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ELECTION SEASON HEATS UP

RAIL TALKS STALLED

See what the candidates said at the SORCA recreation all-candidates event

Snap election call bumps discussion off the tracks

S Q U A M I S H C H I E F. C O M

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

PROVINCE, SEA TO SKY PARTNERS SIGN MOU TO PLAN REGIONAL TRANSIT FROM LÍL̓ WAT TO METRO VANCOUVER

TA C K E D ’ O R ‘ I C O N ’ LO G O C O R P O R AT E / N O N - M A S T H E A D / S O C I A L M E D I A

The non-binding agreement commits the province, local governments, Líl̓wat Nation and Sḵwx̱w ú7mesh Úxwumixw to coordinate planning for interregional transit, work that dates back to a 2015 transit plan LIZ MCDONALD

emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca

V E R S E D + C O L O U R PA L E T T E

PHOTO BY ANASTASIA KOGAN/DROM PHOTO

TERRY FOX RUN: Since the first local Terry Fox run back in 1989, Squamish has raised more than $285,000 for cancer research. This year, hundreds again hit the pavement on Sept. 20, raising $44,000—the second highest the community has ever raised.

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he road to regional transit in the Sea to Sky Corridor just became smoother. The province and the Sea to Sky Regional Transit Committee announced Sept. 22 that they have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to coordinate planning for developing interregional transit from Líl̓ wat Nation to Metro Vancouver. The committee members include Líl̓wat Nation, BUS: Continued on 2

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BUS: Continued from 1 Village of Pemberton, Squamish-Lillooet Regional District, Resort Municipality of Whistler, District of Squamish and the Sḵwx̱w ú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation). “This memorandum of understanding demonstrates what can be achieved when local governments, L̓ il̓wat Nation and Sḵwx̱w ú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and provincial partners come together with a shared vision. Reliable and accessible regional transit is essential for connecting people with employment, education, health care, recreation, and services throughout our region,” said Jen Ford, SLRD board chair in a media release. The committee said in its announcement that the work on inter-regional transit has been ongoing for over a decade. The Sea to Sky Transit Future Plan from 2015 and a Regional Transit study in 2017 led to extensive community engagement and visions for short and long-term choices and led to a committee that coordinates advocacy today, according to the release. After the 2017 study, local governments

FILE PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

The British Columbia government and Sea to Sky partners have signed a memorandum of understanding to coordinate interregional transit from L̓ il̓ wat Nation to Metro Vancouver.

signed their own MOU at request of the province. While MOUs are not legally binding, they represent a stepping stone. “The MOU includes provincial guiding principles such as regional decision-making, integration between passenger transportation modes, leveraging partnership funding, collaboration and coordination between the private and public sector, and equity of access,” according to the announcement. Ford called the paving towards this moment “remarkable” and thanked all partners involved in propelling regional transit forward. “The involvement of the L̓ il̓wat Nation and Sḵwx̱w ú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), upon whose unceded territories an interregional transit service will operate upon, has been critical throughout this process,” she said. “The perspectives, knowledge and leadership of all the Sea to Sky communities help to ensure that future transit solutions reflect the needs of their communities and all residents across the region. We value these relationships and look forward to continuing to work together as we build a more connected and sustainable future for the region.”

NEWS BRIEF DISAPPOINTMENT AND SUPPORT FOR COUNCIL VOTE ON WLNG DEAL Woodfibre LNG says it is disappointed in the decision by council Sept. 22 to reject the proposed 10-year financial arrangement between the District of Squamish and Woodfibre LNG (WLNG). “The proposed agreement reflects three years of work between Woodfibre LNG and the District and would have provided Squamish with $142 million over 10 years, to address community priorities and benefit

residents with certainty and predictability,” reads a brief statement from the company released to The Squamish Chief on Sept. 24. “We are reviewing the decision and considering next steps, including the standstill agreement relating to existing litigation.” At a special business meeting, council voted 5-2 to decline to give three readings to the agreement. Mayor Armand Hurford and councillors Jenna Stoner, Chris Pettingill, Andrew Hamilton and Lauren Greenlaw voted against the agreement, while Couns. John French

and Eric Andersen supported the agreement. Meanwhile, Tracey Saxby, executive director of environmental organization My Sea To Sky, who was in the audience in the chamber when council voted, was not surprisingly glad the deal was turned down. “If Woodfibre LNG doesn’t pay its fair share in taxes, it shifts that tax burden to homeowners and businesses. In 2015, Woodfibre LNG estimated it would pay $21 million in municipal taxes every year. Where are the economic benefits that Woodfibre LNG promised our community?,” she said, in a statement to The Squamish Chief days after

the vote. “Now the next council has the opportunity to set the tax rate for major industry and ensure that Woodfibre LNG pays its fair share,” she said. She asserted that if Woodfibre LNG pays the average tax rate it could contribute $16 to 24 million. If the company pays the tax rate the pulp mill used to pay it could contribute $24 to 36 million every year. “Woodfibre LNG is now a $14 billion project, and Squamish residents should not be expected to subsidize this mostly foreign-owned company,” she said.

Invite Connection. Inspire Curiosity. www.squamishlibrary.ca

Squamish Public Library Turns 70! You’re invited to join us for an evening of celebration! Take a trip down memory lane with us as we explore where the library has been, celebrate how far we’ve come, and discover where we’re headed next. Wednesday / October 7 / 6:00-8:00pm 37909 Second Ave

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

SNAP ELECTION PUTS PROVINCIAL RAIL TALKS ON HOLD, SAYS SEA TO SKY MLA Corridor alliance presses CN to sublet the former BC Rail line to a shortline operator

LIZ MCDONALD

emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca

fforts to save the former BC Rail line north of Squamish will be on pause at the provincial level during the snap election campaign, says Jeremy Valeriote. Valeriote, who represented West Vancouver-Sea to Sky as a BC Green MLA until the legislature was dissolved on Tuesday, Sept. 22, said the timing is a setback for the BC Rail Corridor Alliance, a coalition of local governments and First Nations along the line between Vancouver and Prince George. In a statement to The Squamish Chief, he said the election will put that work on hold. “Meanwhile, commercial discussions will continue between CN and potential short-line operators, without the province’s executive involvement,” he said. British Columbians go to the polls for the provincial election on Oct. 24. Valeriote said the Ministry of Transportation and Transit has been monitoring the situation but has not offered concrete results or committed funding. On Sept. 15, Valeriote joined West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country MP Patrick Weiler, Lheidli T’enneh First Nation Coun. Clayton Pountney, 100 Mile House Mayor Maureen Pinkney, Prince George Coun. Trudy Klassen and other local leaders at the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) convention ahead of an alliance meeting. According to a media release from Valeriote’s office, the alliance is still waiting for a formal response to its request for $600,000 in provincial funding for an engineering assessment, an economic study and operations. CN gave notice in July 2025 that it intends to discontinue operating roughly 344 kilometres of track from Brackendale to Exeter, near 100 Mile House. The company hasn’t run freight on that section since 2020. The rail bed is owned by the province through the BC Railway Company, a Crown corporation. In July, Transportation Minister Mike Farnworth said the province intends to keep the corridor in public hands and that CN remains responsible for maintaining the infrastructure during the federal process.

