May 28, 2026

VIOLENT CRIME, HIGHWAY COLLISIONS RISE IN SQUAMISH, RCMP SAYS

Staff Sgt. Sascha Banks presented the detachment’s 2025 year-end statistics to the district of Squamish council Tuesday

LIZ MCDONALD emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca

The work of RCMP throughout Squamish was on display at council this week

Sea to Sky RCMP provided its annual update to the District of Squamish council Tuesday, May 19 Staff Sgt. Sascha Banks led the update alongside Sgt. Nathan Miller, who covered the 2025 year-end and the first quarter of 2026

The RCMP throughout the Sea to Sky are integrated, with detachments in Bowen Island, Whistler, Pemberton and Squamish

Total calls for service saw an uptick of 5.96% compared to the average between 2021 and 2024 The

RCMP: Continued on 2

RCMP: Continuedfrom1

RCMP usemulti-yearaveragestotrack crime trends.

PROPERTY CRIME

In 2025,propertycrime in Squamish sawa declineof4.92% with atotal of 1,077 crimes, down from 1,181in2024.

“When it comestopropertycrime,we’re looking much better.So, I’ve broken outmultiple property crimeoffences, some of them we have a decrease,liketheft from vehicles… adecrease of 45%overthe five-yearaverage in 2025.Wedo have adecreaseofpropertycrimeintotalityof almost 5%,but we do have an increase in frauds, theft of autos… andanincreaseinbiketheft.”

Bankshighlighted bike thefts arealsolikely higherthanwhat’sreported.

“There’s no doubtthatIsee alarge amount of socialmedia postsorproactive searchingfor people’seffects that arenot reported to police So,Idothink that thereisaportion of that propertycrime that does go unreported,where someone hastheir bike stolen,and then they go looking foritwithinthe communityof Squamish.”

VIOLENTCRIME

Squamish detachment respondedtomore violent crimes in 2025,with505 incidents in total,at12.66%morecomparedtothe average.

“We’re up,asyou cansee here,over12% and this is representingthe same thinginthe first quarterof2026aswell,”she said.“Theviolent crimerates areincreasing, butthisisactually somethingthatwe’re seeing across theboard for British Columbia andthe countryingeneral,”

Sexualassault went up 46.43% over the average

“Sexualassaultsare commonly knowntobe anunderreportedstatistic,and whetherornot thishas to do with work that ourdomestic violencesexualassault investigators, or those who work in PearlSpace…soit’sa very difficult statistictostate whetherornot there’san increase in sexual assaults in thecommunity,or

there’s an increase in reporting.”

Intimate partnerviolencealsosaw an uptick of16.81%.

Criminal harassmentsaw thelargest swing, with 250% surgecomparedtothe average(the average is 10 cases, 2025 saw35)

Banks notedcriminalharassmentinvolves repeated, unwanted contactbetween individuals that leadstothe victim fearingfor their safety.

MASSIVEINCREASEINSPEEDING ENFORCEMENT

Driversmay have noticedmorepolice presence on Highway 99,and theireyesaren’t deceivingthem.

Enforcementhas increased. Forexample,in 2024,policeissued59tickets forexcessive speeding. In 2025,thatnumberskyrocketed to 457. Butthisyearhas surpassedeven2025 numbers,with527 ticketshandedout by May.

And whileticketing mayhaveincreased, collisionshaven’t declined

Therewere355 vehiclecrashes in 2025,which was up from 295the previous year

“So we areseeingamarkedincreasein collisions…weare seeing an increase in collisionsof9%overthe five year average, but weactuallyare seeing a64% increase in thefirst quarter of 2026 forcollisions. So theseare concerning.”

Most of these collisions happen on the highway, whichfalls underthe jurisdiction of BC Highway Patrol

On drivingimpaired, 2025 wasdown, butthe stats areup for2026.

“I know historicallythere’s always been the belief from thecommunity membersand the public in generalthattires tend to be the primary causeduringthe winter months…We don’toften seethatout there. That’s not normally somethingthatwe’re seeing as beinga cause of acollision.It’soften drivingtoo fast for conditions, drivingtoo fast on thecurvesand the bendsthat we have.”

Banksiscreatingahighway workinggroupto determinethe high collisionzones andseeks to

work with theMinistryofTransportationand Transit to change thestructure of thehighway inthose zones.

“Whenyou look at statistics,ifyou’re increasing your enforcementto thelevelsthat we’reincreasingitto, andyou’restill notseeinga drive down in statistics forcollisions, that inevitably wouldleadyou to believethat enforcementisnot theway to drivedownthe statistics.So, youdoneedtothink outsidethe box, andyou need to thinkoutside of what we do normally.”

MENTAL HEALTH ANDCAR 99

Mental health callshavedeclined by 7% over thefiveyearaverage,and Section28apprehensions underthe Mental Health Acthave gone down 10%.

Banksdoesn’t believethatmentalhealthhas improved,but that othercalls forservice includea mental health component.

“Our teamsout thereare seeing mental health beinga component of alarge portion, if notover50% of ourcalls forservice,where even though we’reattending for, say, a harassment call or attendingfor atheft call, thereisa mental health componentthatgoes alongwiththat, that’s notnecessarily being captured in what wouldbethe primary reportingofthatfile.”

Car99program is ongoing, whereamental health police officerrides with aclinicianor nursefivedaysa week.Squamish’sdetachment hastwo nurses on theteam.

“Theyworkconsistentlytoaccessour information, theirinformation to come up with aholisticapproachabout whetherornot that individual needstobeapprehended, needstoseekadditionalhelp, or have contact with theirproviders to make sure that we can getthemthe best supportthattheyneed.”

Theprogram is in review this year,to determinehow to enhancethe program. Bankssaidthe review won’tresultinremoval of theprogram.

“Itisanintegralpartofour team,and I’m very proudtohaveit.”

Coun.JohnFrenchasked if theCar 99 programisinvolvedinpatrollingencampments, butthat’snot themandate of the officers

“Theydon’t necessarilytendtothe location, butthe individual,”she said

ENHANCING PUBLIC SAFETY

Abundleofchanges in enforcement, specializedunits,partnershipsand patrol strategy arebeing used by SeatoSky RCMP to enhancepublicsafety.

Theformercommunity team hasnow shiftedtocrime reduction, focusing on prolific offendersand high crimezones

“It’sgoing to have averyfocused elementon thoseprolific offenders, on thosehighcrime zones… when we’reseeingmaybe arashof theftofvehicles, they wouldsortofparachute in,” shesaid. “Whenitcomes to thestatistics that sitinfront of us,wehavetoact on it,and we have to do things aboutit.”

Newthisyearisavulnerablepersons unit Theirfocus is on domestic files, childoffences, sexual assaults and“high-riskwork” that requires “proper, timely,accurateinvestigationsfor thosewho arethe most vulnerable in ourcommunities,” Bankssaid.

Theteamalsoworks with theCombined Forces SpecialEnforcement Unit analystteam andthe Integrated Police DogServices.

MAJORINVESTIGATIONS

In 2025,there were 11 BC Integrated Child Exploitation (ICE)files,and sevenalready in 2026 whichrelatetochild exploitation

“Theyare incredibly complexfiles to deal with.Theyusually deal heavilywithproduction orders,searchwarrants, safety concerns Themembers whoinvestigate these fileshave to look at these images,theyhavetocategorize theseimages. Sometimesthere canbe10,000 of them—videos, photographs. They’re complexfiles…but oneistoo many.”

Oneofthe investigations is currentlybefore

RCMP: Continuedon6

BECOME A BECOMEA SOCCERREFEREE

Saturday,June 20, EntryLevel clinic (must be at least 14 2026), 10 am to 5 pm Sunday, Ju ded clinic un ay (mustbe at least 12 26), 10 am to 5 pm (must be 1 26 f

Squamish United FC is hosting two clinics forprospectivesoccer referees, conducted by acertified B.C. Soccerreferee instructor,atBrennan Park RecCentre. Thereisa fee to register. Forinformation,visit www.bcsoccer.net/referees/referee-courses-programs/ andlookfor the Squamish clinics.

GOT NEWS?

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

NEWS BRIEFS

LOCAL MAN IS BELIEVED TO BE HOMICIDE VICTIM

Asearch for a missing Sea to Sky man has turned tragic.

Squamish RCMP say that they believe missing man Stewart McLean was the victim of homicide.

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT), which investigates all homicides in our region, has taken over the investigation.

On May 18, Squamish RCMP say the detachment received a missing person report after McLean had not been seen since May 15 It was reported that he was last seen at his residence in Lions Bay, according to an RCMP news release.

The subsequent Squamish RCMP investigation found evidence that led officers to believe McLean was the victim of a homicide

On May 20, IHIT was deployed and “assumed conduct,” meaning it took over the investigation.

“Squamish RCMP continues to work closely with IHIT and the Integrated Forensic Identification Service (IFIS) to advance the investigation,” reads the release.

McLean was well known in the local film industry The Edmonton-born actor and producer appeared in several TV shows, including the Squamish-shot Virgin River

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or reach out by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc. gc.ca.

EXCESSIVE SPEEDING ON HIGHWAY 99 OVER MAY LONG WEEKEND

“May Long” in the Sea to Sky lived up to its reputation as hectic, with BC Highway Patrol nabbing “record” numbers of excessive speeders over the long weekend.

As part of the month-long High-Risk Driving Campaign in May, the BC Highway Patrol unit in Squamish set up in multiple locations between Lions Bay and Mt. Currie over the Victoria Day long weekend, according to a news release.

Between May 15 and May 18, 2026, BC Highway Patrol issued 212 violation tickets. Of those, 66 were excessive speed tickets including vehicle impounds

“At one moment in time, we had four high-end Porsches and two motorcycles lined up waiting to be towed to the impound lot,” said Cpl Michael McLaughlin with BC Highway Patrol, in the release. “We want our highways to be a beautiful and safe drive for everyone, and we’re going to keep removing excessive speeders until people get the message.”

The busiest day for speeding was Sunday, May 17, when 33 vehicles were impounded.

“Even though we warned of ‘police ahead’ using highway signs, there were numerous drivers who were more than 80 over the limit,” said McLaughlin. “That sort of excessive speeding is exactly what we commonly see at fatal highway collisions, and it’s not acceptable.”

The previous long weekend record for excessive speeding impounds on Highway 99 was from Labour Day 2025, when 60 vehicles were impounded.

SQUAMISH NATION WARNS OF HOAX LETTER

Officials with Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) say a fraudulent letter was distributed in Britannia Beach on what looks like their letterhead, in an effort to drum up unnecessary concern about Aboriginal title.

On a post to its social media on May 22, the Nation said the bogus letter warns residents in Britannia Beach, which is within Nation territory, that their property is subject to “Formal notice of asserted Aboriginal Title, Reclamation of Jurisdiction, and Directive to Vacate.”

The Nation is alerting the approximately 400 residents of Britannia Beach that this letter did not come from the Nation and is not true

The Squamish Chief was sent a redacted copy of the letter It says the resident has 30 days to contact the Nation for a meeting to discuss their transition off the property, and six months to leave. It references the Supreme Court of Canada affirming Aboriginal title.

“To be clear, Squamish Nation did not issue this letter and the claims contained in it are 100% false,” the Nation states in its post signed by Sxwíxwtn Wilson Williams, chairperson of the Nation’s council.

