July 16, 2026

PAGE 3

WHODECIDES WHEN A ROAD DIES?

Quest to catalogue roadsusersstruggletoaccess

THURSDAY,JULY16, 2026

HOUSING CRUNCH STILL CAUSINGLOCAL STAFFING WOES

‘Housing affordability andcostoflivingare the biggestdrivers of staffing shortagesoverall,but for ameaningfulsubsetof businesses’: Chamberof Commerce

WILL JOHNSON

ForThe Squamish Chief

Noaffordablehousing equals no qualifiedstaff

That’s oneofthe mathematical equationsatplayinSquamish,where business owners arescramblingtofindsuitable candidates forthe myriad of jobsonoffer.As the housingcrisisintensifies,thistrend seems poised to continue,unlesssomething meaningful is donetoattract andretaintalent to theSea to SkyCorridor It’s notaneasyissue to address.

AccordingtoAnneMacKenzie,executive directorofthe Squamish Chamberof Commerce,the problemismulti-faceted.Ina

PAGE 16

BRIDGE REPAIRSUNDERWAY

Learn what is happening in Paradise Valley

REPAIRS U arn

survey conductedofits membersinFebruary, the findings were dire.

“Fiftysix percentofrespondents said they’d faced recruitmentorretention difficultiesin the past year.Whenweasked why, thetwo most common answerswerea shortage of skilled, experiencedapplicantsand thecostof living—with alackofaffordablehousing,both torentand to buy, closebehind,”she told The

Squamish Chief.

“Several memberstold us these issues are connected:without affordable places for workerstolive,and withoutreliabletransit to get them there, localemployers,especiallyin food,accommodation andother front-line serviceroles,are struggling to fill positions.”

Shesaidconsumers will seethisreflected in reducedhours,limited serviceand higher

prices.

TEMPORARYFOREIGN WORKER CHANGESAFFECTING EMPLOYMENT NUMBERS

Thestaffingproblem in Squamish is compounded by issues surroundingthe

HOUSING: Continuedon2

PHOTO BY JENN FERTHUNCHER/THE SQUAMISHCHIEF

Alackofaffordable housing in town is one of the mainfactorsemployers saytheystrugglewith in finding quality, long-termemployees

HOUSING: Continued from 1

temporary foreign worker program, particularly recent changes made at the federal level.

In a move intended to protect Canadian workers, the feds introduced a new cap that limits employers to having only 10% of their workforce consist of foreign workers They rolled back pandemic-era expansions of the program, introduced new rules about how long low-wage jobs should be advertised and introduced harsh penalties for employers who don’t follow the new rules.

All of this has led to more hiring difficulty, according to MacKenzie.

“Roughly 30% said the changes had affected their business to some degree Several described losing trained, reliable staff who couldn’t renew work visas or secure permanent residency, in one case representing thousands of dollars in lost training investment. Hospitality employers in particular pointed to kitchen and back-of-house roles that are hard to fill locally, with one describing a valued team member ‘struggling a lot with the updates to paperwork and limitations placed on him’,” she said

“Housing affordability and cost of living are the biggest drivers of staffing shortages overall, but for a meaningful subset of businesses, particularly in hospitality, reduced access to temporary foreign workers is compounding an already difficult hiring environment.”

INVESTING IN HOUSING, LOCAL TALENT

Some businesses are taking housing issues into their own hands, such as the Sea to Sky Gondola. Though they have a steady influx of workers, they recognize that it’s dependent on

their employees having a place to lay their head.

According to Christy Allan, director of sales, marketing and guest services for the gondola, it’s all about investing

“We have invested heavily in staff housing and are fortunate to have a strong source of candidates through the working holiday program and so are less reliant on the temporary foreign worker program. However, we recognize it as an essential program for many local businesses and it needs to be supported,” she said, speaking of the gondola’s rental staff accommodation

“Our first choice is to always hire within the local community. We have many amazing locals working for us in all different capacities in the operation and strong connections with Howe Sound Secondary and local post-secondary schools. We also have a strong and locally-based leadership team.”

But the federal changes to the foreign worker program have hit them too.

“It’s challenging for international staff to stay here long-term due to the tightening of the permanent resident and points system. We lose well-qualified, passionate young people who are embedded in the local community every season.”

BUILDING PRESSURE, RISING OPERATING COSTS

According to Kerry Neil, executive director of the Downtown Squamish Business Improvement Association, staffing issues don’t boil down to one specific cause.

“From what we’re hearing from our downtown businesses, staffing continues to be a challenge, although it really depends on the business and the sector,” she said

“We do hear about housing. The cost of living in Squamish, combined with the limited availability of housing, makes it difficult for businesses to recruit and retain employees. Many workers simply can’t find housing they can afford here, and some end up looking for opportunities in communities where living costs are lower,” she said

Currently, vacancy rates in Squamish are less than 1%, while rental prices have jumped 50% in the past half decade. The District has tweaked its bylaws to encourage development, but multiple projects are languishing due to provincial funding cuts

“That said, staffing isn’t the only pressure businesses are facing Many of our small independent businesses are also dealing with rising operating costs, increasing lease rates, and now the extension of the PST to professional and commercial services For many businesses, that’s another 7% added to services they rely on to operate. It’s another cost at a time when margins are already tight.”

Set to be introduced in October, the new provincial sales tax will apply to accounting, bookkeeping, real estate, architecture, engineering and security Neil noted that Squamish Coun. Lauren Greenlaw has launched a petition calling on the provincial government to reconsider the change.

“Our business community has shown a lot of resilience and creativity in adapting to these challenges, but workforce availability remains an important issue for the long-term health of downtown Squamish Providing housing for local workers is key to building a strong local economy and ensuring our downtown businesses can continue to serve both residents and visitors,” Neil said

TOO MANY APPLICANTS?

WorkBC Sea to Sky employment placement specialist Nick Stenner has been on the frontlines of this staffing conflict. He believes housing issues are having an impact, but the real problem is a mismatch of skills.

“I would say it’s usually the case that the Sea to Sky region is experiencing labour crunches. And housing has been front and centre of that issue. Our tourism and construction economy is always booming, that drives up the cost of housing, then the housing becomes too expensive for low-wage workers,” he said

“However, there has been a change in the economy in recent years. Some industries are still experiencing shortages, but I would estimate a large percentage of industries in Squamish right now have the opposite problem: too many applicants. For example, it’s not uncommon to get up to 100 applicants for a standard receptionist position in Squamish right now.”

Stenner has observed lower wage-paying jobs such as fast food chains experience shortages, as well as hotels. But there’s also highly skilled positions that aren’t being filled

“Health care is also an industry struggling to find applicants. Certified nurses, lab techs and health care aides are in short supply,” he said

“Office, tech, admin and marketing are also industries where people are struggling to find work, and businesses are being flooded with applicants I believe this is due to the recent layoffs in the tech and video game industries.”

From his perspective, training is one key way to address the issue.

HOUSING: Continued on 6

GOTNEWS?

GOT N

Email your news t story idea to:

Emailyournewstip or storyideato: jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca ipace@lodestarmedia.ca

WHO DECIDESWHENAB.C.RESOURCEROADDIES?

Anew survey from theOutdoor Recreation CouncilofB.C.aimstocatalogue

LIZMCDONALD

emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca

They’re winding, dusty, and oftendotted with deep cratersand bulgingrocks,but forest serviceand resource roads throughout B.C. provideunparallelled access to thebackcountry

Spanning over 600,000kilometresinB.C., resource roadsare builtonCrown land by industry,often createdtoaccessprojectsby forestry operations, oiland gasextraction, mining,agriculture or cleanenergy. Many of these aremaintainedand createdthrough permitsissuedunder theForestryAct,whereas unpermitted roadsare oftenmaintainedbythe province.Thispatchwork of responsibility meansnoone agency is responsiblefor keeping accessalive.

Butresource-extraction industries aren’t the onlyparties that usethese roads. Hikers,ATV riders,paddlers, ski-tourers, families goingto lakesonhot summer days,orcampers seeking cabinsand campgroundsall useresource roads forrecreation.For some ruralcommunities, they area lifeline

Anew survey from theOutdoorRecreation Councilof B.C. (ORCBC)aimstobetter understand howand whyaccesstothese roads is eroding, andwhatcan be donetomaintain theirvital infrastructure forfuturegenerations. TheBCResourceRoadAccessSurveyisa collaboration betweenprovincial recreation organizations.

ORCBCisacouncil of varioususergroups thatare organizedatthe provincial level, and also includeslocal andregional members, according to Louise Pedersen,executive director forORCBC.

“The loss of access roadsisbecomingsucha huge problem,”saidPedersen. “It’sbecominga problemfor allrecreationgroups, I wouldsay, with no exception. It’s aproblem forcommunities. It’s aproblem fortourism as well.”

So,ifthese roadsexist,why aresomeofthem barricadedorunmaintained? Pedersen says thereisalegislative gapthat’sresponsible Permit-holders arelegally responsiblefor a road,and oncetheyhavefinishedusing it,the currentlegal frameworkrequiresthemtoeither continue maintenanceand remain liable,or deactivate it,she said.

Under thecurrent framework, recreational useisn’t formally recognized as areasontokeep roadsopen.

When theseroads close, it causes aspill-over effect.MonikaBittel, recreation andaccess chair with the Federation of Mountain Clubsof BC, says theSea to Skyisone of many examples

“When people lose access,everybody is being forcedintothe places that remain open.And thatresults in overcapacity,overuse,sopeople go to placesthataren’treallyequipped necessarily to handle that volume of recreationalists,” shesaid.