FILE PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

Efforts to save the former BC Rail line north of Squamish will be on pause at the provincial level during the snap election campaign, says Jeremy Valeriote.

LETTER TO CN On Aug. 25, the alliance wrote to CN’s president and CEO, inviting the company “to exercise its existing authority to sublet operating rights on the corridor to a qualified shortline carrier as a cooperative alternative to further progression of the (Canadian Transportation Agency) discontinuance process.” The letter was signed by Klassen, who chairs the alliance, along with Prince George Mayor Simon Yu, Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim, District of North Vancouver Mayor Mike Little and West Vancouver Mayor Mark Sager. It lists 11 local governments, including the District of Squamish, and eight First Nations and Indigenous organizations that have signed letters of support or interest. The letter argues a sublet would serve CN’s commercial interests. It cites new freight from small and medium-sized businesses, potential passenger service and a backup

route during Fraser Canyon disruptions. Squamish Coun. Eric Andersen, who is involved with the alliance, said the request is for CN to issue a request for proposals for a sublease now. The alternative is working through the later stages of the Canada Transportation Act process, which he said can be delayed for years. “A long delay would not be in the interest of the rail line’s preservation and revitalization, as the condition of the tracks would deteriorate,” he said. Columbia Rail, a U.S.-based shortline company, toured the Squamish railyards and harbour facilities in the spring.

A long delay would not be in the interest of the rail line’s preservation and revitalization, as the condition of the tracks would deteriorate. COUN. ERIC ANDERSEN

FEDERAL PROGRAMS Weiler was not available for comment but pointed The Squamish Chief to two federal measures. The Productivity Mega Deduction, announced Sept. 15, would let businesses immediately write off the full cost of most new depreciable property. Transport

Canada’s $5-billion Trade Diversification Corridors Fund supports transportation infrastructure that helps diversify trade beyond the United States. The fund’s open stream for regional growth projects closes to applications on Sept. 25.

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MAYORAL CANDIDATES MAP OUT PATH FOR OUTDOOR RECREATION

Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association hosted all-candidates meeting puts recreation priorities to candidate test JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

utdoor Recreation was the focus of the Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association (SORCA) All-Candidates Meeting held at CapU-Squamish on Sept. 23. In front of a polite audience of about 150, candidates vying for a seat on the District of Squamish council first had the opportunity to answer a single question on where recreation fits in their priorities. Former SORCA president (and 2018 mayoral candidate) Jeff Cooke moderated, while current executive director Ian Lowe rang the cowbell, keeping candidates to the allotted 3.5 minutes per answer. After each candidate’s turn introducing themselves and answering the question, the 2.5 hour-event saw candidates rotate through roundtables where attendees had four minutes to ask questions of the aspiring leaders in a smaller group setting. This article will present mayoral candidate responses, while a second story will feature councillor candidate responses.

MAYORAL CANDIDATE RESPONSES Here are some of the key points made by candidates for mayor in answer to the question: “Where does support for outdoor recreation fit within your policy priorities, and what specific steps or actions have you taken or will you take to demonstrate that support over the next two years?” The order of candidates is the order they appeared at the event. The answers have been edited lightly for length and clarity and to keep the word count roughly equal for each.

JENNA STONER:

“Some of the things that we have done while I’ve been on council I have been proud of in supporting outdoor recreation have included: long-standing support for SORCA through a partnership agreement that supports its core operational costs, developing a community agreement program and policy to provide greater transparency and understanding for how non-profits can also work with the District through partnership agreements. We support providing land and financing for Search and Rescue for their new SAR base at the airport. As well, we recognize outdoor recreation as a core part of our economic development plan, and in 2027 we’ll be debating a motion that I’ve put forward that we invest in more garbage cans and public washrooms in our public spaces,” she said. “Work in this space isn’t done in isolation, it

PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

Mayoral candidates for the District of Squamish shared their visions for the future of outdoor recreation during a forum hosted by the Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association.

is only as strong as the relationships between partners that make outdoor recreation work for residents and for visitors alike. To me, that is the work that needs to be done going forward, continuing to build on the strong relationships with working with recreation groups, the regional district, tourism, the chamber, landowners, the province, and most critically, the Squamish Nation, so that the needs and the opportunities of the outdoor recreation sector can be realized in a way that serves the environment, our connection to place, and to our people.”

DANIEL DEAL:

“I, unfortunately, don’t bike ride … but I love hiking. One of the hikes that I love is the Slhanay hike. I do that hike at least once a week. … Every time I’ve done one of those hikes, I end up picking up trash. I come back with two pockets full of trash. And this is the way that I give back to the community because I want to leave things better than I found it. These things, as small as finding something that doesn’t belong on the trail and removing it, pays it forward to the next person that’s on the trail,” he said. “I don’t have extreme amounts of funds to donate to excellent societies like SORCA or other trail-building societies. However, I put my efforts into cleaning them up and doing the most that I can. I do agree that we do need more public facilities at some of these trailheads, at some of these climbing trails. We need proper parking. We need proper facilities

for trash, washrooms and things like this so people aren’t doing it on the trails because I think we’ve all been on a hike where we’ve seen things on the trail that shouldn’t be there. … I believe that creating an environment where employers can grow, that can also bring in more people who want to enjoy this town, and with that comes more growth, better people, and, overall, a really happy town.”

SEAN EASTON:

“I’ve been working in outdoor recreation for the last 20 years. I went to school at Thompson Rivers University and studied the adventure guide diploma. I am a whitewater raft guide, an outdoor educator,” he said. “I am a lifelong snowboarder, I became a mountain biker when I came here. I’m a SORCA member. I presented at the Outdoor Recreation Council of B.C. about how to make a bigger impact by using the membership of your organizations. For the last 10 years, I’ve been working as executive director at Zero Ceiling Society of Canada. We’re an outdoor access program that serves marginalized youth. “I’ve chosen to run for mayor because I want to bring that leadership to Squamish. ... Access to trails has doubled in the last 10 years, but our resources haven’t. What I’ve learned is Squamish should be built by people who are like you, and that outdoor access societies that you work with. And what they’ve been telling me is that needs aren’t being met, the District priorities are not aligning with community priorities, and decisions being made don’t

As mayor, you can do three things: You can become a better partner, protecting access to recreational lands, and ensuring that we protect the health and environmental life of the town. SEAN EASTON

uniquely include the people sitting at these tables tonight. … We need a District that works with the community again to build what we need … As mayor, you can do three things: You can become a better partner, protecting access to recreational lands, and ensuring that we protect the health and environmental life of the town. You can count on me to align our resources to effectively meet our shared priorities of maintaining and improving access to recreational assets. We’ll ensure that development protects access to our lands, and any industry that works in our town needs to ensure that they’re protecting the health of the people and the environment.”