He added that such action is designed to divide

“That someone would go to the lengths to produce something so blatantly damaging, is shocking and reprehensible,” Wilson said

The Nation said not only is the distribution of such a hoax damaging to the Nation and all Indigenous people, it is also damaging to the homeowners “to whom it was directed and negatively impacts the work communities have been doing to build relationships towards reconciliation.”

This divisive event comes at the same time as the provincial government is soliciting public feedback on planned land use objectives for the Sea to Sky region.

Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw regained 20,000 hectares of ancestral public land in June last year

The Nation said it will share additional information on the situation with the fake letter as soon as it becomes available.

Officials with the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District put out a statement on social media mid-day on Saturday asking for anyone who received the letter to contact them Britannia Beach is an unincorporated community within Electoral Area D of the SLRD

“The situation has the potential to create confusion, concern and mistrust in the community,” the post reads. “The SLRD is committed to sharing factual information and supporting respectful relationships and informed dialogue within the region. Anyone who has received a similar letter is encouraged to contact the SLRD at communications@slrd. bc.ca.

U.S. FLAG TO COME DOWN AT BRENNAN PARK AHEAD OF GRADUATION

The District of Squamish will remove the U.S. flag hanging inside the Brennan Park Recreation Centre arena after a split 5-2 council vote on May 19, following requests tied to the June 11 high school graduation ceremony

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

The U.S. flag is coming down at Brennan Park rink.

Squamish council voted 5-2 on Tuesday (May 19) to remove the U.S. flag from the arena at Brennan Park Recreation Centre

The decision came after some correspondence from locals requesting the flag be removed for the local graduation ceremony on June 11, which is held at the centre

The correspondence included back-andforth emails between District staff and locals.

Lisa Manzini wrote that she is a teacher and suggested the U.S. flag at the rink could be replaced with the orange Survivors’ Flag.

She said this would be an act of reconciliation and a reflection of global politics

“Taking into consideration the current situation in the U.S.A. and the potential tariffs impacting Canadians, why is the flag still hanging? Does it serve a purpose, and if so what or has it been there so long it is rarely noticed,” she wrote in one of the emails submitted to council.

Previously, District staff told The Squamish Chief that the United States flag was hung in the arena during the period more than 10 years ago when Squamish had a Pacific Junior Hockey League team, the Squamish Wolf Pack

In the correspondence, Manzini said staff also told her that currently two U.S. teams are part of the U18 hockey zone and come to compete locally.

In a follow-up letter, after District staff told her the flag would remain until a flag policy was reviewed by council, Manzini reiterated her wish to see it removed.

“Last year as I watched my daughter walk across the stage in Squamish, B.C., Canada, I was baffled as to why she was walking across the stage under an American Flag,” she wrote. Her request was backed by the Howe Sound Secondary–Class of 2026 Grad Committee.

“Commencement is a uniquely important milestone, and for many families, this will be one of the most meaningful community events they attend,” wrote Christine McLeod, chair of the 2026 Grad Committee, in another letter submitted to council.

“As a user group hosting a large-scale, paid event in the facility, we are hopeful there may be some flexibility to ensure the setting reflects the local and cultural context in a way that aligns with community expectations for that day.”

FLAG FLAP

Coun. Jenna Stoner pulled the correspondence for discussion and put forward the motion

to remove the American flag from the rink

“This is not typically something that we do, wading too far into the operations of our organization, but I feel like there’s a political component here that is important to address,” she said

Stoner said she thought a decision could be made prior to a more official flag policy being in place. The issue is set to be before council by the end of 2026, but not before the grad ceremony

“I would like to see the American flag taken down I understand that we have it there for hockey season because we have some American teams that play in our hockey pool, but in time for graduation, I think it’s important that it be removed for the families who’ll be celebrating commencement at that time,” she said.

Mayor Armand Hurford proposed amending the motion so that it would be removed temporarily for commencement, with the flag going back up before hockey season restarts, but that motion failed, with Couns. Stoner, Lauren Greenlaw, Chris Pettingill and Andrew Hamilton opposed.

Those councillors supported the original motion by Stoner

“I wish this didn’t need to come to the council table, but from a general perspective, flags are symbols of things that we value. Flags are symbols of welcoming to people The spirit of that American flag in the arena welcoming American teams is a good thing,” Hamilton said.

“But the existence of that flag in a purely Squamish-based Canadian B.C. high school graduation is not needed The students don’t need that third flag in every graduation photo because that flag has nothing to do with their graduation.”

Greenlaw said she would like to see “a little bit more collaboration with our community members on topics like this” so it didn’t escalate from District staff to council.

“I don’t think it’s necessary to have an American flag at graduation,” she said

Hurford and Coun Eric Andersen opposed the decision

Hurford said this was a protest vote against the flag take-down not being temporary, just for the event.

I wish this didn’t need to come to the council table, but from a general perspective, flags are symbols of things that we value.

ANDREW HAMILTON

“I think that when we make long-term decisions here, they deserve more scrutiny and consideration than we’ve been able to give it here tonight. So, I won’t be supporting the motion, but I am happy to hear that the flag will come down for the event, but I think there’s a broader conversation that we’re missing out on addressing this issue in this way.”

PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

The U.S. flag, on the far left of the rink in this image, will be removed by graduation in June

COUNCIL WEIGHS NEW RULES FOR BUILDING ON STEEP SLOPES

Council has directed staff to bring forward an Official Community Plan amendment that would formally establish a Steep Slopes Development Permit Area, along with related policy changes

JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

How steep can we build in town and what are the rules for when we do?

Council offered feedback on a proposed Draft Steep Slopes Development Permit Area (DPA) at its meeting on May 12.

The policy would apply to land in town that has a slope gradient of 30% or greater.

For comparison, the Canadian government’s recommended safe staircase for a house has a 70% slope (35 degree-angle).

The guidelines would apply to subdivision, construction, excavation or piling of soil more than 1.2 metres deep, and removal of trees that are 20 centimetres in diameter or more

“The intention is to address critical issues without creating an overly onerous DPA structure. The primary focus is on hazard mitigation with a secondary focus on key non-hazard guidelines such as environment and design aesthetics,” said District planner Matt Gunn

He further explained: “up to 30% the DPA is not required. There is not a concern around

LNG’sCommunity PartnershipProgram is June 5, 2026

localorganizations thatuplift ourneighboursinSquamishand Squamish-Lillooet Regional District.Fromsportsand health to community well-being and safety,our program offers up to $5,000 in funding to supportthe importantwork of localnon-profits

development happens across large parts of Squamish

Continued from 5

the slope angle and thus no need to implement these guidelines. Beyond 30%, if someone wants to do a development and it involves that type of terrain, they’ll have to apply for a DPA which takes this steep slope lens around site design and construction, environment—a variety of factors will need to be considered if you’re going above that gradient.”

Gunn noted that staff compared about 20 other similar policies in other communities in creating Squamish’s draft policy.

These would be delegated development permits, meaning staff would approve them, not council.

FIRE DEPARTMENT CONCERNS

For roads, the proposed guideline is meant to address a concern from Squamish Fire Rescue that steep road grades in strata developments can make it harder to fight fires.

The proposed guidelines state that “strata developments with buildings that require access for emergency services should use road grades that align with the District of Squamish Subdivision and Development Control Bylaw, to address the needs of the Squamish Fire Department.”

This would be a pretty big change given currently stratas are allowed to use steeper grades

The subdivision bylaw states “operational and safety challenges can arise on roads over 10% [gradient] during snowfall events.”

“Even small delays experienced on steep roads in good conditions result in larger and more difficult-to-control fires,” reads the staff report to council. “Under snowy conditions, these challenges can be significantly worse, especially on strata roads which are typically

RCMP: Continued from 2

the courts, with a former resident of Squamish, Adriaan Schipper, scheduled for sentencing on child exploitation materials May 27 in Vancouver Provincial Court.

Other major investigations she briefly spoke to included an illegal tobacco sale bust, the helicopter crash near Woodfibre LNG, and an

not maintained to District road standards. In addition, steep roads put additional stress on fire engines and can lead to ongoing, expensive maintenance challenges.”

TRADE-OFFS

Gunn said that one of the “really challenging” trade-offs that was identified with developing on hillsides with Squamish’s topography is that it is very hard to create short, direct low-angle routes that bikers can easily travel

“In neighbourhood planning one of the alternatives that we need to think about is how can we ensure that as these neighbourhoods in the hillsides develop … we make sure that they have good transit access; where we can have good roads that come up through areas that are clustered and have higher density. So if creating a short low angle bike path isn’t practical, maybe the transit system is going to have a flow that connects in a loop and can grab people and bring people into areas where there are more services.”

Asked by Coun. Chris Pettingill how big a role steep slope development could play in Squamish, Gunn said he couldn’t put a percentage to it

“We have a lot of development potential on existing development applications, only some of which are in … steep slope areas, like many thousands of units can go in areas that are not steep slopes, but to look further out and imagine full development of anywhere that has steep slopes would be a larger project,” he said.

SAMPLE COUNCIL COMMENTS

Ultimately, council supported the staff recommendations to provide feedback and to direct staff to bring forward to council an Official Community Plan amendment that includes a Steep Slopes Development Permit

ongoing investigation at a downtown encampment that revealed evidence of drug trafficking and a large cache of weapons.

FIFA AND SUMMER SEASON

Summer brings enhanced tourism and event activation, and with it, increased pressure on policing A compounding factor this year is the FIFA World Cup 2026

Area and amendments to steep slopes policies, for consideration of readings There were two pieces of feedback that were predominant in the discussion and highlighted in a motion put forward by Coun. Jenna Stoner, which was supported by council:

• Ensuring strong wording around pedestrian and cycling connectivity in the transportation network sections of the guidelines;

• Including some language that prioritizes the risk element of the DPA over the other components.

“I think what is important is that we do have some set of guidelines that I think first and foremost prioritize the life safety risk of potential development in these hazard lands. And quantifying that and working towards some good guidelines that can help us navigate through,” Stoner said. “And then absolutely the other part of it is ensuring that any of that future development also supports the other goals that we have in terms of ensuring that our community is as accessible as possible. Trying to drive vision and innovation in perhaps steeper areas and making sure that they are accessible with the diversity of ways that people are getting around now.”

Stoner also brought forward a motion that was unanimously supported by her colleagues that District staff bring back to the next presentation of the draft, clarification on the review process around a letter from a qualified professional required under the development permit exemption. This refers to that the draft steep slope DPA guidelines say that a development permit is not required for “development for which a qualified professional provides a letter indicating the proposed land use does not impact slope stability, is not subject to steep slopes

Banks compared it to the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver and Whistler for impact, but with more backcountry pressures.

Banks said there have been some requests for deployment during the cup, but that impact on local resources will be minimal.

“Sgt Miller is also working on a proactive patrol model for seasonal policing, and operational planning for events are increasing

Even small delays experienced on steep roads in good conditions result in larger and more difficult-to-control fires.

DISTRICT STAFF REPORT

hazards, and a steep slopes development permit is not warranted.”

Mayor Armand Hurford said that he found the mapping of where steep slope development could occur “quite striking.”

“It’s a huge percentage of the municipality,” he said

He added that he is concerned with the cost to the municipality, in terms of services, that the policy will create over time This will be something he will think about when the policy is a bylaw before council to vote on, he said.

Coun. Eric Andersen said he first heard a call for clear steep slope guidelines about 25 years ago.

