exceeding federal and provincial water quality guidelines for copper and aluminum,” they wrote “Instead of fixing the problem, FortisBC proposes to amend the current permit.”

They also submitted expert reviews they requested in tunnelling, acid rock drainage, water treatment, environmental toxicology and biology to support their perspective.

Further, they questioned the regulator on why it didn’t give FortisBC more than a warning letter.

“FortisBC promised to meet B.C.’s water quality guidelines, and to halt discharge if they didn’t We are deeply disturbed that the BC Energy Regulator has not issued any fines or penalties to FortisBC for repeatedly exceeding the terms of its permit,” they wrote.

“We call on the BC Energy Regulator to reject FortisBC’s permit amendment and to hold FortisBC accountable for this excessive and uncontrolled water pollution.”

My Sea to Sky also sent a similar letter to the District of Squamish council.

Council voted in early March to let the regulator know that the District does not support an increase in pollution or effluent volumes and stated that FortisBC should be held accountable for exceeding their current permit conditions.

FORTISBC RESPONSE

“FortisBC has a comprehensive site water management system for the Eagle Mountain Woodfibre Gas Pipeline Project. To ensure continued effective water management, we have

applied to amend our BC Energy Regulator (BCER) permit at the Woodfibre LNG site in Squamish,” a spokesperson for FortisBC said in an emailed statement.

“As tunnel construction advances, natural groundwater inflow has increased. The proposed permit amendment would allow FortisBC to safely manage and treat the higher volumes of water. Site water is treated prior to discharge, and discharge quality is independently assessed by qualified third-party environmental professionals.”

The requested amendment also reflects the presence of naturally elevated background concentrations of certain metals in the region, the spokesperson said.

“Monitoring data collected by third-party qualified professionals before construction and during ongoing work shows some parameters upstream of our discharge site exceed provincial guidelines The proposed permit changes are

DISCHARGE: Continued on 7

FILE PHOTO COURTESY OF FORTISBC

A tunnel boring machine FortisBC is using for the Eagle Mountain-Woodfibre Gas Pipeline Project.

intended to align permit requirements with site-specific conditions.”

FortisBC has recently expanded the water treatment system at the Woodfibre LNG site to enhance treatment capacity and performance, the company said

“This upgraded system, together with the proposed permit amendment, would ensure we can responsibly manage increased groundwater encountered during tunnelling while adhering to regulatory requirements,” the FortisBC statement continues.

“We understand water quality and environmental protection are important to Squamish residents. FortisBC takes these concerns seriously and remains committed to complying with applicable environmental legislation.”

‘SALMON ARE HIGHLY SENSITIVE TO COPPER’

Asked about the discharge of copper and aluminum, Peter Ross, senior scientist and director of water pollution at the Raincoast Conservation Foundation told The Squamish Chief that salmon are highly sensitive to copper, “which interferes with osmoregulation and olfaction, impairing ability to find their natal stream.”

“Discharged copper will have a strong tendency to bind to particles in the sediments, where they will persist for decades until buried through natural processes—or the copper can be taken up by aquatic organisms and algae, which are in turn consumed by fish and other species.”

In terms of the requested changes around concentration, “we must also factor in the receiving environment, where the total amount of these metals can become problematic,” he said, in an email to The Squamish Chief. “These metals cannot/do not [degrade], and they are mostly going to end up in adjacent sediments, where they will be taken up by shellfish, prawns, crabs, fish and the rest of the food chain.”

Ross pointed to lessons learned about the potential impact of large amounts of copper from when Britannia Mine was operational and it negatively impacted Howe Sound for decades.

Regarding aluminum, he said that in significant volumes, it would have “a strong affinity for sediments, leading to local contamination and uptake by plants and animals. Adverse effects are possible in some species.”

BC ENERGY REGULATOR REVIEWING APPLICATION

Following the public comment period, which ended in March, FortisBC’s application is now under review by the BC Energy Regulator.

Asked why it didn’t issue any fines or penalties to FortisBC for consistently exceeding the terms of its original discharge permit , a spokesperson for BCER said in a statement that it uses a risk-based and graduated enforcement approach to address non-compliance

“Compliance actions are based on impact severity, circumstances, compliance history, preventing recurrence, and achieving environmental outcomes Enforcement decisions [are based on] the specific risk and circumstances

in each case,” the spokesperson said, adding that in this case FortisBC has been required to monitor its discharge against permit limits derived from provincial water quality guidelines and has self-reported exceedances as required under its authorization.

“Based on technical assessments from FortisBC’s qualified environmental professionals, which were reviewed and accepted by BCER technical staff, the exceedances were determined to pose minimal to negligible risk to the receiving environment,” the spokesperson continued.

“Given these factors, the BCER determined that a warning letter was the appropriate enforcement response at this stage. Warning letters establish a documented compliance record and provide the basis for escalating enforcement if warranted.”

According to BCER, its compliance and enforcement staff have conducted 15 inspections at the site, including joint inspections with Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) representatives, and continue to monitor the situation closely.

BCER made note that FortisBC has since upgraded its onsite water treatment systems,

which became operational on March 31, 2026, to improve water quality and manage discharge volumes.

According to BCER, there is no fixed timeline for a decision on FortisBC’s application; however, the spokesperson noted the prescribed Public Notice and Opportunity to Comment period closed on March 7.

