February 12, 2026

PAGE 14

STOLEN BOULDER SAGA

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2026

SQUAMISH TERMINALS FILES LAWSUIT OVER SPIT REMOVAL

The shipping operator is alleging that the removal of the Spit has caused hazardous marine conditions and damaged port operations

LIZ MCDONALD emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca

Squamish Terminals is taking the government of Canada, the province of British Columbia, and a Squamish environmental group to court over the removal of the Spit

In a civil lawsuit filed with the Supreme Court of British Columbia, SSA Marine Squamish Ltd., otherwise known as Squamish Terminals, is alleging that the Spit’s removal has caused hazardous marine conditions and damage to port operations

PAGE 16

NEW BREWERY ON THE WAY

Council gives nod to downtown proposal

The saga of missing-then-found-thenmissing-again Portable rock SPIT: Continued on 4

The notice of civil claim, filed Jan. 28, 2026, names the Attorney General of Canada, the Province of British Columbia, and the Squamish River Watershed Society as defendants. The claim also outlines allegations against federal agencies, including Transport Canada and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans

The allegations have not been proven in court.

BACKGROUND ON SPIT AND RESTORATION

According to the lawsuit, the berm called the Squamish Spit was built by the

province on the west side of the Squamish Estuary specifically to channel the Squamish River west, diverting flow from

PHOTO BY LIZ MCDONALD/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF INSERT: FILE PHOTO BY JOHN BUCHANAN

Squamish Terminals with the estuary and the former location of the Squamish Spit in the background. Insert: The deconstruction of the Spit in 2023.

SKYRIDGE VIEW DUPLEX BREEZE -ROOFTOP LOUNGE

SQUAMISH SEARCH AND RESCUE RESPONDS TO TWO CALLS IN ONE EVENING

An injured climber on the Stawamus Chief and a stranded hiker on Slhanay kept volunteers busy amid mild winter weather

LIZ MCDONALD emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca

Squamish Search and Rescue responded to two separate incidents on Feb. 6, along with a third call that turned out to be a false alarm.

Sue Nicholson, a search and rescue manager with Squamish Search and Rescue (SSAR), told The Squamish Chief the spike in calls was likely tied to favourable weather conditions drawing more people outdoors

The first call came shortly after 3 p.m., when SSAR was tasked by BC Ambulance Service and the RCMP to rescue an injured climber on the rappel route of Angel’s Crest on the Stawamus Chief.

According to Nicholson, the climber had fallen and reported a head injury, along with injuries to her foot and ribs Crews mobilized quickly, deploying teams to a forward operating base near Stawamus Elementary School.

Due to the complexity and location of the rescue, helicopters were requested through Emergency Management B.C.’s Emergency Coordination Centre. A hoist-equipped helicopter and a second aircraft from Whistler were ultimately used to access the site, while a rope team was deployed to the top of Second Peak as a backup.

As daylight faded, crews worked simultaneously by air and rope. Rescue technicians reached the injured climber, while rope teams lowered supplies including warm blankets and food to both the climber and

her companion. The injured woman was hoisted to a landing zone and transferred to BC Ambulance, while her climbing partner and rescue personnel were also flown out before dark.

“It was a complex but successful rescue,”

Nicholson said, noting 28 SSAR members were available to assist. “There were a lot of moving pieces and logistics happening at the same time.”

She said the team was prepared to conduct a full rope rescue if air support had been

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delayed further.

“That would have been a very difficult and long rescue, given the location and the terrain,” Nicholson said. “There are multiple ledges in that area, so it would have been very complex.”

Nicholson said she did not have further details about how the climber became injured.

While the rescue was underway, SSAR also received a report of an abandoned packraft on the river. That call was later resolved

There were a lot of moving pieces and logistics happening at the same time.

SUE NICHOLSON

when RCMP located the owner, confirming no rescue was required.

Later the same evening, SSAR responded to a second incident involving a hiker on Slhanay.

As Nicholson explained, the hiker ran out of battery on their headlamp while descending A three-person SSAR team drove up the Shannon Basin Road, met the hiker and escorted them safely back down

“There’s a lot of people out climbing and hiking already,” Nicholson said “The weather has been milder, and people knew rain was coming, so we had lots of folks adventuring.”

She reminded outdoor users to carry essential safety gear, even on short outings.

“Make sure you’ve got a headlamp. Make sure your phone has battery, and that you’re prepared to wait for assistance in case of delays, weather or injury,” she said. “Dress warmly and carry the 10 essentials.”

Nicholson said she was proud of the team’s response.

“It was a complex day that required a lot of people, and our members did an excellent job.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRISTY ALLAN/SQUAMISH SAR

As daylight faded, Squamish Search and Rescue responded to two incidents in succession Feb. 6, during a warm weather spell.

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

NINE STRANDED PADDLEBOARDERS RESCUED FROM HOWE SOUND

A well-prepared group of adventurers made the right call when they contacted marine rescuers after being pinned down by wind and waves during a winter outing on Howe Sound

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

If you are going to head out on a water adventure on Howe Sound in winter, be prepared, and if you encounter trouble, call for help sooner rather than later.

On Saturday, Jan. 31, at about 4 p.m., five volunteer members of Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue (RCM-SAR) Station 4-Squamish were called to help nine stand-up paddleboarders who were stranded by the stormy weather in Zorro Bay, a remote beach on the western shore of northern Howe Sound that is only accessible by water.

The well-prepared paddling group had set out from Squamish Harbour earlier in the day, destined for Porteau Cove Provincial Park, according to Station 4-Squamish’s media liaison, Scott Shaw-MacLaren.

“This is a popular paddling mission in Howe Sound in both summer and winter winds. It is unclear how the group ended up in Zorro Bay, but an unexpected out-flow wind direction could easily push the group to that side of the sound,” Shaw-MacLaren told The Squamish Chief.

The group reported that they spent three hours waiting for an improvement in the weather, and made a number of attempts to paddle out of the bay, but the conditions proved too risky, he said, adding the wind continued to build, and winds in Howe Sound were reported at 20 to 25 knots around that time

“The group wisely set a hard deadline for themselves to request assistance with sufficient time for rescue before nightfall and stuck to that

plan,” he said.

In a post to its social media page, Station 4-Squamish said that had the paddlers further delayed calling for help, that could have resulted in a much riskier rescue operation in the dark of night.

“This scenario is an excellent example of ‘When [in] doubt, call for help,’” the post reads.

“Attempting to continue on that late in the day in worsening wind conditions could have spelled traumatic disaster for all involved.”

Marine rescuers arrived at the group at 4:22

p.m.

“[They] made a tricky approach to the beach, which was exposed to the wind and waves,” Shaw-MacLaren said, adding that Zorro Bay is the first soft landing along the steep rocky western shore of Howe Sound after Woodfibre LNG.

“It is part of the Sea to Sky Marine Trail, but while sheltered in summer inflow winds, it is significantly exposed to northerly outflow winds and does not offer protection to a vessel.“

The volunteer Station 4-Squamish crew

checked the paddleboarders for any injuries or medical concerns, and then transported them and their gear to Porteau Cove Provincial Park in multiple trips.

“The group was well prepared for the adventure, and when things didn’t go as planned, they enacted a new plan to keep themselves safe and stuck to it This allowed volunteer rescue crews to provide assistance in a lower-risk environment, and everyone came out unscathed, but perhaps rather late for any afternoon plans they had,” Shaw-MacLaren said Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue (RCM-SAR) Station 4-Squamish reminds those heading out on Howe Sound to always have an effective means of communication on the water and notify the Canadian Coast Guard early if a situation develops.

“Even if it is not yet a full-blown emergency,” the post says.

“Thank you to the paddlers for making the right call to seek assistance Our volunteer crews train hard in the worst of conditions and love doing what they do.”

PHOTO BY

A group of nine stand-up paddleboarders was rescued Saturday afternoon after being stranded by worsening weather conditions on a remote beach along northern Howe Sound.

SPIT: Continued from 1 the floodplains to the east.

The claim also asserts that the Spit’s construction stabilized conditions so the terminal could be built and operate safely.

The Terminal has operated out of the area since 1972, importing and exporting various industry goods regionally and internationally. They lease the land from the province, and their operations include two deep-water berths, which service large vessels, one of which is nearest the estuary.