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COUNCILLOR CANDIDATES ON THEIR TRAIL TO—OR FROM— OUTDOOR RECREATION Each candidate answered an outdoor rec question at the Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association (SORCA) AllCandidates Meeting held at CapU-Squamish on Sept. 23 years ago, I co-founded the Water Trail Action Group with John French and others. There’s still lots of unfinished business regarding paddling access. I authored a chapter of the 2011 Trails Master Plan, which needs updating now, but I would instead prioritize the Parks and Recreation Master Plan update,” he continued. “We need campgrounds. We must continue to press the province to invest in Crown-land campground facilities,” he said. “Non-profit, volunteer-based recreation groups need security. Security in the form of multi-year program funding and secure lease tenures so that they can invest volunteer time and private money,” he said. “One of our council strategic plan amendments, number 1.4, says, build relationships with community groups to increase community capacity and resources. That needs to continue through the next term of the next council, I hope, and be a strong emphasis. So finally, dialogue and collaboration with the Squamish Nation—Squamish Valley Operations—is important for outdoor recreation and managing its pressures on

We need campgrounds. We must continue to press the province to invest in Crownland campground facilities. ERIC ANDERSEN Squamish Nation lands, which include virtually all of our riverbanks from here all the way up to Pilchuck Creek. There are trespass and safety issues to sort out and resolve together. SORCA and Squamish Access Society have led the way with their Memorandums of Understanding with the Squamish Nation, youth program, and/or co-management initiatives.” ALL-CANDIDATES: Continued on 7

SQUAMISH BAHÁ’Í COMMUNITY

Baha’i Faith The United Nations – 81 years old Reconciliation is Justice

PHOTOS SUBMITTED OR BY SQUAMISH CHIEF STAFF

Squamish councillor candidates gathered at CapU-Squamish on Sept. 23 to share their priorities for the district’s outdoor recreation sector at an event hosted by SORCA.

October is the anniversary of the formation of the United Nations – 81 years ago. The primary purpose of the United Nations is to maintain international peace and security, prevent large-scale conflicts, and foster global cooperation. It’s purpose is the desire of the vast majority of the human race.

JENNIFER THUNCHER

Pope Leo XIV wrote in May: “…To those who have the honor and responsibility of governing, I would like to repeat the words that I spoke at the start of my Pontificate: “The peoples of our world desire peace, and to their leaders I appeal with all my heart: Let us meet, let us talk, let us negotiate! War is never inevitable. Weapons can and must be silenced, for they do not resolve problems but only increase them. Those who make history are the peacemakers, not those who sow seeds of suffering. Our neighbors are not first our enemies, but our fellow human beings; not criminals to be hated, but other men and women with whom we can speak. Let us reject the Manichean notions so typical of that mindset of violence that divides the world into those who are good and those who are evil.”

jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

hour event saw candidates rotate through roundtables where attendees had four minutes to ask questions of the wannabe leaders in a smaller group setting. Responses have been edited for length and clarity.

ERIC ANDERSEN

“A Complete Community anywhere, includes access, land-use planning, facilities, and programs for outdoor recreation for all ages. For Squamish, outdoor recreation is important to our economy; tourism and overnight stays, restaurants, clothing and equipment retail, and for how we attract people from elsewhere, and keep people who can be important contributors to our community and the local economy,” he said. “When I returned to Squamish 20

Abdul-Baha states: ‘Peace is the impetus for development, war brings destruction.’ We cannot talk about development and prosperity, food security, and climate change without first bringing an end to war. Bahá’u’lláh sees lasting peace as a multidimensional structure of social relations that includes a culture of peace, democracy, collective security, and social justice, among other elements. These are not random variables or opposed concepts; rather, for Bahá’u’lláh all are inseparable, interdependent, and harmonious expressions of His spiritual definition of human reality. “We have enjoined upon all mankind to establish the Most Great Peace—the surest of all means for the protection of humanity.The sovereigns of the world should, with one accord, hold fast thereunto, for this is the supreme instrument that can ensure the security and welfare of all peoples and nations.”

Visit: Squamishbahais.ca

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ALL-CANDIDATES: Continued from 5

ANDREW HAMILTON

“(For our family,) mountain biking, trail running and skiing would probably be our niche. But … the question isn’t for me to demonstrate my trail credit,” he said. “It’s ‘Where do I fit trails in my list of priorities in council work?’ It’s not at the top, because in order to enjoy the trail, you need to have a place to live. In order to pay for the bike, or the climbing gear, or the sleds … you need to work. All of these things need to be balanced in order to give us the space to do the things we love to do. And that’s hard. It’s hard to decide. Should there be more parking in this residential facility? Or should we allow more space for greenery for trails? And I am generally going to go in the direction in terms of priority, I will put green space and trails above parking. That’s going to come at a cost to the other things we like to do, like drive our cars to the trailhead,” he said. “And those are difficult decisions we need to make on council. So my priorities—having a place to live, having a meaningful place to work, are higher priorities than having trails and green space. But having the trails and green space are a much higher priority than finding a place for me to park my car.”

SARAH ELLIS

“I think it’s really important to keep our eye on the prize, to keep getting all of the great things that come from growth without losing the heart

that has built our community and bringing people along. I think outdoor recreation is such an amazing microcosm of so many of these issues. Outdoor rec, our crags, our trails, our water access, our economic drivers, they put Squamish on the map globally,” she said. “Tourism accommodation is extremely limited and causing a lot of stress for visitors. We are hearing about pressure on the trail network and crags from ... increased usage. We’re also hearing about affordability causing people to leave our community including many of the people who are working in our outdoor recreation industries as well as volunteers. We’re also hearing about complicated access in a way that we’ve never experienced before,” she said. “Two years is a blip in a municipal government but there’s a few things that I’d really like to see. I’d like to see a tourism master plan that prioritizes hotel and camping accommodations and brings strategies to council. I want to continue supporting the hard work of community groups through a community … policy especially through these organizations that have demonstrated the ability to leverage volunteers as well as additional sources of funds. And I also want to keep advocating for affordable housing so that community members can continue to live here.”

JOHN LOWE

“Through the course of time growing up here, I got involved early on with the Squamish Ski Outdoor Club which probably most of you haven’t heard of. … We used to do all the trails

around Alice Lake... Our clubhouse used to be where the WaterShed Grill is now. And so there was a group of us that used to go there every weekend and do that sort of thing. … That’s where my best interest lies is in outdoor recreation of Squamish. All the things that we can do here, all the things that we have the ability for our kids to do,” he said. “I think there’s an opportunity for a lot of working relationships between forestry and the logging companies, and with industry and the District of Squamish to improve on those sorts of values. … I feel that if I get elected to council that it would be one of my priorities to make sure that we have enough things for the children because we don’t have enough things for children,” he added. “I endorse Eric Andersen and the things that he said he does because I’ve worked with him on the (Mamquam Blind) channel—we tried to get some dredging happening and different things like that. And I know there’s issues with boat launches and so on,” he said. “I’m prepared to work with people to see that we get what everybody needs and wants. There isn’t an endless supply of money in the District, obviously, but I know in my time that we’ve always been able to work together with people to fundraise and do things, and get things that we want with the cooperation of the District and the Ministry of Forests, and I think with my expertise that I will probably have a better chance of working with those sort of things towards the betterment for SORCA and in all (endeavours) whether it’s biking or hiking or water works.”