“The BC Energy Regulator is currently reviewing FortisBC’s application, including technical assessments and public comments, and is undertaking consultation with local First Nations,” the spokesperson said

As part of this process, BCER technical staff evaluate whether proposed discharge limits are appropriate for the receiving environment and adequate to protect aquatic life.

“Any Waste Discharge Amendment must meet the requirements of the Environmental Management Act and be supported by technical analysis that considers British Columbia’s water quality guidelines and site-specific conditions. Provincial water quality guidelines are designed to be broadly protective and are one of several tools used to assess potential environmental effects,” the spokesperson said.

Britannia Mine Museum gratefully acknowledges theircommunity sponsors:

Development&Business

LicenceFee Bylaw2026 Update and Open House

April 20, 2026,4:30–6:30 pm

The 55 ActivityCentre

DistrictStaff have undertaken areviewofBusiness Licenceand Developmentfees foravariety of application types (environment, planning, building,and engineering) and are proposing severalfee updatestokeep up with the cost of delivering these services.

Join us for an open house to ask questions and provide feedback!

Staff from the Building, Business Licensing, Planning,Environment, and Engineering Departments will be available to answer questions.

More information can be found at: squamish.ca/dev-biz-fee-bylaw

Forany questions,please email planning@squamish.ca or call 604-815-5002

Family Yoga withHannah

at Brennan Park Recreation Centre

Fridays,4–5 pm

Family yoga is intertwined with stories, games and songs to engage your littleone inall aspects of traditional yoga including asanas (poses), pranayama (breathing), meditation and mindfulness

Suitable forchildren of all ages.

Registration includes the cost of one child,and one adult or caregiver.

Children under the age of one arefreewith a registered sibling No class April 24.

Co-Living inSquamish

TheDistrictisreviewinghowco-living housingcanbedefinedandregulatedin theZoningBylaw.

Wewelcomecommunityinputonthe regulatoryapproachforco-living—a newshareddwellingmodel.

Thissurveyisopenforinput untilMay5.

LetsTalkSquamish.ca/co-living

Dance Sampler (5–12YRS)

at Brennan Park Recreation Centre

Wednesdays,3:30–4:30 pm

SoccerFest!April18-19

Welcome to all visiting teams! Brennan Park Recreation Centre will be busier than usual,and parking willbelimited

Summer Programs areonline and open forregistration!

Pitch-In Week

Returns April 20–26

To register,head to squamish.ca/pitch-in

Getready to move,groove, and explore! Theclass introduces young dancers to avarietyofstyles (ballet,jazz, and creativemovement) in a fun, playful environment. Perfectfor all levels,this class encourages imagination, coordination, and confidence, all whilehaving a blast with music and movement.

Good luck everyone!

SLRD ADOPTS NEW BUDGET WITH INCREASED TAX REQUISITION

The SLRD adopted their five year financial plan during their board meeting on March 25

INA PACE

ipace@lodestarmedia.ca

Like most governments, and residents, the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) needs a bit more money to meet its needs.

Regional governments are legally required to adopt a five-year financial plan (or budget) by March 31 each year to cover spending across their policies, services, and priorities, and share information about this with the public

The SLRD has adopted a new budget spanning from 2026 to 2030.

INCREASING TAX NEEDS

An SLRD press release from March 30 explains how the SLRD consolidated 2026 tax requisition—or needs—across all four electoral areas and municipalities for all their services, has increased by 1.3% over 2025, ($204,601.)

Village of Pemberton’s recreation service tax however is now excluded (estimated to be $842,000.)

This means that tax needs for the 2026 Budget, with the inclusion of 91 SLRD services, amounts to a total of $15,796,243.

When comparing the tax requisition without the exclusion of Pemberton’s recreation service (adding in Pemberton’s 2026 portion), the increase is estimated to be 6.7% for all consolidated SLRD services

Note that unlike municipal governments, the SLRD is not a taxing authority and therefore does not collect taxes itself The province collects tax on the SLRD’s behalf, and assesses the value of properties, which is heavily dependent on the mix of unique services provided in each area.

THE NEW PLAN

Presentations for the budget began in January at the Electoral Area Directors (EAD) Committee, the Pemberton Valley Utilities and Services (PVUS) Committee, and the SLRD Board. Additional discussions took place in February and March.

Information about this process was made available online for public feedback last month. Community members were encouraged to submit their thoughts via Get Involved SLRD and were reminded through social media notifications, though no public input was ultimately received. This implies more widespread communication may be necessary and factored into the new budget

“This budget [is] a commitment to clearer and more accessible public communication,” Ford said in the release.

“By improving how we share information, we can better explain our choices and ensure the community understands how the budget process works, and how the budget supports their needs.”

The SLRD’s staff report explains that the new

budget’s key expenditures will include work in long-term (Indigenous) reserve health, and critical infrastructure. Furthermore, their priorities involve community well-being and livability, truth, reconciliation and relationships, climate action and sustainability, as well as responsible governance and emergency planning.

TIGHT BUDGETS

During the meeting, when the budget was adopted, on March 25, SLRD Squamish director Jenna Stoner said residents are getting “very high value service for the dollars that are being spent.”

