THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2025
SECOND WOODFIBRE LNG FLOATEL ARRIVES
The MV Saga X will provide onboard lodging for over 600 workers at a time who are building the Woodfibre LNG plant
JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca
And now there are two.
A second floating worker accommodation—a retrofitted passenger and cargo ship—has arrived at the Woodfibre LNG site, on the shores of Howe Sound, about seven kilometres south of downtown Squamish
The floatel will house up to 900 new trades workers to speed up building of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility, which is currently under construction.
The MV Saga X will accommodate 642 construction workers in cabins at a time, along with space for up to 89 on-board staff, according to a company news release
FLOATEL: Continued on 3
about the new ‘Scavenger Bear’
PHOTO BY OISIN MCHUGH/VIA WOODFIBRE LNG
The MV Saga X—which will accommodate 642 construction workers in cabins at a time, along with space for up to 89 on-board staff—arrived in Squamish on Nov. 27
B.C. PROFITS FROM OUTDOOR ADVENTURE; TRAIL CREWS FOOT THE BILL
Outdoor recreation is surging across B.C., but Squamish trail stewards say maintenance dollars aren’t keeping up
LIZ MCDONALD emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca
Outdoor recreation contributed $4.8 billion to British Columbia’s economy in 2023, representing 1.5% of the province’s GDP, according to a recently released provincial analysis,
“Outdoor recreation in BC: Participation and economic insights.”
Trail use was one of the biggest draws among survey respondents. Day hikes ranked as the second most popular activity in both summer and winter Cycling and trail running were tied for fifth place in winter The Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region, which includes Squamish, saw only a slight dip in outdoor recreation participation between summer and winter (76% versus 68%)
But despite the economic boom and year-round draw, one local advocacy group says funding to maintain the trail networks that support that activity has not kept pace FUNDING
GAP GROWS ALONGSIDE TRAIL USE
Ian Lowe, executive director of the Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association (SORCA), says the surge in trail use is only going to intensify. While grant funding and private donations help build new trails, maintaining them is another matter.
“The ongoing maintenance of a trail is definitely, from a long-term perspective, the
more expensive portion,” he said “And that cost falls back to the nonprofit trail association, which is trying to figure out funding around that aspect.”
The District provides some funding for SORCA’s trail maintenance, with $110,000 granted in 2024.
For more than three decades, SORCA volunteers and a small paid crew have maintained “world-class trails that span across private, Crown, BC Parks, District of Squamish and Squamish Nation land,” according to the organization’s website.
As Squamish’s reputation grows, Lowe said visitor use is outpacing population growth and those visitors aren’t contributing financially.
“There’s this gap, because the majority of our funding comes from memberships or local organizations,” he said. “We don’t get any funding from visitors They don’t become members, and they don’t have any means of contributing to the trails because most of our trails are on Crown land, and there’s no ability to charge for accessing Crown land in British Columbia.”
While visitor spending supports local businesses, Lowe said it does nothing to cover the cost of maintaining the trail network. He expects pressure to increase after Whistler hosts the UCI Mountain Bike Downhill World Cup next year.
“Whether we like it or not, the number of visiting mountain bikers coming to this town is about to explode, and we at SORCA are trying to figure out a means of monetizing all these visiting riders.”
TRAILS: Continued from 2
PROVINCE POINTS TO EXISTING GRANTS; ADVOCATES SAY IT’S NOT ENOUGH
The Squamish Chief asked the Ministry of Environment and Parks about the funding gap and the pressures on volunteer-run groups. A spokesperson pointed to the $10 million Outdoor Recreation Fund (ORF), created in 2023 through a grant to the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC).
“The fund will provide reliable and consistent access to grants for volunteer-based recreation organizations, Indigenous organizations and community groups that support recreation-based projects throughout B.C.,” the spokesperson said. “We are working with organizations like the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC and the BC Parks Foundation to explore opportunities to expand on this model and grow funding for investments in recreation
FLOATEL: Continued from 1
on Nov. 27
The 203-metre long (667-feet) ship was built in 1981, according to Vessel Finder
It was previously a former Northern European cruise ferry
The Saga’s life as a “cruise ferry came to an end during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when Stena Line closed its Frederikshavn–Oslo route,” reads a brief history on the site Shippax.
For a brief time it operated between Ancona and Durres on charter to Adria Ferries, which provides trans-Adriatic services between Italy and Albania. During this time, its name was shortened from STENA SAGA to simply SAGA
“The ferry was first chartered by Bridgeman for an 18-month accommodation project in the Philippines.”
sites and trails infrastructure.”
But ORCBC executive director Louise Pedersen said demand far outstrips available funding
“In the last two intakes, we received close to 200 applications from community groups, and we were only able to fund about 15% of them,” she said in an email. “Existing provincial programs are helpful, but they don’t provide the multi-year core funding that groups need to plan ahead, keep up with maintenance, or respond effectively to growing visitor pressure.”
Pedersen said the provincial analysis itself captures only part of the economic footprint of outdoor recreation.
“It doesn’t include things like government and philanthropic investments in recreation infrastructure, or the retail and manufacturing side of the outdoor industry,” she said. “Even with that partial picture, the findings reinforce what ORCBC has been hearing from communities for years: we need more provincial investment to keep the system
The company made the decision to move to floating worker accommodation after early concerns were raised about the impact of the crews on the already pinched local housing market and worries from some in the community about resident safety
Woodfibre LNG’s first floatel, the MV Isabelle X, arrived on June 21, 2024
“The arrival of the MV Saga X represents another important step in getting more Canadian LNG to global markets,” said Luke Schauerte, CEO, Woodfibre LNG, in the release. “The success of our first floatel has shown that this approach works, and we’re proud to expand that model.”
Both ships are from Vancouver-based Bridgemans.
“Bridgemans is proud to have undertaken the retrofit, delivery and operation of a second floatel to the same high standards set by the MV Isabelle X,” said Brian Grange,
running.”
GOT NEWS?
Tl your news
Email your news tip or story idea to: jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca ipace@lodestarmedia.ca
The province said creating “sustainable and reliable funding” for recreation sites and trails will be a key focus of the Outdoor Recreation Strategy it is currently developing
“We also know that the province’s own recreation agencies—BC Parks and Recreation Sites and Trails BC—face well-documented funding pressures, including flat budgets that don’t account for inflation or amortization,” Pedersen said “On top of that, there’s no dedicated support for keeping resource roads open, even though these roads are essential for access to many parks, trailheads and campsites.”
STUDY COMMISSIONED AMID RISING INTEREST IN OUTDOOR RECREATION ECONOMICS
The province said it undertook the analysis as other jurisdictions in B.C., Alberta and Washington released similar reports. B.C. last produced comparable outdoor recreation data
president and CEO of Bridgemans
“The MV Saga X showcases Canadian innovation and sets a new benchmark for workforce accommodation on the water”
Like the MV Isabelle X, the MV Saga X includes onboard medical care, fitness centres, recreation spaces such as billiards and arcades, among other amenities.
The MV Saga X also has a few unique additions, including a 200-person theatre and an outdoor basketball court, the release states.
According to the company, ships are made to be as environmentally-friendly as possible, with their own wastewater treatment and recycling systems.
Workers will come aboard the latest floatel in December
“All workers living aboard the new floatel will abide by all the same rules and regulations as the first floatel, including mandatory
Whether we like it or not, the number of visiting mountain bikers coming to this town is about to explode, and we at SORCA are trying to figure out a means of monetizing all these visiting riders.