I’m prepared to work with people to see that we get what everybody needs and wants. JOHN LOWE

IAN BROWN

“I grew up a sailor… by 16 I was racing in national championships and I was only a regatta or two away from the Olympic team in sailing. So I’m a very keen sailor. After that I moved to big boats and overnight races and long distance races and that sort of thing so that’s my extreme sports. I love what it did for me and I learned the skills that are going to be important for the rest of life,” he said. “Outdoor recreation is a huge part of our economy … people come here from all over the world to climb and to hike and to cycle and then they eat and they drink and they stay in accommodations and go to the art galleries perhaps, maybe to a concert at the Brackendale Art Gallery, they enjoy all the arts and culture that we have and we need to keep on building that. My background is in arts and culture and that kind of work. So I want to see us become ALL-CANDIDATES: Continued on 9

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Infrastructure Upgrades

• Annual Watermain Upgrades continue in Brackendale. • Wastewater System Upgrades continue in Dentville, on the Madill Forcemain. Construction work is paused. • Work on the Paradise Valley Bailey Bridge repairs is now underway. Overnight closures expected during the work. • Phased construction work on Squamish River Dike at Harris and Dryden Pump Stations and Central Lift Station continues through November.

The District’s next 10-year Financial Plan review process began on September 8 and continues through to December. Follow along and weigh in at LetsTalkSquamish.ca/budget-2027

Business Opportunities Requests for Proposals

• Wastewater Treatment Plant Outfall Extension Construction

squamish.ca/enews

• Recruiting & Talent Management Solution

Strength, Mobility & Longevity Seminar Tuesdays, 9:30–10:30 am

MOVE, GROOVE, CONNECT!

at The 55 Activity Centre

• 40708 Olsen Road – Zoning Amendment

squamish.ca/review

squamish.ca/building-our-future

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

Belly Dance

Development Review

Wednesdays, 5:45–6:45 pm

Move, groove, and connect in this class designed for joy, expression, and community. Learn fun isolations and simple combos to vibrant music in a safe, inclusive, body-positive space. All levels, all bodies welcome - no experience needed! Drop-ins welcome subject to space available.

at Brennan Park Recreation Centre

Be Bear Safe As bears prepare for winter hibernation, they are often found near berry bushes (such as huckleberries) and waterways (feeding on spawning salmon). However, as these bears are so focused on eating, they tend to be less aware of their surroundings and can be easily spooked by trail users during surprise encounters. Here are some tips to prevent unwanted bear encounters along the trail: • Look out for signs like fresh scat, freshly overturned logs and ripe berries on bushes.

Join instructor David Hill for 45 minutes of bodyweight mobility and strength drills followed by 15 minutes of open discussion on health.

• Avoid walking your dog along side channels (e.g. Mamquam Spawning Channels, Fisherman’s trail, Coho Park etc.), and always keep your dog on a leash.

Family Yoga with Hannah

• Make some noise by clapping your hands or talking to your friends, especially when you can’t see what’s ahead of you.

Fridays, 4–5 pm

at Brennan Park Recreation Centre

Yoga and breathwork are intertwined with stories, games and songs to engage families together! Coming soon: Kids Yoga with Hannah every Sunday from 9:15–10:15 a.m.

squamish.ca/rec

• When biking or running, slow down around blind corners and call out more frequently to avoid surprising a bear. • Always travel in groups and avoid hiking alone. • Carry bear spray and be able to access it quickly. For more information on wildlife safety, please visit: squamish.ca/wildlife and wildsafebc.com/learn/play

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ALL-CANDIDATES: Continued from 7 that kind of community too where when you’re finished your outdoor recreation you come and enjoy it the rest of the day—people stay for a while and enjoy it. Parking and transit are two things that I will try and contribute to the solution of. I’d love to see some corners put away for parking for your people and for vans and everything to find a place to be. So, we’ll solve some problems together.”

LUC PERREAULT

“I am the senior civil engineering technologist at the (Resort Municipality of Whistler). … The real question we have to ask ourselves is are we prioritizing things correctly and do we have the correct plans in place? When I got invited here the first thing I did was start collecting data. I reached out to members, I sat down with them, had coffee, asked them what their issues were and what they would expect a municipal council to bring to help them … We need to really come up with master plans. I think we should start with a tourism master plan and a recreational master plan. We should review all of our interests, what we need, prioritize what we want, but build plans that complement each other. If I do something in the master rec plan, I want it to complement the tourism plan. If we do something in the tourism plan, I want it to complement the other plan. I want to find synergies. I want to find cost savings and I want to build a better Squamish for everyone. I think we could be doing a better job capturing (community amenity contributions) and negotiating with developers,” he said. “I want to generate revenue. We cannot pay for this ourselves. We have to find ways to capture the revenue. We live on Highway 99, there is so much traffic that we could be capturing. We are a mecca of mountain biking, rock climbing, wind sports—we don’t even need to advertise to get people here. If we build this, they will come, they will contribute with user fees and whatever other mechanisms we can think of. If I’m elected, I will ask you to bring mechanisms to me. We all need to contribute.”

JANICE DESJARDINS

“I was invited by the District to participate in the development of the very first tourism plan for Squamish, the Citizens’ Tourism Advisory process. … We need a master tourism plan here. And we need to consolidate all of our assets in tourism,” she said. “We need to understand what our inventory is. We need to completely understand what it brings to our community. But the other really important thing is that we need to build an economic engine for this community that supports a very strong tourism industry,” she said. “And we’re not there yet. … We need industrial, too. There’s some opportunities down on the water with shipping. And maybe we should also save those railway lines down to the ocean. But we have such an amazing opportunity to build a strong tourism industry here with everything,” she added. “I thank our forest industry background

because it was the loggers that built those roads and the dirt bikers who are enjoying them today. We never thought we’d lose our forest industry the way we have. But for sure, we have always had the opportunity to build a strong tourism industry,” she added. “I don’t see a lot of focus on economic development. I don’t see an economic development aspect of our District office that is going out and looking for what can be attractive to build that strong tourism industry. I just don’t see it. “With respect to SORCA, SORCA and the trail system is a major tourism asset for Squamish. So we need to fund that. And we need to fund it and tie it to a clear plan. The District has given $123,750 for 2026. But it doesn’t cover the work. So SORCA has run a deficit for five years. Trail maintenance is an economic engine, not a ‘nice to have.’ So, I do agree with having a multi-year agreement. I do agree that paying for it without raising property taxes is important.”