She also pointed to the tough budget pressures everyone—governments and residents—are facing.

“I think all budgets are seeing particularly inflationary pressures. I don’t take a 6.7% [tax] increase lightly and recognize that budgets are tight in households, budgets are tight at local government level and budgets are tight at senior level of government,” she said

“I also think that we’ve done our due diligence and sharpened our pencil and we’re delivering any that our communities are asking of us.”

EXPENDITURES AND SERVICES

The SLRD’s services provided across the region require unique budgets and tax rates depending on residents’ needs in each area These include:

- Fire protection

- Water

- Sewer treatment

- Curbside collection

- Parks

- Transit - Recreation - Search and Rescue

- Library

- 911

Funds cannot be transferred between different services areas.

“This budget reflects our commitment to fiscal responsibility we are protecting public resources and positioning our organization to meet the evolving needs of our residents,” SLRD board chair Jen Ford said in the press release.

FIND MORE INFORMATION

More details about area budgets and their allocations for specific services are listed in the report

More details about the SLRD’s financial plans and statements are available on their website.

The staff report states the budget may be amended via bylaw anytime.

Ina Pace is The Squamish Chief’s Local Journalism Initiative (LJI) reporter. This reporting was produced through the LJI, which supports original civic journalism across Canada.

Issuance of Pesticide UsePermit

NO.924-0001-26-26

PermitHolder:British Columbia MinistryofAgricultureand Food, 1767 AngusCampbellRoad,Abbotsford, B.C., V3G 2M3Phone: 1866 917-5999

TheMinistryofEnvironmentand Parkshas issued the MinistryofAgriculture and Food apermitonApril 9, 2026 to useBtk (Bacillus thuringiensis var. Kurstaki), commercialformulation Foray 48B Pest Control Act NO. 24977, to eradicate an establishing spongy moth(Lymantria dispar; formerly referred to as gypsy moth) population in a121-hectareparcel in Squamish (see map). Btk has been approved forthe control of spongy moth larvae in Canadasince 1961. There was aslight delayinreceiving thepesticide-use permit application for this spring’s aerial-spray treatments inDelta and Squamish to eradicate spongy moths.

As aresult, the April 2newspaper advertisements notifyingthe public on the spray treatments ran incorrectly.

Thearea shown will receive up to threeaerial applications between late April andJune30, 2026. Eachtreatment application will takeone morning to complete,unless interrupted by poor weather, and will be conducted between sunrise and 7:30 a.m.Treatment dates are weather dependent and will be advertised with lawn and highway signs prior to each application and available on the Spongy Moth website. Acopy of the permit and map can be viewed online, at: gov.bc.ca/spongymoth/news

For more information on the program and spray dates, please visit gov.bc.ca/spongymoth or contact the Ministry of Agriculture and Food, toll free at: 1866 917-5999. Multilingual healthinformation is available through HealthLinkBC by calling 811.

SQUAMISH HOSTS TWO DEMENTIA WORKSHOPS ON MAY 15 FOR CAREGIVERS

AND COMMUNITY WORKERS

A pair of presentations hosted in partnership with local organizers will bring Alzheimer Society resources to Squamish next month, focusing on day-to-day caregiving challenges and what it takes to create ‘dementia-friendly’ public space

ATTENTION: SQUAMISH RESIDENTS–FLOODING CLAIMS& ACCOUNTABILITY

Recent reportingin TheSquamish Chief hassuggested—based on statements from theDistrictofSquamish—that flooding occurredatLalli’sMobileHomePark, 39884GovernmentRdin2025.

Let therecordbeclear:

Thisproperty has neverfloodedin2025—or in anypreviousyear. Flooding wasfirst observed only after tree removaland land disturbance in March2026 on aneighbouringdevelopment site

The sequence matters.

Approximately40residents can confirm no priorfloodinghistory.This neighbouring project is ledbyBCHousing andSquamishHousing—public bodies funded by taxpayers.

Keyconcerns:

•Written warnings to Mayorand Councilweresubmitted beforeany work took place, identifyingdrainagerisks—theseconcernsdonot appear to have been addressed

•BCHousing wasnotifiedin writingwithin twodays of flooding andasked to haltfurther tree cutting

•Thatrequest was not actedupon, andworkcontinued without mitigation measures

•BCHousinglater stated theyhad not received suchrequests

•Mayor andCouncil were informed of theflooding—no responsewas received andnoactionwas taken

Public claims that thepropertyflooded in 2025 do notalign with resident experience or thedocumentedtimeline.

What’s going on, Squamish?

Thisraisesa fundamentalquestion: accountability Mobile home parksare home ownershipcommunities—oftenrepresenting residents’lifesavings.Impacts to thesepropertiesare immediateand personal

Before-and-afterphotos of thetreeremoval areincluded.

Youdecide: didthese treesact as naturalsponges protectingthe mobile home park?

Have youexperiencedsomething similar?

JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

Each person’s experience with dementia is different and that individual experience changes over time This is part of what makes decline in cognitive function so tricky for the person living with it, their care partners and loved ones.

Dementia is an umbrella term for a set of symptoms that are caused by a variety of disorders that affect the brain. There are two dementia-related presentations in Squamish on May 15: one for caregivers (open for all caregivers of people with memory loss), and one for volunteers and staff who work with people with dementia, or who want to Both workshops will be held at Westwinds Senior Living, at 38275 Third Ave.