IAN LOWE
between 2009 and 2011
The study was conducted by Leger and surveyed residents in B.C. and Alberta between 2022 and 2023
The success of our first floatel has shown that this approach works, and we’re proud to expand that model.
LUKE SCHAUERTE
cultural and gender safety training,” the release states
Both floatels will be in Squamish until construction of the export facility is complete, which is expected to be in 2027
COUNCIL REVIEWS FINCH DRIVE PLAN AS OFFICE SPACE REDUCED
District council debated a revised proposal for 1001 Finch Drive that reduces office space and increases rental housing, prompting discussion about benefits and planning goals
LIZ MCDONALD emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca
Aproposed reduction in office space at 1001 Finch Dr and a corresponding increase in market rental housing prompted a complex debate among Squamish councillors at their council meeting on Nov. 18 one that revealed a divide over development expectations, community benefits and the future of the Loggers East neighbourhood plan.
The proposal includes two builds, with the first phase consisting of a 100-space childcare facility and 44 market rental units. The second proposed multi-storey development was set to be a mix of office and ground-floor commercial space. The second, third and fourth floors of the second building are now proposed to be replaced with 30 market rental units.
Municipal staff said the shift in development outcomes reflects falling demand for in-person office space post-COVID-19 and limited infrastructure in the Loggers Lane area to support large employment uses According to the staff report, “the loss of approximately 2,000 square metres of potential office space … would likely have a negligible impact on the overall projected office supply and demand.”
DEBATE OVER READINGS AND AMENDMENTS
After more than an hour of procedural and policy debate, council ultimately voted 4-3 to grant first and second reading—rather than
three readings—and directed staff to return with conditions addressing the concerns raised.
Four amendments were added:
• Securing child-care space in Building 1.
• Adding a sunset clause to the Land Development Agreement to prevent lengthy delays.
housing, and now to predominantly market rentals.“I see what we’ve got in front of us as being one of the only things that’s going to work at this location in this time, in this current reality.”
Baha’i Faith
Baha’i Faith
SQUAMISH BAHÁ’Í COMMUNITY
• Increasing the number of secured three-bedroom units.
• Registering a no-gas covenant, introduced by Coun Chris Pettingill and adopted unanimously.
“Banks are not touching this type of development,” he said. “Why would we demand the construction of office space … knowing there’s little to no demand for it?”
But Stoner strongly countered that argument—especially French’s suggestion that council risked blocking or delaying the project.
ReconciliationisJustice
Peace is in ourhands
With the world needingpeace more than ever,the Bahá’í Teachings emphasize the importanceofre-evaluating our commonassumptions about the historical conflicts that have shaped society.Manypeople have come to accept the ideathat humans are inherently selfish andaggressive,making it impossibletocreate aprogressive, peaceful, and harmoniousglobal society.However, the Bahá’íTeachingschallenge thisnotionand stress the need for afresh perspective
‘Abdu’l-Bahápromoted universal peace by advocating for aglobal tribunal, international cooperation, and theequaladvancement of women, emphasizingthat peaceisa necessary stage for human maturity.Helinked world peace to aneed for collective security and argued thatwar wouldceasewhen women achieved full equality.Healso encouraged individuals to cultivatethoughts of love and unity to overcomehatred and conflict.
“I charge you allthat each one of youconcentrate allthe thoughts of your heart on loveand unity.When athought of warcomes, opposeitbyastronger thought of peace.Athought of hatredmust be destroyed by amorepowerful thought of love. Thoughts of war bring destruction to all harmony,well-being, restfulness and content. Thoughts of love areconstructive of brotherhood, peace, friendship, and happiness. When soldiers of the world draw their swords to kill, soldiers of God clasp each other’shands! So may all thesavagery of mandisappear by the Mercy of God, workingthroughthe pure in heartand the sincere of soul.Donot think the peace of the worldanidealimpossible to attain!”
Nothingisimpossible to the Divine BenevolenceofGod.
Do not despair! Work steadily.Sincerity and lovewill conquer hate.
www squamishbahai.com
TENSION BUILDS OVER DEVIATING FROM THE PLAN
Several councillors argued the reduction would undermine a relatively new neighbourhood plan intended to bring jobs closer to homes The Loggers East plan envisioned mixed-use development with 50% employment space—more than the 22% that is now proposed.
Coun. Jenna Stoner questioned whether eliminating most of the office components should trigger stronger community amenity contributions, telling staff: “It seems like there isn’t very much trade-off other than the market rental.”
Staff said they had no direct comparable and noted the application was first submitted in 2022, before multiple policy updates.
“There’s just been a lot of changes to our policies around [community amenity contributions it continues to be a shifting bar,” staff told council.
While Stoner pressed for stronger commitments, Coun John French urged colleagues to recognize the market has shifted dramatically since the project first came forward.
“This development has been through a ringer,” French said, recounting its evolution from a hotel concept, to a major office and
“Rezoning this property was adopted in 2022 There is an active development permit approval on this property for the first building,” she said “To express that this is government inaction is an unfair characterization of what we’re doing here today.”
The issue, she argued, wasn’t council getting in the way—it was council ensuring the community gets something in return for reducing employment space.
“This is our way of trying to actually hold developers accountable … so we can actually realize the benefits that come with development,” she said.
ANDERSEN BREAKS WITH THE AMENDMENT PACKAGE
Coun Eric Andersen said he could not support the proposed package of amendments, specifically the sunset clause on the Land Development Agreement.
While Andersen said he was comfortable with limiting the bylaw to second reading, securing child care space, adjusting three-bedroom unit counts and the no-gas covenant, he warned the sunset clause would set a precedent that developers fear.
Coun. Lauren Greenlaw and Pettingill also voted against the proposal.
PHOTO BY GRIMWOOD ARCHITECTURE/VIA DISTRICT OF SQUAMISH REPORT The concept design of Building 1.
NEWS BRIEF
THE NEED IS GREAT THIS YEAR
It is no secret that many people in this economy are feeling the strain
Several Canadian surveys have reflected this.
Those holding a mortgage are feeling the strain, too.
A survey by H&R Block found that one in ten Canadians say their paycheque didn’t even cover the basics of living
And a Pollara CPI Segmentation Study released in mid-November showed that among mortgage holders, financial anxiety and strain are increasing, with half of respondents (50%) saying they would have serious problems paying bills if their main earner were unable to work.
Thus, it should not be surprising that Squamish Community Christmas Care is seeing an increase in those who applied for a holiday hamper.
In its 45th year, the charity gifts hampers with food, new toys and other goodies for those struggling to make ends meet this holiday season
Chair of the organization Rev. Cameron Gutjahr told The Squamish Chief that 450 applications for hampers have been received for this year
“The most we have ever received,” he said Donations of toys, cheques or gift cards can
be dropped off at the following locations:
• The Squamish Chief (38113 Second Ave.)
• Squamish Baptist Church (2262 Read Cres.)
• St John the Divine Anglican Church (1930 Diamond Rd.)
• The Rock Church—The Ledge (38055 Cleveland Ave.)
• Squamish United Church (38014 Fourth Ave.)
• Chartwell (Suite 201 - 1121 Commercial Pl.)
• Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations (42000 Loggers Ln.)
• Discovery Sales Centre (38011 Laurelwood Rd.)
• Sea to Sky Sports Physio (38150 Second Ave.)
Financial donations can also be made through the Squamish Community Christmas Care website.
The hampers will be delivered to families on Dec. 16 and volunteer drivers are needed, Gutjahr said.
To register to volunteer, send an email to squamishchristmas@gmail.com.