“Two aspects of the current initiative I appreciate and that is the improved response to and recognition of the uniqueness of the Squamish topography. There’s a big leap forward in our capturing of that in our approach, and also generally the performance-based guidelines approach that we’re taking,” he said.

Next, District staff will bring forward a bylaw to council for readings

in size in Squamish…We are using a provincial operational policing model to ensure that we are fiscally responsible to the budget and working on that side of things to proactively be out there at places like Cat Lake, Brohm Lake… up the Squamish Valley, and working with our partners, such as Park Rangers and SAR.”

To read the full report, visit the District of Squamish’s website.

CANNABIS STORE RELOCATION CLEARED AS COUNCIL VOTES 5-2 FOR WINNIPEG STREET VARIANCE

A long-running Squamish cannabis retailer is preparing to move after council authorized a variance that makes room for Sky High Cannabis at a new downtown location

JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

Acannabis store is on the move after council voted 5-2 to authorize a development variance permit for 1343 Winnipeg Street

The decision on May 19 authorizes a cannabis retail store to open within 300 metres—it is 210 metres away—of another cannabis store, which is prohibited by the zoning bylaw regulations.

This Winnipeg Street location is around the corner from The Squamish Chief.

The applicant, Sky High Cannabis Ltd, which was the first legal cannabis retail store in Squamish, has been at its location up the street at 38054 Second Ave. since 2018, but needs to relocate due to upcoming redevelopment of its current location

According to the current zoning of 1343 Winnipeg Street, though, it is too close to Squamish Cannabis at 38243 Cleveland Avenue

Granting the development permit variance thus allows the shop to move to the Winnipeg Street location

District staff supported granting the permit.

“Staff are supportive of the proposed variance as it does not materially impact the intent of the regulation. The 90-metre reduction in separation maintains the existing theoretical cap on the number of cannabis locations that may locate in the downtown,” reads the staff report to council. “The proposed location is 210 m, parcel-to-parcel measured as the crow flies, from the nearest cannabis location. If measured storefront to storefront, the distance would be over 300 m.”

District planner Philip Gibbins said this isn’t a new store wanting to open up, but the movement of an existing store.

He added, “the distancing requirement of 300 metres between dispensaries was designed to effectively impose a limit on the maximum number of dispensaries that can operate in Squamish, as well to avoid clustering of several cannabis retail locations together.”

Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), however, objected to the variance

“Evidence on the possible harms of cannabis retail density is growing and continues to support buffer zones and maintaining outlet density caps to limit clustering, particularly around youth-serving facilities and spaces,” said Dr. Ceinwen Pope, medical health officer for the Sea to Sky in a letter submitted to council. “Greater store density and access are associated with increased health care service use, poison control calls due to cannabis,

Squamish council has voted 5-2 to approve a development variance permit that will allow Sky High Cannabis Ltd. to relocate to 1343 Winnipeg Street—about 210 metres from another cannabis retailer, closer than the zoning bylaw normally permits.

cannabis-related hospitalizations during pregnancy, and frequent cannabis use in adults and young adults.”

Two letters from the public also objected to the proposed variances.

“Concerns raised include that the variance defeats the intent of the bylaw and is precedent setting, and the applicant’s circumstances do not meet the bylaw variance test and the negative impacts on the neighbourhood,” Gibbins told council.

There was a public hearing prior to the council vote on the issue, but no one attended to speak on it

The Sea to Sky School District did not respond to a request for comment, according to District staff.

SAMPLE COUNCIL COMMENTS

The variance passed, with two councillors opposed, Chris Pettingill and Eric Andersen Pettingill said he couldn’t support the variance permit based on the Vancouver Coastal Health letter

“It is pretty clear from VCH that we should be taking advantage of opportunities to reduce the density, which would be the effect of denying this, at least temporarily, and then we could maybe look at further adjusting our bylaw,” he said. “But the evidence they seem to be communicating is not that we should be maintaining a density. If anything, we should be lowering density. It strikes me as strange

When we established our business over five years ago, we did so in full reliance on the District’s regulatory framework as it existed at the time, including the 300-metre minimum separation requirement.

FRED HAMEL

PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHEIF

Stage1Outdoor

IceAllocation Meeting

Thursday, June 4at5:40 pm at Brennan Park Recreation Centre

Business Opportunities

Sprinkler and AutomatedIrrigation

Twodaysper week based on street address.

•Odd side: Thursdays and Sundays

•Evenside: Wednesdays and Saturdays

Sprinkler

4–10 am and 7–10 pm

AutomatedIrrigation 10 pm–4 am Trytolimit your watering to onehour!

Hand Watering and Drip Irrigation

Trees,flowers,shrubs or gardens is allowedanytime.

Formoreinformation and to see the full water restrictions,head to our website:

Requestsfor Proposals

•Environmental DevelopmentReview Consultant

•BrennanParkCricket PitchConstruction

•Consulting to AdvanceSocial Procurement squamish.ca/doing-business-with-the-district

InfrastructureUpgrades

•Wastewater System Upgrades continue in Dentville

•Annual Watermain Upgrades continue in Brackendale squamish.ca/building-our-future

DevelopmentReview

• 40174 Bill’s Place –TemporaryUse Permit

• 40179 Garibaldi Way –TemporaryUse Permit

• 41205 Rockridge Place –TemporaryUse Permit

• 38577 High Creek Drive –TemporaryUse Permit

• 38607 High Creek Drive –TemporaryUse Permit

• 40252 Aristotle Drive –TemporaryUse Permit

• 1940 CentennialWay –TemporaryUse Permit squamish.ca/review

Sign-up foraMyCityAccount to access Property Taxand Utilitynotices online

With aMyCitylogin, youcan access your Property Taxes, Utilities,Building Permits,Planning Applications, Business Licenceand Recreation ProgramRegistration accounts online.

squamish.ca/online-services

Sportball Indoor

Soccer (3–5YRS)

atBrennan Park Recreation Centre

Tuesdays,12:45–1:45 pm

Kickstart your day!

Sportball Soccerintroduces fundamental concepts of gameplayand teaches the basic skills required to move like Messi, run like Ronaldo,and shoot like Salahin a supportive, non-competitiveenvironment.

LEAP: Fantasy&Fairytales (3–5YRS)

at Brennan Park Recreation Centre

July 6–10, 9–11 am

Step into amagical realmfilled with wonder, creativityand storytelling! Plenty of activities areincluded to fuel your child’s imagination. No prior danceexperiencerequired.

All AboutAnimalsCamp (7–12

YRS)

at Brennan Park Recreation Centre

June 29–July 3, 9 am–4 pm

Did youknowbears can smellfoodfrom over akilometreaway? This week is full of fun with stories,art and sciencethatare all about...you guessed it: animals!

Campers will take partinavarietyofart projects and active games each daywhile learning about nature and wildlife living in Squamishand beyond This camp will go swimming in the pool. No camp July 1.

Checkout the arena andpool schedules!

SEA TO SKY DRINKS MORE THAN TWICE THE PROVINCIAL AVERAGE, HEALTH DATA SHOWS

A medical health officer, an outreach worker, and a Squamish woman in recovery share what’s driving high alcohol use in the corridor, and where to find help

LIZ MCDONALD emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca

If you live in the Sea to Sky and wonder whether your alcohol consumption rates are high, you might not be the only one.

Alcohol use rates in the Sea to Sky are higher than the provincial average, according to statistics from the Canadian Institute of Substance Use Research and the Speak Free survey, a population survey in B.C. Ceinwen Pope, medical health officer for the Sea to Sky, explained the consumption rates based on these studies.

“In 2023, the estimated weekly per capita alcohol consumption in Sea to Sky was 22 standard drinks per week, and that’s compared to nine overall for [Vancouver Coastal Health] and provincially, so you can see rather high relative to that, and also from Speak Free Survey, we know that about 72% of adults reported regular consumption use, so at least once a month, which is compared to 59% of VCH. About 35% reported regular binge drinking, compared to 22% in B.C.”

According to Canada’s updated drinking guidelines from 2024, zero drinks is the healthiest option, and drinking two or fewer standard drinks weekly is lower risk Drinking any more than that brings a risk of injuries and violence Three to six standard drinks result in a higher risk of breast and colon cancer And seven or more “significantly increases your risk of heart disease or stroke.”

“It is a spectrum, and some of those health risks include things like cancers, heart disease, injuries, violence, just to name a few,” said Pope.

SUPPORT ADVICE

Outreach worker Lisa Coulter sees the impact of heavy drinking firsthand. She’s with

Continued from 7

that we would rule contrary to Vancouver Coastal Health.”

Andersen explained that he opposed the variance, preferring to see the issue of the distance between shops addressed in a policy review rather than this variance application. He also said he was influenced by the letter from Fred Hamel, principal of Squamish Cannabis against the application.

“When we established our business over five years ago, we did so in full reliance on the District’s regulatory framework as it existed at the time, including the 300-metre minimum separation requirement,” Hamel wrote. “That

but local referrals are available.

Whistler Community Services Society (WCSS) as the director of social services

“So we definitely see those that don’t have a strong sense of belonging and have access to different substances that they maybe didn’t previously have of wherever they came from, from before residing in Whistler, and we see that the lack of affordable housing, the strong sense of wanting to fit in in a community that has a strong socialized socializing component related to substance use,” Coulter said The annual influx of seasonal workers, a

requirement was a fundamental factor in our site selection, financial projections and overall decision to invest long-term in Squamish We complied fully with the applicable bylaws and licensing requirements, assuming that those rules would be applied consistently and fairly.”

The majority in support of granting the variance permit spoke to how it kept the intent of the bylaw and wasn’t a material change in the number of pot shops downtown

“This seems like a situation where we are able to grant a variance that upholds the spirit of a bylaw while not upholding the letter of the bylaw, and in my mind, that is what variances are for,” said Coun Andrew Hamilton Coun. Jenna Stoner spoke to the history of

changing social circle and high cost of living are all factors she attributes to high rates of substance use in the community.

“Substance use isn’t just related to substance use. [It’s about] everything else. Being connected with a sense of community and belonging, lack of affordable and ongoing housing and available local resources.”

Squamish resident Haven Johnson quit drinking two years ago. She’s turned to ultra running as part of her sobriety journey and says help is available when people are looking

Sky High Cannabis since it opened in 2018

“It’s actually the previous council’s decisions to vary this bylaw for other permits that has made it more difficult for this one to move to the proposed location And so it was a decision that we made in 2019 to vary permit 151 that allowed a store slightly closer. So this is a little bit of, not necessarily backtracking but, ensuring that the decisions that we’re making along the way actually allows for a fair approach to our regulatory system.”

Stoner was referring to the fact that in 2019, as the staff report states, council approved DVP No 151 to permit the cannabis retail location at 38243 Cleveland Ave. The permit reduced the minimum distance between a site containing

Reach out for help. There is an incredible support network here in Squamish for people who need help getting sober, and the community there is always there for you.

HAVEN JOHNSON

for a change

“I got to a point where I believe that there is a better life for me out there and drinking all day and being tied to that was not the life I deserved or my family,” she said “Reach out for help. There is an incredible support network here in Squamish for people who need help getting sober, and the community there is always there for you.”

The closest publicly funded recovery facility is in Vancouver through Vancouver Coastal Health, and Coulter says it often has high wait lists, but local referrals are available.