The first workshop for caregivers is “Understanding and adapting to communication changes along the dementia journey.” It is on from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

“Sometimes you have a big change that changes everything in the dynamic between the person with dementia and the care partner,” said Bruna Tabak, program coordinator with Squamish’s Making Connections Community Society, which holds a free weekly

drop-in session on Fridays for those with dementia and their caregivers, with activities and light lunch. About 20 to 25 people participate weekly, according to Tabak.

“Sometimes, at the beginning [of dementia] there would be more forgetfulness, sometimes it’s more that the person is kind of slower in decision-making, but at some point, it can affect behaviour, it can affect more important decision-making. For example, wandering. You can say, ‘OK, we have this agreement, while I go to Shoppers [Drug Mart] you stay in the car,’ and sometimes it’s been working like that for months, and then one day the person leaves the car and we don’t know where they are.”

The society is hosting engaging activities in a room next to the presentation for those with memory loss There will be music, and fitness activities, for example. Then after the presentation, everyone will come back together for lunch.

“We saw that some people said, ‘I’ve always wanted to go to one of these workshops, but I don’t have anyone to leave my loved one with,’” Tabak said, explaining the impetus for the activities.

Registration for this workshop is through the

Thursday,March 19,2026, priortotrees beingremoved

(Note: NO Flooding with heavyrainall week)

If youlookclosely at thefirst picture, youcan even seethe flagsfor theutilitiesthathavebeenmarkedonthe ground andsee greengrass

Friday, March20, 2026,after only afew treesnexttomyMHP hadbeenremoved, and flooding hadoccurred. Flooding hasbeenone of my MajorconcernsthatI brought up to everyone’s attentionprior to work commencing. Again, my tenantshavetheir lifesavings in theirhomes,and they deservesomerespect here andtheir voicesheard

PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF Bruna Tabak, program coordinator with Squamish’s Making Connections Community Society.

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EDITOR

REPORTER LIZMCDONALD emcdonald@ lodestarmedia.ca

JENNIFERTHUNCHER jthuncher@ lodestarmedia.ca follow @thuncher REPORTER INAPACE ipace@ lodestarmedia.ca

SALESMANAGER CATHIE GREENLEES cgreenlees@ squamishchief.com

MULTI- MEDIASALES REPRESENTATIVE KIMBOATMAN kboatman@ squamishchief.com

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PUBLISHER SARAHSTROTHER sstrother@lodestarmedia.ca

TheSquamishChief is amemberofthe National NewsmediaCouncil,which is an independent organization establishedtodealwithacceptable journalistic practicesand ethica behaviour. If youhaveconcerns abouteditorial content, please contactEditorJenniferThuncherat jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca.Ifyou arenot satisfiedwiththe response andwishtofileaformalcomplaint, visitthe websiteatmediacouncil.ca or call toll-free1-844-877-1163for additionalinformation

Reproduction of anymaterial contained in this publicationis expresslyforbiddenwithout theprior writtenconsent of thepublisher

EDITORIAL

‘BEING BOLD’

Itwas amomentduringroutine localgovernance that meantnothing andeverything at thesame time.

At theMarch 26 Squamish-LillooetRegional District boardmeeting,directors discussedpotential childcarepaymentsfor directors. Therewas apush forpermissivenessamong afew directors, to attract more youngpeopletothe roles.

It wasalengthy debate.

Director forthe District of Lillooet,LaurieHopfl, hadn’t said alot,but then spokeuptosay shedidn’t agreewithbeing overly permissive.

“I feel that public fundsshouldcover governance,” shesaid, in part.“Idon’t thinkthattheyshouldcover personal responsibilities.I don’tlikethe allowance idea,” shesaid. “And Iget I’m62, I’ve worked allmy life.I’vepaidthingsadifferent way, so Iapologize if I’ma bitjaded on this subject. AndIknowasa politician I’ve gottolookatdifferent ways andlookat what’s happeninginour youngergeneration,”she continued.

“I just think this is areallyslipperyslope.This decision will createprecedence. AndIthink that residentsare alreadyfacingrisingcosts in every aspect of theirlives.”

Thisstood outasbeing quitedifferent from what someother directorshad been saying.

ChairJen Ford respondedinaway that perhaps makesitfar more likely than even providingchild care stipends that residentswillconsiderrunning.

“Youknow, Laurie,Iknowthatwas hard foryou to saybecause youfeellikeitputsyou at odds with membersofthisboard,” Ford said.

“I appreciate youbeing bold andsayingthat becauseithas changedmyperspective…Thank you forthatclarity.”

Readersmay notbemoved by Hopfl. That is OK, andnot thepoint.

Thepoint is we arebetter when adiversity of ideas is encouraged.

Toooften thesedays, we aresuckedintoalgorithms of likeness,where differencesofopinion are dismissedoreveninsulted.

WhileHopfl wasindeed bold,sowas Ford.Ittakes couragetoreconsiderone’s views.

This is what we want to seeinspadesonour regional district boards,councils,and among provincial andfederal leaders.