CHRIS PETTINGILL

“I have been on council for two terms. I also serve as the first vice president of the Lower Mainland Local Government Association. We speak for local governments in the Lower Mainland. We represent about 70 per cent of B.C.’s population. The reason I raise that is because many of the problems we’re facing, unfortunately, are common across B.C. Just sitting on council, you don’t necessarily have access to ministers, through these bodies is where we can go and actually speak with ministers and deal with some of the problems we’re facing,” he said. “A lot of our trails are on land claimed by the Crown, so they have provincial responsibility. And so that advocacy is really critically important,” he said. “We were at Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (this morning). …With the Area D Director, we provide a lot of funding to SORCA. And that’s a really important body to understand. A lot of our trails (are) going to the regional district and back into the District, and so having an understanding of these pieces is really important,” he said. “I want to acknowledge our (District) community partnership program. I have expressed some concerns with that. I think it’s a good step forward in terms of providing long-term stability and a fair process because we have so much competition for our dollars, and this will help with that. For me, at this point, I think the process is still a bit too burdensome, and so I look forward to how we can actually improve that process going forward.”

KIEREN BROWNIE

“I worked on the (Squamish Access Society) board for four years. As far as I know, I initiated the only infrastructure project that Squamish climbers have ever done with the permission of Sḵwx̱w ú7mesh Úxwumixw,” he said. “I also want to thank SORCA and SAS for initiating their economic studies. I think the next move is for the District to actually look at

what the costs of our recreation tourism industry are on our residents, and what the benefits are. Right now, as far as I’m aware, the District of Squamish has economic development, and it has municipal revenue, and currently they are not tied together. I think that connection is really important, because all of the resources that all of the tourists are using are the ones that everybody’s taxes are being used for,” he said. “I think we need to actually have the numbers, and we need to see what the difference is, and then figure out how we’re retaining revenue within the District, because it seems like a very large missed opportunity. … This is a timber town, and being part of British Columbia means that there aren’t really towns dedicated for people. We’ve had logging towns, and fishing towns, and mining towns, and we’ve all been able to benefit from the infrastructure that was set up for that. But these days, we do have a tourism industry, and we need to look at how that revenue is staying in Squamish now and how it is benefiting us.”

LAURA PROSKO

“Today I work for the Central Lonsdale BIA, where we support and strengthen small business and the local economy, which I think is really valuable for this group as well, because you see it firsthand; you need a strong local economy and strong supports in order to do the fun things that you want to do, and be able to afford to live and work in Squamish.” she said. “One of the things I discussed with Chief Dale Harry is it’s important to me to be the type of councillor where I’m not just at the council table, but I’m also in the community, and I’m doing things to stay in touch with the heartbeat of the community, which is recreation and community engagement,” she said. “The first two years in local government, which I’m very familiar with, is a small amount of time. And so I developed a five-point plan that I put on my website that provides real solutions to what I think are some big challenges we’re facing. Things like housing, affordability, growth, infrastructure. We need Brennan Park up and running,” she said. “We were asked what we would do the first two years. Well, building a trail, you look at the first year or the second year, but a trail is for 20 years. If you elect me to council, what I would bring to the table is not just the first two years and four years, but looking into the future of where we’re going to be for the next 20 to 30 years.”

SHAUN VELTKAMP

“I started in Whistler in … the very early ’90s. I have been in the corridor since then between Vancouver, Squamish and Whistler. I now live in Squamish with my young family,” he said. “We have complex issues. I believe in data and I believe in experts to help foster making great decisions. I’ve been a two-term elected board member on the Tourism Squamish board,” he said. “In 2024 (there) was a $400 million visitor economy to Squamish. That’s $85 million in direct tax revenue. The (return on investment) for that speaks for itself,” he said. “I think it’s critically important that we

I think the next move is for the District to actually look at what the costs of our recreation tourism industry are on our residents, and what the benefits are. KIEREN BROWNIE find funding to support SORCA and the Access Society,” he said. “We’re biking, we’re climbing, we’re swimming. We’re doing all these great amazing things…. We are losing some of the other industries. Some of the other industries that are here don’t really want to play nice as we’ve all seen. So we really need to push the tourism economy, in my opinion.“

JOHN FRENCH

“I started playing soccer somewhere around the age of seven. T-ball in the summer, which morphed into baseball. And I had the good fortune of growing up at …Braemar Drive North, with a tennis court in my backyard where I played a lot of street hockey and never once made it onto the Brennan Park ice to play ice hockey,” he said. “Thus the emphasis on outdoor recreation. I didn’t spend much time indoors because I didn’t really particularly like ice hockey. So in my 20s, I spent almost every winter weekend skiing. And my summer weekends were spent on my mountain bike,’ he said. “When I first started working at Mountain FM in 1990 they had a slow pitch team. Naturally, I was on it. That’s when I met Cliff Miller. A huge instrumental person in my life. We decided one day when we both rode on mountain bikes that we had to go for a mountain bike ride next week. And that kind of turned into mountain bike rides almost every weekend. And then that morphed into an organization called the Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association. Mayor Armand Hurford was one of the original members with Cliff and I and a bunch of others,” he said. “When I was first elected to council in 2018, we, in that first term, were confronted with some challenges for the windsurfing community. Eric Andersen and I worked together with the windsports folks to try and figure out some solutions when it became apparent that Spit Road was going to be removed,” he said “We’re still working on that. … I’m committed to keeping that going until we get windsports sorted out. There are other outdoor issues that are top of mind right now—tennis courts. We’re a little short on those. We need more…. Eric Andersen and I worked together with a major industry player to get the current boat ramp fixed up a bit and envisaging a new future for a new boat ramp.” Councillor candidates Sean Goodwin, Anders Ourom and Chris Ryan were not in attendance.

10 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

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View online:

Voting Opportunities General Voting Day

General Voting Day for the General Local Election will be open to qualified electors of the District of Squamish on:

Saturday October 17, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. BRENNAN PARK RECREATION CENTRE, 1009 CENTENNIAL WAY, SQUAMISH, BRITISH COLUMBIA

Candidates

Elector Registration

An election by voting is to be held to elect one Mayor, six Councillors, and two School Trustees, and the following persons are candidates for each office. The names are listed in the same order as they will appear on the ballot:

If you are not on the list of electors, you may register at the time of voting by producing two separate pieces of identification (one must have a signature) to prove both identity and residency, and by making a solemn declaration that you:

Office of Mayor One (1) to be elected

Juristiction

Jenna Stoner

Squamish

Daniel Deal

Squamish

Sean Easton

Squamish

• Are a Canadian citizen (no landed immigrants, permanent residents or corporations); and • Are age 18 or older at the time of voting; and • Not otherwise disqualified by law from voting in an election; and • Have lived in BC for at least 6 months immediately preceeding registering to vote; and

Office of Councillor Six (6) to be elected

• Are a resident of the District of Squamish at the time of registration; OR

A. John Lowe

Squamish

John French

Squamish

Laura Prosko

Squamish

• Have been the registered owner of real property (Non-Resident Property Elector) in the District of Squamish for at least 30 days immediately preceding registering to vote.

Thursday, October 8, 2026 12–8 p.m.

Luc Perreault

Squamish

Chris Ryan

Squamish

TOTEM HALL, 1380 STAWAMUS ROAD Saturday, October 10, 2026 8 a.m.–8 p.m.