In 2017, federal agencies and the Squamish River Watershed Society initiated the Central Estuary Restoration Project, which involved removing portions of the Spit and restoring the estuary. The project was approved by federal and provincial authorizations, including the Canadian Navigable Waters Act and the Water Sustainability Act. It was believed that the Spit was preventing salmon from migrating to the ocean.

The removal was divisive, with vocal outcry and advocacy against the removal from the windsport community. The Spit was a launching location for windsurfers and kiteboarders in Squamish

ALLEGED IMPACT AT THE TERMINAL

The Terminals allege the Spit’s removal between 2022 and 2023 caused marine conditions to worsen at the terminal.

The filing alleges the Spit’s removal caused unpredictable and stronger currents near the terminal; increased wave heights; further sedimentation and infilling of the terminal’s dredge pocket; and increasing volumes of wood debris. It stated that these changes have rendered conditions hazardous for navigation in the waters around the terminal.

The Terminals allege that vessel incidents in 2024, 2025 and 2026 have also occurred because of the removal of the berm

In January 2024, during heavy rainfall and warm temperatures, a greater-thannormal volume of water outflowed into the estuary from the Cheakamus and Mamquam rivers During this weather event, the terminals allege a vessel named the Star Hansa allided (meaning collided with a non-moving object) with Berth #2 when attempting to birth (dock) Despite attempting to dock with tug boats’ assistance, the Star Hansa “made hard contact,” which significantly damaged the berth.

It’s alleged that changing conditions during the event caused woody debris to collide with the berth’s piles, resulting in damage.

Further incidents in 2025 and 2026 were alleged to occur, involving the inability of vessels to berth at the intended location and related costs for relocation.

ALLEGED NEGLIGENCE AND FAILURE TO MITIGATE

The Terminals allege the defendants knew, or ought to have known, that excavating the Spit could have adverse impacts on navigation and terminal safety, especially during high precipitation.

It also asserts that the defendants did not adequately mitigate or address the impacts, despite the Terminals raising their concerns before and during the restoration work It alleges the project was greenlit despite adequate safeguards preventing harm to the terminal

The claim further alleges that post-removal monitoring has confirmed hazardous conditions, increased sedimentation, and stronger currents

DAMAGES SOUGHT

The defendant seeks damages for physical harm to terminal infrastructure, operational losses, dredging costs, and future costs expected due to sediment management and navigation safety They also seek the court to state where responsibility lies for these alleged harms and costs.

The court documents list the costs for damage to Berth #2 as $526,481.61, and the claim alleges it may need to be permanently lost

NEXT STEPS

None of the defendants has filed a response to the civil claim as of publication.

The Province and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, which responded on behalf of the Department of Justice, said they have no comment at this time. SRWS said in a statement that it was made aware of the Notice of Civil Claim filed on January 28, 2026, to the Supreme Court of BC.

“The Central Estuary Restoration Project (CERP) was developed in partnership with the Squamish River Watershed Society, DFO, and Squamish Nation to improve the Squamish Estuary function, accessibility, and habitat for salmon Additional collaboration was conducted with the local industries, provincial and federal governments, municipality, recreation groups, and other organizations that make use of the Squamish estuary,” the statement reads.

“CERP partners have been actively monitoring the estuary, including the SSA West Berth since 2021 These comprehensive multi-year studies are only midway through the process, as per the conditions of the project approvals laid out for the berm modification process. CERP partners and collaborators will continue in good faith to survey and analyze the results of the comprehensive studies and outline any potential consequences and benefits on the west berth of Squamish Terminals and overall health and revitalization of the Squamish Estuary.”

PHOTO BY BRIAN AIKENS

TAKING FLIGHT: A Squamish red-tailed hawk

SHORTLINE OPERATOR MODEL SUGGESTED FOR SQUAMISH RAIL REVIVAL

A draft resolution presented by Coun. Eric Andersen seeks government support for maintaining and revitalizing the Squamish-Cariboo railway, potentially bringing jobs and infrastructure upgrades

JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

It is in the very early stages, but Coun Eric Andersen has proposed a way forward for the CN line that is to be decommissioned At its committee of the whole on Tuesday, Jan. 27, council discussed advocacy resolution topics to be submitted to the Lower Mainland Local Government Association (LMLGA) and subsequently the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM).

Andersen’s resolution, titled “Preservation and revitalization of Squamish-Cariboo rail corridor,” relates to CN announcing last summer that it wishes to terminate its lease for the line that stretches from approximately the Mamquam River to 100 Mile House. Andersen noted that the portion of the line all the way to Williams Lake is also of concern in that “it has been discussed and might potentially be considered in future as there are no longer any significant shippers from here to Williams Lake, with the closure of recent mills.”

The information discussed at Squamish council was a first draft of a resolution, which needs review after council member feedback and final endorsement by local elected officials before it would move to the next step in the process.

WHAT IS THE PROPOSED RESOLUTION?

Andersen’s original resolution reads:

Whereas loss of the Squamish-Cariboo rail line which may ensue from CN Rail’s plans announced in July 2025 to terminate its lease would result in shippers being forced to higher cost truck transport, increased public highway maintenance costs, loss of passenger (tourist or commuter) rail opportunity, higher GHG

Our railway was built in 1910. The government took it over in 1918, and we’ve been in conversations with our railway line other communities— ever since.

emissions, loss of transportation corridor redundancy affecting Western Canada, and constrained regional economic development; AND WHEREAS rail discontinuance policies applying to the former BC Rail line do not necessarily take into account regional and long-term transportation needs and priorities and might frustrate economic viability of potential new shortline operators, while infrastructure funding solutions for this valuable rail line’s maintenance are lacking; Therefore be it resolved that the provincial

and federal governments be encouraged to give consideration to: a new regional authority or ownership structure which would include First Nations; facilitating such a transition to a shortline operator model that would support small and medium enterprises as well as regional development while maintaining the strategic redundancy of the line; and exploring potential public-private rail line maintenance funding solutions. This may lead to future passenger and tourist rail initiatives, Andersen said

Shortlines are small railway companies. They operate with fewer people, running shorter distances than the national rail companies.

“Squamish will be the big winner if we can save this railway and have a new operator in the form of a shortline operator taking over,” Andersen said “And the reason for this is because of the infrastructure investments that would be made would be necessary for that new operator in the form of shop facilities, port facility upgrades and both at Site B and Squamish Terminals. We have new jobs that may arise, including for Squamish Nation members,” he said “We also have long-standing interest in Squamish Yards and in convincing senior government to make investments in the Squamish Yards, and we have an interest in other upgrades in highway access, the Loggers Lane corridor downtown and our second access into downtown. All of this is part of a bigger picture that we would

Continued on 6

RAIL:

COUN. ERIC ANDERSEN

PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF The CN line through Brackendale.

probably benefit from having a revitalized railway to provide better rationale in our negotiations with senior government for investments in these projects.”

Andersen said the draft resolution was prepared in consultation with the local West Coast Railway Association, which operates the Railway Museum of British Columbia, as well as with folks from the Cariboo, including municipal councillors and a couple of mayors

“Our railway was built in 1910 The government took it over in 1918, and we’ve been in conversations with our railway line—other communities—ever since,” said Andersen.

“It is my suggestion that this resolution be approached in collaboration with other railway communities to the north of us.”

A shortline operator is proposed because there has been interest from some such companies, according to Andersen, and the bigger rail lines like CN and CP are not interested in operating on the line, which they have made clear for many years.

“There is a new situation today with the available types of freight, with the situation of our forest industry at the present time. So the horizon looks for the present time that it is most amenable to shortline operators,” he said

Ultimately, proposed Squamish resolutions, like Andersen’s, could reach the provincial government and influence

provincial actions that could benefit Squamish.

Jenny Franks, executive assistant to mayor and council explained that since 2025 there is a new process for resolutions which applies a new framework “to ensure resolutions are focused on new issues within local government scope, provincewide in nature and clearly written.”

The resolutions submitted by local governments are presented for consideration at LMLGA being held April 29 to May 1. If endorsed by delegates there, the resolutions are then submitted at the UBCM Convention where elected officials vote on each resolution All successfully endorsed resolutions from UBCM are sent to the provincial government, which indicates if and how they will work towards addressing the request.

So, while not a quick or direct route to action, it is a chance for Squamish’s needs and wishes to be heard by the powers that be in Victoria.

On Feb. 10 and 17, resolutions will come back before council for further consideration. The deadline for resolutions to be submitted is March 5.