We don’twanteveryoneagreeing, we don’twant thepopular or woke opiniononly. We want—and franklyneed—peopleto saythe thingthatputsthem at odds with others—mostimportantly,wewant respectful responseswhenpoliticians in theroomdo just that.

This type of respectful andhealthy dialoguewould be refreshing to seeinmoreworkplacesand online, butwhenour leadersmodel this behaviour, that’s a start.

This is theonlyway we trulyhaverepresentation of allviews,and make progress as asociety.

IS THIS GRAVEL?

THEOUTSIDER VINCESHULEY

Likealot of SeatoSky residents, I’mguiltyof owning toomanybikes.Overthe years, my employment in themountainbikeindustry has only compounded theissue,coupled with the factthatI’vehad thenecessary storageavailable in my household, or more accurately,madethe necessarystorage availableinmyhousehold Whilesomeofmybikes hang on thewallfor most months of theyear, theyall serveaspecific purpose.And it’s only when they stop getting riddencompletelythatIconsiderselling them

Last year,one bike in thefleet wasnolonger compatible—myroadbike. It wasahumble-yetcapableCannondale SynapseI’d bought second-handatthe tail endofthe pandemic bike boom,mostlyfor useonanindoortrainer during theWhistlerwinter. SincemymovetoSquamish, however, theindoortrainer setupwasn’tideal anymore.Mytownhouse didn’t really have room forit(or Iwasn’twilling to allocate spacefor it), and besides, Inow hadmuchmoreopportunity to ride andexerciseoutside year-round (one of the advantages Squamish hasoverWhistler). With theroadbikeonthe wayout,Idecided to jointhe growingmovementofgravelbiking, much to thechagrin of my mountain bike friends.

“Nerd,”isall onefriendtextedmeafter Iposted aphoto of my newdropbar gravel bike to social media.

“Soyou gotanXCbikewith drop bars.Good for you!”another friend chided

Fair points.The gravel bike is abit of areinvention of theold hardtail (orifyou go back even further, fullyrigid)mountainbike. They have similargeometryand gear ratios,and even the two-inch tireswerodeonthe earlyMTBsare back.Sowhat’sdifferent?The most obviousisthe flared drop bar(similartothose youfindonroad bikes),which givesthe ridermoreoptions to place theirhands forcomfort,aerodynamicsand control. Theother difference is thelarger700C wheels,which aresized forefficient rollingspeed, butare builttoaccommodate thewider 45-50mm tiresone needsfor traction andhandlingoff-road. On gravel bikesbeing fornerds…It’shardto argueagainst that accusation.Given my lifetime of mountain biking anditbeing apartofmycore identity,I’m also aself-professednerdinmost things.Sothattracks. Theneo-gravelscene (very presentinSquamish) does have acertain chicness to it that isn’tnecessarily my cupoftea.But riding bikestomeisn’t aboutthe scene. It’s aboutgetting places andhavingfun alongthe way. Therewereafew reasonsIwantedtogivegravel biking ago. Onewas to explorethe longer,less technicaltrailsand forestry roadsinour collective backyard.Think SeatoSky Trailbetween

OUTSIDER: Continuedon13

Ha7lh skwálwen cht kwis emút cht iy sts’its’áp’ cht iy kw’shétsut cht na7tkwa temíxw tl’a Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw

(We have good feelings that we live, we work and we play on the lands of the Squamish Nation)

OUTSIDER: Continued from 12

Squamish and Whistler, exploring the Mamquam River FSR, or joining up routes deeper in the Squamish Valley Riding a mountain bike on a road or path can get a bit monotonous, but gravel bikes are made to do it with more speed and efficiency. Comfort riding over bumps and potholes is sacrificed, sure But that’s the tradeoff for covering 50 kilometres or more on an afternoon ride

Another big reason to pursue gravel was for bikepacking. I’m not particularly interested in riding my fully-ladened bike along roads and

highways for days on end. But if it’s off-road primary with more backwater roads in between, you have my attention. Gravel bikes have all the frame mounting points you need to carry more food, more water and more cargo. I’m yet to embark on a bikepacking trip, but I’m certain I’ll have something to say about the experience in this column shortly after I return The last reason is simply the reality of aging. I’m still riding my mountain bikes strong and won’t be retiring from the Whistler Mountain Bike Park any time soon, but if and when I do begin to slow down, I want to keep riding bikes with less impact on my body. While I

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

REGARDING REPORTED FLOODING

I’m writing in response to the March 29 reporting in The Squamish Chief [“Squamish residents raise concerns over BC Housing tree clearing,” published March 29] regarding flooding near Lalli’s Mobile Home Park—and to correct the record with essential facts.

First, I am not a resident of the park—I am the owner. In that capacity, I can state unequivocally: this property at 39884 Government Rd did not flood in 2025, nor in any previous year Not once. Not historically Never.

For absolute clarity: flooding on this property was first observed only after tree removal and land disturbance in March 2026. It did not occur before that time under any circumstances. Any suggestion of prior flooding is factually incorrect.

In the March 29 reporting, the District of Squamish is quoted as stating the property flooded in 2025 That is incorrect. It can be confirmed by residents of the park, none of whom have ever experienced flooding here prior to 2026.