Shaun Veltkamp

Squamish

Chris Pettingill

Squamish

Ian Brown

Squamish

BRENNAN PARK RECREATION CENTRE, 1009 CENTENNIAL WAY Thursday, October 15, 2026 12–8 p.m.

Sean Goodwin

Squamish

Eric Andersen

Squamish

Kieran Brownie

Squamish

Andrew Hamilton

Squamish

Anders Ourom

Squamish

Sarah Ellis

Squamish

Janice DesJardins

Squamish

Notice of Advance Voting Opportunities THE 55 ACTIVITY CENTRE, 1201 VILLAGE GREEN WAY Wednesday, October 7, 2026 8 a.m.–8 p.m.

Special Voting Opportunities

Three Special Voting opportunities will be conducted on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, for qualified electors who are patients or staff at the following locations at the time of voting: 1. Squamish General Hospital, 38140 Behrner Drive 9:30–11 a.m.

Office of School Trustee Two (2) to be elected

2. Hilltop House, 38146 Behrner Drive 11:15 a.m.–12:45 p.m.

Leanne Roderick

Squamish

Robyn Walters

Squamish

April Lowe

Squamish

Lisa Turpin

Squamish

Dalia Shehata

Squamish

3. Shannons Falls Retirement Residence, 38225 Third Avenue 2:30–4 p.m.

Non-Resident Property Electors wishing to register on Voting Day are required to provide: • Two pieces of identification (one must have your signature); and • Proof of ownership of the property (ie. Recent copy of the Land Title Search Certificate available from the Government Agent or agencies with BC Online or the Certificate of indefeasible Title); and • Written consent from the majority of all of the owners, if there are multiple owners of the property, stating that you are the owner who is designated as the Non-Resident Property Elector for that property. * To register as a non-resident property elector phone the Election Office for further information about documents required. Note: 1. The owner and multiple owners must not be holding the property in trust for a corporation or another trust. There is no corporate vote. 2. Non-Resident Property Electors may only vote once in Squamish regardless of the number of properties they own. 3. District of Squamish Tax notices may not show all owners of property. Documentation from the Land Titles Office is required.

For More Information: Visit Squamish.ca, email election@squamish.ca, or contact the Squamish Election Office, Municipal Hall

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026 | 11

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SHAUN VELTKAMP RUNNING FOR DISTRICT OF SQUAMISH COUNCILLOR SEAT ‘I see challenges facing all the residents of Squamish, not just one group,’ he said JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

haun Veltkamp says he would bring outside-the-box thinking to a councillor seat. Veltkamp, who has 25 years as a producer in the film industry, and serves on Tourism Squamish’s board of directors, is running from the perspective of a father of a young family. “(I) see a very strong future in this community and I want to be part of that,” he said. While he agrees that affordable housing and compassionately addressing homelessness are essential, there are other issues that impact regular families. “I see challenges facing all the residents of Squamish, not just one group—for families, for workers across all industries, for the homeless. If we’re only focussing on one group—as many seem to be—that’s not a viable path forward.” He wants council to be efficient, cost effective, and think bigger. “I find the best possible people who we need for (my) projects. I talk to them, listen to them and bring a plan together in a very short period of time in a very cost-effective manner,” he said.

“That’s what we have to do here.” He thinks the key to that is quickly replacing the outgoing chief administrative officer. “Our CAO is the only employee of council. So, if she’s leaving we need to be looking far and wide for the best possible CAO to be helping with our town moving forward. There are critical pieces that are coming up.” He would work to bring District staff morale up, he said, so that people feel heard and work is getting done more efficiently. “We need to reset. That’s critical for me on my projects—I’m only as good as my crew. I know that’s the first thing I learned in film.” He said the economic development office needs to be beefed up. Positions were reduced during the 2024-2029 budget process. “This is probably the catalyst for me deciding to run for office,” he said. “We want strong economic development. That’s all based on data and we need a team to do that—to work with tourism, to work with housing.” He said building a new community centre is a “no-brainer.” In terms of unhoused locals, he said moving them away from downtown businesses, but

We want strong economic development. That’s all based on data and we need a team to do that—to work with tourism, to work with housing. SHAUN VELTKAMP

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Shaun Veltkamp.

maintaining their services, may work. He would like to install container-based washroom/ shower units at designated trailheads, and the under-used muni campground. To fund his ideas, he said the District needs to look at development cost charges and leveraging federal and provincial funding. He did not support council passing the tax agreement with Woodfibre LNG on Sept. 22 as he thinks more money could be gained with the

yearly taxed mill rate, or through negotiations. Given our increasing population, he would like to see a new way in and out of downtown and better leveraging of provincial and federal relationships in support of a new regional hospital. Ultimately, he is running “to try and have some kind of legacy for the future for my kids and other people’s kids in town.” Note: The interview and story were written on Sept. 21, prior to council’s WLNG decision.

Woodﬁbre LNG invites you to attend our Open House Waste Discharge Authorization (Air) and Flaring Update Date: October 1, 2026 This event was originally scheduled for September 17, 2026.

Time: 4:30pm-7:30pm Location: Executive Suites and Resort, 40900 Tantalus Road, Squamish, BC

woodﬁbrelng.ca

12 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

squamishchief.com THE SQUAMISH CHIEF NEWSPAPER, PRINTED EVERY THURSDAY BY LODESTAR MEDIA 38113 Second Avenue Box 3500, Squamish BC, V8B 0B6

CONTACT US PRINTED EVERY 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 EDITOR JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@ lodestarmedia.ca follow @thuncher REPORTER LIZ MCDONALD emcdonald@ lodestarmedia.ca REPORTER INA PACE ipace@ lodestarmedia.ca SALES MANAGER CATHIE GREENLEES cgreenlees@ squamishchief.com MULTI- MEDIA SALES REPRESENTATIVE KIM BOATMAN kboatman@ squamishchief.com CIRCULATION MANAGER DENISE CONWAY dconway@ squamishchief.com PUBLISHER SARAH STROTHER sstrother@lodestarmedia.ca The Squamish Chief is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact Editor Jennifer Thuncher at jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information. Reproduction of any material contained in this publication is expressly forbidden without the prior written consent of the publisher.