Andersen said through his discussions with elected officials he has learned that the City of Prince George and City of Quesnel may offer to submit his resolution to the North Central Local Government Association, while the District of Lillooet or Village of Clinton may submit the resolution to the Southern Interior Local Government Association

SAMPLE COUNCIL COMMENTS

Mayor Armand Hurford was supportive of the advocacy behind the resolution but suggested it needed some cleaning up before it was brought before council again.

“I think for the purpose of this meeting, if we can endorse that this is something we should advocate for and then work together,” he said

Coun Jenna Stoner, who is also first vice president at UBCM, cautioned that the resolution should have a provincial jurisdiction and that it should be laid out in a specific way that Andersen’s wasn’t

“While I very much appreciate that there’s a time-sensitive nature to the Squamish Cariboo Rail Corridor, including that in the title as is, I think, will likely exclude it from it being provincially relevant,” she said

Coun Chris Pettingill said he hasn’t got a resolution ready yet, but believes one about air quality would be valuable

“There does seem to be some people in different areas concerned about air quality and seeing it up in Kitimat with sort of a failure of infrastructure now resulting in really terrible air quality for three plus years, it sounds like [there’s] no mechanism to deal with that adequately from a citizen perspective,” Pettingill said.

“I know in the Fraser Valley there are some concerns about lack of regulation or application of regulation around incineration, and so on, and so there do seem to be some air quality gaps, and so I’m trying to have some conversations to understand exactly what those gaps

are, and if there is something useful we can do there. So I may propose something.”

MP AND MLA WRITE LETTER

In related news, Patrick Weiler, member of parliament for West Vancouver – Sunshine Coast – Sea To Sky Country and Jeremy Valeriote member of the Legislative Assembly for West Vancouver – Sea to Sky, wrote a joint letter to Prime Minister Mark Carney and B.C. Premier David Eby about the issue.

The letter was shared in the Squamish council agenda on Feb. 3.

The leaders note in the letter dated Jan. 23 that under the BC Rail Revitalization agreement, the section of the rail line to be discontinued can be sold back to CN Rail for $1 until July

“If the BC Government exercises this option, we would risk losing the corridor as it could then be sold by CN for net salvage value,” the letter states. “Similarly, if the lease reverts back to BC Rail Properties, it could then decide to scrap and sell the corridor.”

They say two stakeholder meetings on the issue held in the fall showed “overwhelming cross-partisan support for a revitalized rail corridor.”

The leaders ask that no transaction—sale or disposal—involving the corridor “be made without thorough consultation with the municipalities and First Nations along the corridor.”

Watch the whole council discussion for yourself on the District of Squamish’s YouTube channel, starting at the 2:53:45-minute mark

continue, with Intermittent nightworks ongoing. squamish.ca/building-our-future

COUNCIL CALLS FOR CUMULATIVE HEALTH IMPACT STUDIES ON BC GAS INDUSTRY

Citing gaps in scientific data and growing community concern, local leaders in Squamish have voted unanimously to request an independent review into how B.C.’s booming natural gas sector may be affecting public health

JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

At its Feb. 3 meeting, Squamish council resolved to write to the provincial government and Health Canada calling on both to conduct an independent cumulative health impact assessment on the B.C. gas industry in alignment with the resolution passed by the Health Officers’ Council of BC in the fall of 2025.

At its Feb. 3 meeting, Squamish council resolved to write to the provincial government and Health Canada calling on both to conduct an independent cumulative health impact assessment on the B.C. gas industry in alignment with the resolution passed by the Health Officers’ Council of BC in the fall of 2025.

On Nov. 26, the Health Officers’ Council of BC called for an “independent, comprehensive health impacts assessment of the BC Gas industry that includes cumulative impacts from fracking to export and combustion emissions and is adequately resourced and informed by Indigenous contexts.”

The Health Officers’ Council has about 130

Citing misinformation and lack of scientific input in discussions around oil and gas development, members of Squamish council are pushing for more transparency—and have formally requested an independent review into how fracking and emissions may affect public health

physician members, about one-third are retired, another third are working as medical health officers and the remainder work in other public health capacities

The Squamish action came after a passionate discussion about potential air quality impacts from LNG that followed a motion by Coun Chris Pettingill that didn’t move forward.

He put forward a resolution to invite

representatives from the Canadian Association of Nurses for the Environment (CANE) and Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment (CAPE), as well as from Vancouver Coastal Health, to a future council meeting to present on air quality questions and concerns related to LNG, as it might be applicable to Squamish.

We are living in a situation where our media is quite frankly sponsored, like quite literally sponsored by oil and gas companies, they are no longer a reliable source for that information.

COUN. LAUREN GREENLAW

He argued that such a presentation at council would not only inform elected officials, but the general public

“From our resolution perspective, I think it could be useful, but again, it’s the community understanding. Should the community be

IMPACTS: Continued on 9

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11:30am–12:30pm Wednesday,February18, atMunicipalHall(CouncilChambers) and COUNCILLOR FRENCH

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worried? The community also may want to be doing their own advocacy. I think some folks will say, ‘This is a real big problem, and you should all be really worried, and you should consider moving,’ kind of thing. And other folks are like, ‘Who cares? It’s not a big deal.’ I would like to provide a platform for some truth and understanding, and these folks seem like exactly the experts working on that, like VCH and so on And they listen to us They don’t necessarily do exactly what we say, but our concerns matter,” he said

Coun Lauren Greenlaw was the most supportive of the idea

“From my perspective as a scientist in this field, I feel like the scientific perspective is being completely ignored in the entire conversation around the oil and gas industry, and I think that the health impacts is part of that So yeah, there’s just a lot of misinformation going around, and there’s a lot of people who believe that their opinion is equal to a scientist’s opinion in these matters,” she said. “From my perspective, a large part of this may not be in informing decisions that are within our jurisdiction, but actually just providing a platform for our public to have access to real information from scientists who are qualified to speak to these issues,” she added. “And I think that that is also an important role that local government should be playing, and this is a potential way to create that platform for appropriate people, the responsible appropriate people who should be giving that message as opposed to you know media which is often

under some influences.”

She went on to say that media couldn’t be trusted to tell the truth and was sponsored by oil and gas.

“We are living in a situation where our media is quite frankly sponsored, like quite literally sponsored by oil and gas companies, they are no longer a reliable source for that information.”

She also said while it was fine to bring in regulators, they weren’t experts or caught up on what was happening.

“Our regulatory bodies are just not caught up on what can be happening because we’ve never done it before So, I think that’s another point here is this information is all very new and frankly understudied.”

Coun. Eric Andersen was in the no-vote camp for Pettingill’s motion

“I think that there are three categories of information that might be brought to a council presentation. We’ve referred to expertise, experts, we’ve referred to advocacy and in the current dialogue around this topic …. But what is missing is the regulators. That’s the third category of information, and I feel that listening to instead and first of all to the regulators, is more in line with our responsibility. I will also point out that the Woodfiber LNG facility, including in its current incarnation, because it has had some redesign, has been reviewed by the Ministry of Environment in connection with Vancouver Coastal Health.”

Pettingill’s motion failed, with Mayor Armand Hurford and councillors Andrew Hamilton, Andersen and Jenna Stoner opposed.

Stoner said she understood the concern about

air quality, especially in light of some recent reports and concerns about air quality in Kitimat, related to the LNG Canada plant, and thus put forward the successful motion that passed unanimously and will be sent on to the province.

“A lot of this data doesn’t exist… there’s a slow-growing body of evidence, but the ask is

NEWS BRIEF

DON’T FEEL THE NEED FOR SPEED

Speed limits are being reduced downtown and at the Oceanfront in the District of Squamish (DOS).

The DOS announced Feb. 5 that it is limiting speeds to 30km/h, effective Feb. 17 The change is supported by ICBC data and public feedback collected from 2023 to 2024 on road safety and vehicle speeds. The District will install signage reflecting the change.

“When we reduce speed, we improve safety, confidence and peace of mind for all road users,” said Mayor Armand Hurford in a press release.

“As a community, we have a shared responsibility to make our roads safe for pedestrians, cyclists, micro mobility users and drivers A posted lower speed limit will help to formalize what is already happening within the vast majority of downtown and the Oceanfront, and improve safety for all.”