The District’s emailed response, as reported, also stated the mobile home park “flooded late last year.” This is inconsistent with both resident experience and the documented condition of the site—and directly contradicts the established timeline: no

LETTERS POLICY

flooding prior to March 2026, and flooding only after site disturbance. This is not a matter of confusion or hindsight Prior to any work commencing, my residents and I submitted multiple written concerns, including formal correspondence to the Mayor and Council, raising drainage risks and potential impacts from the proposed development.

That development is being advanced by BC Housing and Squamish Housing as co-applicants on the neighbouring site

The tree removal and land disturbance that immediately preceded the onset of flooding were carried out as part of that project. The sequence is not in dispute: site alteration occurred first, followed by the first and only instance of flooding on this property.

Within two days of the flooding event, I formally requested that BC Housing pause further tree cutting to allow for assessment of drainage impacts. That request was not acted upon, and work continued.

This makes other statements in the same reporting equally concerning Readers were told that no requests had been received to halt tree cutting, and that drainage impacts were unconfirmed or still under review.

I encourage readers to consider those claims alongside the documented record. Either multiple written submissions and direct outreach were missed, or they were not given appropriate consideration

love the idea of pedalling through the European Alps (where motorists actually respect cyclists), road cycling can be treacherous in North America. Taking off down low-traffic gravel roads on Vancouver Island and across the Gulf Islands, or coming back to your accommodation (or camping setup) after an 80-kilometre loop in rural B.C., well, that sounds a lot more attractive to me than it did 10 years ago.

Vince Shuley has officially dipped a toe into the world of gravel biking For questions, comments or suggestions for The Outsider, email vince.shuley@gmail.com or Instagram @whis_vince.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

What do you think of politicians who cross the floor to join other parties?

Have your say at squamishchief.com

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION

Would you consider running for Squamish council?

The sequence of events is straightforward: trees were removed as part of the BC Housing and Squamish Housing development, the land was disturbed, and only then did flooding occur on a property with no prior history of such conditions. That sequence matters.

This is, fundamentally, an issue of accountability.

Public institutions are entrusted to act in the public interest. That trust depends on accuracy, transparency, and responsiveness—especially when concerns are raised in advance of foreseeable impacts.

Locally, accountability begins with correcting the record and taking resident concerns seriously.

If you have experienced something similar, I welcome you to contact me at paul_lalli@hotmail.com or 604-815-9841.

This issue extends beyond a single property. For many residents, mobile home parks represent their primary asset and a rare form of attainable home ownership. Decisions affecting these communities have direct consequences for stability, security, and the ability of families and seniors to remain in their homes.

Paul Lalli Owner of Lalli’s Mobile Home Park

Editor’s note: We stand by our story as it was written using the information provided by the authorities at the time

The Squamish Chief welcomes letters to the editor of up to 400 words. Letters should be exclusive to this publication and are meant to respond to a local story in The Squamish Chief or raise an issue happening in town Please include your name, neighbourhood and daytime phone number The deadline is 5 p.m. Monday to be considered for Thursday’s edition. Full names and neighbourhood will be published with the letter The publisher reserves the right to refuse and edit letters for length and clarity or to address legal concerns Email letters to: editor@squamishchief.com

Notice of Public Hearing

April 28, 2026 at 6p.m.

at The55ActivityCentre, 1201Village Green Way, Squamish, B.C. or viewed electronically at squamish.civicweb.net

Noticeisherebygiven thata PUBLIC HEARING will be held at The55Activity Centre, 1201Village Green Way, Squamish,British Columbia at 6p.m. on April28, 2026, so thatCouncil mayhear andreceiverepresentations from persons whobelievethattheir interest in property is affectedbythe following proposed amendments to the DistrictofSquamish Zoning Bylaw2200, 2011 AmendmentBylaw(CD-Zone 107, TheVillage on BaileyStreet) No.2671, 2023. (RZ000004)

AffectedLands

Locatedat1331, 1251, and aportion of 1100 Bailey Street,and 38261 Cleveland Avenue,Squamish, British Columbia, referenced on the Location Map.

Proposed Zoning Amendment

Torezone the properties shown on theLocation MapfromDowntown Commercial (C-4), Rail Transportation (I-6) and Resource (RE) to Comprehensive Development107 (CD-107) zone and Ecological Reserve (P-4).

HowtoParticipate

Persons who believethattheir interests areaffected by theproposed amendments will have an opportunitytobeheardand to presentwritten submissions forthe Hearing.Thereare twowaystoparticipate:

1. Written. If youare unable to attend the public hearing,ordo not wish to speak at the hearing, youcan still participateby submittingyour written comments to hearing@squamish.ca,orby dropping them off at Municipal Hall before 4p.m. on April 28, 2026 to the attention of the CorporateOfficer.Written

submissions will be accepted up to and during the hearing and will form partofthe public record

2. In Person Attendance. You areinvited to participate in person during the public hearing at The55Activity Centre,1201 Village Green Way, Squamish, British Columbia.

if youhaveany questionsregarding howtoparticipateinthe hearing,please call the Districtat 604-892-5217.

A copy of the proposed bylaws andrelatedinformation thathas been or may beconsidered by Council is available forpublic inspection at Municipal Hall (37955Second Avenue) from April16, 2026, to April28, 2026, between 8:30 a m. and 4:30 p.m., Mondaythrough Friday, excludingstatutoryholidays;or online at squamish.ca/the-village-on-bailey.