“There are a lot of folks who need a hand, but we continue to be amazed by the generosity and heart of Squamish A big thank you for all the help and support that has been received—and will be received over the next few weeks.”
BATTLE OF THEBUSINESSES: Squamishbusinesses challenging themselvestoraisefunds fortheir community! Organize afundraiser, getyourstaffand clientsinvolved,and have fun! Whowill your business challengethisyear! Businesspick-up will be Tuesday, December 11th. Hamper Delivery DayTuesday,December16th.
If your businesswould liketocollect donations please register at squamishchristmas@gmail.com
Financial donations:
•E-transfer to squamishccc@gmail.com
•Donate through Canadahelps.org
@Squamishchristimascare.com
•DropoffatSquamish Savings Credit Unionor Squamish Chief Newspaper
•Mail: Community Christmas Care, PO Box516, Squamish BC V8B0A4
We will be acceptingnew toys, gift cardsand cash donations
Formoreinformation: go to communitychristmascare.com or facebook at Squamish Community Christmas Care www.communitychristmascare.com
PHOTO BY BRIAN AIKENS
WHO YOU CALLING A VULTURE?: Have a photo to share? Send it to jthuncher@ lodestarmedia.ca.
DISTRICT BUDGET 2025: WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT BRENNAN PARK PLANS AND MORE
In a marathon session on November 25, the District of Squamish council delved into its $348 million capital and special projects plans, highlighting both urgent infrastructure needs and funding challenge
JENNIFER THUNCHER
jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca
In their continuing work on a 10-year budget, Squamish’s elected officials dove into capital and special project discussions.
The day-long debate showed how much there is that needs funding in the municipality and how much of a strain there is on funds.
Heather Boxrud, general manager of financial, IT and procurement services (CFO) and Laura Turner, director of financial planning and reporting, along with various other District staff members, presented to council the District’s 10-year special projects and capital program at a special business meeting on Nov. 25.
CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS
Capital items are longer-term investments, like infrastructure and facilities, that are paid off over time
In terms of the District’s capital program, of note is that there is now a District recreation centre task force, the goal of which is to assess the scale, order of magnitude and feasibility of potential recreation centre upgrades or
expansions
District staff said that some of the key questions the task force will be answering are what the exact needs are in terms of facilities options, what their size should be, where they would fit, what the potential costs are, and how they could be funded
“Part of the project or scope is to determine what recreational infrastructure can be feasibly built on Brennan Park lands. This project will allow staff to consider the plan for Brennan Park Recreation Centre, then allow staff to focus on prioritizing system-wide recreational infrastructure capital planning in the 2027 master plan,” said Jay Deo, director of recreation services.
Who is on the recreation task force?
Harmony Cornwell, director of facilities, told council the recreation centre task force is a working subgroup of the newly formed capital committee and staff working in different departments, including facilities, recreation, finance, communication, and economic development. As the work progresses, more departments will be consulted to incorporate additional expertise and knowledge, she said
Take Flight thisWinter
With the task force struck, they aim to select a consultant by the end of the year
The report states the financial plan includes a total of $1 million for consultants over 2025-2027 to accomplish this work
Councillors Jenna Stoner and Lauren Greenlaw both had concerns that stakeholders and the public be more involved in the planning process.
“I see a lot of bills for consultants, and one of my concerns is that we’re going to use consultants for, first of all, something that we can get for free from the public, but second of all, in preference to our public’s opinions,” Greenlaw said.
“I think it’s very important that we use the resource that is our public more significantly in this process.”
Julie Wengi, District general manager of corporate services, confirmed that the public has a lot of valuable resources, but pushed back on the idea that the consultants weren’t needed “Absolutely, we recognize that the community has a number of resources. What we can’t ask the community to do is provide us with professional opinions—liability-based opinions—on what we can do,” she said
One of the items on the task force’s to-do list will be to create a recreation needs report
“Recreational needs validation includes utilization analysis, reviewing sports and recreational trends, assessing the District’s desired level of service, and determining future demands,” explained District project manager for facilities planning and construction, Tim McBride.
“This validation report will confirm whether earlier recommendations still meet the needs of our growing community and will outline next steps and potential funding approaches. The targeted engagement with key user groups will take place at appropriate times to ensure feedback is captured to support the validation work.”
Update reports will be given along the way to go over many details about the task force’s work, including what could be next at Brennan Park
The final report aims to be presented between January and February 2027
As Coun Chris Pettingill noted, many stakeholders in Squamish want to start right away, or already have, on fundraising for a new rink and an upgraded pool
That fundraising work can get underway without knowing exactly how much work on Brennan Park will cost, staff noted.
“What we don’t want to do is have lots of different groups out there fundraising for something that they may not actually see in the validation work itself,” Wengi cautioned. “So we want to be clear to provide the roadmap and say this is what we’ve got, this is what we’re going to be building towards, and then so that those
fundraising that can be targeted and focused.”
Coun Andrew Hamilton expressed frustration at there needing to be, what will amount to years of work, to validate what he feels the District already knows—there is a need for a second rink and pool
“On the real estate and facilities master plan demand analysis, that plan from 2020 clearly articulates a demand for a second pool and a suggested demand for a second rink,” he said “Is there a reason why we need to revalidate the demand that we did in 2020? Do we have any reason to believe it’s reduced since then? Or why do we need to revalidate that?”
District staff responded that the data Hamilton was referring to is five years old now, and the pool and the rink aren’t the only things that need review and consideration.
Staff want it to be the most accurate and up-to-date information, in other words.
Another tidbit that arose from the meeting was that District staff have asked the SquamishLillooet Regional District, which provides funding to operate and maintain the swimming pool at the Aquatic Centre in the Brennan Park Recreation Centre, to have the pool deck replacement in the regional district’s capital planning cycle for 2026 and 2027.
Ultimately, council voted to unanimously add the items staff presented in the capital plan to the 10 year draft budget—other than those it voted separately to direct staff to bring back for more information and deliberation. Those items coming back include further discussion on the recreation task force work, the Mamquam Bridge resurfacing and associated active transportation project, the Adventure Centre HVAC and electrification projects, cemetery cost increases, the downtown speed reduction project, and options for the Municipal Hall building.
In supporting the overall capital plan motion, Coun John French spoke to the difficult juggling act presented by the capital and special project needs.
He pointed to Vancouver, which is cutting services, and raising fees, while having a 0% property tax increase
“I spent this weekend trying to figure out how I would sit in this seat today and push to achieve something less than a 10% [property tax revenue] increase I couldn’t find it because we need to spend what we’re contemplating in both the capital plan and special projects to get our community where I think we all want it to be,” he said.
CAPITAL PROJECTS
The capital plan totals $42.7 million in 2026, or $348 million over the 10-year plan. Capital projects in the financial plan are
BUDGET: Continued on 7
funded by varioussources.
Major projects in the10-year plan aredefined asprojectswitha totalcostover$5millionand includethe Mamquambridgedeckresurfacing, landfill expansion, ultimate landfill closure, and the wastewater treatmentplant headworks building, accordingtoTurner.
Landfill work
Shannon White, theDistrict’ssustainability co-ordinator,told councilthe lateral landfill expansioniscriticallyneededand that the landfill is expected to reachits lifespan by the endof2029toearly 2030
Thedesignand constructionofthe expansion projectwill cost an estimated$24.6 million between2026to2032and $6.4 millionbetween 2032 and2035.
Theinitial closureofthe landfill will cost$6 million between2026and 2032,while thefuture partialclosure will cost $3.6 millionfrom2034 to2036.
Theclosure of thecurrent landfillsisrequired by theprovince, either completely or partially over time,White said.