“There’s lots of local organizations like Sea to Sky Community Services [Society], Vancouver Coastal Health Mental Health Team, PearlSpace, the amazing team at Under One Roof, ourselves at Whistler Community Services [Society]. So just making that initial contact, and we know how scary it is to walk in To a space and say I need help, so making it as accessible as possible for someone. All of these amazing organizations will always be that first point of contact for folks.”

another cannabis retail and the minimum distance between a site containing a school and a cannabis retail business from 300 m to 145 m, and allowed for cannabis retail to be permitted on a parcel with frontage on Cleveland Avenue

Coun. John French, who appeared at the meeting by video link, applauded that the applicant was able to find a solution to its relocation problem.

“I commend this operator for finding a location that is relatively close to the current location and really is requiring a fairly insignificant variance This isn’t a huge change with moving their operation a block or so I find this to be logical and completely reasonable.”

PHOTO BY RIDOFRANZ/ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS

The closest publicly funded recovery facility is in Vancouver through Vancouver Coastal Health, and Coulter says it often has high wait lists,

CANNABIS:

TemporaryUse PermitTemporaryUse Permit

NOTICE is herebygiven in accordancewith Section 494 of the Local Government Act thatthe DistrictofSquamishhas received application and will be considering issuanceofa TemporaryUse Permit thatwould allowthe short-term rental use in asecondarysuite fora periodof3years.The District ofSquamish will receiverepresentations from persons who believethattheir interest in property is affectedbythe proposed temporaryuse(s)

AffectedLands

38607 High Creek Drive, Squamish,B.C., as shown on thelocationmap

LegalDescription

LOT103 BLOCK 22 DISTRICTLOT 515 GROUP 1NEW WESTMINSTER DISTRICTPLAN EPP45517

Existing Zoning R-1 (Residential 1)

ProposedTemporaryUse

Under the District’sZoning BylawNo. 2200, 2011, short-term rental use is not permitted in adwelling unit that is not aprincipal residence; shortterm rental use is also not permitted in asecondarysuiteoraccessory dwelling unit (coach house). If approved,the TemporaryUse Permit would allowthe short-term rental use in the secondarysuitefor aperiod of 3years.The applicantcan apply to renew the permit foran additional periodofupto3years following the expiryofthe original permit.

Acopyofthe proposedTemporary UsePermit No.TU000079 and related information thathas been or maybe considered by the Council maybeinspectedonline oratMunicipalHall.

• Onlineat: squamish.ca/showcase

•Municipal Hall at 37955 Second Avenue,Squamish, BritishColumbia, from May28, 2026 to June11, 2026 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding statutoryholidays. Public input will be considered by theDistrictinreview of the application. Persons who believethattheir interest in property is affectedbythe proposed TemporaryUse Permit maysubmit written submissions to planning@squamish.ca or,inperson to the DirectorofCommunity Development. Written submissions canbe addressed to the Directorof CommunityDevelopmentand will be received up until 4p.m. June 11,2026

All submissions willformpartofthe publicrecord.

Datedthis 28 dayofMay,2026, at Squamish, British Columbia.

NOTICE is herebygiven in accordancewith Section494 of the Local Government Act thatthe DistrictofSquamish has received application and willbeconsidering issuanceofa TemporaryUse Permit thatwould allowthe short-term rental use in asecondarysuitefor aperiod of 3years.The District of Squamish willreceiverepresentations from persons who believethattheir interest in property is affectedbythe proposed temporaryuse(s).

AffectedLands

38577 High Creek Drive, Squamish, B.C., as shown on the location map

Legal Description

LOT82BLOCK 22 DISTRICTLOT 515 GROUP 1NEW WESTMINSTER DISTRICTPLAN EPP45517

Existing Zoning R-1 (Residential 1)

ProposedTemporary Use

Under the District’sZoning BylawNo. 2200, 2011, short-term rental use is not permitted in adwelling unit that is not aprincipal residence;shortterm rental use is alsonot permitted in asecondarysuiteoraccessory dwelling unit (coach house). If approved,the TemporaryUse Permit would allowthe short-term rental use in the secondarysuitefor aperiod of 3years.The applicantcan apply to renew the permit foranadditional period of up to 3years following the expiryofthe original permit.

Acopyofthe proposed Temporary UsePermit No.TU000080 and related information thathas been or maybe considered by the Council maybeinspectedonline or at Municipal Hall

•Online at: squamish.ca/showcase

•Municipal Hallat37955 Second Avenue,Squamish, British Columbia, from May28, 2026 to June 11,2026 between 8:30 a.m.and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding statutory holidays.

Public input will be considered by the Districtinreview of the application. Persons who believethattheir interest in property is affectedbythe proposed TemporaryUse Permit maysubmit written submissions to planning@squamish.ca or,inpersontothe DirectorofCommunity Development. Written submissions can be addressed to the Directorof CommunityDevelopmentand will be received up until 4p.m. June 11, 2026

All submissionswillformpartofthe public record.

Datedthis 28 dayofMay,2026, at Squamish, British Columbia.

SCHOOL TRUSTEES WEIGH LETTER AS CONCERN CONTINUES OVER HEARTH HOUSING AT XWÚNEḴW PARK

A local parent is urging the Sea to Sky School District board to press the District of Squamish to abandon Xwúneḵw Park as a potential location for BC Housing’s HEARTH temporary modular supportive housing

NoticeofBylaw Readings

District of SquamishZoningBylaw 2200,2011Amendment Bylaw (37870 ClevelandAve Hoteland Height Amendments) No.3223, 2026

Noticeisherebygiven in accordancewithSection 467ofthe LocalGovernment Act,thatDistrictofSquamish Councilwillbeconsideringfirst, second andthird readings of District of Squamish Zoning Bylaw2200, 2011 AmendmentBylaw (37870 ClevelandAve Hoteland Height Amendments)No. 3223,2026.

Property

37870Cleveland Avenue,Squamish, B.C.,asshown on thelocation map.

Proposed AmendmentBylaw

Thepurposeofthe proposed Bylawistoamend theexistingComprehensive DevelopmentZone 37 (CD-37)toallow fortourist accommodationuse (a 66 unit hotelisproposed),toincrease theheightofthe northernmost building from 20.0 mto20.8m,and to remove thetandemparking prohibitionfromthe zone (toallowfor tandem parking).

LOCATION MAP

When

June 2, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.

Where

Council Chambersat Municipal Hall,37955 Second Avenue,Squamish,British Columbia,orelectronically at: squamish.ca/live-meetings

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

Local parent Anastasia Kogan, who lives in the SEAandSKY neighbourhood, spoke about her concerns about the proposed Xwúneḵw Park location of the HEARTH program, at the Sea to Sky School District’s board of education meeting on May 13

She asked the board to communicate with the Squamish council on the subject of the proposed location of the HEARTH temporary housing, “directly on the only pedestrian school route from the residential community that I happen to be resident of.”

She noted that, currently, the developers of the pedestrian bridge, Bosa Properties and Kingswood Properties, run a temporary shuttle for kids to get to school, given there isn’t yet a safe route from SEAandSKY.

Once the bridge is operational, the shuttle will no longer be offered, Kogan said, thus she is concerned about the low barrier temporary housing possibility at Xwúneḵw Park, next to the foot of the new bridge on the downtown side.

“You’re basically looking at kids from 500 households now, 700 plus households in the future, twice a day crossing right past a facility with potentially challenging safety situation,” said Kogan.

Kogan called on the board to pass a motion to write a letter asking the District to drop the Xwúneḵw Park option for the BC Housing initiative in favour of another location in the name of student safety.

“I do think student safety is your top of mind and I know you guys have been engaging heavily on the [regional] transportation to Whistler subject. This sort of feels like the same challenge,” she said

“I know you’re not obligated to provide school bus transportation, but should things deteriorate [at the potential housing site], it may come down to requiring a school bus, if it’s just unpredictable.”

SAMPLE SCHOOL BOARD TRUSTEE RESPONSES

Board trustees empathized with Kogan, but were hesitant to make pronouncements on safety in terms of the proposed site.

“I feel for you. I totally understand. But I also know individuals on the other side of this and the necessity for safety for those with, especially, multiple barriers—addictions and mental health,” said Trustee Rebecca Barley. “But I also have a best friend whose daughter’s living in one of those facilities and it’s keeping her alive at this

No Public HearingRequired

In accordance with Provincial legislation, Section464(3)ofthe LocalGovernmentAct,a local government must notholda public hearing on aproposedzoning bylawifthe sole purpose of the bylawistopermita development that is,inwhole or in part, aresidential development, and theresidential componentofthe development accounts foratleast half of thegross floor area ofall buildings andother structures proposed as partofthe development. This proposedrezoningmeets thoserequirements.

HowtoViewthe Proposed Bylaws

Acopyofthe proposedbylaw andrelated informationthathas been or maybe consideredbythe Councilcan be inspectedonlineoratMunicipal Hall.

Onlineat: squamish.ca/showcase

MunicipalHallat37955 Second Avenue,Squamish, BritishColumbia, from May 21 to June 2, 2026,between 8:30 a.m. and4:30p.m., Mondaythrough Friday exceptfor statutoryholidays.

Enquiries regarding theproposed amendmentbylaw maybemadeto the Planning Departmentat 604-815-5002 or by emailto planning@squamish.ca. Thisisthe second of twonotices,dated this 28 dayofMay,2026, at Squamish, BritishColumbia.

PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

The proposed location of the temporary BC Housing.

THE SQUAMISH CHIEF NEWSPAPER, PRINTED EVERYTHURSDAY BY LODESTAR MEDIA 38113 Second Avenue

CONTACTUS

PRINTEDEVERY

THURSDAY BY LODESTAR MEDIA

T: 604-892-9161

news@squamishchief.com ads@squamishchief.com classifieds@squamishchief.com subs@squamishchief.com production@squamishchief.com obituaries: ads@squamishchief.com

LIZMCDONALD emcdonald@ lodestarmedia.ca

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

SALESMANAGER

CATHIE GREENLEES cgreenlees@ squamishchief.com

MULTI- MEDIASALES REPRESENTATIVE KIMBOATMAN kboatman@ squamishchief.com

CIRCULATION MANAGER

DENISE CONWAY dconway@ squamishchief.com

PUBLISHER SARAHSTROTHER sstrother@lodestarmedia.ca

TheSquamishChief is amemberof theNationalNewsmedia Council, whichisanindependent organization establishedtodealwithacceptable journalistic practicesand ethical behaviour. If youhaveconcerns abouteditorial content, please contactEditorJenniferThuncherat jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca.Ifyou arenot satisfiedwiththe response andwishtofilea formal complaint, visitthe websiteatmediacouncil.ca or call toll-free1-844-877-1163for additional information

Reproduction of anymaterial containedinthispublicationis expresslyforbiddenwithoutthe prior writtenconsent of thepublisher.

EDITORIAL

HUMANIZING HOMELESSNESS

Alocalmancalledrecentlytogiveournewsroom heckforourpreviouscoverstoryonthepolice incidentsattheencampmentbehindUnder OneRoof.

Hesaiditwasn’tafairrepresentationofthefolksor thesituationthere.

Weexplainedthatourstorywasbasedonthepress releasesoftheRCMP,whilerecognizingthatsuch releasesoftenaren’tthefullstory

Moredetailsandafulleraccountmaycomeoutin court,shouldtheincidentsendupthere Tohiscredit,thecallerseemedtorespectthe explanation.