EDITORIAL

THE POWER OF ORGANIZING

ouncil’s decision on Sept. 22 to not take the Woodfibre LNG 10-Year Agreement in Principle was clearly tough for most councillors. A few looked visibly shaken as they stated their vote in front of a packed chamber. The result was a 5-2 rejection of the deal. Couns. John French and Eric Andersen were the opposing votes. The fact this happened in the midst of a local council election surely made it even more stressful for those running again. Only Mayor Armand Hurford and Coun. Lauren Greenlaw could speak without fear of it impacting their election outcome, as they won’t be on the ballot. Whether it was ultimately the right decision will be for the future to decide. Hopefully this rejection of the deal, which took plenty of work and compromise to achieve on both sides, won’t result in years of further expensive, time-consuming and distracting deliberation and litigation. There are so many other issues that deserve staff and council attention. The certainty of the agreement would have made things easier, to be sure. But perhaps, in the end, going with yearly taxation will be the cash windfall many hope for. What is clear is the power of citizen organizations, in this case especially environmental group My Sea to Sky, to at least mobilize opinion, if not sway it. The organization filled the chamber with its supporters, who held signs encouraging council to turn the proposed agreement down. There were about 420 comments on the agreement submitted to the District. Of those, roughly 50 were supportive of the deal. All those were uniquely written. About 370 comments were opposed. Of those, roughly 220 were form letters. Many form letters used My Sea to Sky’s online template: “Please don’t lock Squamish into Woodfibre LNG’s terrible tax deal. Our community deserves better.” Does this mean the councillors didn’t think for themselves in making their decision? No. Clearly they had done deep dives into the agreement of their own. And there were uniquely and thoughtfully written arguments on the no side that were submitted to be sure. It also doesn’t mean those who pressed send on a form letter didn’t care deeply about the issue. But the impact of My Sea to Sky on public opinion can’t be underestimated. Even its detractors can’t deny many in Squamish POWER: Continued on 13

WHEN IS THE PERSONAL POLITICAL? EDITOR’S NOTEBOOK

JENNIFER THUNCHER

n Squamish election campaign coverage, beyond policies, what things matter that candidates do in their personal lives? This is something journalists grapple with. The answer depends on lots of factors. What we care about in Squamish, for example, is different from what journalists covering bigger city politicians care about. Of course, if the candidate has a dog, that should be covered by the media—with photos! (Kidding, kidding.) Does it matter a candidate’s marital status? In terms of reporting, I have always argued it doesn’t. That is unless that status relates to something they have a policy on. Same with sexual orientation. Unless they are running for school board with strong stands on LGBTQ2S+ books or flags or something, sexual orientation is not relevant to reporters’ coverage. Candidate cheating on their spouse or recently divorced? This may be controversial, but I don’t care in terms of journalism and coverage. Once in power, it can become an issue if there are state secrets or blackmail. But in terms of covering a candidate, I wouldn’t touch such information with a 10-foot pole.

Also, unless there is a conflict with the position the candidate is applying for, what the spouse does for work isn’t something I would cover either. Have something in the courts underway? Depends on what it is. Lots of speeding tickets? I tend to think that is in the public interest, given our Highway 99 issues. Gone personally bankrupt or foreclosed on a home? That is a tough one because it does show a lack of fiscal responsibility, but unless we are going to look at every single candidate’s detailed financial history, I wouldn’t go there. Does it matter how candidates present themselves? Two council candidates wore baseball hats during a recent all-candidates meeting. One had bare feet in flip-flops. You could argue that our town is on the map now so how they present to the outside world at regional, provincial and national meetings is something to consider. But, I mean, I wore hiking boots to the same meeting. (They were pink and adorable, if you ask me!). This is Squamish. Clothing is kind of a nothing-burger too, in terms of reporter coverage. It would almost be weirder if candidates for council wore suits. I recall covering a council meeting when Rob Kirkham was mayor. A speaker apologized for wearing gumboots. He assured her that it was not only fine, but expected during rainy months in Squamish. What I do think matters currently in terms of NOTEBOOK: Continued on 13

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026 | 13

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Ha7lh skwálwen cht kwis emút cht iy sts’its’áp’ cht iy kw’shétsut cht na7 tkwa temíxw tl’a Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw

JOIN US ONLINE

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

QUESTION OF THE WEEK Do you care about a politician’s personal life?

NOTEBOOK: Continued from 12 the non-policy stuff we should cover is if a candidate for council owns or rents their home, has kids or not, and how many cars they have. A candidate can be worth voting for without a personal tie to important issues, of course. But, given our housing situation, a person’s lived experience may inform their policy. If you don’t have kids who you are trying to register for Brennan Park programs, that may impact your understanding of the rec centre issue. If you take the bus rather than drive, or fight to park your vehicle on a side street because your apartment complex doesn’t have parking for you, that likely impacts how you see transit and parking issues. What we need is a council that is like an aquarium, with different types of fish and habitats (I am partial to the hobbit-house-looking fish shelters, for the record). We need a diversity of opinion. And lots of dogs.

POWER: Continued from 12 listen to what the organization has to say. It is well organized and good at getting its message across in a way folks

Have your say at squamishchief.com

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION

Are you surprised by council’s decision on the 10-year Woodfibre LNG agreement? NO 59% YES 33% DIDN’T FOLLOW THIS ISSUE AT ALL 8%

PHOTO BY ANASTASIA KOGAN/DROM

FOR TERRY: Roughly 350 sets of feet participated in the Squamish Terry Fox Run on Sept. 20. They raised about $44,000 for cancer research.

resonate with. The grassroots pro-LNG side has not done as good a job. After the vote, My Sea to Sky posted to their social media; “We did it: Council

voted 5-2 to reject Woodfibre LNG’s terrible tax deal.” They did indeed have a big role in doing it. Now we all wait to see the ultimate consequences of that impact.

MOST READ STORY

Squamish letter: Social compassion feels good. Does it do good?

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR TRASH THE POOCH POOP, PEOPLE Why can’t people simply dispose of their trash in the designated bins provided? Dog waste on the beach, left by dogs running loose—even though there is a rule requiring dogs to be leashed? I have never seen any enforcement taking place. Litterers and dog owners should be made to pay fines through increased enforcement. Otherwise, this problem will not change in the future. Many thanks to everyone who properly disposes of their trash and dog waste in the designated containers. Rita Schlapbach Squamish

ON COUNCIL’S WLNG DECISION With a local election looming, we should be less concerned about the decision over the Woodfibre LNG tax agreement than in the way it came about. The proposed agreement came after three years of negotiation between District (DOS) and Woodfibre LNG. Presumably DOS staff worked diligently to achieve something worthwhile for the community, yet Council turned it down based largely on the overall approach, the lack of provision for inflation and growth, the 10-year certainty for the corporation versus uncertainty for property tax payers. These are underlying fundamental concerns that were easily identifiable three years ago when negotiation began. How is it that we have

paid District staff for three years of effort towards a proposal that the majority of council would reject. How is it that Council operated for three years either without knowing what staff was negotiating or without providing guidance as to the interests of the community in terms of certainty and risks. Regardless of the individual interests of councillors, they have an obligation to govern the community in the interest of the community, not their personal interests, so is it too much to ask that councillors come together as a group to provide guidance to staff so they don’t waste their time and our money negotiating a doomed deal? Rae Simpson Squamish

LETTERS POLICY 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.

PHOTO BY LIZ MCDONALD/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

WALK-N-ROLL: The Sept. 19 event to educate and celebrate accessibility, carries on the legacy of D’Arcy McCrea, who dreamed of an accessible Squamish for all.

14 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

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WINTER CARE CARE

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2 STAY SAFE ON THE ROAD WHEN THE WEATHER TURNS. Transitioning to winter tires is crucial for improved traction and handling on cold,

icy and snowy roads. Fall is the perfect time to switch to winter tires to ensure optimal grip and safety during the upcoming winter months.