“Sothe fundsfor this projectare allinthe reserves already, as it is actually required to annuallyput moneyintothe landfill closure reserve. So,these workswillhappenoncethe currentlandfill is full andthe landfillexpansion is acceptingwaste,” Whiteexplained. Newprojects
Newprojectsadded to the2026 to 2035 financialplanning cycletotalled$47.7 million over the10-year plan with $2.3 million addedin
2026.
CraigMilley,manager of procurement, cautionedcouncil andthe public that cost estimates forprojectsalwaysvaryand canbe somewhat uncertainuntil theproject is almost underway.
Notablenewprojectsinclude theengine11 fire truckreplacement,liftstation upgrades,and thewastewatertreatment plantcentrifuge.
Overall, Boxrud said that financialplanning forcapital expenses is currentlyrestrictedby severalfactors, includingreservesbeing limited “afterdecades of lack of investment in capital and reservebuilding.”
Shesaidthe District hasmade“significant efforts”ininfrastructurefacilitiesand reserve buildings over thelastfew years.
“However,buildingsustainable reserves will takeyears andrequirescommitmenttothe asset management reservefunding strategy.”
The municipality’s debt capacity is also limited.
“The district cannot fullyrelyonborrowing to completely replace deficiencies in reserve funding, as much of theDistrict’sborrowing has been earmarkedfor thelarge facility andlandfill project[s].”
Variousdepartmentrepresentatives highlightedcapital itemsspecifictotheir departments.DevinKiyonaga, director of public works, forexample,noted highlights of his department’s plan includereplacing backup generatorsand replacingessential equipmentat the wastewater treatmentplant,among others
Over the10yearfinancial plan,135 vehicles andequipment arebeing replaced, with asmall
percentage of thosebeing purchasednew, Kiyonaga said,totalling$14.7 millionoverthe decade.
“Ofnote, we currentlyhave11electricvehicles in theDistrict’sfleet.Wecurrently have identified 31 totalvehiclesinthe financialplan that couldbeelectrified. We anticipate that number growingaswecompletethe fleet master plan,” he said Seekingafunding source
Afew projects were notedasimportant butnot having anyfunding attached. Oneofthe projects wheredesignand planning arefunded, butcompletingthe projectlacks afunding source is theseconddowntownentrance, which will buildasecondentranceintodowntown with anew bridge connecting from Laurelwood Road to PembertonAvenue.
Staffsaidthisisone of theprojectsthatisa priority in termsofsorting outsomeway of fundingthemoverthe plan.
SPECIALPROJECTS
Specialoperating projects areone-offs outsideofthe District’s regularservice operations.
Forthe 2026 to 2035 financialplan, Turner saidprojectstotal $22.5million, with $7.7 millionin2026. This includes $8.9 millionin the10-year plan forlarge externally funded operationalinitiatives such as theWoodfiber LNG—FortisBC EagleMountainGas Pipeline,and theSquamishHousing Action Plan implementation
Excludingthese largeexternallyfunded projects for2026, specialoperating projects
next year will be funded by $243,000 in taxation,$1.2millioningovernmentgrants, communityamenity contributionsof $70,000 andreservesof$1.5million,and otherexternalsources of $210,000.
The$243,000intaxation, plannedtobe $1.5 millionover10years,willfundsuch things as parkingstrategyupdates,downtown street lighting andcompletestreets guidelines,the Squamish ClimateAction grouppartnership,the Squamish Nation ‘YearofTruth,’ andthe majorOfficial CommunityPlanupdate, Turner told council.
The$1.2million in government grantfunded projects,which will addupto$5 millionoverthe decade,willinclude circular economyimplementation, FireSmart activities,and emergencyoperations equipmentand training projects,Turner said.
District reserves of $1.5 million, totalling $5.7 millionover10years,willfundsuch things as master plan updates, engineering studies, inspections, andcondition assessments.
Further, projects that were previously endorsed in the2025to2029financial plan andcontinueintothe 2026 to 2035 plan total $20.8million,with$7.4millionin2026. Projects wherethe District hasalegislative health or safety or financialriskifnot pursuedtotal $3.1 millionoverthe 10-year plan,with$900,000 in 2026
BUDGET: Continuedon9
TreeManagement BylawReview
TheDistrictisreviewingitsTreeManagementBylawto alignwiththelatestbestmanagementpracticesand thecommunity’senvironmentalstewardshipvalues. Appies andrefreshments provided!
We’relookingforcommunity inputtohelpusshapethebylaw.
Formoreinfoand tocompletethe survey,headto:
LetsTalkSquamish.ca/tree-bylaw
WinterParking Restrictions NowinEffect
As of December 1, parking on selectstreets around Squamish is restrictedtoone side of the street only through March1,2026, to ensure thatsnowplows and emergencyvehicles have access during winterconditions.
Vehicles parked on the No Parking side of the street maybeticketedand towedat any time to ensurecommunitysafety.
Thefine forimpeding snowremoval is $250.
Learnmoreabout these parking restrictions including alist of affectedstreets online at: squamish.ca/winter-parking
We’relooking forvolunteer drivers to help provide moreout-trip opportunities forour patrons.Ifyou currentlyhaveanunrestricted Class4driver’slicense and apassion forrecreationand supporting the 55+ community, then we’d love to hear from you! Interested in getting an unrestrictedClass4 driver’s licence? We will supportyou through the process ofobtaining your license!
Please contactusat recreation@squamish.ca or 604-848-6898
The venue will have alcoholic beverages availablefor purchase.
Formoreinformation, check out:
LetsTalkSquamish.ca/budget-2026
Winter Program Information
Winter Recreation and Culture programinformation and schedules will be available online December 9 forviewing,with registration opening December 16 at 8a.m.
These so-called critical projects include a river channel survey, which will inform whether ongoing aggradation has impacted flood levels, the Cheekye hazard land development policy, and the Stawamus and Mashiter water supply inspection and maintenance program, “to ensure regular maintenance of the aging infrastructure,” Turner said New special operating projects pending approval from council total $1.7 million over the 10-year plan, with $219,000 in 2026 New projects of note starting in 2026 include the Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) ‘Year of Truth,’ “which will include storytelling and narrative work in partnership with Squamish Nation, community dialogue sessions, communication materials, and public engagement support,” Turner said. This will cost $50,000 in 2026.
Also of note on the docket for a special project beginning in 2026 is a fire services master plan, which Turner described as a five-year strategic plan “to incorporate new risks associated with major industry and increased risks with density, high buildings, and wildfire threats.”
This will cost $60,000 in 2026, and $120,000 total.
The Official Community Plan (OCP) update will cost $20,000 in 2026, and $670,000 total, with the lion’s share of work on it being done in 2028 and 2029
OCP’s are long-term land use and visioning documents required for all municipalities under the Local Government Act.
Council unanimously voted to include the special operating projects presented—with the exceptions of a few items in specific motions—in the 2026-2035 Financial Plan
This means that they become part of the draft budget
SPECIAL PROJECT EXCEPTIONS FOR FURTHER DISCUSSION
Tourism master plan?
The exception items that councillors passed motions on asking staff to bring back for more information at the next “Tying it all together” budget meeting set for Dec. 9 include discussion of a tourism master plan.
Mayor Armand Hurford asked District staff about a potential tourism master plan project in the budget.
Wengi said the budget line for a tourism master plan was removed in 2025.
“And there is no placeholder in the budget for that work going forward.