The District says a 2024 public feedback

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actually to do the work and to get the appropriate regulators to do the work. And so I think part of it to me is adding our voice to that chorus of folks who are calling on this to make sure that we have good long-term data. And I will absolutely continue to work with my colleagues to find good avenues to have wholesome debate and discussion on this.”

survey showed the highest support for speed reductions in these areas, and ICBC data indicate that Downtown/Oceanfront also have higher incident rates. Of all the locations of concern identified in the public survey, 20% are in these locations, leading to the decision, the District said in the release.

“According to a recent Research Co survey, 68% of B.C. residents are in favour of a speed limit reduction to 30 km/h on all residential streets, so this, in addition to our own findings, demonstrates broad public support for lowered speed limits,” Hurford said. “A speed reduction in the downtown Squamish/ Oceanfront area is a natural first step in increasing community road safety overall.”

The DOS’ says it’s 2025 Transportation Master Plan also identifies speed reductions to improve safety and aid other outcomes, including enhancing neighbourhood connectivity and sustainable transportation options.

Brennan Park Recreation Centre

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EDITORIAL

PLAN NOWTO VOTE THEN

Let’s have abraggable voterturnoutthis fall,dearreaders.

Squamish’s municipalelectionvoter turnouttrack record isn’tthe best,hovering around 40%ofthose whoare registered to vote actually doingso. We have not cracked50% in at leastthe last 20 years—thelastfivemuni elections.Though,wedid come closein2014, at 49.6%.

Forthose stillshaking offthe winter slumber, theseare theelections forthe mayor and municipal councillorsaswellasregional district directorsand school boards trustees

Ifthe Oct. 17 election seemsalongway off, it isn’t—really.

Jan. 1was thestart of theelectionperiod.

At itsmeeting on Feb. 3, District of Squamish councilapprovedthe appointmentofMelissa von Bloedau as chiefelectionofficer to conductthe 2026 generallocal election.This givesher thepower to appointother election officials, as required.

The District’s Victoria Raeand JulieWengi will serveasdeputychief election officers.

TheDistrictsaysthese appointments are required alreadysopreparationsfor the election canbegin.

Each localgovernmentrunsits ownlocal elections, includingvoting, counting, reporting results, andaccepting candidate nominations.

ElectionsBCoverseescampaignfinancing, election advertisingand electororganization registration.

“Initial preparationhas already commenced includingbooking of voting locationsand sourcing necessaryequipment andsoftware,” readsthe District staffreporttocouncil.

TheDistricttypically runs electionsusing in-houseresources.

If they want,municipalitiescan contract out forthe positions, howeverDOS staffrecommendcontinuingtouse staffresources “asthe administration of theelectionisincluded in thecorporate administration workplan for 2026,” thereport reads.

The$120,000budgetfor thefallelectionis accountedfor in themuni’s2026budget.

We know some datesalready too. The advancevotingdeadlineisAug.25.

•Oct.5,the plan is foradvance voting at TotemHall

•Oct.7,10at The55.

•Oct.15atBrennan Park

Generalvotingday is Oct. 17.

It feelsearly,but maybe, if we startnow and with intention, we will breakthat50% voter turnoutceiling.

B.C.’S EV RETREATSHOWS HOWFAR CLEANBCHAS FALLEN

(GHG)emissionstandards.The move gets Ottawa outfromunder legislated deadlines it couldn’t meet,and shieldsautomakersfrompenalties tied to targetsthatwerenolongerrealistic

Another pillar of theBCNDP’s once-vaunted CleanBCclimate agenda hascrumbled, after theprovinceconfirmed Feb. 5itwould follow Ottawa’s lead andchangeits electric vehicle mandates

TheEVmandate,which setinlaw that allnew light-vehiclesales in B.C. be zero-emissionvehicles by 2035,willbe rewritten, said Energy Minister Adrian Dix.

It joinsthe carbon tax, legislated greenhouse gas reductiontargets,and sectoral limits to oil andgas as CleanBCinitiatives NewDemocrats once braggedabout buthavesince been abandoned.

Although BritishColumbiawas thefirst jurisdictioninNorthAmerica to setinlaw EV adoption deadlines in 2019,itnolongerbelievesitshouldact aloneifthe federalgovernmentismovingina differentdirection,saidDix.

“Wedon’t thinkthere should be twosetsof targetsinCanada,”hesaidFeb. 5. “Wethink there should be one.”

He added: “The BritishColumbiapositionwillbe alignedwiththe federalposition.”

That followsPrime Minister Mark Carney’s announcement Feb. 5thatOttawaisshiftingfrom EV mandated timelines to newgreenhousegas

“They’ve movedfromsales targetstoanother meansofachieving salestargets that they seeasa more effectiveapproach,”Dix said.“This is a change of approach,and notentirelywhatwehad expected in ourdiscussions with thefederal government.”

Nonetheless, DixcalledOttawa’smove“ambitious” andsaidthe GHGemissions standardscould stillachieve a75per cent EV market shareby2035.

Aconfluenceofeventshas undercut once-promisingEVsales:Ottawa’sabruptend to rebatesinlate 2024,after whichB.C.alsopausedits consumer incentives;risingEVcosts;aworsening household affordabilitycrisis; andthe backlash against industry EV leader TeslaoverCEO Elon Musk

EV salesinB.C.dropped from 24 percentin2024 to around 18 percentin2025, accordingtoDix

Whilestill leadingmostofthe country, andabove theCanadianaverage of 10 percent, B.C. is wayoff itsinterim target of 90 percentby2030, andgoing in thewrong directionatatimewhenitshouldbe gainingground.

“Withrespect to targets, they have to be realistic,” said Dix. “I don’tbelieve youshouldhavetargets that areunachievable.”

“Unachievable” is awordDix hasusedbeforein describing theNDP CleanBCclimate policies since

PROVINCIAL: Continuedon11

PROVINCIAL VIEWS ROBSHAW

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)

PROVINCIAL: Continued from 10

taking over the portfolio in late 2024 Dix has been tasked with pouring the cold water of reality on dreams New Democrats had in 2018 when they crafted CleanBC and bragged about leading the country on climate policy

The country-leading carbon tax? Gone.

The most aggressive legislated GHG reduction targets in Canada? Kaput. Limits on the oil and gas sector? Set aside for LNG expansion.

Even government’s own CleanBC panel hired last year concluded it should change up its targets into something new, lest the whole thing start to look like one big depressing failure.

B.C. won’t be restoring its EV rebates

LETTERS POLICY

of up to $4,000, which were eliminated in 2025, said Dix.

Partly that’s because the province is staring at a $12-billion deficit and a budget set for Feb. 17 that will be full of cuts. There’s simply no cash available to restore EV rebates, even if it wanted to

But Dix said B.C. feels like rebates should be a federal responsibility, while the province redirects its limited funding through BC Hydro into expanding the charging grid across the province, so that people in rural and remote locations have access to EV infrastructure too.

“They are doing the rebates, we’re focusing on the charging,” said Dix. “I think that’s a good combination.”

A realistic combination, even. As CleanBC continues to be pared back,

piece by piece, into something far more modest than the sweeping climate blueprint the NDP first unveiled eight years ago.

Rob Shaw has spent more than 18 years covering B.C. politics, now reporting for CHEK News and writing for BIV. He is the co-author of the national bestselling book A Matter of Confidence, host of the weekly podcast Political Capital, and a regular guest on CBC Radio.

rob@robshawnews.com

New newsletter alert! Stay ahead of the curve in B.C. politics Get expert political analysis delivered straight to your inbox, plus inside scoops and other stories from across the province. Sign up here for the Capital & Coast newsletter.

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Your future starts here

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‘IT CROSSED A LINE’: PORTABLE BOULDER STOLEN AGAIN

Ethan Salvo says climbers crossed a boundary when the granite boulder was taken under cover of darkness while he was housesitting in Bishop

LIZ MCDONALD emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca

Portable, a beloved granite boulder destined for Squamish, was stolen and returned once again while en route home.

Pro climber Ethan Salvo had been taking the boulder back after it was discovered in Bishop, Calif., following a mysterious disappearance that lasted more than five months But the saga wasn’t over

According to Salvo, climbers decided to continue what he described as a prank, stealing the boulder again—this time crossing a line by entering a home and violating his personal boundaries. The rock was taken under cover of darkness and replaced with a scavenger hunt,

leaving Salvo frustrated and stressed Salvo said in an email exchange with The Squamish Chief that there are many more important issues people and journalists should care about, but agreed to explain what happened and how he responded.