Council will not consider submissionsreceived afterthe close of the Public Hearing

This is the first of twonotices of aPublic Hearing.Dated this 16th dayofApril, 2026, at Squamish, British Columbia.

Land

Act: NoticeofApplication

foraDisposition of CrownLand

Take noticethatthe DistrictofSquamish fromSquamish, B.C. has applied to the British Columbia MinistryofWater,Land,and ResourceStewardship (WLRS), Surrey, fora CrownLand Tenure foraUtility–Sewer/Effluent Line situatedonProvincial CrownLand locatedatBLOCK B, DISTRICTLOTS4273, 7957, GROUP 1, NEW WESTMINSTER DIST., SECTION 3, TOWNSHIP 50, NEW WESTMINSTER DISTRICT; and,UNSURVEYEDLANDS WITHIN AND ADJACENT TO THE SQUAMISHRIVER.

WLRS invites comments on this application. TheLands File is 2412894. Comments concerning this application should be directed to the Senior Land Officer, Surrey, WLRS, at #200-10428 153 Street, Surrey, BC V3R 1E1.

Comments will be received by WLRS up to May14, 2026. WLRS maynot be able to consider comments received afterthisdate. Please visit the Applications, Comments and Reasons for Decision Database websiteat comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca for moreinformation.

LOCATION MAP

Be advised thatany response to this advertisementwill be considered partofthe public record. Accesstothese recordsrequires the submission of aFreedom of Information (FOI) request Visit www.gov.bc.ca/freedomofinformation to learnmoreabout FOI submissions.

Formoreinformation visit squamish.ca/wastewater-treatment-plant-outfall

DARTS & DAFFODILS

DARTS TO ALL THE TEENAGERS who ride e-bikes like they own the road: very inconsiderate, entitled and dangerous. Pay attention and be respectful!

A BOUQUET TO ALL THE PEOPLE who have raked and cleaned up all the trail paths around Squamish They look great.

Got something nice to say or some constructive criticism? Send your Darts & Daffodils: Email: news@squamishchief.com or drop off at The Chief office (38117 Second Ave.) during business hours. Deadline for submissions is Monday at 4 p.m. for Thursday’s paper. All submissions must be signed and include a phone number for verification. Maximum length is 75 words. Darts are intended to be an anonymous critique between private parties Darts must not directly or indirectly identify an individual or business.

CONNECTIONS: Continued from 11

Alzheimer Society of BC and Yukon’s First Link phone number: 1-800-936-6033

The second workshop is on from 2 to 3:30 p.m. and is called “Dementia-friendly communities.”

“They will be talking about dementia-inclusive, dementia-friendly communities, which I think will be important, too, to raise awareness about how we can build not only an age-friendly community here in Squamish, but also a dementia-friendly community, and how this affects people,” Tabak said

Registration for this is required by email: squamishmakingconnections@gmail.com.

According to the Alzheimer Society of BC and

Yukon, every day, more than 414 people in Canada develop dementia—more than 17 every hour. By 2030, nearly one million people in Canada could live with dementia.

According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information, care partners of older adults with dementia provide 26 hours of care a week, on average. This compares to 17 hours a week for older adults with other health issues, and 45% of caregivers for seniors living with dementia show symptoms of distress

“We need the support services here We need to make some changes here in town, so, I hope this could be a start of that,” Tabak said Check out www.makingconnectionscommunity.ca for more information on its program.

Turf FieldParking LotPaving

Paving of theparking area at the artificial turf field will startApril 20,if weatherpermits

Access to theparking lotand access road will be closed duringthe work. No vehicleaccess will be permitted duringthistime.

WatermainFlushing

AnnualWatermanFlushingbegan April8 in theTantalus Road North area. During flushing, theremay be briefperiods when thewater becomes cloudy, discolouredorhaveamild chlorinetaste, howeverthe water remainssafetodrink.Ifyou experience anyofthese, please flush your taps by runningwater untilclear.

Infrastructure Upgrades

•Wastewater system upgrades continue.

• Victoria Street Active Transportation Upgrades continue squamish.ca/building-our-future

BusinessOpportunities

Request forProposals

•Transit ShelterDesign

•JunctionParkBuilding: Feasibility Study& Options Analysis squamish.ca/doing-business-with-the-district

Meet Lionel,

If Lionel wasa person, he’d be ahippiefromthe 70’s. Hischillllll attitude, hissupersweet nature,and hisgroovypattern will bringnothing butgood vibesto your home.Lionelloves to cuddle on a lapand roll around as yourub hisbelly. He’s very observantand good at readingthe room.Assoonasyou give himeye contact, he’lltrotovertoyou formorelove. What are youwaiting for? This handsome harmonious dude is waitingfor ya!

Development Review

• 1032 FinchDrive –Development Permit squamish.ca/review

The

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Wherelocals look! CALL OR PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD WITH OUR ONLINE SERVICE FOR EITHER PRINT, ONLINE OR BOTH DEADLINE FORPRINTADS: MONDAY BEFORE 11:30AM Deadline: Monday3pm Squamishchief.com –Classiﬁeds

Sandra Haffey

Passed, peacefully at home on Quadra Island, SundayFebruary15th,2026 comforted by loving family.Sandra was bornApril 29th, 1958 in Princeton BC then moved to Squamish BC in 1965 and graduated from Howe Sound Secondary1976.