However, Hurford put forward a motion that passed (with Stoner and Hamilton opposed) for staff to come back to a future budget meeting with some ideas for consideration of including the tourism master plan in the budget
“To me, this is an important piece of work that we need to have at the very least on the horizon, so that our partners that are
Infrastructure Upgrades
•Sanitaryliftstation rehabilitation on PiaRoad continues
•Construction of anew chlorine injection chamber near Powerhouse Springs is nowcomplete.
•VictoriaStreet ActiveTransportation will continue next year.Final paving will be completedin2026, due to cold temperatures.
•Xwu’nekwParkSea Dike upgrades continue.
•The Garibaldi Cemeteryexpansion continues.
•EVCharging Stations installationworkatJunction Parkcontinues
•Loggers East StormSewer project continues on Finch Drive squamish.ca/building-our-future
Development Review
• 40480 Tantalus Road –Zoning Amendment
• 38140 ThirdAvenue –DevelopmentPermit squamish.ca/review
working in this area can work towards the pieces that they need to engage with the project,” he said.
“Tourism has already formed a larger part of our economic landscape in Squamish and is likely to continue to do so, but it does need the support of a master planning process.”
After the meeting, Tourism Squamish submitted a letter to council requesting the master plan be added to the 2026 budget
The letter states it was drafted at the request of the mayor.
“The pace of visitation growth and associated pressures, trail use, transportation pinch points, accommodation constraints, and increased demand on municipal services continues to accelerate,” wrote Tourism Squamish’s Lesley Weeks, in the letter, which was attached to the agenda for the Dec. 2 council meeting. This meeting took place after press deadline. “A master plan is needed to proactively address these pressures and guide investment, policy and service decisions over the next decade.”
Weeks proposed the District contributing approximately $150,000 and Tourism Squamish contributing $50,000 toward the plan.
Also in terms of special project items to be brought back for further discussion, Coun Chris Pettingill put forward a motion at the meeting that was supported (with Coun French opposed) that staff bring back options for a brief pipeline societal and individual risk assessment to the budget wrap-up meeting.
Field User Requests
Season 1: March1–August 31, 2026
Request deadline: December 22, 2025.
Fields: Centennial Fields (1–4, 7, 8), Field 5(Homer Dome), Field 6(LaRoy Watt), Hendrickson Fields,Artificial Turf, Howe Sound SecondaryCommunityField,and Beer Garden or Tournamentuse within the DistrictofSquamish.
2026Field Closures
Hendrickson Fields: March30–April10
Centennial Fields 1–6: April20–May 1
Hendrickson Fields &Centennial Field 5: June 22–July 3
Centennial Fields 1–6: July 6–17
Hendrickson Field &Centennial Field 5: August 3–7
Centennial Fields 1–6: August 17–28
ContactRecreation Services at bookings@squamish.ca or call 604-898-3604 forthe Field User Requestforms.
AField Allocation Meeting willbeheld on January 28, 2026 at 6p.m. at Brennan Park Recreation Centre. Calendar posted online no laterthan February16, 2026. squamish.ca/rec
Future council remuneration review?
Hurford asked if, as a cyclical expense, consideration of council’s remuneration pay—could be added to the budget.
Local government elections are in October of 2026, so this review is not something that would impact currently elected council members.
Wengi said that such a review would be about $15,000 for a consultant to undertake.
Hurford forwarded a motion that council enumeration policy be added to the 2026 budget as a placeholder
“And held, so it reoccurred every four years prior to align with the election cycle,” Hurford said
“I’m agnostic of outcome. It’s important that we look at this and we look at it as a community, and perhaps it suffices, but I do think that it is worth a look and a conversation with this group and the community on what that looks like with an opportunity to make a change either way going forward.”
That motion passed unanimously.
BUDGET TIMELINE
Due to the labour dispute at the municipality in October, some of the budget planning work had to be put off, thus, instead of passing the financial plan in December, as anticipated, the aim is to have it through its three readings and adoption by mid-January.
There is a Budget Information night at Howe Sound Inn & Brewery on Dec. 10, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Business Opportunities
Requests forProposals
•GovernmentRoad Active Transportation Upgrades Design
•Human ResourcesInformation System (HRIS)Solution
•CommunityPlanning Services Support
•Supply &DeliveryofFleet Vehicles –Preferred Dealer squamish.ca/doing-business-with-the-district
10-Year Financial Plan Viewable Online
Seehow the District plans to manage future growth, upgrade facilities and infrastructure, and create complete neighbourhoods,ensuring that tax increases to residents and businesses aremanageable. View the budget and shareyour feedback: LetsTalkSquamish.ca/budget-2026
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EDITOR
JENNIFERTHUNCHER jthuncher@ lodestarmedia.ca follow @thuncher
REPORTER INAPACE ipace@ lodestarmedia.ca REPORTER LIZMCDONALD emcdonald@ lodestarmedia.ca
SALESMANAGER CATHIE GREENLEES cgreenlees@ squamishchief.com
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CIRCULATION MANAGER DENISE CONWAY dconway@ squamishchief.com
PUBLISHER SARAHSTROTHER sstrother@lodestarmedia.ca
TheSquamishChief is amemberof theNationalNewsmedia Council, whichisanindependentorganization establishedtodealwithacceptable journalistic practicesand ethica behaviour. If youhaveconcerns abouteditorial content, please contactEditorJenniferThuncherat jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca.Ifyou arenot satisfiedwiththe response andwishtofilea formal complaint, visitthe websiteatmediacouncil.ca orcalltoll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information
Reproduction of anymaterial containedinthispublicationis expresslyforbiddenwithoutthe prior writtenconsent of thepublisher.
EDITORIAL
THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES
Mostofusinthe SeatoSky aretoo busy living ouradventurestothink much about death, butitfinds us allatsome point.
Maybeitisour “I am goingtolivewhile I’m alive, I’ll sleepwhenI’m dead”mentality that canmakeithit even abit harder when we lose a lovedone.Westart to feel like we areoutrunning—climbing,sledding, riding—the Grim Reaper,and so thelossremindsuswecan’t?
Though no oneis really ever totallyprepared forthe deathofa lovedone,truth be told.Thatis whyweare luckyinour region to have theSea to Sky HospiceSociety.
Thelistofsupportstheyprovide to thedying, theirloved ones,and thebereavedislong— fromcomforting staysfor thoseatthe endoflife at theWhistlerBlackcomb Foundation Seato SkyCommunity Hospice, to urgent grief support, to infant loss kits,and much more in between.
One particularlytouchingtradition they support is theMemoryTreeevent in Squamish and Whistler.Squamish’sevent washeldlast Friday,providing aspace forthose in the community to honour andrememberloved ones whohavedied.
“Opentoeveryone, we gather to reflect, share memories, andinscribewoodenhearts, which hang on theMemoryTrees in tributetothose we love,”the societysaysinits online description.
About 80 people attended theMemoryTree eventinSquamishonFridaynight;about 60 attended in 2024,accordingtothe society.
Thereis music, tealights, benchesand blankets to siton, andfriendlyvolunteerswho guide youthroughwhatcan be averyemotional process.
Some people writemessagestothose who have passed; others just writetheir lovedone’s name. Theheartsare then hung on lit-up trees where they stay foramonth
Such traditions allowthose grieving asafe spaceto putthatpain, or honour thepersonthey miss yearson.
Theholidaysare particularly challenging whensomeone whoformedthe occasions previouslyisnolongerthere,soitisevenmore fitting that theMemoryTreeevent is held as we step fullyintothe busy Christmasseason.
If youmissedSquamish’sevent,Whistler’s MemoryTreeevening is Thursday, Dec. 4, 5to6 p.m. at Florence Peterson Park.