Thenhesharedhowhehadfallenonhardtimesin hisownlife.

Themanofferedtoletuspublishhisname,butgiven thetensionintown,wehavechosentokeephim anonymous.

Whenhewasayoungchild,hisfathershotandkilled hismom.Heandhisseveralsiblingsweresubsequentlysenttofostercare,wherehewasabused.

Thesexualabusewastheworst,andsomethinghe strugglestodealwithtothisday,hesaid.

Heandhissiblingsweremovedandseparated, unabletocommunicatewitheachother.

Backwhenhewasyoung,therapywasn’tsomething offeredortalkedabout.

Hesurmisesthatheturnedtosubstancestodeal withthetraumaofitall.

Hemadesomethingofhislife,atonepointhavinga niceplaceofhisowninSquamish,butthenhousing costswentupbeyondwhathecouldafford.

Hewassoberfor16years,untilhewasn’t.

Heisbackontracknow,withaplacetolive,hesays. Heaimseverydaytohelpotherswhoarestruggling, anddoes,throughhiswork.

Thisisn’ttodismisstheconcernsaroundthe temporaryhousingproposedatX wún e wPark. Thoseconcernsarevalid.Ideally,abetterlocationis found.

Letitalsobeclearlystatedthatviolentcriminals mustnotbetoleratedinourcommunity,nomatter whattheirbackground.Theyareadangertousall, mostespeciallytothemajorityofnon-violent unhousedfolkswhodon’thavedoorstolockthemselvesbehind.

Butthisman’sstoryisapowerfulreminderthat therearemarginalizedfolksinourcommunitywho havesurvivedheartbreakingabusesandinjustices andwhodeserveaplacetolivewithdignity.

AsLoriPyne,executivedirectorofSquamish HelpingHandsnotes,issuesaroundencampmentsare complex.Thesolutionswon’tbesimple.

Butthisman’sstorymightalsomakeusthinkabout whenourcollectivechildrenstopbeingthosewewant toprotectfromfolksintemporaryhousingand becomeadultswewanttoavoidbecausetheylive there.

YOUR TOWN,YOURNEWS

Ilove it when we canfindasolutiontoa problem. Oneproblem that oursmall butmighty newsroom has—andfrankly it is aproblem shared by everycommunity newsroom these days—isthatwecan’t gettoall thesportsand arts storiesthatcomeour way.

Theseare also notstories that the“bigger” mediawilleverpickupastheyare aboutlocal sporting events andachievements, playsand the like.

They tend not to be ournewsprioritiesfor a couple of reasons. First, thereissomuch impactfuland breaking news in Squamish.I doubtour readerswould want us to coverahigh school play over acrash that closes thehighway overnight, or acouncil decision that impactsevery resident.

Second,tobeperfectly honest, arts andsports storiesare oftennot well read.

Back in theday, therewould be multiple sports andartsand entertainmentstories in thelocal paper. As newspapers went onlinethough, it

became painfullyclear that only ahandful of folks were interested

Andthe truthis, whatever business youare in,if 100peoplebuy theraspberry cake and10,000buy theblackberrycake, youdon’t putall your resourcesintomakingmoreraspberry cakes, right?

That said,almostevery reporterIknowloves writingabout arts andsports. We areamix of artsyfolks andrecreationalathletes, afterall

AndIknowthatif100 people read abouta local band or play,and half of thoseshowupand buy tickets, that helpsthemout

Thus,wehavedecided to launch ado-it-yourself communitypagefor shortannouncements about non-profit arts stories, as well as localsporting events andachievements.

Upload your 300wordorlessnewstoour new webform. Find it as adropdowntab called “Community submissions” under“Connect” at squamishchief.com. Includeahorizontalphoto if youlike. We will dedicate apagetoitinprint each week.Oncethatpageisfull, anything left will be bumped to thenextweek.

This is fornon-profits only.Ifyou arealocal business,we’dlovetohaveyou supportlocal journalism with an ad.

So,ifyourteamwon thetournament, or your school is hostingafashion show—let us know.

EDITOR’S NOTEBOOK JENNIFER THUNCHER

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

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH

Iam a resident living less than a block from the Third Avenue encampment I initially supported the Under One Roof initiative, and I still strongly believe vulnerable people deserve meaningful help and support. But what residents in the downtown core are now living with every day cannot continue to be ignored.

Yesterday brought yet another police incident involving a firearm at the Third Avenue encampment behind Under One Roof, with multiple people exposed to bear spray in the process. This came barely a week after armed police seized guns, knives, ammunition, drugs, and made arrests in broad daylight in the town centre That same week, an individual carrying an axe stumbled through my garden near the encampment

Families are finding used needles in children’s play areas. Residents routinely deal with public intoxication, aggressive behaviour, and disorder at apartment entrances. Late-night screaming, erratic behaviour, and open drug use have become a normal part of downtown life I regularly cycle past Under One Roof and witness people openly using drugs in full public view Emergency services are constantly responding to the area, and many longtime residents have had enough and moved away from downtown entirely. Residents are not imagining these problems. They are happening, repeatedly, in the heart of our community.

Since Under One Roof opened in 2020, the downtown core has changed dramatically—and not for the better Homelessness, open drug use, and encampments have all increased in plain view Within just a few blocks, we now have multiple encampments, an overdose prevention site, and transitional housing all concentrated into one small area At some point, this stops looking like compassionate planning and becomes a complete failure of leadership and common sense. The current approach is completely at odds with the vision of a safe, welcoming, family-friendly downtown that supports local businesses, tourism,

and the wider community. Residents and business owners are being left to absorb the growing social and economic fallout while feeling pressured to stay silent for fear of being labelled insensitive or accused of stigmatizing vulnerable people

Enough is enough

I can no longer stay silent about the proposed transitional housing project at 37956 Loggers Lane near Xwu’nekw Park. There has been no clear commitment from the District that existing encampments will actually be dismantled or properly transitioned once new supportive housing opens at Government Road or at this proposed site. Instead, many residents fear this project will simply attract and further entrench encampments and disorder in the downtown core while worsening the impacts already being felt daily by nearby residents and businesses What is especially alarming is the decision to place transitional housing for vulnerable adults struggling with addiction next to a supervised consumption site and only blocks away from visible, open drug use and encampments That is not a recovery-focused environment It is the exact opposite Squamish absolutely needs a balanced and compassionate approach that supports vulnerable people. But compassion cannot come at the expense of public safety, livability, and the long-term health of the downtown core. Residents matter too, and many people feel their concerns are being ignored until another serious incident forces attention back onto the problem.

Jason Porter Squamish

TAKE AWAY THEIR VEHICLES FOR GOOD

In regards to your recent article about the multitude of vehicles impounded for excessive speeding during the May long weekend, [“BC Highway Patrol says it set a record for excessive speeding impounds on Highway 99 over May long weekend,” published May 21]

I would have to say I am not shocked. Squamish is my home town. I grew

up there. The bulk of my immediate family still lives there. Being 65 years old I have seen that highway in all its forms. It used to be the highway that was treacherous but now it is the drivers that are the main danger and that has become especially true since the Olympic upgrades

Anyone that drives that highway on a regular basis could tell a multitude of horror stories. I have come around corners only to see a car coming at me on my side of the road. I have seen motorcyclists going over 200 km/h pass me on the shoulder.

No matter how much you try to be aware of what is around you it is hard to be prepared to react when some idiot comes out of nowhere at mach 2. Vehicles are impounded for 30 days when going at least 40 km/h over the speed limit , the driver’s license is temporarily suspended and their insurance premiums go up

Yet the speeding and dangerous driving incidents are still increasing so the punishment isn’t acting as a deterrent.

Personally I would have no problem with, in cases when speeds go well beyond that 40 km/ h threshold, the vehicle is taken away permanently and the driver’s license suspended for much longer than 30 days. The only other solution may be simply ripping up the pavement and going back to a dirt road.

Mike Eckersley North Vancouver

SQUAMISH A TOWN THAT IS FAR FROM BEING WHAT IT MEANS TO BE CANADIAN

People act like homelessness appears out of nowhere. Like it’s a personal failure. Like it’s a crime, addiction, or bad choices.

That’s the easy story. It keeps people comfortable while looking away The reality is more structural

Most people experiencing homelessness didn’t start there. They worked, paid rent, and lived stable lives until housing costs rose faster than wages.

LETTERS Continued on 14

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 you think the U.S. flag should go back up in the Squamish rink sometime after graduation?

Have your say at squamishchief.com

Do

Opinion: ‘Sour grapes ’ about CBC in Squamish

A SQUAMISH 55+ COMMUNITY SOCIETY FULL OF DAFFODILS to Ganesh Patel the local Coca Cola representative along with John Riecker our local Save-On-Foods manager for the generous donation of soda pops for our 50s, 60s, 70s musical bingo. So appreciated. Also to Mark Myles the owner of Diamond Head Motors for the loan of his classic car collection They were amazing for our table centres, and to Domino’s Pizza for all our discounted pizzas Your generosity was so appreciated by all of us at The 55+. Thank yous are hardly enough DOG DISHES FULL OF DAFFODILS to Mr and Mrs. Lawrence who regularly leave out a fresh bowl of water for local pups Owners and fur babies alike appreciate you.

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

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

LETTERS: Continued from 13

One crisis, job loss, illness, a breakup is often enough to push someone out of housing entirely Once that happens, getting back in without housing first is extremely difficult.

But that isn’t the version people want to confront

What they want is distance Out of sight. Out of mind Just not here

So a contradiction forms.

People say homelessness is unacceptable They say they care about community and compassion But when solutions are proposed for new housing, supportive housing, increased density resistance is often immediate.

The very tools that reduce homelessness become the things people oppose when they affect their own neighbourhood.

This creates a paradox.

Everyone agrees homelessness should not exist. Nobody wants to see it in public space. Yet the solutions that reduce it are frequently blocked or delayed, especially when they involve visible change The outcome is rejected, but so are the causes being addressed.

The result is a system that demands less homelessness while resisting the

policies that would actually reduce it.

Several reasoning errors reinforce this cycle. People often blame individuals for outcomes driven largely by housing costs and supply shortages. Visibility is mistaken for personal failure. Rising prices are treated as natural rather than produced by policy choices. At the same time, housing is defended as an investment first and a necessity second, even as affordability declines

The contradiction is clear: housing is treated as both a basic right in principle and a restricted commodity in practice

You cannot restrict supply and expect affordability. You cannot oppose density and expect accessibility. And you cannot treat homes primarily as financial assets while ignoring the social consequences of exclusion.

At some point, the issue stops being misunderstanding and becomes consequence.

A choice is being made whether directly or indirectly to preserve comfort for those already inside the system, even if it means pushing others outside of it entirely

That choice is visible in the results.

Not in theory, but in the streets.

Jeff Maxwell Squamish

THE

KIND: The Cougars of the Squamish Men’s Hockey are league champions. The men won the regular season and playoffs. The playoffs were best out of three series They won the first game 8-3 and the second game 4-3 in overtime

Call for Board Directors

Be part of an inspiring, mission-driven organization helping create asafeand healthy community for all in the Sea to Sky region.

Squamish Helping Hands Society is aregistered charity providing food, shelter,housing and support services to individuals and families living with or threatened by homelessness. We believe everyone matters, and thathousing and access to food are human rights.

Our work is grounded in dignity,respect, equality,diversity,collaboration, and mutual contribution. We believe in meeting people where theyare, supportingcapacity building, and helping individuals move towardthe future they want for themselves.