Hearingand seeing thelossofaccessherself,

TheOutdoor Recreation CouncilofB.C.has launched asurveyfocused on understandingimpediments to resource roadsinB.C Access issues caninclude washouts,likethe oneshown here on Squamish RiverForestService Road from 2024

shebegan advocatingfor fundingfor road maintenance. Sheoften heardbackfromthe province that maintaining600,000 kmsofroads is notfeasiblefromabudgetstandpoint.

“I said,well, we’renot asking for600,000 kilometres of roadstobefunded. We would always give specific examples,sothatkindof startedthatdiscussionastohow do we actually identify theroads that areimportant for outdoorrecreation,all formsofoutdoor recreation,” shesaid.

Shecreated arudimentary inventorysurvey, andwhenORCBC createdaresourceroad workinggroup,the concepts merged.

“I broughtthisideaabout this inventory,

becausefor me,ifyou want to solveaproblem, youhavetounderstandthe problem… So this is astartingpoint to identify wherethe roadsare andwhatthe problems are,”she said

Theworking groupwilluse mappingdata from theService Road Atlas, ahandy tool for findingand sharingup-to-dateinformation on backcountryroadconditions.

WhilePedersensaysparticipation in outdoorrecreation hasintrinsic value, shealso stressed theeconomicbenefits. Theprovince recently unveiled itsoutdoor recreation strategy that highlights theeconomicdriver

RESOURCE ROAD: Continuedon6

COURTESY OF OLEG ZADNIPRYANY

SQUAMISH-TESTEDTOOLAIMSTOTAKETHE GUESSWORK OUT OF EVACUATION ROUTES

BackRoadIntelscoresbackcountry roadsblock by block, afterits founders foundmany‘viable’evacuationrouteshadn’t beenchecked in years

LIZMCDONALD

emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca

Whether it’s alandslide shutting access to theSea to SkyHighway or awildfirethattraps citizens, residentsofSquamish know alltoo well how relianttheyare on theonlyreliableroute in andout of thecorridor.

Anew emergencyevacuationtoolaimsto helplocal governments,First Nations and remotecommunities access better informationabout availablebackcountryroutes whena disaster strikes.

TheB.C.-builttechnology, recently tested in theSea to Skyregion, aims to remove the guesswork from thosecriticalroutes.

FROM WEST KELOWNAFIRETO NEW EMERGENCYTOOL

ChrisStewart,president andco-founder of IntellimassTechnologiesInc., says the ideafor theirflagshipproduct,Backroad Intel, took shapeafter the2023West Kelownawildfire.

Stewartand hisco-founder, Ryan Gallagher,started to runthe numberson whether tens of thousandsofpeoplecould beroutedthrough back roads.

Theyquickly realized what exists and what’s passable aretwo differentthings.

“Wefound that there’sa disconnect between what is stated as viable evacuation routes, andwhatare trulyviableevacuation routes.Areas that arestatedinmany differentregionaldistricts,itturnsout, haven’tbeenvettedinfiveor10years Sometimes they become extremely deteriorated andover-vegetated,”Stewart said So,theycreated asolution. BackRoadIntel founders createdahitchmounted sensor device that turnsany

BritanniaMineMuseum gratefully acknowledges theircommunity sponsors:

GIANTS AN

PHOTOBYCAVAN IMAGES /ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS

Anew tool aims to inform emergencyevacuationmanagersabout whichbackroadroutesare viable when adisasterstrikes

truckorSUV into amovingroadassessmentvehicle.Inrealtime, thesensor gathersdataonthe path’s conditions and strength andcreates aGPS heat mapthat scores wherethe road is strong,passable, or dangerous.

Stewartsaysthe team partneredwiththe NaturalResourceDistrictofficein Squamish anddeployedadevicewith Squamish Search andRescuetomap local routes.

Over aseven-weektrial,multipleunits collecteddataonmorethan3,000 kilometresofcriticalunpaved road in the region.

Stewartwants to have thetoolintegrated intoemergency operations centres.

Forlocal governments like theDistrictof Squamish or theSquamish-Lillooet Regional District,Stewart says asingle device currentlycosts about$8,000per yeartooperate.

DASH-CAM ROLLOUT

Thecompany is also testingwaystobring communitymembers into themapping

effort.Inapilot underway on northern VancouverIsland, basedout of Port Hardy, BackRoadIntelistesting afreedashcam appthatletsresidents andtravellershelp trackroadconditionsastheydrive Usersmount theirphoneonthe dashboardorwindshieldand canflag hazards in real time,which areloggedtothe same GPS-basedmap as thehitch-mounted sensors.

“Wecan’t have anyblockages or any stops,”Stewart said,comparing theroad networktoacirculatory system.“Themore we have people beingabletocapture,see andprovide it in asuper simplistic way... then we’vegot an abilitytocentralizethis data andget away better senseofthe true pulseofaroad.”

Stewartsaidthe appwon’t cost users anything to download,and thecompany sees industries that rely on ruralroads forestry,mining, research operations—as potentialfuturepartnerswho couldhelp fund thedatacollectionwhile benefiting from safer, more predictableroutesfor theirown crews.

B.C. REGULATORAPPROVES FORTISBC INCREASE IN WASTE DISCHARGE FORTUNNEL

EnvironmentalgroupscallonBCEnergyRegulator to stop FortisBC from workingonthe tunnel untiltheycontrol wastewaterbetter

JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

The provincial energy regulatorhas approved FortisBC’s requesttoincrease thedischarge effluent goingintoHowe Soundfromthe EagleMountainpipelinetunnel construction project

On July 6, theBritish Columbia Energy Regulator(BCER)issuedanamended waste dischargepermittoFortisBCinrelationtothe tunnel construction portionofthe Eagle Mountain-WoodfibreGas Pipeline Project.

Specifically,the authorizationappliestothe dischargeofeffluentfromthe BC Rail site and WoodfibreLNG sitesoftunnelconstruction.

When it appliedfor theamendment,FortisBC hadsaidmorewater andmineralsthanexpected have been encounteredduringconstructionof thetunnel.

It askedtoincreasedischarge volumesand to increase theamountofcopperand aluminum it wasallowed in thewastewater.

BCRAILSITE

Accordingtothe BCER’s amendedpermit, on theBCRailsideofthe tunnel, thesourceofthe dischargeincludescontact waterfrom precipitation,groundwater andwater generatedduring theconstructionprocess includingdrilling, grouting andtunnelboring, thepermitreads.

This dischargeisreleasedintothe BC Rail properties’storm sewer.

Themaximum authorized rate of dischargeis 515cubic meters perday

Thereisalsoadischarge of effluentfrom pipeline hydrostatictesting at theBCRailsite.

Thesourceofthisdischarge is non-treated waterobtainedfor thepurposesofconducting thehydrostatic pipeline test.

This will also be released by thestorm sewer.

The maximumauthorized volume of dischargefromthislocationis2,700 cubic metres

WOODFIBRELNG SITE

In this case,the source of thedischarge includes contactwater from precipitation, runoff, groundwaterinflowwithinthe bedrocktunnel andtunnelboringmachine,industrialwater includingwater fordrilling, probingand

cleaning equipment, andprecipitation and runofffromthe potentialacidgeneratingrock temporarystorage,according to theamended permit

Thedischarge will flowintoEastCreek,which thenflows into Howe Sound.

Themaximum authorized rate of dischargeis 6,815cubicmetresper day

Fordissolved copper,the maximum allowedis 0.00366mg/L

“With theexception of dissolvedcopper, the effluentdischargedfromthe wastewater treatmentsystemshall notexceedtheapplicable British Columbia approved andworking water qualityguidelines forfreshwaterand marine aquatic life,aspublished by theMinistryof Environmentand ClimateChangeStrategy,”the permit reads. “Additionally, theeffluentshall be free of other contaminants in concentrations thatmay have an adverseeffecton thereceiving environment.”

Under theterms of thepermit, FortisBC must ensure themonitoringofbiological, hydrological andgeomorphicconditionsinEastCreek

Thepermitreads that FortisBC “shall ensure that anydischarge underthe permit meet(s)the requirements of otherregulatoryagencies including, butnot restricted to Environment Canadaand the Department of Fisheriesand Oceans.”

FortisBC must measureand record thedaily volumetric rate of discharge.

Recently,aspokespersonfor FortisBC told The Squamish Chiefthatlessthanone kilometreof tunnelling remains, andthe companyanticipatescompletingtunnelexcavationthisfall.

‘CLEAR REGULATORY FAILURE’

Representativeswithenvironmental groups

MySea to Skyand theSunshineCoast Conservation Associationissueda joint statementinoppositiontothe approval Thenew limits areoverfourtimes more than theoriginal permit allowed, andcomes followinginformationthatthe companyhas been violatingits original permit foroverayear, they say.

Theorganizations arecalling forBCERto pausethe permit amendmentand investigate thedischarge pointas“thetoxic effluent is flowingintothe Átl’ḵa7tsem /HoweSound Biosphere Region.”

Inlailawatash LimitedPartnership ForestOperations Map

FOMID: 3299

Notice is hereby giventhat InlailawatashLimited Partnership is seekingpublic review and comment on thefollowingForest Operations Map(FOM) fora thirty-day period between July 16th , 2026and August15th,2026.