THIEVES IN THE NIGHT

Salvo was house sitting at a friend’s place in Bishop when Portable was taken on Jan. 30 at around 10 p.m. Bishop is a small town of fewer than 4,000 people

A group of young climbers—friends of Salvo—happened to drive past the house and spotted him unpacking his car. That moment, he said, sparked a plan to steal the boulder from his Subaru, which later escalated into a decision to take it from inside the house.

“The night it was taken, [two] guys in the group planning this decided to go to the house and

take it without letting the others know they were going to do so,” Salvo wrote. “Many in the group felt like it went too far and crossed a line, but it had already happened by that point.”

“They left behind a note in place of Portable telling me to go to where it was found on the night of the full moon. On that night, another note showed up along with a [two]-page

encrypted message that I would’ve had to decode to find the next clue.”

‘EXTREMELY STRESSFUL’

Salvo described the situation as “extremely stressful” and said he dropped everything, including work, for two days to track down the boulder.

“I’m not the type to let stuff go, or let my mind be at rest when something like this is going on in my life,” he said “I felt like I had taken on a huge responsibility by safeguarding the boulder, and once it went missing, I was insanely upset with myself and felt like I had to get to the bottom of this.”

“Otherwise, I was worried about my reputation in climbing and Squamish would become the 23-year-old guy that was so dumb he couldn’t even babysit a rock for a few weeks without it going missing. I could explain way more, because this impacted me in so many ways, but quite frankly, I don’t care to give this story the time of day anymore, and I don’t see why anyone else should now.”

Salvo eventually realized the people responsible were friends and confronted them

“It took a bit to figure out that the people [who] did this were friends of mine,” he wrote. “That resulted in me getting really pissed at everyone for a day, and then spending a few hours talking it over another day.”

Portable was returned to Salvo, who learned the group had planned to take the boulder to Hueco Tanks State Park in Texas before eventually returning it to Squamish Salvo said the climbers acknowledged they crossed a line and emphasized that the focus should shift elsewhere.

“I think there is more important shit happening in the world and our backyard right now, we should all stop caring about this rock and what a bunch of dumbass 20-year-old kids are getting themselves into on the road.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALEX HAAS

toque with googly eyes

NoticeofBylawReadings

District of Squamish Zoning BylawNo. 2200,2011, AmendmentBylaw(Indoor Recreation) No.3208, 2025

Noticeisherebygiven in accordancewith Section 467 of theLocal GovernmentAct,thatDistrictofSquamish Council willbeconsidering first, second and thirdreading of DistrictofSquamishZoning BylawNo. 2200, 2011, AmendmentBylaw(Indoor Recreation) No.3208, 2025.

AffectedLands

Allproperties wherethe zoning allows indoor recreation and/or fitness centre aspermitted uses

Proposed BylawAmendments

Thepurpose of the proposed bylawistoamend the definition of indoor recreation in the zoningbylawtoprovide clarityonthe types of activities that fall under this use.This revised definition includes abroader referencetothe types of activities thatwould fall underthis use,including artistic activities. Italso covers activitiesthatwould have previouslyfallenunderthe fitness centreuse.The bylawalso proposes deletingthe definition of fitness centre and replacingitwith indoorrecreationasa permitteduse in the zones where fitness centre is currently permitted.

When

Tuesday, February17, 2025, at6:00p.m

Where

Council Chambers at Municipal Hall,37955 Second Avenue,Squamish, British Columbia.

No Public Hearing Required

In accordancewith Provinciallegislation, Section464(2) of the Local GovernmentAct,alocal government is not required to holdapublic hearing onaproposed zoning bylawifanOfficial CommunityPlan(OCP) is in effect and thebylawisconsistentwith the OCP.This proposed rezoning meets thoserequirements

HowtoViewthe Proposed Bylaws

Acopyofthe proposed bylawand relatedinformation thathas been or maybe considered by Council maybeinspectedonline oratMunicipal Hall

Onlineat: squamish.ca/showcase

Municipal Hall at 37955 Second Avenue, Squamish, BritishColumbia, from February5toFebruary12, 2026, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Enquiries regarding the proposed amendmentbylawmay be made to the Planning Departmentat 604-815-5002 or by email to planning@squamish.ca.

This is the second of twonotices,dated this 12th dayofFebruary, 2026, at Squamish, British Columbia.

NoticeofBylawReadings

DistrictofSquamish Zoning BylawNo. 2200, 2011, AmendmentBylaw(38921 Queens Way) No.3092, 2024

Noticeisherebygiven in accordancewith Section467 of the Local GovernmentAct,thatDistrictofSquamish Council will be considering first, second and thirdreading of District of SquamishZoning BylawNo. 2200, 2011, AmendmentBylaw (38921 Queens Way) No.3092, 2024

AffectedLands

38921 Queens Way, Squamish BC

Proposed BylawAmendment

Thepurpose of the proposed Bylawistoallowfor automobile oriented commercial use on an additionalportion of 38921 Queens Way, andtoamend the automobileorientedcommercial use definition to clarify that supporteduses includea broad range of motor-powered recreational vehicles

When February17, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.

Where

Council Chambers at Municipal Hall,37955 Second Avenue,Squamish, British Columbia, or electronically at: squamish.ca/live-meetings

No Public Hearing Required

LOCATION MAP

In accordancewith Provincial legislation, Section 464(2) of the Local GovernmentAct,alocal governmentisnot requiredtohold apublic hearing on aproposed zoning bylawifanOfficialCommunityPlan (OCP) is in effect and the bylawisconsistentwith the OCP.This proposed rezoning meets those requirements

HowtoViewthe Proposed Bylaws

Acopyofthe proposed bylawand relatedinformation thathas been or maybe considered by the Council can be inspectedonline or at Municipal Hall Online at: squamish.ca/showcase

Municipal Hall at 37955 Second Avenue,Squamish, British Columbia, from February5toFebruary17, 2026, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Fridayexcept forstatutoryholidays Enquiries regarding the proposed amendmentbylawmay be madetothe Planning Departmentat 604-815-5002 or by email to planning@squamish.ca. This is the second of twonotices,dated this 12th dayofFebruary, 2026, at Squamish,British Columbia.

COUNCIL GREENLIGHTS PLAN FOR NEW BREWERY WITH RAILCAR DOWNTOWN

Boltage Brewing, a brewery with a separate tasting lounge slated for 37781 Cleveland Ave

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

Want to sit in a restored heritage railway car and drink a beer?

At the Feb. 3 council meeting, elected officials voted 5 to 2 in favour of granting a development permit to Solamigo Corp. that paves the way for Boltage Brewing, a brewery with a separate tasting lounge at 37781 Cleveland Ave.

Previously, there was a plan for a mixed-use residential and commercial development on the property, for which a development permit was issued in 2019. That project never materialized and the property was sold to the new owners, who subsequently proposed the brewery.

The proposed approximately 300-metre squared development is slated to include a two-storey brewery and accessory lounge

A restored rail car is proposed as additional lounge seating for the brewery.

“The proposed brewery will add to the vibrancy, activation and gathering opportunities at the south end of Cleveland Avenue,”

Unearthsomethingspecial.

said Aja Philp, District planner.

In terms of public engagement, two comments were received, one for it and one against.

PARKING

Six tandem parking spaces are provided off the lane, which meets the zoning bylaw minimum requirements, the staff report to council states.

Coun. Jenna Stoner asked about how functional tandem parking is for this type of commercial proposal.

Philp said that there hasn’t been a lot of monitoring of it, but acknowledged it can be “complicated” when it is a mix of employee and customer parking, which this is

However, she noted that the intention is to keep some of the gravel road there.

“So, there will be some available on-street parking available.”

She added that the applicant would need to do good signage to explain who is to park where.

Mayor Armand Hurford struggled with seeing how the planned bike parking would work shorter-term bicycle parking behind the waste building and longer-term bike racks on the second floor, with the administrative office

The applicant does plan to seek a patio permit that would include bike parking out front, at a later stage in the process, Philp said.

Philp said the bike parking plans meet the guidelines, but acknowledged that in practicality it may be challenging.

VARIANCES

The applicant asked for two variances, or changes to the requirements for development permit (DP); first, to change the number of

accessory buildings on the site from one to three, and second to vary the interior side setback for accessory buildings from 1.2 metres to 0 m.