We Are Looking for New Board Directors

We are seeking engaged and community-minded individuals to join our volunteer Board of Directors and meaningfully contribute to our complex andrewarding work.

Board Directors help guide the organization strategically,provide governance oversight, support organizational sustainability,and act as ambassadors for the missionand values of the Society

Time Commitment

BoardDirectors should expect approximately:

•5–10 hours per month for preparation, meetings, events, and organizational support

• 9–10 Board meetings annually(typically weekday evenings)

• 1Annual General Meeting

•1–2 strategic planning sessions annually (half or full day sessions, typically weekends)

•Participation on one standing committee

•Attendance at aminimum of 80% of meetings

Join Us

Be part of the solution. Learn, contribute, and help strengthen our community

Priority Areas of Experience

This year,weare particularly interested in individuals with experience, skills, or astrong understanding of one or moreofthe following:

•Clinical Counselling and Trauma-Informed Care

•Cybersecurity and IT Risk

•Fundraising and Development

•Justice, Equity,Diversity& Inclusion (JEDI)

Thatsaid, we welcomeapplications from people of all backgrounds who are naturally curious, bring new perspectives, and are committed to supportingvulnerable members of our community

Please send aletter of interest by end ofday Sunday 31st May 2026, ideallyaccompanied by ashort bioorresume, to: lpyne@shhs.ca

PHOTO COURTESY OF JODY HOPKINS

WINNING

LIKE WILSON: CANADA GOOSE SHOT WITH ARROW RESCUED IN WEST VANCOUVER

An adult Canada goose found with a target arrow lodged through its body has been rescued in West Vancouver

JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

This is not the way to treat a goose, or any animal, for that matter That is the message from those who helped an injured adult Canada goose that was discovered shot with a target arrow.

This was “an illegal and cruel act,” under investigation by the BC Conservation Officer Service (COS), according to a press release from the BC Wildlife Response Team, which rescued the animal and its family on Sunday, May 24

The injured goose was with its mate and two goslings. This case is eerily similar to “Wilson” the Canada goose who was also subjected to the same fate last year in Squamish.

The volunteer-driven wildlife response team was also responsible for that successful rescue and release.

On May 25, this goose underwent surgery by veterinarian Dr. Adrian Walton at Dewdney Animal Hospital in Maple Ridge, the same vet who treated Wilson BC Wildlife Response Team volunteer Elizabeth Grant said the team got a call from a member of the public on Sunday saying they saw a goose “with a shiny metal spear sticking out of it.” The team sprang into action Grant credits luck combined with skill that volunteers were able to simultaneously capture the goose and its whole family in a “perfect little terrain trap” near the duck pond area in Ambleside Park The terrain trap is an area of

HOUSING: Continued from 11

point. So, I can see both sides of it.”

Kogan reiterated that the community wants the HEARTH program, just not at the location presented.

“The worst outcome that nobody definitely wants is that they don’t take the time to consider the alternate sites. [Then] this one falls through because there’s so much push back and then the funding goes to the next municipality, because it has happened in other locations. So what we really, really want to encourage the District to do is to really devote the resources early in this process to look at those alternate locations properly.”

Trustee Celeste Bickford said the board commenting on the safety of the site did not seem like the best approach, given a lack of information, asking questions of the District was perhaps an option

“My thoughts on this are perhaps not that the school district should take a position about safety or anything like that, but it might not be inappropriate for the school district to ask questions on site impact in relation to safe routes to school,” she said.

Shortly after, she further clarified that she wanted to make sure that should the board decide to write a letter, “that we’re careful in our communication and not creating any

natural geography that worked in the rescuers’ favour.

“[The geese] went into the outlet, this freshwater stream that trickles down there. And they go in to have a little drink, but the riprap on either side creates a little trap, essentially,” Grant said “Because they have to either climb up the rocks or go back out to the ocean in order to get away from us And we were able to cut them off.”

The arrow appears to have been shot into the goose fairly recently, according to Grant.

“It looked very fresh,” she said It was important for them to catch the whole family, Grant noted. Staying together is a real factor in their ability to survive. They get very stressed when split apart.

“You can’t tell which adult is the mother until you can get hands on. And if you release the babies with only the father, he’ll guard them, but he doesn’t brood them at night to keep them warm – tuck them under him – so the goslings would have died,” Grant said. “So if we weren’t able to catch the whole family, we would have had that conundrum of, do we have the right adult? And do we try to catch the babies and take them away? Or what do we do? But we caught everybody all literally simultaneously.”

Reached shortly after the surgery, Dr Walton said that unlike with Wilson, in Squamish, the arrow came out fairly easily with this recent injured goose.

“The arrow had already gone through him, and it was just the fletching, the feathers, that was stuck,” he said

“When I tried to go one way, the feathers were

stigma around the site. It’s really just a question of what are the safety considerations that the District has contemplated in choosing that site given that we likely will have a safe route to school right through that area, without judgment.”

Trustee Lisa Turpin also spoke to communicating with the District regarding safe routes to school

“I too feel …the urgency of at least getting some information back to council regarding the safe routes to school These are so important to our kids and families getting to and from school and I think it wouldn’t hurt to have that on the record for them to make sure that that’s the evaluation criteria,” she said

Supt Chris Nicholson said that while the route over the bridge isn’t currently designated a safe route to school, because it isn’t open yet, it likely would be

He also said that the appropriate process was that the discussion around a decision on whether to write a letter and what it would say would be held in camera later. He noted that this would happen as soon as possible, given the time constraints of the issue.

At his annual address, Mayor Armand Hurford, noted last week that BC Housing, which is leading the HEARTH housing project, would be presenting to council in early June, with the public invited to attend.

kind of curled up, and so I went the other way, and all of a sudden it popped right out.”

It is quite fortunate the goose wasn’t more injured.

“He actually had been shot in the left wing, and it basically went through the left wing, hit the ribcage, bounced off, and went over the spine and came out the other side, on the right side,” he said “It bruised the heck out of the left side lung, so his air sacs are all full of debris, but there’s no evidence that it perforated into the thorax and the chest cavity.”

The goose also had the pellet from an airgun in him, though that was not a recent injury That wound has healed over

The goose is now back with BC Wildlife Response Team and his family

“We just need to get him on antibiotics and pain control for a couple of weeks, and remove the stitches, and he and his whole family will hopefully be releasable,” Walton said.

The veterinarian praised the folks who

rescued the bird.

“I do remind people that this costs the wildlife rescue every single day, in food, in care, in medications. So if anybody can maybe throw some funds their way and help support them, that would be incredibly nice of them,” he said, adding his staff at Dewdney Animal Hospital do the heavy lifting that makes his work possible Dr Walton had strong words for whoever shot the goose.

“Seriously, these things live in our environment They’ve adapted to us They live on our beaches, just like the pigeons and the raccoons We have to coexist with them Don’t shoot them,” he said, adding he has no issues with hunting.

“I fully support hunters. This was not hunting. This was somebody just being an arsehole. They didn’t use the proper equipment. They didn’t use the proper arrow. And they didn’t use the proper pellet or gun. So both of these situations are very, very, very bad people.”

TemporaryUse PermitTemporaryUse Permit

No.TU000083

NOTICE is herebygiven in accordancewith Section 494 of the Local Government Act thatthe DistrictofSquamishhas received application and will be considering issuanceofa TemporaryUse Permit thatwould allowthe short-term rental use in asecondarysuite foraperiod of 3years.The District ofSquamish will receiverepresentations from persons who believethattheir interest in property is affectedbythe proposed temporaryuse(s)

AffectedLands

40179 Garibaldi Way, Squamish, B.C., as shown on thelocation map

LegalDescription

LOT1OFLOT ESOUTH 1/2 OF SOUTH EAST 1/4 OF SECTION 11 TOWNSHIP 50 PLAN 22450

Existing Zoning R-1 (Residential 1)

ProposedTemporaryUse

LOCATIONMAP

Under the District’sZoning BylawNo. 2200, 2011, short-term rental use is not permitted in adwelling unit thatisnot aprincipal residence; short-term rental use is also not permitted in a secondarysuiteoraccessory dwelling unit (coach house). If approved,the Temporary UsePermit would allowthe short-term rental use in the secondarysuitefor aperiod of 3years.The applicantcan apply to renew thepermit foranadditional period of upto3years following the expiryofthe originalpermit.

Acopyofthe proposed Temporary UsePermit No.TU000083 and related information thathas been or maybeconsidered by the Council maybe inspectedonline or at Municipal Hall.

•Online at: squamish.ca/showcase

•Municipal Hall at 37955 Second Avenue,Squamish, BritishColumbia, from May28, 2026 to June11, 2026 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding statutoryholidays

Public input will be considered by the Districtinreview of the application. Persons who believethattheir interest in property is affectedbythe proposed TemporaryUse Permit maysubmit written submissions to planning@squamish.ca or,inperson to the DirectorofCommunity Development. Written submissions canbeaddressed to the Directorof CommunityDevelopmentand will be received up until 4p.m. June 11,2026. All submissions willformpartofthe public record.

Datedthis 28 dayofMay,2026, at Squamish, British Columbia.

No. TU000084

NOTICE is herebygiven in accordancewith Section494 of the Local Government Act thatthe DistrictofSquamish has received application and willbeconsidering issuanceofa TemporaryUse Permit thatwould allowthe short-term rental use in asecondarysuitefor aperiod of 3years.The District of Squamish willreceiverepresentations from persons who believethattheir interest in property is affectedbythe proposed temporaryuse(s).

AffectedLands

41205 Rockridge Place, Squamish, B.C., as shown on the location map.

Legal Description

STRATALOT 1SECTION 14 TOWNSHIP 50 NEWWESTMINSTERDISTRICTSTRATA PLAN BCS3472 TOGETHER WITH AN INTEREST IN THE COMMON PROPERTY IN PROPORTION TO THE UNIT ENTITLEMENT OF THE STRATA LOTASSHOWN ON FORM V

Existing Zoning R-1 (Residential 1)

ProposedTemporary Use

LOCATION MAP

Under the District’sZoning BylawNo. 2200, 2011, short-term rental use is not permitted in adwelling unit thatisnot aprincipal residence; short-term rental use is alsonot permitted in a secondary suiteoraccessory dwelling unit (coach house). If approved,the TemporaryUse Permit would allowthe short-term rental use in the secondarysuitefor aperiod of 3years.The applicantcan apply to renew the permit foranadditional period of up to 3years followingthe expiryofthe original permit.

Acopyofthe proposed TemporaryUse Permit No.TU000084 and related information thathas been or maybeconsidered by the Council maybe inspectedonline or at MunicipalHall.

•Online at: squamish.ca/showcase

•Municipal Hall at 37955 Second Avenue, Squamish, British Columbia, from May28, 2026 to June 11,2026 between 8:30 a.m.and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding statutory holidays

Public input will be considered by the Districtinreview of the application. Persons who believethattheir interest in property is affectedbythe proposed TemporaryUse Permit maysubmit written submissions to planning@squamish.ca or,inpersontothe DirectorofCommunity Development. Written submissions can be addressed to the Directorof CommunityDevelopmentand will be received up until 4p.m. June 11, 2026. All submissionswillformpartofthe public record.

Datedthis 28 dayofMay,2026, at Squamish, British Columbia.