FOMID: 3299

NaturalResourceDistrict: Sea-to-Sky

Timber SupplyArea: Soo LandscapeUnit: Mamquam

Maps areavailablefor review and comment through thefollowing GovernmentofBritish Columbiawebsite: https://fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/ public/projects.

Printedmaps canalsobemade available forreviewbyappointment onlyatthe Inlailawatash LimitedPartnership Office in North Vancouver,BC, between 8:30 am and 5:00 pm.Appointmentsmay bearrangedvia theemail addressbelow.

Commentsmay be submittedonlineduringthe thirty-day review periodathttps://fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects, by emailto matthew.marziali@inlailawatash.ca, or by mail to Inlailawatash LimitedPartnership,3178 AlderCourt, NorthVancouver,BCV7H 2V6.Ifcommentingvia mail or email, please referencethe FOMID.

This FOMmay be reliedupon duringroad and cutting permit submissions fora periodofuptothree yearsendingAugust15th,2029.

COURTESY OF MY SEATOSKY ANDTHE SUNSHINE COASTCONSERVATIONASSOCIATION

Thedischarge will flowintoEastCreek,which then flows into Howe Sound.

BCER: Continued from 5

“Átl’ḵa7tsem / Howe Sound is designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Region and recognized internationally as a cultural and ecological treasure Increasing pollutants and weakening water-quality protections violates the principles of a UNESCO Biosphere Region and risks undermining the hard-fought ecological recovery of Howe Sound,” said Suzanne Senger, executive director of the Sunshine Coast Conservation Association, in a press release. “The regulator should make FortisBC stop work on the tunnel until they control the excessive flow of wastewater and upgrade the water treatment system to meet water quality guidelines.”

The release adds that the wastewater has exceeded federal and provincial water quality guidelines for copper and aluminum on an almost weekly basis since December 2024

“Both copper and aluminum are known to be highly toxic to marine life,” the statement reads.

“Canada’s ‘clean’ LNG industry has a pipeline of pollution that runs directly into the fragile marine ecosystems of ... Howe Sound Biosphere Region,” said Tracey Saxby, marine scientist and executive director of My Sea to Sky, in the release. “This is a clear regulatory failure. Instead

of holding FortisBC accountable to the original permit, the BC Energy Regulator has allowed FortisBC to pollute even more Two years ago, we warned the regulator that FortisBC’s water treatment system for the Eagle Mountain to Woodfibre Gas Pipeline project was inadequate and that it would fail to meet requirements FortisBC has broken its promise to halt effluent discharge from the tunnel if water quality guidelines were not being met.”

‘FOR THE PROTECTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT’?

One of the accusations in the joint statement is that Patrick Canning, a lawyer for My Sea to Sky, says “Section 16 of the Environmental Management Act gives power to amend permits which have already been granted, but only if the amendments are ‘for the protection of the environment.’ That’s not the case here.”

Asked about this directly, BCER sent a statement saying that protecting the safety of residents and the environment remains a key priority in the BCER’s oversight of the project. Regular environmental monitoring continues under permit requirements and includes weekly water quality sampling at the discharge location and downstream of the discharge point, as well as continuous real-time monitoring of specified

water quality parameters,” the statement reads.

“Additional monitoring is also conducted in Howe Sound as part of broader environmental assessment requirements.”

The statement also reiterates that the amended permit reflects a realization by FortisBC officials that construction conditions encountered during tunnelling differed from what was anticipated when the original permit was issued.

Specifically, higher-than-expected volumes of groundwater have entered the tunnel during construction, requiring additional treatment capacity.

“To address these conditions, the BCER confirmed that FortisBC upgraded its water treatment facility by increasing treatment and hydraulic capacity, adding back-ups to ensure that systems remain resilient even when something fails, and improving the system’s ability to manage fluctuations in incoming water volumes and water quality. The upgraded treatment system has been designed by qualified professional engineers to meet the requirements of the amended permit and the encountered construction conditions,” the BCER statement reads.

Monitoring and technical assessments indicate that treated effluent is not expected to adversely affect fish, aquatic invertebrates or plant life in East Creek or Howe Sound, according to BCER. This is confirmed through bi-weekly testing for potential effects on fish and aquatic invertebrates, BCER states.

“FortisBC self-disclosed to the BCER isolated exceedances of dissolved copper guidelines However, technical assessments of site-specific conditions, background copper concentrations and available monitoring data indicate these events do not represent a concern from an ecological risk perspective under current conditions The BCER’s review also considered expert assessments indicating the potential for cumulative environmental effects from the discharge remains low,” the statement reads.

“The BCER will continue to oversee and ensure FortisBC’s compliance with the amended permit and environmental requirements throughout construction to ensure the project is managed in a manner that protects people, communities and the environment.”

that is recreation in B.C. and the strategy mentioned a modernized framework for high value recreation access and resource roads.

“In 2023, outdoor recreation participation directly contributed $4.8 billion to the provincial economy, representing 1.5% of real GDP. It supports jobs, local businesses, and community development, especially in rural regions that are diversifying beyond traditional resource industries,” reads the report Pedersen said their survey can provide data for such a framework, enabling evidencebased decision-making.

ROAD ACCESS SURVEY

According to ORCBC, the survey calls on users from diverse backgrounds “to identify resource roads that are currently used for recreation, roads that may be at risk of closure or deactivation, and roads where access has already been lost, limited or made difficult.”

HOUSING: Continued from 2

“We have a number of clients with a wide range of skills and experiences looking for work right now. Youth employment in Canada is extremely high right now, and they all have incredible potential. Most people are trainable,” he said

“Even if someone doesn’t have the exact

The responses will create a provincial inventory and aid future advocacy with the province, Indigenous and local governments, industry and other partners.

It takes anywhere between 10 to 20 minutes to complete, and welcomes comments about “barriers such as gates, washouts, missing bridges or culverts, poor road conditions, seasonal closures, wildlife management closures and other access challenges.”

People are also encouraged to bring up solutions, from shared maintenance agreements, signage, risk assessments, “reroutes and funding for priority recreation access routes.”

“If people think that they need to have specific knowledge to answer the survey, (they don’t). If you’re a recreation user and you use a road to access your favourite places or various different places, go into the survey, start filling it out,” Bittel said

experience you’re seeking, businesses should look for transferable soft skills and contact a local WorkBC office to help with training hard skills. We also have a wage subsidy program that can help employers pay for the costs of providing on-the-job skills training to promising candidates.”

RESOURCE ROAD: Continued from 3

COUNCIL GIVES EARLY NOD TO HUNTER PLACE SWAPPING

OFFICE SPACE FOR HOUSING

District council narrowly passes two readings of a rezoning amendment to reduce employment space and replace it with more housing in the now proposed 284-unit project

words, the developers argue they need this change to proceed to construction

JENNIFER THUNCHER Jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

If all goes according to plan, there may be more residential units coming to the area behind Squamish Station in the next few years.

Council narrowly passed two readings for a zoning bylaw amendment for the properties at 1100, 1120, and 1140 Hunter Place at its meeting on July 7.

Development of these properties has been in the works for years, but had yet to come to fruition

The proponent, Hunter Place Developments, asked the District to reduce the amount of office space in its planned project for the properties by 10% and increase the residential units by 68.

They say this change will improve the financial viability of this project. In other

While staff had recommended three readings be considered at the meeting, this was amended so that elected officials only considered two readings

The vote came down to 4-3 in support with Mayor Armand Hurford and Couns. Jenna Stoner, Lauren Greenlaw, Chris Pettingill voting in favour of the two readings, while Couns John French, Eric Andersen and Andrew Hamilton opposed.

BACKGROUND

The originally proposed project passed final adoption at council in 2022

Development permit and servicing agreement applications for the original Phase 1 of the project were submitted in 2023, but the developers asked to put them on hold when the rezoning application was submitted in 2025.

The proponents want to remove the requirement for an office building to be built at

the south-east corner of the site, fronting Pemberton Avenue, and instead increase the maximum permitted residential density (floor area ratio, or FAR) from 1.19 to 1.36 to allow for additional residential rental units. The total overall FAR is not increasing

The rezoning will create a mixed-use development containing 20% employment space, rather than the original 30%, and a mix of affordable rental, market rental, and for-sale units

The plan increases the original 25 affordable rental units to 43 The overall residential units on the site will increase to 284, from 216.

Of the units, 25 will be market rentals. As required, 20% of the residential gross floor area will be dedicated to three-bedroom units, and 10% will be adaptable for accessibility requirements.

There are 359 parking spaces on-site, including 30 tandem spaces

The maximum height of buildings will be 26.5 metres, down from 28 m.

There will now be a car share attached to the affordable units.

“The rezoning is a trade-off between office space and rental residential. Staff recommend first three readings because of the increase in the number of affordable rental units proposed and the in-kind amenities secured through the original rezoning,” reads the staff report to council.

The staff report also states that the loss of the proposed almost 2,000 square metres of office space in this Hunter Place development is the equivalent of 12% of the office space supply currently in the development pipeline through the District, including projects at the rezoning stage through to those under construction

On the flip side, the amount of residential units in the project would provide 41% of the 685 units identified as needed in the District’s 2023 Housing Needs Report

“Staff are supportive of the conversion of 10%

HUNTER PLACE: Continued on 11

2027 PermissiveTax

Exemption Applications

PermissiveTax Exemptions areamethod that the DistrictofSquamish,supportedbyCouncil, maysupportvoluntarynon-profitorganizations by exempting land or improvements or both, from taxation under Section 224ofthe CommunityCharter.