See more of theservicesoffered by thehospice societyat seatoskyhospicesociety.ca.
And to thosewho helped make theSquamish MemoryTreehappenthisyear, thankyou.
READERSFUELSQUAMISHSTORIES
Every journalism school studentworries about how they will find thetopicsfor thetwo stories per daythe career expects.
What is funnyis, especially in Squamish,thathas notbeenanissue—ever.
In fact,eachofusatThe Squamish Chiefconstantly hasa list of farmorestory ideasthanwecould ever getto. Thereare lotsofreasons forthis.
OneisthatSquamishisa busy placeand thereare, at most,three of us in thenewsroom. Unlikeslower towns, thereare ahandful of storieseachweekfrom councilalone
Butour dear readersprovide thebestwellfor us to dipintofor articles
Thereare the“regulars”readers will recognize, like BrianAikensand AafreenArora whoprovide tons of beautifulphotosthatinand of themselves provideus with informationabout ourbeautiful town.
Anotherexample fromjustlastweek, awell-adored long-time Squamish resident wroteand pointedout that BritishColumbiaLottery Corporation(BCLC) provided grantfunding to 23 organizationsin Squamish last year.Henoted we hadanonlinestory aboutwhatcommunity grants WoodfibreLNG provided localorganizations,but hadn’t touched on BCLC,which hasbeensupportingcommunity
groups in theprovincefor over 40 years. Good point. So letmecorrect that oversighthere. Some interestingtidbits to note:
•Through theprovince’sCommunity Gaming Grants program, about$643,000wenttosupport Squamish organizationsinthe humanand social services sector,publicsafety, sports,artsand culture, andparentadvisorycouncils. Forthe 2025-26yearsofar,groupsgetting thefunds includevaluablelocal contributors to cultureand sport—Squamish Arts,the Downtown Squamish Business ImprovementAssociation,the Squamish CricketClub, theHoweSound SecondaryPAC, SeatoSky Nordics, andmanymore.
•The localChances Casino is locatedonthe land of theSḵwxwú7meshÚxwumixw(Squamish Nation).
•Asthe host “municipality,”the Nation received about$42,500 paid in taxeslastyearfromthe casino
•Almost$245,000was generatedin2024-25 by ChancesSquamishfor theNationtofundlocal initiatives.
•Since thecasinoopened, in 2010,the Nation has received $3.18milliontofundlocal initiativesin thecommunity.
•And almost $56,500inprizeswas paid outat BCLC’s head officesfor 39 winninglottery tickets purchasedinSquamishin2024.
Thanks to that dear reader fornudging me to dig into this.
NOTEBOOK: Continued on 11
EDITOR’S NOTEBOOK
JENNIFER THUNCHER
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)
NOTEBOOK: Continued from 10
Another dear reader, “Ron,” dropped off old newspapers, like we are talking about an April 1933 edition of The Globe (before it merged with The Mail and Empire in 1936), and many others So fun and a bit shocking to read In The Globe, there’s “The Homemaker” section, which was for the women I guess. It includes recipes and gardening tips, a religious poem, and ads for such things as Yardley
Lavender soap and VIP, medication “to increase the growth, weight and strength of children.”
There’s also pages of radio programming listings Amazing! There’s also an advert for the Essex-Terraplane car, for $695 “Announcing Canada’s biggest, roomiest car in the low price field: 1- inch wheelbase,” yells the ad In The Daily Sentinel Review, the paper for Woodstock, Ont., dated in September of 1937, has a horrifying account of a recent crime.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
‘DESTRUCTION OF A PARTNERSHIP’
The ongoing conflict between Woodfibre LNG and the Squamish council is a masterclass in administrative incompetence. We are now witnessing a scenario where a proponent is forcing a lawsuit against the District it intends to work in, a complete inversion of how these relationships are supposed to function. Usually, a company strives to gain support from the local community, not sue it. But to the surprise of few, we have passed the point of collaboration. The grandstanding by select councillors has, in the end, accomplished nothing but the destruction of a partnership. We can feign that the initial opposition was based on community safety among other issues, but reality has proven those fears unfounded.
By the time the second floatel was proposed, with concerns addressed and a clear path forward, the goalposts were moved again. The majority finally made the reasonable choice to approve it, but it was a case of too little, too late In the end, the real resistance stems from a dogmatic opposition to fossil fuels. Consider the admission of one dissenting councillor: “It’s not an acceptable solution It’s already hard enough to think of a valid justification for a new fossil fuel project.”
I have worked in remote camps for the better part of a decade, and the floatel is the best solution I know of. It is temporary, re-usable, separate from the community, and leaves zero footprint. WLNG even modified it to run off hydroelectricity rather than gas, (while
LETTERS POLICY
building a gas plant), yet apparently, even that isn’t enough
The economic headwinds we face in Canada are the direct result of an ideology that ignores reality. Not long ago, Ottawa insisted there was “no business case’ for LNG”; today, a new government recognizes what the industry knew all along. The disconnect in B.C. is even worse. We have effectively banned natural gas in new housing, only to turn around and import dirty electricity from the U.S. grid when our hydro dams run low. We endlessly debate our own pipelines while importing foreign oil. We are simply exporting our emissions and stalling our economy in the process.
Climate change is undeniable, but a strategy of “Just say no” is not a solution
It is worth noting that Canada’s total emissions peaked 20 years ago, well before the current wave of rigid climate pledges Per capita emissions have dropped by roughly 25% since that high-water mark, all while our oil and gas production has only increased. If correlation were causation, we would be chanting “Drill baby drill” as a climate strategy The reality, however, is that we are fully capable of lowering emissions without abandoning the resources that drive our economy.
While I appreciate conviction, rigid ideology is rarely pragmatic. The debate over whether WLNG should exist belongs to the last decade; relitigating it today by weaponizing municipal procedure is a failure of governance. We could be telling a story where Squamish works collaboratively with the
“Thieves broke into a box car on the Pere Marquette Railway… during the night and stole 116 bags of onions which W. Megheachy, grower, was shipping to various points The onions were valued at from $130 to $175.” I hope they caught the degenerates responsible. Thank you, dear readers for so many wonderful tips and enjoyable trips down newspaper history lanes. We heart you. Keep them coming: jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca
QUESTION OF THE WEEK
Are you more determined this Christmas to shop in Squamish (local) for presents?
Have your say at squamishchief.com
LAST WEEK’S QUESTION
How much does access to a ski hill play in to you living in Squamish? (Top 3)
proponent for the town’s benefit. It is time to stop the obstruction and start building that relationship Nico Harvey Squamish
FRACK ON
Where is the outrage that surrounds the pipeline?
A pipeline straight through a growing town Forget your health
Forget the plants
Pity the animals who had no chance. Bury it all down the undertow Wrap around our beautiful town
Spewing methane gas for all to yearn Yearning of a time before our mistakes Of allowing a pipeline to spew toxic waste
The bright red glow of the gas burn in tow 60 metre flames welcome you to the outdoor hub that we all know Doctors warn and we didn’t listen Health risks to all
The greenswashing crap and all the ads. With unlimited money to cover the bad. Where is the outrage?
Where is the humanity?
“Lets not worry about it right now,” “It is what it is”
How can we win against it all? Maybe we should quit and take the hit Wake up and smell the gas
The time to challenge is not over until the first matches strike
I believe in the town and I believe in its people
If not shall we Disappear into the black waters of lethe Jeff Green Squamish
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
MOST READ STORY
B.C. profits from outdoor adventure. Trail crews foot the bill
TOP TIKTOK OF THE WEEK
This week, reporter Ina Pace took viewers behind the scenes for her prespective on the Reader’s Choice Awards See this and many other videos on our page @squamishchief
Every day, the world’s first netzero LNG exportfacilityismoving alittle closertocompletion,with newand excitingdevelopments alongthe way. Catchthe latest updatesfrom our siteand our team.