FIRST LOOK: BRITANNIA MINE MUSEUM’S ‘GIANT’ SUMMER EXHIBIT

Britannia Mine Museum has opened its new summer exhibit, featuring a ‘giant’ mining truck, along with a respective driving simulator

INA PACE

ipace@lodestarmedia.ca

It’s all about size: Britannia Mine Museum’s new attraction and summer exhibit, that is

The museum now has a “giant” Cat 793C Mining Truck in place; it measures over six metres (21 feet), weighs over 147 tonnes (325,000 lbs), and consumes up to almost 4,000 litres (1,000 U.S gallons) of fuel, making the Westing House Airbrake Company (WABCO) haul truck—the one you can see from Highway 99—look like a “baby.”

Donated by Finning Canada this month, the Cat 793C Mining Truck, which was built in 1996, and has been operating since 1997, was gradually installed with cranes over the course of a week According to the museum’s news release, six loads were transported up Highway 99 to assemble it

The Cat 793C Mining Truck is the main attraction of the exhibit “Giants at Work: Big Jobs, Bigger Machines,” which showcases “the incredible scale and power of monumental mining equipment that keep today’s mining industry moving.” The interactive familyfriendly exhibit also includes information about other innovative mining equipment, such as excavators and bulldozers, as well as the people who operate and maintain these machines.

“We really wanted to celebrate the arrival of the 793 with an exhibit that features different pieces of heavy machinery,” museum curator Heather Flynn said.

“A lot of times when we see heavy machinery, we think of [cumbersome] hammers. There’s a level of precision and finesse the operator and the tool have to have.”

Flynn showed The Squamish Chief how some excavators could pick up a wine glass, gesturing to a video within the exhibit.

Folks are able to climb to the Cat 793C Mining Truck’s upper platform to the operator’s cab, as well as try out the Cat Mining Truck Simulator. They can literally take the driver’s seat and controls for a virtual experience Unlike the actual truck, Flynn explained, the simulator depicts a truck with cameras and safety features covering blind spots, technology which was not so advanced in the ‘90s

Safety, she clarified, is paramount within the whole exhibit, not least in regards to personal safety but because of the otherwise incurred cost of damage to the machinery. Each tire on the new truck, for example, costs around $50,000.

The guided simulation emulates driving around an open mining pit (up to 64 km/h), where folks can steer the virtual Cat 793C Mining Truck to loading and unloading points.

We really wanted to celebrate the arrival of the 793 with an exhibit that features different pieces of heavy machinery.

HEATHER FLYNN

They can also park, reverse, haul, and navigate, all while experiencing vibrations, and the sensation of tilting whilst the simulated weight of the truck load shifts An evaluation score is given to the “driver” after.

For each ticket, “drivers” have one attempt to complete a full program, or cycle of production (collecting rock from the excavator’s hydraulic arm, and moving it), or they can choose multiple five minute slots to simply explore the simulated world.

This Squamish Chief reporter attempted a full program, and scored 100% for their safety evaluation, though their parallel parking skills aren’t worth writing about.

According to guest experience director Derek Allan Jang, the CAT Mining Truck Simulator emulates one that miners use to learn to drive haul trucks for real Jang explained that in training, miners are graded on how much they use both the handbrake and the service brake. Using the handbrake is preferable to slow the truck down on slopes, for example.

The CAT 793C Mining Truck attraction and “Giants at Work: Big Jobs, Bigger Machines” summer exhibit runs from May 16 to Sept 7, 2026 They are included as part of general admission. Folks can buy tickets for the Cat Mining Truck Simulator on-site.

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

PHOTO BY INA PACE/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF Attendees are able to climb into the truck in the operator’s cab, as well as try a simulator.

BritanniaMine Museum gratefullyacknowledges their communitysponsors:

ULTRA-RUNNERFINDS HERSTRIDEINSOBRIETY

HavenJohnson went from quitting drinking to completing theSquamish50. A newfilmtells thestory

LIZMCDONALD

emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca

Mostpeopledon’t runthe Squamish 50 whileblowing akazoo.But Haven Johnsonisn’t most people Twoyears into hersobrietyfromalcohol, the43-year-old ranand completedher first ultra-marathon—anachievement setin motion by theemotional realitiesof recovery.

“I literallyquitdrinkingand smokingat thesametime. AndIwas losing my mind.I had neverhad,really, anyexperience running, andthatwas theonlything my body felt like doing.Ineededtogohurt myself abit to getout of that headspace, right? Anditwas horrible,but Igot therelief Ineededfromdoing that,” shesaid.

Johnsonbegan by goingfor short, one-or two-kilometreruns. Soon after, an old friend recommended shestart runningsocially withCapra Running,astore that hosts weekly trailrunning events throughout the year.Beforelong, theseedheplanted took root

“Trails101 started, andit’slikethe introductory to trailrunning.And I’mlike,

Iwouldn’t go outseeking to tell my story in that contextatall,but I trustAmandaand thepeople Irun with alot.Itputs apurpose to the chaosIcausedfor so many years.

HAVEN JOHNSON

organically, became friends, it kind of grew from there,”Palmersaid.

thatseemedmaybe doable,and it wasscary. I’mlike, ‘Oh, Igot to go runfivekilometres on thetrailswithall these“athletes?’”she said.“I wassoterrified,but Iwent, anditwas alloverfromthatday.I wasinlove. Ilove everyaspectofit. Thepeoplewere amazing... AndIjustkept—Ihaven’t stopped going.”

That non-stop mentalitybleedsintoevery part of Johnson, whosat down with The Squamish Chiefahead of thedebut of afilm abouther running andrecoveryjourney at theBrackendale ArtGallery ‘HAVEN’HEADS TO THEBAG

Whilebuildingher runningcommunity, Johnsonstruckupa friendship with Amanda Palmer,avideo producer anddirectorwho wouldgoontopitch Johnsononbeing the subjectofa documentary.

“I’d always wanted to do ashortfilmthat wasled by myself,a chance to work with othercollaborators.And oneofthe things I’mlearninginfilmmakingisyou can’tforce astory.You have to getout in your community, meet people,and then figure outwho hasa storyyou mightbeabletotell,” Palmer said.

Sheemphasizedit’snot only abouthaving thestory.It’sabout beingthe rightpersonto help weavethe narrativetogether.

“There arealot of greatstories outthere, butI’m notthe rightpersontotellthem. I thinkbecause we metsonaturally and

When askedtobeinvolvedina project abouther ownlife, Johnson—true to form—wentall in “I wouldn’t go outseeking to tell my story in that contextatall,but Itrust Amanda and thepeopleI runwitha lot. It puts apurpose to thechaos Icausedfor so many years—to hopefullygivebackand give somebody else some inspirationthattheir life canhavea better outcome,”Johnson said On June 2, HAVENdebutsatthe BrackendaleArt Gallery. If attendeeswanta ticket,theyare outofluck, sincethe Squamish premiere is alreadysold out. It originally showed in Vancouveratthe Trail RunningFilmFestival.

TheshortfilmchroniclesJohnson’s challenges navigating earlylifeand subsequent addictions,her role as amother of threeyoung children,and herrecovery from alcoholism,which culminates in completing thegruellingSquamish50.

Thejourney of sobriety andultra-running is hard.Johnson makesthe most of it anyway.Throughoutthe film,and in person, shespeakswitha rawhonesty that many in recovery come to

BUILTBYTHE COMMUNITY

Onethroughline of thedocumentary is that Johnson’sjourney in sobriety andalong thetrailswasn’tpossiblewithout thepeople around her.

Countlessrunners,filmmakersand producersgot involved throughout the shoot, whichPalmersaysisatestament to thevalue of thestory they told,and to how lovedJohnson is in Squamish.

“Wheneveryoneseesthe storywe’re telling, they kind of getonboard andwantto celebrateitand work together,” Palmer said Foranyoneinterestedinsober running, Johnsoniscreatinga communityspecifically forpeopleinrecovery. Follow Instagram @pinkcloudrunclub to getinvolved.

PHOTOBYPHOTO BY AMANDA PALMER

HavenJohnson took theadage of oneday at atimeand addedanother–one foot in frontofthe other. At 43,she completedher first ultramarathontocelebrate twoyears of sobriety

CLUB INVITES KIDS 6 TO 15 TO TRY CRICKET ON FRIDAY EVENINGS

The sound of leather on willow is coming back on Friday evenings. Starting June 5, the Squamish Cricket Club will host weekly junior sessions aimed at ages six to 15, with new uniforms and grant-funded bats available for kids to use at no cost

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

Parents, want to get your kids involved with a chill new sport with a focus on fun and community?

The Squamish Cricket Club’s Junior Cricket program is starting up again on June 5 and will run every Friday from 5 to 6 p.m. until Aug. 28.

The youth program, which runs once a week on Fridays, is aimed at kids aged six to 15.

“This year we’ve got new uniforms—new kits—and then we’ve also got cricket bats that we’ve got through a grant so that we’re able to provide [those] to the kids for free,” said Taurean McCarthy, president Squamish Cricket Club,

For the uninitiated, McCarthy says that cricket is like baseball, with some creative differences.

“It’s very similar to baseball in terms of the scoring, a lot of terminology is similar to baseball. It’s just two big differences are the ball has to hit the ground before getting to the bat and then you can score behind you,” he said. “You can score 360 degrees, so you can get very creative with the shots.”

Unlike baseball, too, the bat is held low, closer to the ground and there is only one ball used per game per team.

“You get one, so you have to look after this,” he said, turning in his hand the white leather ball, which can run up to $100 each if it is a regulation ball.

McCarthy explained that the club keeps the youth sessions fun and chill.

“We always make sure the games are active and the kids are always moving around and trying to get those skills,” he said. “So we’re not really interested in the competition side [rather] running around and learning all the basic skills, like catching, throwing, hitting a ball, and then bowling a ball.”

McCarthy grew up playing cricket and

We always make sure the games are active and the kids are always moving around and trying to get those skills.

TAUREAN MCCARTHY

says, from his experience, it offers more than a new sport for young players.

“The thing I always loved about it growing up was the sense of community. I always loved the cricket community that we had around us,” he said

As a sport, it has opportunities for all sorts of personalities and talents, he said

“Kids who like to be the star, they thrive in cricket because there is that real opportunity to stand out and be the star, but then there’s people like me who, to be honest with you, I’m not the best cricketer, I just love watching it, I love playing it and I love teaching people how to play it So, there’s people like me who are just happy to run around on the field, bowl the ball when we get a chance and just really enjoy playing the game.”

McCarthy, who was one of the original founders of the club in 2021, says with the cricket pitch that’s due to be coming in Brennan Park, hopefully this year, it looks to be a good year for the club.

To find out more or sign up for the youth program, head to the Squamish Cricket Club website.

“We want as many kids as possible to get these bats in their hands and just play this sport that I think is great, it’s the second most popular sport in the world, so it’s obviously doing something right,” McCarthy said

PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

Taurean McCarthy, president of the Squamish Cricket Club

LOCAL MAN PLANNING TO PLAY PICKLEBALL FOR 24 HOURS FOR MENTAL HEALTH CHARITY

Squamish resident Neil Inkster is taking his love of pickleball to an extreme: he plans to play for 24 hours straight on June 6 at Brennan Park

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

Could you play pickleball for 24 hours straight?

Squamish’s Neil Inkster is planning to do just that on June 6, in support of the Canadian Mental Health Association.

It wouldn’t be wise to bet against him.