TheDistrictofSquamish is nowaccepting applications forPermissive TaxExemptions.Section 224 of the CommunityCharterand the requirements of the DistrictofSquamish PermissiveTax Exemption policyapply.Ifyour organization candemonstrate eligibilityyou arewelcome to apply foranexemption. Theapplication andpolicy areavailable online.The deadline to apply is July 31,2026for exemptions beginningfor the 2027taxation year Formoreinformation, please contactus at 604-892-5217. squamish.ca/grants

InfrastructureUpgrades

•Depot Road Active Transportation Upgrades continue in Brackendale.Residents should expect increased noise level and single-lane alternating traffic during construction hours (7a.m. to 5p.m., MondaytoFriday).

•Annual Line Painting is taking placefor three weeks beginning July 16.

•Wastewater System Upgrades continue in Dentville, on the Madill Forcemain. Construction work is paused.

•Annual Watermain Upgrades continue in Brackendale

•Phased construction work on Squamish RiverDike at Harrisand Dryden Pump Stations and Central LiftStation continues through November. squamish.ca/building-our-future

Business Opportunities

Requests forProposals

•Archeological Consulting Services

•Consulting Services forPool Deck AirHandling Unit

Replacement

•FireServices Master Plan

squamish.ca/doing-business-with-the-district

DevelopmentReview

• Unaddressed ParcelOnRoss Rd–Subdivision squamish.ca/review

Signupfor Squamish Alert squamish.ca/alert

Mondays

ReducedMobilityMovement 10:10—11:10a.m.

Shoulder/HandRecovery 11:15a.m.—12:15p.m. Hip/KneeRecoveryExercises 12:30—1:30p.m.

Tuesdays

TaiChi-inspired-Seated 11:15a.m.—12:15p.m.

HealingFitness SummerClasses

TaiChi-inspired-Flow 1:45-2:45p.m

Thursdays

HealthyBones&Joints 11:15a.m.—12:15p.m.

TaiChi-inspired-Flow 1:45—2:45p.m.

SAFETYCONCERNSSPARK PUSH FORPERMANENT TRAFFIC CALMING ON LOGGERSLANE

Over thepastthree years, Montessori School staff have regularlyseennumerousvehiclestravellingabove theposted30 km/hplaygroundzonespeed limit, says school representative

JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

Aschool administratorand concerned parentmadeanunscheduledappearance at councilonJuly7 to requestthe District look into trafficcalming measures due tovehiclesspeedingalong LoggersLane, near BrennanPark.

LindsayNevison,who is elementary andlead administratorofSquamishMontessoriSchoolat 103-42000 LoggersLane, shared concerns about what sheand others have witnessedinfront of theschool, an area whichalsoencompasses a daycare, independentschooland BrennanPark Recreation Centre

“Every day, (the route) is used by young childrenand theirfamilies walking andcycling to Squamish Montessori School,aswellas Brennan Park andmanyother activities in the area—peopleaccessing BrennanPark Recreation Centre,transit users, residents travelling throughthe neighbourhood,” she said.“It is alreadydesignatedasaparkzone, recognizingthatthisisaplace where safety of people should come first.”

VULNERABLE ROAD USERS

Squamish Montessori School serves preschool, 2.5years anduptoGrade 6, Nevison noted.

“Manywho arrive on foot or by bicycle, and some aredropped offbytheir families.These are some of thecommunity’s youngestand most vulnerableroadusers,makingsafevehicle speeds especially importantinthisarea. Despite existingparkzonealready in place, speeding continues to be aconcern,”she said,addingthat periodicallythe District hasinstalled digital speeddisplay signsand theRCMPconducts enforcementinthe area

“While these effortsare appreciated,theyare temporarymeasures, andonce signsor enforcement aregone, thespeedthenresumes,” she said.

“Traffic conditionshavealsochanged significantly.The closureof FinchDrive associated with theLNG projecthas redirected more vehicles to LoggersLane. At thesame time,ongoing construction alongLoggers Lane, Centennial Wayand FinchDrive East area have increasedtraffic volumesand altereddriving patterns.”

Aportion of FinchDrive is closed for installation of theEagle Mountain –Woodfibre GasPipeline Project.

Nevisonsaidthere have been closecalls,some very recently,which precipitated hercomingto councilaskingtobeheardduringthe unscheduled publicattendanceportion of themeeting. Reachedfor commentafter themeeting, Nevison said herconcern is notbased on a single isolated incident butratheronthe cumulative changesthathaveoccurredinthe areaoverthe past severalyears andthe increasing number of vulnerable road users.

“The parkinglot entrancesand crosswalks are where we seethe greatestsafetyconcerns,” she said. “Throughoutthe day, children arewalking, scootering,and cyclingbetween school, recreation centre,sportsfields, andBMX track. Itiscommontosee youngchildrenmoving quickly betweenthese destinations while vehicles areenteringorexiting parkinglotsor travellingthrough thecorridor. Theseare natural conflict points whereevenasmall increaseinvehicle speedora momentarylapse in attention canhaveserious consequences,” shesaid.

Sheadded that over thepastthree years, school staffhaveregularly seen thetemporary digital speeddisplay signs in this area register— and have personally witnessed—numerous vehicles travelling abovethe posted 30 km/h playground zone speedlimit.

NEAR MISSES

“The near misses we have witnessedare primarily everydayinteractionsbetween residentialvehiclesand youngpedestrians or cyclists. We have observed numerous occasions where drivershavehad to brakesuddenlyafter children enteredacrosswalk or crossednearthe pathway connecting BrennanPark, theBMX track, andsportsfields. Whileitisimpossibleto know theexact causeinevery situation, vehicle speed appearstobearecurring factor,along with driversnot anticipatinghow quickly childrencan move into theseareas.Thankfully, we are notaware of anyserious injuries,but these situations reinforcethe importance of takinga proactiveapproachbeforeatragedy occurs,”Nevison added.

Although construction activity will eventually winddown, shesaidthe increasedtraffic associated with developments in theareaisnot

temporary.

“Asprojectstransition from construction into residentialand commercial occupancy, vehicle volumes will continue to grow,bringingmore residents, employees, customers, andfamilies

into thearea. Some commercial developments arealready nearingoccupancy,further emphasizingthe need to assess thelong-term

LOGGERSLANE: Continuedon16

Call forExpressions of Interest

TheDistrictofSquamishisseekingexpressions of interest to lease portions of theSquamishAdventure Centre.

Create astandoutfoodand beverage/retail experienceinone of Squamish’s most visited destinations!Thisisa rare chance to secure ahigh-profile food and beverage/retail spaceright at thegateway to theSea to SkyCorridor.Located insidethe iconic SquamishAdventure Centre,thisspace’sunparalleled visibility ensures your businessstandsout to everyone drivingalong Highway99.

Formoreinformation or to apply, head to squamish.ca/adventure-centre-eoi orcontact NavTriplett, PortfolioManager at ntriplett@squamish.ca

PHOTOBYJENNIFERTHUNCHER/THESQUAMISHCHIEF

Aportion of FinchDrive (atLoggers Lane)iscurrently closed forthe installation of theEagle Mountain - Woodfibre GasPipelineproject

View this ad online:

NoticeofBylawReadings

Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at 6p.m.

Council Chambers at the District of Squamish Municipal Hall,37955 Second Avenue,Squamish, B.C. or electronically at squamish.civicweb.net

What’s Proposed:

To introduceadefinition and regulatory framework forco-living within the Districtof Squamish Zoning Bylaw.

District of Squamish Zoning BylawNo2200, 2011, Amendment Bylaw(Co-Living Regulation) No.3239, 2026

AffectedLands

Properties currently zoned R-1, R-4, and R-5.

Proposed Amendment Bylaw

Thepurpose of the proposed Bylawistointroduce adefinition and regulatory frameworkfor co-living within the DistrictofSquamish Zoning Bylaw.

No Public Hearing

In accordancewith Provincial legislation, Section 464(2) of the Local GovernmentAct,local governments are prohibited fromholding public hearings relatedtorezoning applications thatare consistentwiththe local government’sOfficial CommunityPlan(OCP).

HowtoView

Acopyofthe proposed bylawand relatedinformation thathas been or maybe considered by the Council can be inspectedonline or at Municipal Hall

Online at: LetsTalkSquamish.ca/co-living

Municipal Hall at 37955 Second Avenue,Squamish, British Columbia, from Thursday, July 9, 2026 to Tuesday,July 21, 2026, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Mondaythrough Friday except forstatutoryholidays

Questions?

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.Publish date: July 16, 2026.

NoticeofTemporaryUse

Permit:

Thursday, July 30,2026 at 4p.m.

What’s Proposed:

To allowthe short-term rental use in the secondarysuitefor aperiod of 3years.

DistrictofSquamish TemporaryUse Permit No.DTU00090

AffectedLands

40152 Bill’s Place, Squamish BC

Legal Description LOT22BLOCK RDISTRICT LOTS 511 AND 4103 SECTION 1 TOWNSHIP 50 PLAN 15024

Existing Zoning R-1 (Residential 1)

ProposedTemporary Use

Under the District’sZoning Bylaw No.2200, 2011, short-term rental use is notpermitted in adwelling unit thatisnot aprincipal residence; short-term rental use is also notpermitted in asecondarysuiteoraccessorydwelling unit (coach house).If approved,the TemporaryUse Permitwould allowthe short-term rental use in the secondarysuitefor aperiod of 3years.The applicantcan apply to renew the permit foran additional periodofupto3 years following the expiry of the original permit.