There was quite a lot of discussion among council, and questions for staff regarding the set backs and potential diking in the area in the future, but Philp said since there isn’t a current plan in place for that area in this regard, the District has to move forward on applications in terms of what is on the books now, not what could potentially be a plan in the future.

The staff report states that the three proposed accessory buildings would be: a waste storage building, an additional lounge structure—the converted/restored train car—and an accessory kitchen building for the brewery and lounge.

“The property is constrained by its small size and due to the unique aspects of the train car, neither the accessory kitchen nor the waste storage buildings can be combined with the train car to meet the one accessory building restriction,” the staff report reads.

The proponents also said that the usual covenant that forbids use of natural gas won’t work for their establishment, so asked that it not be applied to their DP

Coun Chris Pettingill said he did his own research and questioned the validity of the project needing natural gas and thus requesting a no-gas covenant

He said the project could go ahead without need for gas.

SAMPLE COUNCIL COMMENTS

Ultimately, council voted to support the DP, with Pettingill and Coun. Lauren Greenlaw the opposing votes.

“When I look at the [Development Permit Areas] guidelines and my understanding of safe and efficient site flow, when I look where the bike parking is—the narrow access point provided to me, it feels like the site is too compact, there’s too much stuff on that site to the point that it doesn’t meet what I see holistically as what the guidelines are looking at.”

He also referenced that the removal of the gas covenant wasn’t a positive trade-off for the community.

“It is proposing gas to power the whole thing, which is not where we need to be in a climate emergency,” Pettingill said Greenlaw said the biggest thing pushing her to oppose the DP was the elimination of the setbacks.

She said it didn’t seem fair to current and future neighbours to allow that. She also was concerned about the plan for tandem parking, which she said would compound the congestion issue in the area.

Stoner said while she supported the DP, it is

PHOTO BY STARK ARCHITECTURE LTD/VIA DISTRICT OF SQUAMISH REPORT

Artist’s rendering of Boltage Brewing, a brewery with a separate tasting lounge slated for 37781 Cleveland Ave.

NATIONAL CYCLING STUDY INCLUDES SEA TO SKY DATA

Simon Fraser University researchers explored where cycling infrastructure is expanding across Canada

LIZ MCDONALD emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca

Depending on where cyclists live in the Sea to Sky, they may or may not have access to high-quality cycling infrastructure

A recent study from Simon Fraser University found cycling networks across Canada are expanding, but access varies by location While the largest increases are occurring in small- and medium-sized cities, communities with higher proportions of children and seniors tend to have less access to bike infrastructure

The study, published in the Canadian Journal of Public Health, examined changes between 2022 and 2024.

Meghan Winters, the study’s lead author, said the findings highlight uneven progress.

“On average, we’re still not seeing enough investment in residential neighbourhoods,” Winters said. “Those are places that aren’t getting enough attention when it comes to safe cycling.”

To assess infrastructure changes, researchers analyzed open-source data from OpenStreetMap and classified routes using the Canadian Bikeway Comfort and Safety system The system rates cycling infrastructure as high, medium or low comfort and safety, based on criteria outlined by SFU.

Overall, Canada’s cycling infrastructure expanded by almost 3,600 kilometres during the study period Multi-use paths saw the largest growth, increasing by 75.8%. These routes, located either adjacent to roads or fully separated, are categorized as “medium comfort.” Painted bike lanes, considered “low comfort,” increased by 5.8%.

The highest standard of infrastructure, bike-only paths, grew by 49 kilometres nationwide, representing a 46.7% increase.

“One of the important findings is that, proportionally, we are building safer types of infrastructure,” Winters said

Smaller cities, she added, are often seeing

DOWNTOWN: Continued from 16 challenging to have “piecemeal” development proposals.

“It is really difficult to have the full vision of how this will work out,” she said “There’s just so many moving pieces that we can’t expect to have everything nailed down 100% before we start to see applications come in, and we have a duty to respond to applications when they come in and are presented to us.”

Overall though, she said the variances didn’t have a big impact on the overall neighbourhood.

Several members of council said that, though it didn’t influence their decision to support the project’s DP, they applauded the creativity of the proposal.

In voicing his support for the DP, Coun. John French referenced that the plans don’t include a

growth as a form of catch-up.

Winters said the lack of infrastructure in areas with more children and seniors often comes down to where those populations typically live However, as more people turn to cycling for purposes beyond commuting, that gap is beginning to receive attention.

“We are building out those neighbourhoods, recognizing that people don’t just use bicycles to bike downtown or commute to work,” she said “They’re trying to get to shops and services, to friends’ houses, to schools and community centres—which, in some cities, aren’t well connected by safe cycling infrastructure.”

She said city staff are often forced to make difficult decisions about where to invest limited resources.

“Commute travel now makes up only about 25% of trips on average,” she said. “Most trips are for other purposes. Planning needs to reflect where people are actually going—playgrounds, recreation facilities, libraries, shops and services—not just downtown workplaces.”

Winters also helped produce Canada’s first nationwide map of cycling infrastructure in 2022.

loading zone for the brewery.

“That, combined with the tandem parking, I’m sure is going to create future headaches, for both delivery companies and for the poor suckers who get trapped in against the building in the tandem parking,” he said “These are trade-offs that have to be made when developing on small downtown lots like this one and over time I am sure the business owners and the managers will figure out ways around these challenges.”

In his comments, Coun. Eric Andersen addressed the concern of some that small-craft breweries are not doing well currently.

“However, this project proponent is, in fact, very experienced in this business in North Vancouver,” he said, acknowledging that business plans aren’t part of the council’s consideration.

He wished them the best.

WHISTLER OUTPACES SQUAMISH

Using that map, users can compare cycling infrastructure between communities such as Whistler and Squamish to assess how well routes support everyday travel

Whistler scores higher overall than Squamish, which Winters attributed to several factors

While Squamish has a larger population,

Whistler benefits from what she described as the resort municipality effect

“Places like Whistler and Canmore have built out connected networks,” she said “Whether it’s for climate reasons or because tourism dollars play a role, those communities have taken a stance that people shouldn’t necessarily need a car to do many of the things they want to do while they’re there.”

Local advocacy also plays a role, she said, noting Squamish’s strong mountain biking community may have influenced existing infrastructure

Another challenge is the presence of a major highway.

“Many small- and mid-sized cities have highways running through them,” Winters said. “It’s expensive to build overpasses or create direct routes that offer safe, protected cycling infrastructure without forcing people to ride alongside a highway.”

Topography can also be a barrier. Squamish’s hilly terrain may deter some cyclists, though Winters noted the growing popularity of e-bikes is helping make cycling more accessible

The data is also being used by smaller municipalities looking to leverage GIS tools to compare their infrastructure with other communities across Canada The interactive map is available online.

PHOTO BY LIZ MCDONALD/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

A cyclist on a multi-use path in Rose Park, fall 2025 A black bear wanders in the opposite direction.

COUNCIL SUPPORTS PREVIOUSLY REJECTED FINCH DRIVE DEVELOPMENT

In a rare move, council has reversed a previous decision and approved a mixed-use development on Finch Drive, following the developer’s commitment to include dedicated child care space

second, third and fourth floors to contain approximately 30 market rental units.

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

This week, council went back to the future on a decision they made earlier this month.

With a not commonly used mechanism, Squamish council revisited approval of a development they turned down Jan. 6. Ultimately, this time, they passed it

At the council meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 3, Coun Andrew Hamilton brought forward a motion to reconsider the failed third reading of a mixed-use building at 1001 Finch Dr.

On Jan. 6, the third reading of a rezoning amendment for the proposal, a second building on the property, failed 4 to 3, with councillors Lauren Greenlaw, Jenna Stoner, Andrew Hamilton and Chris Pettingill opposed.

That meant the proposal, in its then-form, was rejected.

This was the second building proposed by Rivertown Properties on the same site

A development permit for the project’s first building, with 44 market rental units, was approved in April of last year

The second building was planned as a mix of ground-floor commercial space, with the

Rolo arrivedincareasa youngstray,unsureof people and overwhelmedbythe big, noisyworld.But just likethe caramel candy she’snamed after, patience andkindness helped hersoft center shinethrough

(Previously, the developer had proposed 100% employment space in Building 2, but due to market conditions, switched to commercial and market rental space.)

In explaining their decision to turn down that proposal in January, elected officials noted that there was no firm commitment to include child care space in the commercial portion. The guiding document for the area, the Loggers East Neighbourhood Plan, which covers the property’s location, requires child care spaces for such a development.