$1 million in grants and counting
Sinceits inception, Woodfibre LNG’sCommunity Partnership Programhas offeredmorethan $1 millioningrantstoover200 non-profits serving Squamish and the Seato SkyCorridor. Withnew fundingbeingmade available everyyear,we’re focused on helping the community thrivefor future generations
New workforcehousinghas arrived
With regulatory approvals from theProvince,the ImpactAssessmentAgency,and Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw(SquamishNation),asecondfloatelhas been added to theWoodfibre site!The newMV Saga Xallows us to supportupto900 more jobs, offering asafe, low-impact approach to workforce housing.
Better trails,healthiercommunities
This fall,the Woodfibre team proudly worked alongsidethe trailmaintenancecrewatSquamish Enduro to help rehabilitate LowDownPart2,one of theregion’s most beloved biketrails.Trails like this onerequireconstantupkeep to remain fun andsafe, andvolunteers from thecommunityare an essentialpartofmakingthathappen.
Anotheryearofprogress
Woodfibre LNG kicked off constructioninfall 2023. Now, more thantwo yearslater,it’sinspiring to think of the progress we’vemade: 12 modules now on site, marine pile installationunderway, and an expanding workforce. We’reeagertosee whatthe next twoyears will bring!
Never miss an update
Subscribe to our newsletter,the Woodfibre Current, andstayinthe know about allthings WoodfibreLNG.
woodfibrelng.ca/news
Pictured here: Past CPPgrant recipient, PembertonFireRescue
DISTRICT COUNCILUPDATES OFFICIAL COMMUNITYPLANTOMEET
B.C.HOUSING LAW
‘Wedohavesomeacute needsinthe communitytoday,and they will notbeaddressed in awholesome waywithout actionssuchasthis’:Mayor
LIZMCDONALD
emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca
While it wasoften describedasa “make-work”project,Squamish councilmadethe most of thetask handed down by theprovince
On Nov. 18,council adoptedan updatedand amendedOfficialCommunity Plan (OCP) focusedonthe interimhousing needsreport, and held alargely symbolic public hearing before giving theamendment finalapproval. Thehearing wasrequiredfor theOCP update, though no membersofthe public attended in person or online.
“The bylawaddresses newprovincial requirements to alignthe official community plan (OCP)withhousing needsidentifiedinthe Squamish InterimHousing NeedsReport (HNR 2024 Update), pursuant to requirements in the Local Government Act(LGA).The province has setadeadlinefor municipalOCP bylaw alignmentand adoption before year-end 2025,” accordingtothe staffreport.
Theamendment stemsfromsweeping provincial legislationrequiringmunicipalitiesto relaxzoningtoaccommodate awider diversityof housing.
District staffreportedthatmapping showsa totalcapacity formorethan16,000units under thenew zoning.“Just under5,000 arecurrently built. Andthe estimatedunbuilt capacity of 11,300 unitsisalmostdoublethe projected 20-yearneedidentifiedinthe 2024 interim housingneeds report,” SarahMcJannet, managerofcommunity planning told council. Counciland themayor unanimously supportedthe amendment.Several council memberscommented on the“bureaucratic” nature of prescriptivelegislation,the benefits of
theprovincialrequirement,and theneedfor partnerships to ensure theunits that matter most areactuallydelivered.
“The work in both thezoningand updating our mapscheduleshows that we have 11,000 unitsthatare nowpre-zoned. Butthose aren’t necessarilyall theunits or typesofunits that we knowweneed,”Coun. JennaStonersaid. “So… 96 unitsofextreme core housingneed, 31 units forpersons experiencing homelessness, 117units of suppressed householdformation—those are not just unitsthatare goingtocomeonlineasa result of thezoningwe’ve donehere. That’s going torequire otherworkand otherpartnership and othermodels.”
Coun.EricAndersensaidthe reportoffers importantreminders:Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (SquamishNation) hasasked the District nottodefer keyprioritiestothe 2028 OCPupdate, urging acceleratedactioninthe spirit of reconciliation.Henoted theexisting OCPalready encourages jointplanning with the Nation,and theEmploymentLands Strategy includesseveral recommendationsrelated to shared planning
He addedthe draftOCP feels“unbalanced,” with extensivedetailonhousing butonlya single
lineonmaintaining an employment lands inventory—an area he argued needsmore attention. He also stressed theimportanceof keepingsmart-growthprinciplesinfocus, ensuring housing, jobsand planning remain aligneddespite provincial pressure to prioritize housing.
Coun.Chris Pettingill said thefullOCP rewrite in 2028 will take amoreholisticapproach, with greateremphasisoncommunity wellbeingand employment
Coun.JohnFrench notedthe changescould help improvethe developmentclimate for builders despiteeconomic pressures.
MayorArmandHurford said councilaimed to make thebestofa provincially mandated task.
“I thinkit’sa,yes,make-work projectfromthe province,[butit’s] also,makingthe most of that,” he said.“When readingthrough thehousing needsreport, it’s easy to thinkabout thenumber of homesand changesthatwe’re alllikelytofeel, andsometimes thosebring up fear forpeople. Thehousing needs—it’s away of expressing the needsofindividualpeople…Wedohavesome acuteneeds in thecommunity today, andthey will notbeaddressed in awholesome way withoutactions such as this.”
December 25th Paperwillbedelivered on Wednesday,December24th*
BookingDeadline: Friday December 19th at Noon
CreativeDeadline: MondayDecember22ndatNoon
January1st Paperwillbedelivered on Wednesday, December 31st*
BookingDeadline: December 23rd at Noon
CreativeDeadline: December 29th at Noon
*Deliverydates subjecttochange
Presented
The grand prize is valued at $1,012 Winner to be drawnMonday,Dec 22 Enter once to qualify for all the available prizes at thetime of entry.
Squamish Chief Christmas Giving Giveaway Contest rules:Nopurchase required. The contest begins on December 5, 2025, at 10 a.m. PST and ends on December 19, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. PST.Thereisatotal of one [1] prize available to be won (click onthe boxes above for prize details). Skill-testing question required. Open to legal residents of British Columbia, Canada, who arethe age of majority in the province at the time of entry.Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received beforethe contest closes. Limit 1entry per person. Enter for your chance to WIN
PHOTOS BY DAVID BUZZARD/FOR THE SQUAMISH CHIEF
A NIGHT TO REMEMBER: The Squamish Chief team (bottom left) held its annual Reader’s Choice Awards on Nov. 26 at House of Lager. Congratulations to all the winners! (Anyone who didn’t attend the ceremony can pick up their award certificates at The Squamish Chief Office, 38113 2nd Ave. Squamish.)
‘SCAVENGER BEAR’ SCULPTURE BRINGS RECYCLED ART TO LIFE
A towering metal bear now greets visitors at Brennan Park Recreation Centre, but look closer and you’ll find a world of hidden details crafted from decades of collected scrap
JENNIFER THUNCHER
jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca
The more you look at it, the more you see.
Artist Joe Sauvé’s newly installed public art “Scavenger Bear” stands tall in front of Brennan Park Recreation Centre, greeting visitors with a salmon in its mouth.
From a distance, it is a striking bear made of industrial materials, but on closer inspection, it is a treasure trove of hidden details.