HowtoView

Acopyofthe proposed TemporaryUse Permitand relatedinformation thathas been or maybeconsidered by the DistrictofSquamishcan be inspectedonline or at Municipal Hall.

•Online at: squamish.ca/showcase

•Municipal Hall at 37955 Second Avenue,Squamish, British Columbia, from Thursday, July 16, 2026 to Thursday, July 30, 2026, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.,Mondaythrough Fridayexcept forstatutoryholidays.

Public input will be considered by the District in review of the application. Persons who believethattheir interest in property is affectedbythe proposed Temporary UsePermit maysubmit written submissions to planning@squamish.ca or,inperson to the DirectorofCommunity Development. Written submissions can be addressed to the Directorof CommunityDevelopmentand will be received up until 4p.m. July 30, 2026.

Allsubmissions will form partofthe public record.

Datedthis16th day of July,2026.

of the employment space to rental housing, given our continued decline in office space demand and new office space construction and our continued housing need with low rental housing vacancy rate and a high housing demand,” said Aja Philp, planner with the District “The applicant’s proposed 20% employment space percentage is in line with other recent mixed use developments in the district, as well as with our downtown commercial, our C4 Zone Lastly, the applicant has offered to increase their affordable housing commitment from 11% to 15% of the total number of residential units, which aligns with the District’s rezoning application alignment with official community plan policy.”

Other changes requested included that light industrial senior care facility and tourist accommodation be added to the list of permitted uses for the zone “to allow for a broader range of businesses to go into the employment spaces in this development,” Philp said

A public hearing is prohibited by the provincial government. However, Philp said that no comments were received from the public after publication of the proposed changes.

SAMPLE COUNCIL QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS

French noted that there is a clause in the agreement with the developer that requires them to design and construct a fibre conduit for the purpose of a District of Squamish fibre connection from Pemberton Avenue to Hunter Place through the project site He said he hadn’t seen that before

Philp explained that the District has a fibre network plan and part of that includes a connection adjacent to this site

“So, we’re taking advantage of this development to get that portion of the conduit pre-installed,” she said “It’s a piece of the larger network that is meant to serve District infrastructure and our facilities and create redundancy in the fibre network.”

Among Stoner’s questions was one around the phasing of the project. She was concerned that housing be built sooner rather than later. Philp said “that’s at council’s discretion to determine. The applicant has said that they have not decided whether to build Phase 1 or Phase 2 first.”

Ultimately, Stoner proposed an amended motion for council to consider first and second reading, to add a sunset clause to the land development agreement for the additional residential gross floor area, and to bring

forward more affordable housing units in the first phase of development.

“When we discussed this at a high level in terms of a number of the applicants that were interested in rezoning some of the employment space, given the current market conditions, I was pretty clear that I had little appetite for it unless it was a demonstrable benefit to our community and it delivered on our housing needs now, not 10 years from now,” Stoner said, later musing that a five-year sunset clause—meaning the project would have to be started in that time—would be reasonable to her, while 10 years would not.

“Without a sunset clause in this (land development agreement), it’s not supportable to me, as well as addressing the affordable housing component ensuring that gets delivered earlier on in the phasing and securing that in some way. And so that’s the only thing that would make this supportable for me Otherwise, I’m happy to kill the application as presented.”

Coun Lauren Greenlaw agreed.

“If this housing is going to be built in 10 years, that’s very different from housing that’s going to be built within three,” she said.

Coun Eric Andersen said he couldn’t support the alternative motion in part because he wants to see a policy on when and

how sunset clauses are used.

He also noted a heritage building on the site.

“There happens to be on this property one of the most valuable heritage buildings in the community. It’s the Howe Sound timber building—it’s due to its age, its solid cedar construction, its condition and its associations and its potential for reuse. There are three non-profit organizations interested to have the building relocated and make use of it at another location Eventually, one day we are going to catch up with a heritage building strategy, but I just couldn’t resist pointing this out,” he said.

Coun Andrew Hamilton couldn’t support the recommended motion or the alternative.

“To switch from employment to residential space, I’m just not in favour,” he said. “I think that we have a responsibility to make plans to develop a complete community … And when we have applications, particularly, a rezoning that has very recently been approved and then to come back with an adjustment purely based on the financial requirement that offices are slightly harder, financially harder to build.”

A revised version of the proposal will return to a future council meeting for consideration of third reading.

At Shannon Falls RetirementResidence,independent living isn’t about slowing down. It’sabout moving into a new chapter without leaving yourself behind,giving you thefreedom to spend your time on what matters most.

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EDITOR

JENNIFERTHUNCHER jthuncher@ lodestarmedia.ca follow @thuncher

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REPORTER INA PACE ipace@ lodestarmedia.ca

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MULTI- MEDIA SALES REPRESENTATIVE KIM BOATMAN kboatman@ squamishchief.com

CIRCULATION MANAGER DENISE CONWAY dconway@ squamishchief.com

PUBLISHER SARAH STROTHER sstrother@lodestarmedia.ca

The Squamish Chief is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact Editor Jennifer Thuncher at jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information

Reproduction of any material contained in this publication is expressly forbidden without the prior written consent of the publisher.

EDITORIAL

MONKEY RULES

The joke among journalists—and likely many of our detractors—is that we are monkeys with keyboards.

Perhaps true, but there are a host of rules we lemurs follow.

The writing of accredited news outlets in Canada is governed by Canadian Press (CP) style guidelines. This means that when we write our stories in Squamish, we too adhere to these rules which are catalogued in a literal book and in guides online. They are important because they keep our reporting consistent and our language uniform, though with some regional variations by outlet

There’s everything within the guidelines from what to capitalize, to how to avoid confusing jargon. There’s even a way to quote President Donald Trump’s social media posts: include his capitalization to reflect the character and intent of the man.

The rules evolve, but they keep the reader top of mind. Recently, there was a 20th Edition CP Stylebook webinar held to go over recent rule changes and additions.

For example, CP says for reporters to use LGBTQ+, rather than longer, sometimes preferred abbreviation Any longer and it can be harder for readers to understand, and the plus sign encompasses other identities, the argument goes If the story requires more identities to be added, the advice is for the reporter to explain what they mean. At the same time, CP guidelines tell reporters to confirm how sources want to be identified and use that in our writing—including they and them pronouns, which previously weren’t as embraced in the guidelines.

Some of the changes reflect sad realities. The word femicide, the intentional killing of a woman or girl due to her gender, is now listed as something we use, as it is now part of the criminal code Homelessness has grown in Canada, and now when writing about people without a fixed address, reporters are to use homeless or homelessness. Though it is not the primary recommendation, we can use unhoused, particularly if it is a person’s preference.

We are not supposed to use “experiencing

A LETTER TO MY HIGH SCHOOL SELF

After wrapping up my first year at UBC, I’ve been reflecting on what went well and what didn’t Last summer, I was incredibly excited to move to Vancouver for my courses, clubs, and to meet new people I imagined college as popular media portrayed it, and I expected to fall into a rhythm immediately. This illusion I made in my head didn’t even make it past my first day.

I was ecstatic about the clubs I’d join, the events I’d attend, and everything UBC offers, but unfortunately, overwhelmed by how many options there were, I picked none.

I barely knew anyone at UBC, and I felt immediately isolated entering the dining hall to see friend groups I didn’t imagine that I’d have to put effort into making friends and thought that the ideal group of friends would find me As much as the social scene stressed me, the academic load was double what I thought. I barely put any thought into the classes I chose, and I realized how high the expectations are compared to high school.

In my first term, I took an international history course, with students from first to fourth year, and a professor who spoke faster than I could type. It didn’t help that history is my least favourite subject. In high school, there was a clear divide between my academic and social life, and I kept the two apart, but at UBC, they merged into one. I found myself barely studying I scraped by to do well in my courses without putting in the work I was capable of. I barely spoke in class, never attended office hours, and calculated the least amount of time to study. I also stopped forming connections after my first month and instead stuck with the people I knew, so I missed out on meeting more people

If I could go back to my Grade 12 self this time last year, I’d say to plan out courses to pick classes I’d enjoy. I’d tell her to be easygoing and let go of the illusion of how things were meant to go And to explore the campus, but also leave the campus to see the city. Alongside that, attending office hours, participating in lectures, reading lecture notes, and being organized in schoolwork before everything piles up

When I realized how fast my year was going by, I was able to correct myself I put effort into studying, participated in classes, attended office

GUEST COLUMN KIANA ALAI

Ha7lh skwálwen cht kwis emút cht iy sts’its’áp’ cht iy kw’shétsut cht

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

EDITORIAL: Continued from 12

homelessness,” though, as the editors who make the decisions on the guidelines felt it was too wordy. The advice is whenever possible, however, to describe the person’s situation, such as couch surfing, living in a tent etc.

The point is always to speak plainly, as

COLUMN: Continued from 12

hours, and socialized more.

you would in conversation, as that is better for readers.