The neighbourhood is between Raven and Robin drives.

There is a two-part process to reconsider a previous motion. First, council must agree to reconsider a decision, which councillors unanimously did on Feb. 3.

Next, they can reconsider the actual decision. For a previous decision to be reconsidered, an elected official who voted in the majority—in this case to reject the proposal—has to bring reconsideration forward within 30 days of the decision As Hamilton was one of the council members who opposed third reading, he could propose a motion to bring third reading back for a new look by council.

He said the reason he wanted council to have a

second crack at it was that the developer had come forward to agree to provide the child-care space councillors wanted. A lack of such space had swayed Hamilton’s vote to reject it, he said “My primary challenge with this application was the lack of the proponent’s willingness to dedicate the child care space in exchange for the reduction in employment space that they were receiving through the rezoning It’s come to my understanding that the proponent is now willing to dedicate a substantive amount of space to child care, and so I would like to have this motion reconsidered in light of that willingness on the proponent’s part,” he said

My thoughts here are that ultimately, this is a benefit to the community that is important, particularly in the Loggers East neighbourhood with a fairly low coverage for child care. So I look forward to seeing this come to fruition,” he added when supporting the fresh passage of third reading.

Jonas Velaniskis, senior director of community development, confirmed the applicant’s commitment to 270 square metres of child care space on the ground floor of Building 1.

“That would be more than what’s required by [Vancouver Coastal Health] for a 36-space facility,” Velaniskis told council.

Third reading passed this time around, with a vote of 5 to 2, with Pettingill and Greenlaw again

opposing.

Pettingill had earlier proposed a motion, which failed, to defer the decision on the second look at third reading for a future council meeting, so he could go back and digest the whole project again.

Other council members wanted to wrap up the decision the same night, something District staff advised, given the 30-day window for reconsideration would have passed if they deferred it

There was some thought that as long as a reconsideration vote had passed, which it did, that a deferral might be OK, but there was no certainty.

“It would be my practice to go over all of the materials again with a fresh set of thoughts and eyes,” Pettingill added, in explaining his opposition vote.

Greenlaw did not offer a reason for her opposition.

Stoner explained she changed her mind, supporting the rezoning this time, due to the child care spaces added.

“I think it makes it a much stronger proposal in terms of delivering what we had envisioned for the Loggers East Neighbourhood Plan through this set of rezonings,” she said

The proposal will come back for adoption at a future council reading. It is exceedingly rare for a project to pass third reading but not be adopted.

Today, Rolo hasblossomedintoa gentle,curious rabbit whohas learnedthathumanscan be bringers of good things—especiallywhen thosehumanscomebearing freshgreens, veggies, andthe occasional tiny pieceoffruit.Offer hera leafytreat andshe’llgladlytakeitright from your hand, making it aperfect waytobuild trustand aspecial bond with her. RabbitslikeRoloare wonderfully unique companions.They’re notquite likecats or dogs—nocouch-snugglingorTV-watching required.Instead,theyoffer something quieterand deeply comforting:calmcompany at floor level, apeacefulreading buddy, or a sweet,softpresencenearbyastheyexplore theirspace at their ownpace.

Rolo is an exceptionally tidy girl whousesher litterbox faithfully.Hay is hermainfood source,and shealsoenjoysher youngrabbitpellets.Althoughshe’s undera year old, she’s alreadyreached heradult size—petite, perfect, andready forher foreverhome. With hergentlenature, cleanhabits, andgrowing confidence, Rolo is well on herway to becominga delightfulcompanion forsomeone whoappreciates thespecial magicrabbits bring to ahome. She’ssweet,she’s soft,and she’sready to learnwhatitmeans to be loved.

Rolo theRabbit

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Obituaries –InPrint and Online in our Local Community News

With Picture&FreeColour BOOKYOUR AD 604-892-9161

classified@squamishchief.com

Deadline: Monday3pm

OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED

Selling your small business?

I'm a local entrepreneur seek‐ing to acquire a small, estab‐lished business in Squamish or the Sea-to-Sky

Interested in service-based or owner-operated businesses where the owner is consider‐ing retirement, succession, or a new chapter

for the February 19th paper will be Friday February 13, at 1pm

With heavy hearts, we announcethe passingof KathleenMary(Davis) Westphal,who died peacefully at home in Osoyoos on January21, 2026, surrounded by family, after ashortbattle with cancer

BornOctober 21, 1941 in Regina, Saskatchewan, Kathie trainedasanurse before moving to Prince George, BC. It was there that she mether first husband, Sonny Davis, arailway worker and firefighter.Theymoved to Squamishin1969, where they raised sons Larryand Glenn. It was in Squamish that Kathie developed her passion for community service. Her volunteer work included local blood drives, working at the library, and supporting Sonny’sdedication to the Lions Club and Squamish Yacht Club. Shecontinuedher nursing work part timeatthe medical clinic while being an amazing wife and mother,ensuring her family lived ameaningful and healthy life.

After Sonny’sunexpected passing in 1992, she found love againwith Ernst Westphal, along-time friend from PrinceGeorge,and theymarried in 1994. They settled in Osoyoos, where Kathie continued her lifelong dedicationtovolunteering and caring for others, includingvolunteer work at the Osoyoos DesertCentre, the United Church Thrift Shop, the Mariposa Care Community,and various other community efforts.

Kathie and Ernst filled their 31 yearstogether with travel, volunteer work, and time with family.She was known for her kindness, compassion, warmth, and devotion to others. She is survived by her husband Ernst, her sons Larry(Debbie) andGlenn(Sheila), and her three beloved grandchildren.

The familywould like to extenda special thanks to Dr.deVries and the Palliative Care team of Interior Health for their care and support. Aprivate family service will be held at alater date. In lieu of flowers, the family invitesyou to honour Kathie’s memorywith arandom act of kindness.

I value legacy, employees, and a smooth transition. Flexible deal structures available. All inquiries kept strictly confiden‐tial

Email: devanteholdings@ gmail.com

Wendy Booth (nee Kuetbach)

December 10, 1954 -January27, 2026

It is with heavy hearts and sadness thatweannounce the death of aloving wife, mother,grandmother and friend. Wendywas born in Lethbridge, AB and after acourageous battle, passed away in Mission, BC with her family by her side.

Survived by husband Rob, daughter Connie (Quentin), daughter Sarah (Dave),son Gordon (Katelyn). Sister Merelyn Lobe, brother Malcom Kuetbach, 4 grandchildren and alarge extended family

In 1964, Wendymoved with her family to North Vancouver where she grew up and attended school.Her compassion for others led her to the VGH nursingschool from which she graduated as an RN in 1976. Soon after,Wendymet and then married Rob in 1979. Several years later they made their home in Squamish where they welcomed twingirls followed by ason. While living in Squamish Wendyfollowed her fitness passion, was member of the Squamish Kinettes and an active parishioner at St John the Divine Anglican church where she became administrator Herlove of fitness and the outdoors led her in 2012 to the new passion of Dragon boating.

In 2018 Wendyand Robmoved to Mission BC where Wendy’sfaith led her to the Mission Anglicanchurch and to anewfound enthusiasm for golf which she regularly enjoyed with friends.

Wendylived afulllife with faith, compassion and dignity. Family meant the world to her,and they willforevertreasureher spirit of love and grace. Rest in Peace.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to All Saints Anglican Church Mission or Mission Hospice Society Service will be heldatAll Saints Anglican Church, 33077 Second Avenue Mission, B.C. on Saturday,April 11, 2026, at 2:00 pm.

Previously Century21, ouroffice hasbeen providing exceptional real estate salesand rental accommodation services in the SeatoSky Corridor &throughout BC

We providehomeimprove‐ment services from smallto largerenovations.Including bathrooms, kitchens,flooring, painting and custom carpen‐try. Northshorebusinessfor over 20 years. www.custominstallat ions.ca

604.892.5954 Unit 101-38142Cleveland Ave, Squamish

BOOKYOUREVENT INTHESQUAMISH CHIEF’SONLINE EVENTCALENDAR FORFREE!

BUILDING OURCOMMUNITY

Employee Health &Wellness Plan available

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR – Minimum 5years or 5,000 hours operating experience on excavator.Crushing Experience preferred. Full-time,Monday –Friday.$33-$46 perhour.