You would be hard pressed to find someone more enthusiastic about the sport and supporting mental health than Inkster.

“The event is intended to bring the community together, raise awareness around mental health, and encourage open conversations while supporting an important cause,” Inkster said

“I think that we need to have more awareness about people who need to just be able to talk to someone and not feel afraid to open up and give their problems to someone. It could be someone dealing with loneliness, a death in the family, a career change, whatever they’re

Meet Chevy!

Chevy couldn’t wait to meet everyone when he arrived at the Sea to Sky center. He is super sweet and has the best chirps and purrs Chevy is happiest when hanging out with people and getting some good quality time preferably playing and hanging out with his bestie humans. We don’t know how he will be with children, but he is comfortable around adults for sure. Come and meet Chevy and see just how wonderful he really is

going through. They should be able to talk to someone and I feel like this is the best way for me to promote this.’

He will start playing pickleball at 9 a.m. on June 6 at the Brennan Park courts and then, other than bathroom breaks, he intends to play a roster of fellow players for the next 24 hours.

Folks can support the cause by donating online (see the online version of this story for the link), by dropping off cash the day of the event, bringing a food item for Squamish Helping Hands, or just by showing up to cheer him on, Inkster said.

“Take a picture with me and let’s get your face out there too. It’s not just about me It’s all the people that will be here playing that day—that’s what it’s really about. Come down and cheer me on at three in the morning if you want to keep me awake,” he said, with a laugh.

His strategy to last the whole day and night is to hydrate, replenish his electrolytes, with something like Gatorade, and lots of stretching in between games.

“‘I’m probably not going to be playing my best the whole day but maybe just like ease back a bit, maybe bring that down just a touch,” he said

I think that we need to have more awareness about people who need to just be able to talk to someone and not feel afraid to open up and give their problems to someone.

NEIL INKSTER

The sport has grown in leaps and bounds in Squamish, with between 500 and 600 people playing pickleball on a regular basis at the Brennan Park courts throughout the week

There are more than 150 members of the local club, Pickleball Squamish

He invites anyone who hasn’t played pickleball to give it a try.

Inkster, who transitioned from tennis to pickleball about five years ago, is a huge promoter of the sport. He says the best thing about it is the people you meet.

“The friends I’ve made on this journey of five years have just been unbelievable,” he said.

“Come down and learn,” he said “There’s so many people in the community willing to teach you, give you a paddle and hit some balls and we encourage it,” he said “Have some fun, have a good laugh, hit the ball, make some mistakes and learn.”

Find out more about the sport at www. pickleballsquamish.ca.

PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

Neil Inkster plays at Brennan Park Recreation courts

Joan Margaret Wippich

BelovedwifeofClemens, andalovingGreat-Grandma, Grandma,Mother,Aunt,and Sister—titlesthatextended farbeyondfamilytoinclude dearfriendsandallwhose livesshetouched.

February 20, 1939 –May18, 2026

Thefamilywouldliketo thankthestaffatHilltop House,andtoallthosewho showedJoankindness,care, andlovethroughoutherlife

Weknowshetouchedmany lives,andwetreasurethe memoriessharedwithusof thecompassion,warmth,and generosityshegavetoothers.

Wherelocals look!

CALL OR PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD WITH OUR ONLINE SERVICE FOR EITHER PRINT, ONLINE OR BOTH DEADLINE FORPRINTADS: MONDAY BEFORE11:30 AM

Squamishchief.com –Classifieds

Get theadded punch to makeyour businessad standout with a classified displayad.

Free ad design, with colour and other options. Contact asales reptoday!

Obituaries –InPrint and Online in our Local Community News

With Picture& Free Colour

BOOK YOUR AD

604-892-9161 classified@squamishchief.com

Deadline: Monday3pm

OneFinal Gift

Scatterme notto restlesswinds, Nortossmyashes to thesea

Remember now those yearsgone by When lovinggifts Igavetothee.

Remember now the happy times

The family ties we shared Don’tleave my resting placeunmarked

As though you never cared.

Deny me not one final gift Forall who come to see Asinglelasting proofthatsays

Iloved... &you lovedme.

by DJ Kramer

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

CLICKORCALL TO VIEW... www.prmbc.ca 604.892.5954 Unit 101-38142Cleveland Ave, Squamish

Res. Cleans SQ.Home 604-898-2333

Lookat ourweekLy caLendar!

SURVEILLANCE WARRANT

PAINTING COMPANY BASED IN SQUAMISH B.C SERVING THE SEA TO SKY REGION FOR OVER 32 YEARS IS LOOKING FOR HELP ON OUR EXTERIOR PROJECTS UNTIL MID TO LATE OCTOBER.

Starting wage to be discussed. Previous Painting experience would be an asset but will train the right individual if not experienced

SendaResume if possibleto cuttingedgepainting@shaw.ca

Feel free to text or call Sean at 604-815-9763

www.whistlerexcavations.com

The Sea to Skycorridor's top civil construction company.

We arecurrently recruiting professionally minded people to join our team.

Required:

Commercial Transport or Heavy-Duty Technician.

*Competitive wages, extendedhealthbenefits & tool allowance (after 3months)

Please send resume to:

Email: info@whistlerexcavations.com

Employee Health &Wellness Planavailable

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

CONSTRUCTION LABOURER – Great opportunity to learnon-the-job.Stamina for physically demanding work and perseverance to brave inclement weather required. Previous experience preferredbut not required. Training provided. $28-$33per hour

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

TRUCK DRIVER –BCDL Class 1orClass 3with air brakes required. Manual transmission. 2years experience preferred. $35-$41.50 per hour

PROJECT MANAGER – 10+ years civil construction PM experience, Class 5licence, strongleadership, scheduling, budgeting &safety management skills. Annual salary $105k-$125k.

SITE SUPERINTENDENT– 5–10 yrs civil/excavation exp, 2–5 yrs PM exp, Class5 licence. Lead site ops, safety,scheduling &quality control.$40.49-$47.17 per hour

LOCALEVENTS

Experiencethebestofwhat’shappeningaroundyou. Ourcomprehensiveonlinecalendarlistseverylocalmarket, showandgatheringsoyoucanplanyourperfectweekinseconds.

»squamishchief.jobfind.findem.ca

ACROSS

1. Thething here

5. Biting 9. Staff

12. Intense dislike

13. Bruised 14. Rowboat blade

15. Puborders

16. Conceited person

17.Blue above us

18. Burger garnish

20.Egyptian waterway

22.Emporium

24.Cat

27.Fireproof mineral

31. Santa’stime

32. Tropical snake

33. up (tense)

35. Daughter’sbrother

36.Tons

38. Pleasures

YOUR

40.Goinside

42. Pass out cards

43. Lion’s den

45. Circus performers

49.Fruity drink

51.Table seasoning

53. Sandal

54. Negativeconnector

55. Reflex-test site

56. Chimney clogger

57.Uh-huh

58. Slippery road mishap

59.Gabs

DOWN

1. TV’s“ Girl”

2. Angel’sheadwear

3. Bit of info

4. Bun seed

5. Mixed

6. Prison inmate, briefly

7. Laundry appliance

8. card

9. Flowering shrub

10.Strong wood

11. Likethe Sahara

19.Assignment

21. Reclined

23. Trifled

25. Stain

26.Hankerings

27.Sound

28.Byand by

29.Contenders

30.Chose

34.Telephone

37.Pirate’sdomain

39.Shiny

41.Chances

44.Armygrade

46. Rider’s command

47.Shelteredspot

48. Tennis units

49._ portinastorm

50.Mama deer

52. Hawaiian wreath

Crossword puzzle answers use American spelling

HOROSCOPE WEEK OF MAY28, 2026 -JUNE 3, 2026

ARIES March 21-April 19

Asummergetawayisonthe horizon.You’reonatight deadline,soyourplanswillrequire organizationanddiscipline.Any learningexperiencewillsupport yourprogress.Abusysociallifewill improveyourphysical,emotional andspiritualwell-being.

TAURUS April 20-May20

Strongemotionsmaysurface,but yourdeterminationwillhelpyou overcomecurrentchallenges.A moveorcareerchangewillbring youclosertoalong-helddream. Steppingoutsideyourcomfortzone willbeessentialfortruegrowth

GEMINI May21-June 20

Thoughtsandreflectionsonlove willconsumeyourheadspace Someromanticrelationships maycreateanxietybecausethey demandrealcommitment.To moveforwardwithconfidence, takeastepbackandassesseach situationclearly.

CANCER June 21-July 22

Yourhealthwillbeatoppriority thisweek.Abalanceddietwillhelp youreachyourpersonalgoals Youmayalsoconsiderstartinga home-basedbusiness.However, you’llneedpatienceandstrong organizationbeforeitbecomesa stablesourceofincome

SUDOKU

LASTWEEK’SANSWERS:

Holy Communion and Morning Worship

Sundays at 10:00 AM

Rev Cameron Gutjahr 1930 Diamond Road 604-898-5100

www.squamishanglicanchurch.ca info@squamishanglicanchurch.ca

LEO July 23-Aug. 22

Yourself-confidencewillsoar, positivelyinfluencingyour decisions.Thoseclosetoyouwill expressappreciationandaffection, reinforcingyourimprovedselfimage.

VIRGO Aug. 23-Sept. 22

Familymatterswilldemandyour attention.Tohelpeasetensions withalovedoneyoudisagree with,you’llneedtostaycalmand distanceyourself.Ifyou’replanning amove,youranxietywillspike. However,preparationwillgreatly reduceyourstress.

LIBRA Sept.23-Oct. 22

Aconcernmayweighheavilyon yourshoulders,butyou’llfind asympatheticear.You’llspeak honestlyandshareyourfeelings withouthurtinganyone.Open andrespectfulcommunication willleadtopeaceandmutual understanding.

SCORPIO Oct. 23-Nov. 21

Youcouldsuddenlyreceive theanswertoyourfinancialor emotionaldifficulties,possibly throughadream.Thisrevelation willbringclarity.Eventswill graduallyfallintoplace,allowing youtobetterunderstandand reorientyourcurrentsituation.

SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22-Dec. 21

You’llrealizethatstayingstillleads nowhere.You’llfaceyourfears withdeterminationandmove confidentlytowardyourgoals, turningobstaclesintomeaningful opportunities

CAPRICORN Dec. 22-Jan. 19

Yourcreativityandartistictalents willbecomeabigpartofyour life.Youmayevenconsider volunteeringforameaningful cause.You’llsharpenyour intuition,revealinginspiring abilitiesthatguideyourpath.

AQUARIUS Jan. 20-Feb.18

You’llneedtoreconsidercertain friendshipsthatnolongeralign withyourvalues.Toprotectyour relationships,avoidlending money.Honestyandtransparency willhelpyoubuildstrong, lastingandmutuallyenriching friendships.

PISCES Feb. 19-March 20

You’llbegivennewandrewarding responsibilitiesatwork.Ifyou’re lookingforajob,apromisingoffer withgoodworkingconditions willcomeyourway.Aloyalfriend willsupportyouinyourefforts, openingthedoortoexcellent opportunities

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 numbersto getyou started. Remember: youmust not repeat the numbers1through 9in the same line, column or 3x3box

Exalting Jesus,Equipping His Followers,Engaging theWorld

WorshipService Sundays 10am on our website and Facebook Live 2262ReadCres. 604-898-3737 www.squamishbaptistchurch.org