Another thing discussed in the webinar that might be of interest to readers is that we default to not capitalizing It is called modified down style, which means if at all possible, we don’t capitalize That is why we don’t capitalize most

The change was not easy, but once I stopped controlling, everything fell into place. I overcame learning curves I had avoided before, and in turn, I had control over my own time Even though there is a lot I wish I could go back and change, I’m grateful for everything my first year taught me, and carrying that into my second year

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

DISAGREE WITH CAO EDITORIAL

The recent editorial [“Editorial: Squamish CAO’s 2025 pay is in line with other municipalities,” July 1.] asserting that the CAO’s 2025 compensation is “in line with other municipalities” presents only one side of an issue that deserves a more balanced and accountable discussion. Across British Columbia, inflated executive compensation has been identified as a concern, particularly in the public sector where residents expect prudent stewardship of tax dollars. Simply pointing to practices in other municipalities does not, on its own, justify adopting them here. Norms elsewhere are not evidence of sound policy.

Residents deserve assurance that robust oversight mechanisms are in place, including regular, transparent performance evaluations that link compensation increases to measurable outcomes in service delivery, organizational stability, and public value. Without this, comparisons to other jurisdictions risk becoming a substitute for genuine

LETTERS POLICY

job titles (editor not Editor, for example). This, again, is to make sure that things are easier to read.

Sometimes local readers read politics or bias into our word choices, but often, we are simply following journalism rules that tell us to write simply whenever possible—like a monkey with a keyboard.

To all of the grads preparing for university—wishing you the best of luck.

Kiana Alai is a Squamish local heading into her second year at UBC this fall

accountability

This is especially important given the challenges Squamish continues to face The municipality must contend with the high cost of replacing facilities that are now well overdue for replacement, strained labour relations as demonstrated by last year’s lockout of the municipality’s unionized employees, and a range of operational pressures that require disciplined leadership and careful financial management Executive compensation should reflect performance in addressing these issues, not simply the compensation trends of neighbouring communities.

Here’s a question: what is the quality of the recreation facilities available in Fort St John, Courtenay, or Cochrane?

It is concerning that the editorial did not acknowledge these broader factors or the legitimate public debate surrounding executive pay in British Columbia A more balanced analysis would have recognized that compensation decisions must be grounded in local context, robust oversight, and demonstrated results. Squamish residents expect and deserve

thoughtful, accountable governance. Editorial commentary should help foster that conversation, not narrow it

Vim Sharma Coquitlam

PLENTY OF WATER?

Regarding Luc Kazimirski’s letter, “District virtue signalling on water,” published July 1 (online).

Just because we seem to have plenty of water does not mean we should use it wastefully Every litre of water from the tap has to be treated and every litre that goes down the drain is treated again before returning to the water system. Consider the cost to do this In the summer, we use more water as we water lawns and flowers, wash cars, etc. This increases demand and therefore more treatment That is a major cost and why most jurisdictions charge based on usage. We should not waste something just because it appears it is abundant. This does not respect the land

Bob Porter 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

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

Do people where you work struggle to find stable housing?

Have your say at squamishchief.com

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MOST READ STORY

Update: B.C. commits to keep Squamish100 Mile House rail corridor public

PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

SLRD SUPPORTAPPLICATIONFOR BROADBANDINUPPER SQUAMISHVALLEY

TheSLRDhas unanimouslyvoted to support‘atransformativeimprovement’to85householdsinthe UpperSquamish Valley

INAPACE

ipace@lodestarmedia.ca

SomeofSquamish’smostrural communitiesstill rely on Wi-Fitoreceive internet, butlocal governmentissupportingan upgradetosomething some folksmay easily take forgranted: broadband.

In theSquamish-LilooetRegionalDistrict (SLRD) boardmeeting on June 24,arequestfor-supportletter—issued by not-for-profitthe Ashlu CreekFoundation—wasbrought to the chair, regardinganapplication to install fibre-optic broadbandwithinthe Upper Squamish Valley

On June 15,the foundation proposed to makeanapplication to theprovince’s Connecting CommunitiesBC(CCBC)funding programtobuild afibre-to-the-home(FTTH) broadbandnetwork,serving 85 householdsin the UpperSquamish Valley,all within ElectoralAreaD

This FTTH network, theletterreads,will providea “transformativeimprovement”for thecommunity,withinternetspeedsranging from 100megabitsper second (Mbps) to 1,000 Mbps

Theapplication deadline wasJune25.

Accordingtothe foundation’s letter, residentsinthe UpperSquamishValleyhave historically relied on aTelus fixedwireless servicefor theirinternet, butits long-term availabilityisuncertain,withTelus beginning to invest elsewhere.

Satelliteisthe only other“realistic” option, the foundation wrote, “a technology that, whileimproving,still carriessignificant limitationsinlatency,consistency,and affordabilitycomparedtofibre.”

The foundation explainedintheir letter that theCCBCprogram givesprioritytoapplications that demonstratecommunity andlocal government support.

Therefore, in receivingapprovalfromthe SLRD, andassurance theproject aligns with theSLRD’sregionalconnectivityprioritiesasa

matter of public interest,the foundation hopes theirapplication will be significantly strengthened

“Thisproject requires no financialcontribution from theSLRD,”the letter states ElectoralAreaDdirectorTonyRainbow and Village of PembertondirectorMikeRichman were amongthose at theboard meetingwho gave theirapprovaltosupport thefoundation.

“Fibre-optic,and anykindof connectivity that we canprovide in ourrural communities is important, andwe continue to supportthese smallcommunities in doingthatwork,”SLRD boardchair JenFordsaid.

Themotionwas carriedunanimously withoutfurther comment.

It wasclarified in thefoundation’sletterthat theFTTHnetwork wouldextendalong Squamish Valley Road from approximatelythe 12 kilometre(km)marktothe 22 km mark, covering homes on HensmanRoad, Drummond Road,DoghavenLane, Magee Road,LynnRoad, Rustad Road North, Cloudburst Crescent,and thesurrounding

At theSLRDboard meetingonJune24, arequestfor-supportletter—from not-for-profitthe Ashlu CreekFoundation—wasbrought to thechair, regardinganapplication to installfibre-optic broadbandwithinthe UpperSquamishValley.

properties.The servicewillbeoffered at competitiverates.

Base Technology Ltd. wouldbethe network’s builderand operator.

InaPaceisThe Squamish Chief’sLocal Journalism Initiative (LJI)reporter. This reportingwas produced throughthe LJI, whichsupportsoriginalcivic journalism across Canada

PARADISE VALLEY BAILEY BRIDGE REPAIRSUNDERGOING EVALUATION

An evaluation is beingcarried outbythe District andthe SLRD forthe ParadiseValleyBaileyBridgerepairs to mitigate disruption

repair at both ends

INAPACE

ipace@lodestarmedia.ca

The Squamish LillooetRegionalDistrict (SLRD) andthe District of Squamish are workingtogethertoassessand mitigate impactsofbridgerepairs in Paradise Valley.

In theSLRD’sboard meetingonJune24, chiefadministrativeofficer HeatherPaul explainedthat, afterroutineinspection, there is “significant deterioration”ofthe timber abutments(ground supports)onthe Paradise Valley Bailey Bridge,which requireurgent

Thebridgeundergoes routineinspections everytwo years, accordingtothe District of Squamish website.

As thebridgeislocated alongasoleaccess road forresidences, businesses andinfrastructureonthe north side of it,the repairsare anticipatedtodisrupt communityand traffic access.These would, namely,affectresidents, commercial operators, andemergency services, thewebsite continues.

TheDistrict, Paul said,isworking with the SLRD to minimize closures whilst overseeing repairdesign.

“Reducingimpacts to communityaccess

Notice of Public HearingNot Held ElectoralAreaD

Pursuant to Section464 of theLocal Government Act, this is to providenoticeofintentofthe Squamish-LillooetRegionalDistricttoamend theElectoral Area DZoningBylaw No.1350-2016, in a manner consistent with the ElectoralAreaD Official Community Plan BylawNo. 1135-2013.

Public notice is hereby giveninaccordance with Section467 of theLocal Government Actthata Public Hearingwill be held regardingthe following bylaw:

Squamish-LillooetRegionalDistrictElectoral Area DZoningBylaw No.1350-2016, Amendment Bylaw No.1968-2026

TheBoard will consider firstand second readings of the proposed bylawduringtheir upcoming July Board meetingonWednesday,July22, 2026.

PurposeofBylaw No.1968-2026

BylawNo. 1968-2026 proposes an SLRD initiated mapping amendmenttocorrect theboundarybetween aresidential area,zoned R1,and atourist commercial area,zoned C1,located at thecornerofHighway 99 and CopperDrive in BritanniaBeach.The twoparcels are identified as:

LotA,DistrictLots891 and892, GROUP1 NEW WESTMINSTERDISTRICT, PLAN EPP98029,& LotB,DistrictLots891 and892, GROUP1 NEW WESTMINSTERDISTRICT, PLAN EPP98029

Thezoningmap revision will appear on Schedule B6 of theCD2 Zone.

As theproposedmapping amendmentisconsistent with theOfficial Community Plan theSLRDmay waive theholding of apublic hearingonthe proposed bylaw.

Informationand Submissions

Acopyofthe proposed bylawand relevant background documentsmay be inspectedatthe Regional District office,1350 AsterStreet, Pemberton, BC,duringoffice hours8:00amto4:00pm from June 1toJuly21, 2026, notincluding weekends andstatutory holidays, or on theSLRDwebsite

Writtensubmissions(mail or email) must be received at theSLRDoffice no laterthan4:00pmTuesday,July21, 2026.

andemergency services is akey consideration,” Paul said

Both theSLRDand theDistricthaveset up projectpages forthe bridge on theirwebsites.

TheParadiseValleyBaileyBridge, which wasbuilt in the1980s with timber abutments, is locatedalong Paradise Valley Road—around 17 kilometres (km) from downtown Squamish—and is regarded a“critical piece” of District infrastructure,according to the District’s projectpage.