CONSTRUCTIONLABOURER – Greatopportunity to learnon-thejob.Staminafor physically demanding work and perseverance to brave inclementweather required.Previous experience preferred butnot required. Training provided. $28-$33per hour.

PIPE LAYER –Minimum 5years experience in civil construction. Full-time,Monday –Friday.$33-$43 perhour

TRUCK DRIVER –BCDL Class1 or Class3with air brakes required. Manual transmission.2years experience preferred. $35-$41.50 perhour.

CRUSHING &EARTHWORKS MANAGER – Must have experience with civil construction. $33-$46per hour

APPRENTICE MECHANIC –Gain hands-onexperienceworking with heavy equipmentand fleetvehicles in afast-paced environment. We offer aclear pathway to Red Sealcertification. Entry-level: $27.03 perhour

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Be apart of theSea to Sky’sone and onlyweddingguide.

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WISHES will be availableat BridalFashionWeek andwidely distributed throughout the SeatoSky Corridor.

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Distribution 7,000Copies

To book your advertising space, call Squamish Chief: 604-892-9161ads@squamishchief.com PiqueNewsmagazine 604-938-0202sales@piquenewsmagazine.com

Employment Opportunity at SeatoSky School District No. 48

Required Immediately in the Whistler,Pemberton Area

Building Trades -Mechanical/Plumber

This is aunionised position that offers arate of $38.27 per hour, 40 hoursper week, day shift. Excellent benefitpackage including pension, health, vacation andsick benefits.

Qualifications:

•Interprovincial Trade Qualifications (TQ) in plumbing with aRed Seal endorsement. (Apprentices may be considered)

•Class BGasfitter licence

•Sufficient physical strength andhealth to perform the dudes required for this position.

•Cross Connection control Certificate is an asset

•Valid Class 5B.C. Driver’sLicense

•Knowledge of Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)and Workers’ Compensation Board(WCB) safety procedures

•Successful applicants will be required to consent to criminal recordssearch prior to employment.

Apply with cover letter resume/application, cover letter to Kevin Pederson, Posting 6114, kpederson@sd48.bc.ca

Sea to Sky School District No. 48 values an inclusive environment, whereequity is deeply embedded and diversity welcomed. We are committed to creatingand cultivating diverse, inclusive and barrier-free environments for all applicants, employees, students,and their families.

Squamish Recreation and Cultureislooking forpassionate, fun, and community-minded individuals with the skills to lead adaptivefitness programs forolder adults.

Do you:

•Enjoyworkfull of movement, fun and fulfillment?

•Enjoyworking with seniors?

•Haveexperiencewith group fitness or rehabilitativefitnessinstruction?

• Like flexible shifts?

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Part-Time Mixer Truck Drivers

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ARE YOU ARETIRED DRIVER WHO MISSES THE ROAD BUT DOESN’T MISS THELONG HOURS? JOIN OUR TEAM AS APART-TIME MIXER DRIVER AND WORK ONLYWHEN YOU WANT TO.

•Ultimate Flexibility: Youtell us which days you’re available. Perfect for golf days, familytime, or hobbies.

•Great Pay: Earnapremium wage for your experience. $39.96 -$45.96

•NoMixer Experience? No Problem: If you haveaClass 1orClass 3 license, we will provide full training on the Mixer truck

•Local Work: Stay close to home and be back for dinner everynight.

•Requirements: Valid Class 1or3License and apositive attitude.

•Apply Today: INFO@CARDINALCONCRETE.CA

1. Cleopatra’ssnake

4. Plug

8. Vacation hot spots

12. Anguish

13. Mane

14. Entertainer Bob

15. Historic period

16. Motionless

17.Gambler’swager

18. Walk leisurely

20.Pale

22.Celebration

24.Coal unit

27.Musical staff symbol

30.Barrel

31. Back in time

32. Bled, as acolor

33. Dern of films

35. Bad humor

36. Newspaperfeatures

37.Building wing

38. Pubbeverages

39.Adios!

40.Rudder handle

43. Flat-topped hill

45. Cafepatrons

49.Newborn

51.Ship’s pole

53.Courtamorously

54. Starerudely

55. Projecting roof edge

56. Gnome

57.Act

58. Winter coaster

59.Shark’shome

DOWN

1. Impresses 2. Classify 3. Partridge’stree? 4. concarne

5. Dipper

6. Lamp fuel

7. Nobler

8. Iranian ruler,once

9. Summer coiffure

10.Befitting

11. Comprehend

19.Not working

21. Long narrative

23. and crossbones

25. Mythicalmonster

26.Negatives

27.Grouchyperson

28. Titled woman

29.Musical group

33. Gives permission to

34. Assumed names

38. Music or literature

41.Abandon

42. Having hearing organs

44.Viewed

46. Barnyard females

47.Actress’s part

48. Love seat

49.Physique, shortly

50.18or21

52. Playmate

Crossword puzzle answers use American spelling

LASTWEEK’SANSWERS:

ARIES March 21-April 19

You’ll feel bogged down by months of accumulated fatigue. Treatyourself to some pamperingoratreatmentto restoreyourenergy.Inlove, don’t wasteyourtime on people who lack tact or respect.

TAURUS April 20-May20

Stress may gettoyou this week However, afew adjustments to your habits could be enough to restoreyourwell-being. Make room in your life for boldness. Clarify yourgoals to help turn your ambitions into simple, achievable steps

GEMINI May21-June 20

Your circleoffriends mayinvite youonanexcitingadventure. If you’reinarelationship, tendernesswill strengthenyour bond. If you’resingle,anadmirer mayrevealtheir feelingstoyou with acardordatefor Valentine’s Day.

CANCER June 21-July 22

Preparetofeelall kinds of emotions this week.Ifyou’re concernedabout your finances, act methodically. Practical solutions do exist. Once you regain control, you’ll invite happinessand lightnessback into your daily life

LEO July 23-Aug. 22

Afriend maydeclare their love for you.Atwork, the number of people who attend the event you’replanningwill exceed yourexpectations.Yourideas for change will be received with enthusiasm and openness.

VIRGO Aug. 23-Sept. 22

You’ll finally accomplish somethingyou’vebeenputting off for alongtime and gain peace of mind. Apositivetreatment or solution will improveyour well-being. In love,simple and thoughtful gestures will strengthen yourbond and improveyourrelationship

LIBRA Sept. 23-Oct. 22

You’ll feel under alot of pressure at work this week.You must persevereand remain disciplinedtofinalizeall your contracts or bringthoseprojects to completion. At the same time, regularphysicalactivitywill boost yourenergy and helpyou achieve yourfitnessgoals

SCORPIO Oct. 23-Nov. 21

Your hard work will payoff, and you’ll earn apromotion. Your leisureorsportingactivities will giveyou aboost of energy and enrichyoursociallife,helping you strike the rightbalance

betweenworkand play

SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22-Dec. 21

Your franknessmay spark criticism.Remembertobe alittle morediplomaticinconversation. In love,aspontaneousact could lead to aspirit of collaboration and aplayfulactivitythat brings you closer together.

CAPRICORN Dec. 22-Jan. 19

If you’reconsideringbuying property,anopportunitymay soon arisethat perfectlysuits yourneedsand budget.Keep aclose eyeonyourfinances to ease yourworries and rebuild yourconfidence.

AQUARIUS Jan. 20-Feb.18

Your week will be filledwith trips and outings,sometimes to assist lovedones.Renewing yourphone or internet contracts will challenge yourpatience, butyou’ll secure abetterratein the end.

PISCES Feb. 19-March 20

Youcould be feelingthe effects of seasonal depression, but physicalactivitywill be yourbest friend. You’ll quicklyregain your energy and mayevendiscover awintersport that you’re passionateabout

HOWTOPLAY:

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3box contains the numbers1through 9only once. Each 3x3box is outlined with adarker line. Youalready have afew numbers to getyou started. Remember: youmust not repeat the numbers1through 9in the same line, column or 3x3box

Holy Communion and Morning Worship

Sundays at10:00 AM Rev Cameron Gutjahr 1930 Diamond Road 604-898-5100

Exalting Jesus,Equipping His Followers,Engaging theWorld

www.squamishanglicanchurch.ca info@squamishanglicanchurch.ca WorshipService Sundays 10am

onour website and Facebook Live 2262ReadCres. 604-898-3737 www.squamishbaptistchurch.org

SUDOKU