For example, there’s a silver owl tucked into its back, an eagle flies nearby, across from a forest of trees above a mountain goat.
The captivating piece of public art is a result of a Squamish Arts grant Sauvé received in 2022.
The sculpture is made entirely of recycled materials that have been donated by the community. For example, there are chair lift cables from Whistler Blackcomb and pieces from the heads of cheese knives donated by his blacksmithing sister
The list of those who donated is long: Whistler Blackcomb, ASM Squamish Scrap Metal, Continental Log Homes Lil’wat Nation,
Mountain Auto, Roz Stanton, Kenny Edwards, Miriam Delangley, Georgia Sauvé and MH Legault.
The sculpture also features repurposed
BreakingNews
wall-mounted landscape elements, such as the decorative plate on the bear’s chest.
Sauvé worked with the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District to find a location for it
He usually takes private commissions. This was his first public art piece.
It took him about a year to complete, in between his day job running a welding shop in Pemberton, Joe Sauvé Metal Works.
The 680-kilogram (1,500-pound) sculpture is erected on a concrete foundation
Regarding the many “Easter eggs” in the sculpture, Sauvé said he used a plethora of items collected over his 20 years welding.
“When I started out, I was doing a lot of just little art attempts and worked on different things,” he said. “So, some of the smaller little pieces that are in there are pieces that I made a very long time ago that I just put in as a bit of an homage to that.”
He is inspired by the art of North Dakota scrap metal sculptor John Lopez.
“A lot of my inspiration for doing this one was based around my enjoyment of his work,” Sauvé said
The hardest part of the process of crafting the bear was getting the oil off of the lift cables
“It’s all very impregnated with oil,” he said
Introducingthe elusive and talented NEO.
Thelegend. Theninja.The catthatevaded an entire team of rescuers.He’sfinally here andcan finally feel safe afterenduring more battles outsidethanwewill ever know.
Survivingoutdoorsmeans that Neodoesn’t recognizeother animalsasfriends,sohe needstothriveinanenvironment wherehe canbethe only prince of thecastle. He is very affectionate andoften vocally demands you don’twalkawayfromhim withouta fewmore minutesoflovetogether.Weare reviewing applications at this time;aswehavecertain criteria with Neo’spotential home
“Welding anything with oil in it isn’t all that much fun a lot of the time, so I would say that would have been the most challenging aspect of it.”
Sauvé’s road to becoming an artist started while growing up in Ontario, spending time in his father’s fabrication shop
For him, art and “practical” metal working started from Day 1.
“I went to a Take Your Kid to Work Day with my dad to go to the shop, and they basically give you a bunch of scraps and you just glue some stuff together and play around with it, so during that first time, I immediately wanted to make things with it I made a little tiny couch,” he recalled.
“Right off the bat, I enjoyed the trade for what you can do with it in the construction side of things, but also making artwork out of metal has always interested me,” he said.
There will be an unveiling ceremony for “Scavenger Bear” at some point soon, according to Sauvé.
“Thank you to Squamish Arts for giving me the opportunity to do it,” he said
“And also the SLRD and everyone who donated materials for it.”
See more of his work on his Joe Sauve Metal Works website.
PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF ‘Scavanger Bear,’ by Joe Sauvé.
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ANNOUNCEMENT
NORMAN ROSS ROWNTREEBARR
February13, 1932 –October 21, 2025
With appreciation fora life well lived,we announce the peaceful passingofNorman Ross Rowntree Barr on October21, 2025, at the ageof93.
Normwas born at Parkhurst, asmall sawmill on the shoresofGreen LakeinWhistler, B.C.,wherehespent his early childhood at the mill ownedand operated by his father anduncles.HeattendedGrade 1atMyrtle Philip’s one-roomschoolhouse on Alta Lake. In1938, the Barr familymoved to Squamish,whereNormwould livethe rest of his life and leaveanenduringlegacythat helped shapeboththe communityand the forest industryacrossBritish Columbia.
Garth John Bolkowy
August 21, 1949 – November 21,
Garth moved through life with his mischievous grin, a big heart, and was unapologetically himself.
The second son of Fred and Laurel Bolkowy, he grew up causing mischief in Port Moody with his 4 siblings.
At 17, Garth went to work on the waterfront and spent 46 years as a proud longshoreman. Working alongside his union brothers he met many lifelong friends who he grew to consider family After retiring, he made a second home in the Dominican Republic, where winters were warmer, drinks were colder, and he shared many laughs with great friends.
Normwas predeceasedbyhis belovedwife of 59 years, Doreen Barr,and by his parents, Ross andAlison Barr.Heissurvived by his sons John (Kathy)ofLund, B.C.,Allan (Teri) ofFurry Creek, B.C.,andScottofSquamish,B.C.; hisgrandchildren Amanda, Tricia, Kory,Christine, and Tyler;and his nine great-grandchildren. He will also be deeply missedbyhis cousin Glenn, who waslikeabrothertohim
Normwas apillar of trust, fairness,and integrity— aman whosewordwas his bond and whosereputation for honesty extendedupand down theB.C.coast.Asafounding partner of CRB LoggingLtd., he helped shapethe province’s forest industryand was known as arespected leader andemployerwho valued his employees andtheir families inboth goodtimesand bad. Hissuccess, generosity, and steady character earneddeep loyaltyandrespect throughout the industry. This generosity andcharacter carried on afterselling CRB into his retirement.
Beyond business, Normgavefreelyofhis time,talents,and equipmenttocountless communityprojects.Normwas alifelongcommunitybuilder.AsaSquamishalderman duringaperiodofmajor growth in the 1960s and ’70s,Norm, with his followcouncillors, whereinstrumental in developingmuchofthe town’s essentialinfrastructure—from water andsewer systems to seniors’ housing, Centennial Fields, andthe Brennan Park LeisureCentreand more. Histime,talent, and generosity were cornerstones of that era ofcivic progress.
During retirement, Normand Doreen cherishedtheir wintersinMaui, wherethey built asecondcircleoflifelongfriends —manyofwhom overlapped with those from Squamish.Whether in Hawaii or at home,Norm’sgenerosity,humor,and genuine interest in people made him unforgettable.Hehad agift for turningacquaintances into friends and laughterintolastingmemories.Quick-witted andmischievous,he had awarmsenseofhumor and an easy wayofconnecting with others.Known forhis playful spirit and love of agood practicaljoke—atrait he came by honestly —Normleft behindcountlesssmiles and stories.
ACelebration of Life will be held at 11:00 am,Dec 13, 2025
At the Squamish Funeral Chapel, 40440 TantalusRoad, Squamish,B.C.
Inlieu of flowers,donations maybemadetothe Squamish Hospital Foundation, a causeclose to Norm’sheart.Tosignthe bookofcondolences,pleasegoto squamishfuneralchapel.com
A diehard Habs fan, he never missed a chance to share his uncensored thoughts about hockey, especially about any team that wasn’t Montreal. He loved to garden and was an inspiring force behind the family business, Local Roots, where he could often be found dispensing advice to customers. Garth will be greatly missed by his wife Patricia; his children Brad (Michelle), Amanda, Nick (Samantha) and Rebecca (Stirling) He’s now reunited with his beloved children Randy and Natasha. Of the many hats he wore, his favourite was ‘Papa’ to his grandchildren Justine, Liam, Nate and Olivia. celebration of life will be held at 1pm,December 10,2025 at the Squa Golf Club. All of those who loved Garth are invited to celebra rest can take his timeless advice and “f*** right off”. John – 21 2025 h celebr s life, the can
Fond memories linger every day, Remembrance keeps them near.
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