TheSLRDhavealsocreated aproject page listingsimilar information

“Given thecriticalimportanceofthisbridge forcommunity access,innovativedesignand construction methodsare beingexploredwith consultants,”the SLRD’s page reads.

“Minimizingaccessdisruptions will be akey pieceofthe evaluation criteria forall designs, as well as considerations around budget and permitting requirements.”

Both projectpages statethatworkis intended to be completedthisyear“as quickly andefficiently as possible,in orderto minimizecommunity access constraints.”

Paul clarifiedinthe boardmeeting that construction of theParadiseValleyBailey Bridge is targeted from August to October.

Residents(from anywhere)can subscribeto

LOGGERSLANE: Continuedfrom9

transportation needsofthe LoggersLaneEast corridor rather than focusing solely on current construction impacts,”she said,stressing her intentionisnot to criticizeorsuggest that any onefactoristoblame

“Squamishisgrowing,and growth is inevitable.However,asour communityevolves, ourtransportationinfrastructureneeds to evolve with it.The District hasmadeactive transportation aprioritybyencouraging residentstowalkand cyclemoreoften,and we fully supportthatvision. Butifwewantfamilies to choose walkingor riding insteadofdriving, they must feel confidentthattheycan do so safely.Safecrossings andeffective traffic calmingare essentialtoachieving thosegoals, particularly in an area with such ahigh concentration of children andfamilies.”

Nevisoncalledonthe District to undertakea comprehensivesafetyassessmentusing current trafficconditions, pedestrian activity,and future

receiveemail updatesonbothproject pages setupbythe District andthe SLRD InaPaceisThe Squamish Chief’sLocal Journalism Initiative (LJI)reporter.

This reportingwas produced throughthe LJI, whichsupportsoriginalcivic journalism across Canada

growth projections, andtoworkcollaboratively with thecommunity to determinethe most appropriateimprovements.

“Specifically, I’dliketoask councilstaff to conductanupdated trafficvolumeand speed studythatreflectscurrent conditions,including theimpactofthe FinchDrive closure, nearby construction andevaluatewhether permanent trafficcalming measures such as speedbumps or otherappropriate treatments arewarranted in this location,” shetold council.

Sheconfirmed that theschoolrepresentatives hadbeenintouch with theRCMPand that on theday of thecouncil meeting, they hadput in a traffic-calmingrequest with District staff.

“And so in lightofthat(near-miss) issue yesterday, we decidedthatthiswas amore importantissue.Sowesubmitted that application andthendecided to come in person just to puta bitofa highlightonit,”she said Ultimately,council votedunanimously to referthe matter to transportation staffand the District’s majorprojectsteamtofollowup.

PHOTOBYINA PACE/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

TheBaileybridgeisset to be upgraded

Artwithimpact

Four generationsofwomen bringthe latest exhibit throughSquamish Arts

“StrengthThrough Creativity”featurestheart of onefamily:grandmothers, mothers, sisters, and daughtersages12to101.And they createditasa fundraiser formentalhealth.

Oneoftheir paintingsisfor auction. All proceeds will go to Tantalus Wellspring Society (https://tantaluswellspring.ca),bringingmental health andwellnesssupporttoour community. Theauction link (charityauctions.com/event/ auction/1661)isliveuntil Sept.30.

“Mentalhealthand creative outletsare so important forustoembrace,especiallyinthe worldweliveinright now. Personally,familyand arthavesaved me from some of my hardest moments,”saysErinO’Byrne,psychological safetyand leadership coach.

YOUR TOWN, YOUR NEWS: COMMUNITYSUBMISSIONS

ExecutiveDirector, CleaYoung shares,

“SquamishArtsisthrilled to be able to facilitate this generous initiative bythe womenof the O’ByrneFamily,toraise fundsfor mental health and wellness throughthe arts.”

Erin andher sister CarolynGreen,were

inspired to bringtogetherthe artfromtheir family of strong,assertive,and creative grandmothers and mothersasrolemodelsfor resilience

“Weare so grateful forthe path they pavedfor usand therolecreativityhelpedinseeingbeauty in theworld,” says CarolynGreen,holistic

wellness consultant andteacher

Thanks to this fundraiser,moreitems from communitydonationshavebeenadded for auction.

Stop by theArtisan Gallery, 1336 Main Street

Theexhibit andauction is on nowuntil Sept.30.

TheSquamishChief welcomes communitysubmissions forlocal sports achievements andartsevents.

Submissions must be 300words or less.Pleasenotethatall submissionsare finaland will be publishedona first-come,first-servedbasis,asspace allows.

Submitatsquamishchief.com by goingtothe “Connect”tab andclickingCommunity Submissions.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ERIN O’BYRNE

Four generationsofwomen bringthe latest exhibitthrough Squamish Arts.Right:Christine O’Byrne, Erin O’Byrne, FjolaGreen andCarolyn Green.

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CT SCANNERNOW OPERATIONAL AT SQUAMISH HOSPITAL

Previously,Sea to SkyCorridor residentshad to drive eitherto Whistler or theNorth Shorefor CT scans

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

The long-awaited newCT(computed tomography)scanner is nowoperationalatSquamishGeneral Hospital

This meansthatpatientsthroughoutthe SeatoSky Corridordon’t have to travel so farfor CT tests.

Previously,Squamishlocalsdrove to either Whistler or theNorth Shorefor such tests—atripthatrequiredtimeand money due to gasand parkingcosts

Thescanner wasoriginallyannounced by theprovincialgovernmentin2024and was expectedtobeoperational by early2025.

Thehealthauthorityconfirmed it is operationalasofJuly, 13,2026.

Thescanner provides “advancedmedical diagnostics” forpeopleinSquamishand the surroundingareas,includingWhistlerand Pemberton, readsthe news releasefrom VancouverCoastal Health (VCH).

Thenew CT scannerreduces theburden on X-Rayand ultrasound at thehospitalas well as thenumberofCTrequests redirected to otheracute care sites, the releasenotes

TheCTimaging allows radiologists to more easily diagnose such illnessesas cancer,cardiovascularand infectious diseases,aswellasphysicaltraumas and musculoskeletaldisorders

It is anticipatedthe newequipment will perform7,000 CT scansper year,orabout 20 per day.

Thetotal cost of theproject was$9million. It wasoriginallybilledtocomeinat $6.5million

AVCH spokesperson told TheSquamish Chiefthatsomeofthe increasedcosts were due to alackofinterestedcontractors biddingonthe jobdue to complexity and location.The cost of themachine itself and thecostofconstructionalsowentup betweenthe time abusinesscasewas made andwhenitwenttotender.

Theproject wasfundedbythe provincial governmentthrough VancouverCoastal

Health,Sea to SkyRegionalHospitalDistrict andcommunity donationsthrough the Squamish Hospital Foundation,including $900,000 from WoodfibreLNG

Theproject includes thepurchaseofa CT scannerand aminor expansionto Squamish Hospital,withthe addition of a pre-fabricated modularunittohouse the scannerand asecondary imagingwaiting room,aswellasclinicalspace forimaging staff, accordingtothe release.

COURTESY OF VCH

Thenew CT scannerisnow in Squamish

BRITANNIAMINE MUSEUM RECEIVES $3 MILLIONFOR EDUCATION ENHANCEMENTS

TheBritanniaMineMuseumwilluse a$3million donation over threeyears to expand itseducational resourcesfor the publicand students,the latterrangingfromelementarytopost-secondary

students, as well as thosethatcomefor skills andtradestraining.

INAPACE

ipace@lodestarmedia.ca

The BritanniaMineMuseumisvastly increasing capacity for students and learners,all thanks to oneoftheir long-termsponsors.

Themuseumhas received a$3million donation from precious metals streaming companyWheaton Precious MetalsCorp. (Wheaton)toestablish theWheaton Precious Metals Modern Mining EducationCentre.

The“educationcentre” will notbean additional building;itwillbeaseriesofnew immersiveand practicalopportunities incorporated within themuseum’sexisting infrastructure.The Caterpillar(CAT) 793C mining truck, donated by Finning Canada,isan exampleofthe upgrades funded by Wheaton.

The$3million will be spread over thecourse of threeyears,with$1million donated each year.Todate, themuseumhas received $1 million, andisdue to receiveanother $1 million in January2027, then againinJanuary 2028

Wheatonhas sponsoredthe museum since theBritanniaProject waslaunched in 2010, accordingtothe museum’s boardchair Leonie Tomlinson. Wheatonwas also,she said,“right outofthe gate”whenthe BOOM!showwas launched in 2019.

“Wheaton hasfourpillars around its communityinvestment, andeducation is oneof thosepillars.(They)helpbuild stronger,more resilientcommunities throughlearning,” Tomlinsoncontinued.

Amuseumpress releasestatesthatWheaton’s presidentand CEOHaytham Hodaly regards investingin educationas“essential.”

“Bysupportinginitiatives likethis, we can ensure students have greatervisibilityintothe opportunitieswithin the(mining)sector,” Hodaly said in therelease Tomlinsondescribed themuseum’srelationship with Wheatonasa“hand-in-glovematch.”

Sheexplained themuseumcurrently has 11,000 school students from 27 school districts (inB.C.) that come everyyear, andwaitinglists areentirelyatcapacity. Theeducation centre, she said,willenablethe museumtodoubleits educationspace,and therebyprovide curriculum-basedearth scienceand mining education to elementary,secondary,and university

Regardingthe incentivetopushfor broad educationresources,Tomlinson said the museum is motivatedprimarily by itspositive feedbackfromstudents.