Sandra spent her formative years as aLongshoreman working in the office at Squamish Terminalsfor 37 years. She was veryinvolved in the horse community in Squamish spanning 50 years.

Sandra was aloving partner to Peter Leveque, mother to Christa &stepdaughter Karina. Shewill be long remembered for her strong work ethic throughout her life and her great smile.

Celebration of Life

April29th, 1- 3pm, at the Squamish Valley GolfClub, 2458 Mamquam Rd. Squamish |All are Welcome

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20.Hollywood’sDavis

21. Cookie flavor

24.Painful

27.Indifferent 31. Expected

32. Not glossy 34. Freezer cube 35. Loss of hope

37.Slumbering

38. Gymnast

41.Dated ditty

44.Troubled

48. Revolving 49.Drink heartily

51.Trouble

52. Other

53. Sampling of voters

54. House annex

55. Coaster

56. Card-gamestake

57.Soak

DOWN

1. Fruit coolers

2. Garageevent

3. Sacred song

4. Winter drink

5. Embellish

6. Cleaning tool

7. Jimmy 8. Cheerful

9. Further 10.Intend

11. Birch beer,e.g. 19.Clinging vine

20.Paste

22.Prelim

23. Allowed 24.Dosums

25. Reminder 26.Males

28.Pokefun at 29.Certain pilot

30.Directed

32. Knight club

33. Balloon input

36. Coupled

37.Had popcorn

39.Put together

40.Aspect

41.Poems

42. Lazearound

43. Kildare’sportion

45. Stuns

46. Alone

47.Sharp bark

49.Resort

50.Gainedvictory

Crossword puzzle answers use American spelling

ARIES March 21-April 19

Yourconfidencewillhelpyou expressyourideasclearlyand convincingly.Thisattitude willreinforceyourcredibility andearnyougreaterrespect, strengtheningyourleadership skillsandhelpingyouperform betteronyourprojects

TAURUS April 20-May 20

Tostrengthenyourrelationship, breakwiththeoldroutineand trymoreopencommunication. Theideaofmovingintogetheror takingameaningfulstepforward coulddeepenyouremotionsand solidifyyourbond.

GEMINI May21-June 20

Adynamicperiodhasbegun! It’sallaboutactionthisweek. Newchallenges,stimulating experiencesandprofessional opportunitieswilldriveyour intellectualandspiritualgrowth, pavingthewayformajorcareer progress.

CANCER June 21-July 22

Takingastepbackcangiveyour pathmoreclarity.Makeinformed financialorrelationship decisionstohelprestorebalance Yourcreativitywillflowfreely thisweek.Theartistwithinyou willfindinspirationtocreate remarkableworks.

LEO July 23-Aug. 22

Yourcareeristhriving,bringinga welcomeboostinincome.Your lovelifeisalsoontheupswing.Your partneroranadmirerwillshow unexpectedaffection,boostingyour confidenceanddeepeningyour happinesstogether

VIRGO Aug. 23-Sept.22

Apowerfulrevelationwill guideyourupcomingchoices, illuminatingthepathtoward yourgoals.Now’stheperfect timetostartanewprojectthat’s closetoyourheart,symbolizing renewalandunwavering motivationforyourfuture.

LIBRA Sept.23-Oct. 22

Atransformativetrainingcourse willopennewperspectivesand broadenyourhorizons.This experiencewillrekindleyour enthusiasmandself-confidence, fillingyourlifewithinspiringdiscoveriesandpromisingventures.

SCORPIO Oct. 23-Nov. 21

Prepareforalotofintense emotionsthisweekasawave ofpassionwillsweepthrough yourlife.Ifyou’reinanew relationship,you’llreceivea clearsignofcommitment.These positivechangeswillbringyou happinessandmarkthestartofa brightnewchapter.

SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22-Dec.21

Beforemakingamajordecision, considertherepercussions.Your generositywillstrengthenyour emotionalbondsandinspire yourlovedones.Sharingyourjoy comesnaturally,highlightingthe relationshipsthatmattermostand reinforcingyourpersonalvalues

CAPRICORN Dec. 22-Jan. 19

Smalldietaryadjustments couldboostyourwell-being.In love,anopenconversationwill preventmisunderstandingsand strengthenyourrelationship Simplegesturesandtenderness willnurtureyouremotional connection.

AQUARIUS Jan. 20-Feb.18

Aselflessgesture,suchas listening,lendingahandor offeringsupport,willstrengthen yourpositionwithothers.At work,yourgoodmoodwill lightentheatmosphereand spreadoptimism,earningrespect fromthosearoundyou

PISCES Feb. 19-March 20

Movingisbecomingincreasingly importanttoyou.You’llstart lookingforaplacethattrulyfits yourneedsandthoseofyour lovedonestocreateamore harmoniousspaceconduciveto comfortandsharing.

HOWTOPLAY:

Fill in thegrid so that every row, every column andevery 3x3box contains thenumbers 1through 9only once Each 3x3box is outlined with adarker line. Youalready have afew numbers to getyou started. Remember: youmust notrepeatthe numbers1through 9in the same line, column or3 x 3box