“Weregularlyreceive feedback from teachers sendingusgorgeouslittlehandwritten notes from grade five students.These are thekinds of things that just warm ourhearts,”she said.

“Tomakethatimpressionongrade five students is profound,because thoseare the things that helpthemdecidewhattheywantto do …There areveryfew places whereyoucan seethe importance of modern sustainable mining in ourmodernlife, andinour economy, BritishColumbiaand Canada in general.”

Accordingtothe museum’s executivedirector Cheryl Hendrickson,Wheaton is also supporting acollaboration with theUniversity of BritishColumbia’s(UBC’s) NormanB.Keevil InstituteofMiningEngineering,which will in turn supporta growingtrend inB.C.’suniversity and employment sectors.

UBCwillprovide themuseumwithspecialist equipmentsostudentshavethe opportunityto participateinfieldwork before graduating

“Wehaven’t hadthe fundinginthe past to buy some of this equipmenttoshowscience experiments, like howcopperisactually refined,”Hendrickson said

“Our main thing(so far) is that we’vebeen able to putasimulator on site.”

Furthermore, themuseum’scollaboration with UBCwillstrengthenthe museum’s establishedscience,technology, engineering, arts,math(STEAM) all-agecurriculum programs

Theseprograms will explorethe relevance andimpactofresourcedevelopment and geological exploration,”the pressrelease reads.

Tomlinson creditsthe museum’s “welltrained”interpretersand staff geologists for settingthe museum apartinthe education sector

“We’ve gotsomedepth,somerealbench strength,(and) we applycommonsense modern business principles,which givesour donors peaceofmind,”she said

Ina Pace is TheSquamishChief’s Local Journalism Initiative (LJI)reporter.

This reporting wasproducedthrough theLJI, whichsupportsoriginalcivic journalism across Canada

PHOTOS BY INAPACE/THESQUAMISHCHIEF TheCaterpillar (CAT)793Cminingtruck at theBritannia Mine Museum

CLASSIFIEDS

Contactasales reptoday!

Obituaries–InPrint and Online in our Local Community News With Picture&FreeColour BOOK YOUR AD

Deadline: Monday3pm

ANNOUNCEMENT

Thomas William Shields

May 3, 1947 -July 1, 2026

Tomwas born in Chilliwack on May 31947and passed away on July 12026atInglewood Care Home in West Vancouver

Although Tomhad no immediatefamily he is survived by close friends Carol and Michael Buchanan,Joanneand LarryZander and all their children; James and Goddaughter Caitlin Buchanan; Shane, and HeathZander.

Tomgraduated from Howe Sound High School and after working at theShell Bulk Plant begana career with FMC at the new Squamish chemicalplant

He workedthrough the plant’s change over to CanOxy and as the SeniorSafety Officer was in charge of decommissioning theplant, including mercuryrecovery.

His crew knew him as “Tom Catthe GadgetMan’alwaysready with asafetyplan. Along theway he joined the B.C. Ambulance Service and stayedinthatcapacity for 25 years.

Heplayed softball with his EMS colleaguesonthe ‘Stretcher Fetchers’. Tomwas proud of his service and even in retirement, often wore hisambulance hat.

Tomformed Tantalus Safety Servicestoteach organisational health and safety practices. As part of his program he supplied2way radios to the Loggers Sports Day He was an early computer geek who built unitsand volunteered his knowledge in repairs and programming. He still had ahouseful of parts, keyboardsand monitors thatwere donated when he wentinto care at Inglewood.

In his retirement he took apart-time jobwith the Squamish Home Depot. He always kept his truck equipped for emergencies with regular ambulance gear and his medical bag.

Tomwas known as agentle soul who surprised hisfriends by being atalented marksman with many pistol and long gun awards to his credit. He was an avid competitor and an advocate foreducation in gun safety.

Tomsurvived about of cancer thatleft his hearing severely compromised. Hewas cared for by Patrica King and Colleen Borley at’For the One YouLove’ and they did a fantastic job helping Tomoveradifficult transition

Tomalways said he didn’t need awife because he had Joanne and Carol to keep him in line.

Tomwas predeceased by his father, mother and brother.

He will be missed by hismanyfriends and everyone who ever worked withhim

Anydonationstothe Squamish Community Foundationwould be greatly appreciated.

A MemorialCoffee Klatch will be held on Thursday, July16 at theSquamishValley Golf Club from9:30am -10:30am.

CROSSWORD

Behave

Rubberneck

Granny

Attorney’sfield

Bard’slament

Computer operator

Rowing implement

43. Golfer’sshout

44.Small particle

47.Fairy

49.Farm’syield

50. Bestowed 55. Fog

56. Desertlike 57.Prove human 58. Watcher 59.Hairproducts 60.Can

1. European peak 2. Auto 3. Deuce 4. Celebration 5. Observant 6. Average 7. Curvy turn 8. Aromatic spice

9. On avoyage

10.Barber’sword

11. Humanities

16. Lamb’s fabric

20.Detail

21. PBS scienceshow

22.Seating section

24.Batman’ssidekick

25. Animosity

26.Better than better 28. ActorPickens

30.Voicepart

31. Advance

32. Stare

35. Dollar

38. Mood

40.Not ons

42. Wicked person

44.Suffer

45. Server

46. Drip

48. Caps

50.Dillydally

51.“Just the WayYou ____”

52. Shorten, as askirt

53. Distinct time

54. Lacking water

Crosswordpuzzle answers use American spelling

HOROSCOPE WEEK OF JULY16, 2026 -JULY22,2026

ARIES March 21-April 19

Workandfamilyobligationswill keepyouonthegothisweek, leavinglittletimeforyoutocatch yourbreath.However,payingclose attentiontothedetailswillhelp youmeeteveryone’sexpectations withouttoomanymissteps

TAURUS April 20-May20

You’ll be in the spotlight, naturally attracting attention. The way you speak will captivate your audience. Expect compliments, admiration and enthusiastic reactions that will boost your confidence and pride.

GEMINI May21-June 20

You’lldevotepartoftheweek tooptimizingyourliving environmentbytidyingup, makingrepairsorredecorating. Alovedonewillreturnhome thisweek,transformingthe atmospherebyenhancingcomfort andemotionaldynamicsforyou andyourfamily.

CANCER June 21-July 22

You’llhappilytraveltospend timewithlovedonesandenjoy awell-deservedholidayto thefullest.Tocreatemagical memories,you’llfocusoncreating thebestatmosphereandrefuseto compromiseonquality.

LEO July 23-Aug. 22

Although answers may be slow to come, your guests will confirm their attendance, ensuring success for your plans. The relaxed summer atmosphere may also inspireyou to rethink your career path.

VIRGO Aug. 23-Sept.22

Yourmindisonfun,outings andentertainmentratherthan chores.Goodnewsaboutyour professionalstatusorprogress willliftyourspirits.Theholiday atmospheremayamplify yourjoy.

LIBRA Sept.23-Oct. 22

Youmayfeeloverwhelmedas youjugglemultipletasksthis week.You’llneedtotakeabreak beforejumpingintoaction. Yourimaginationcouldinspire aremarkablecreation,whether foranartistic,personalor professionalproject.

SCORPIO Oct. 23-Nov.21

To getyourideas across, you sometimes need to raiseyour voice and clearly stateyour position. Standingyourground takes energy and will leave you feelingtired.Maketime to slow down,restand takea step back.

SAGITTARIUS Nov.22-Dec. 21

Increasedresponsibilities willnecessitategoodtime management.Evenifyou’reon vacation,properplanningwill helpyoucoordinateoutings, visitsandactivitiessoyou candoeverythingyouwant withoutspreadingyourself toothin.

CAPRICORN Dec. 22-Jan.19

Youmaybestruckwiththe suddenurgetoplanaquick getawayorevenamajortripthat willbringfunanddiscoveryinto yourlife.Theideaofreturningto schoolcouldopenthedoortoa newcareer.

AQUARIUS Jan. 20-Feb.18

Asurgeofstrongemotions willpushyoutoreorganize yourlife.You’llgainclarity bysorting,declutteringand adjustingyourpriorities.Over time,yourmotivationand innerpeacewillreturn.

PISCES Feb. 19-March 20

Yourtalentsforbuying,selling, negotiatingandclosingdealswill shinethisweek.Whetheratwork orinyourpersonallife,you’ll knowhowtospotopportunities, arriveatthebestdealsandsmooth overconflictstactfully.

HOWTOPLAY:

LASTWEEK’SANSWERS:

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:you must not repeat the numbers1through 9in the same line, column or 3x3box

SUDOKU

Your storystartshere

Find your story at woodfibrelng.ca/careers

Find your storyat woodfibrelng.ca/careers

Previous to my time at Woodfibre, Iwas onthe road alot,awayfrommyfamily. The work-lifebalance wasn’t there. I want to spend as much time as Ipossibly canwith my family,and with Woodfibre I’vegot thatopportunity.

Previous to my time at Woodfibre, Iwas on the road alot,awayfrommyfamily. Thework-lifebalance wasn’t there. I want to spendasmuch timeasI possibly canwith my family,and with Woodfibre I’vegot that opportunity.

Tyler P. Dad|Electrical &Instrumentation Supervisor

Tyler P. Dad|Electrical &Instrumentation Supervisor