3 MAXIMIZE YOUR CAR’S PERFORMANCE. As temperatures

drop, your car’s engine and other systems may need adjustments. A winter tune-up includes fine-tuning components such as the ignition system, fuel system and brakes to ensure optimal performance in cold weather conditions.

4 EXTEND THE LIFESPAN OF YOUR VEHICLE. Regular maintenance,

including a winter tune-up, complies with warranty rules and extends the lifespan of your vehicle. By addressing potential issues early and preparing your car for winter, you’re extending the life of your vehicle. Schedule your winter tune-up at your local auto repair shop today to stay safe and secure on the roads this winter. Newspaper Toolbox

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ERIC ANDERSEN OUTLINES PRIORITIES FOR POTENTIAL THIRD TERM ON COUNCIL Andersen says he wants to see agency restored for elected officials as he launches his campaign for a third term as councillor JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

ric Andersen would like to see more leadership opportunities for councillors, should he be elected to a third term. “I feel that there’s been a steady loss of opportunity for elected persons to exercise the leadership they assumed that they would be taking on, and along with that, the accountability to the community,” he said. “We have seen … in legislation that’s come from the province, more delegating responsibilities to staff. That may have its justification, but our elected leaders need to find new venues for the policy making and strategic planning roles that they step forward to take on.” “I look forward to enhancing that feeling of agency on the part of elected councillors—more of a role for committees and task forces … (and) also for bringing community leaders, other community stakeholders to the table as well.” He said provincial government downloading has prevented council from achieving some of its

PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

Eric Andersen.

strategic planning goals. “One of the reasons for our not realizing our objectives that we set out in (our) council

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HALLOWEEN AT BRITANNIA: H

T E R S N O M ACHINES, S M

strategic plan, was agendas that came from outside and above. … There are some elements of our strategic plan goals that have been under-emphasized and where we have not achieved what we would have wished. I would say that those include community amenity facilities, where we set out to deliver more, at least in the way of planning,” he said. “I would also say that although we have completed a policy towards agreements with community groups that emphasizes longer-term relationships … we have underperformed here as well. We have lease agreements with community organizations that need attention and that are delayed. We also have under-delivered in employment lands, land and marine, and in economic development,” he said. Key goals for his next term are roadmaps for cultural and recreation facilities. “I think that there are planning tasks that are overdue. We know there’s an (Official Community Plan) review, but along with that, we have an incomplete planning process for our waterfront, and a Cheekye Fan land-use plan is now pressing. Our business park is full, and we also have other land needs, replacement campgrounds for the ones that we’ve lost during recent years, just for example,” he added. “So that is a pressing need, and one that will be needing to be undertaken in collaboration with the Squamish Nation. Delivering attainable housing isn’t only a necessity for families and our workforce, it’s also an economic opportunity, and it is disappointing to me that we have firms … that are frustrated in development projects, but also factories leaving town. We’ve seen businesses that could be supplying solutions in our local supply chain that can’t find a home in

One of the reasons for our not realizing our objectives that we set out in (our) council strategic plan, was agendas that came from outside and above. ERIC ANDERSEN Squamish.” On council turning down the Woodfibre LNG tax agreement—only he and Coun. John French supported it—Andersen says there are opportunities for a new council, but there needs to be better understanding about the pitfalls of depending only on the tax system. “The tax system is unpredictable because we don’t make those rules, and we might also not have the flexibility to assess a mill rate for Class 4-Major Industry because there are other actors and considerations, not least Squamish Terminals, but we have other lands that could host major industry, including green industry,” he said. “The use of the property tax system has its challenges, and a future council will need to address this and explain better, perhaps.” Find out more about Andersen’s campaign at Eric Andersen for Squamish on Facebook.

SCCH HIIE EFF MIIS & &M

PHOTO BY LIZ MCDONALD/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

OCTOBER 17,18 , & O CTOBER 24,25

Big machines. Monster fun.

Underground adventure and hands-on discovery.

BOOK TODAY!

WALK-N-ROLL: People of all ages took part in Walk-n-Roll in downtown Squamish, learning about accessibility on Sept. 19. The Disability Alliance of BC and the District of Squamish’s equity and inclusion coordinator, Keely Kidner (left). The annual event was organized in partnership with Squamish Arts, Downtown Squamish BIA, Squamish Rotary Club, Squamish Public Library, Tourism Squamish, and the District of Squamish.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026 | 17

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HOUSING GROUP CITES PROVINCIAL PROGRAM PAUSE IN PUSH TO MAINTAIN MUNICIPAL SUPPORT Housing Squamish says its financial outlook changed after the province cancelled and indefinitely suspended a BC Housing Community Housing Fund round that was expected to help deliver about 100 affordable rentals on Districtowned land near Government Road and Centennial Way

housing. • 69 per cent say housing affordability is the most important issue or one of the top issues facing their community. • 72 per cent agree a strong non-profit and co-op housing sector is essential for keeping housing affordable. • 71 per cent expect their local government to take action to create more affordable housing. • 59 per cent believe housing with support is the most effective way to address homelessness and public safety concerns. • 64 per cent support reducing fees and costs for non-profit developers to accelerate affordable housing development. “In places like Squamish, that are growing really quickly, there’s a huge risk of displacement in that kind of growth, and growth is a big thing, communities need it, and of course

JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

ousing advocates are reminding municipal candidates that housing matters to their constituents. A poll, conducted in June by Research Co. for Housing Central, found the majority of British Columbian respondents see non-profit and community-led housing as a key solution to the affordable housing crisis. Housing Central is a partnership between the BC Non-Profit Housing Association, the Aboriginal Housing Management Association, and the Co-operative Housing Federation of BC. Some of the key findings of the survey include: • 85 per cent of respondents say it is important for local politicians to commit to expanding non-profit and co-op

PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

A provincial grant for a housing project on Government Road with 100 rental units was paused.

Your story starts here

HOUSING: Continued on 19

This Sea to Sky area is such a unique, beautiful place in the world. To be able to have this opportunity at Woodﬁbre where I can combine what I want to do for work with where I want to be is incredibly rare. Kelly Steeves Dog lover | Outdoorswoman | Head of Engineering Support

Find your story at woodﬁbrelng.ca/careers

18 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

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2026 General Local Elections

Notice of Election by Voting for SLRD Electoral Area D An election by voting will be held to elect one Director of the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (“SLRD”). The candidates for oﬃce are:

SLRD Electoral Area D - One (1) to be Elected BELL

Cameron

Furry Creek, BC

DE JONG

Paula

Upper Squamish, BC

Voting Dates and Places Advance and General Voting Opportunities: Qualiﬁed electors of the SLRD may vote at the following locations between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., unless otherwise noted:

SLRD Electoral Area D Wednesday, October 7 (Advance Voting)

Saturday, October 10 (Advance Voting) Tuesday, October 13 (Special Voting) 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Saturday, October 17 (General Voting)

Britannia Beach Fire Hall 360 Copper Dr., Britannia Beach, BC Whistler Public Library 4329 Main St., Whistler, BC Garibaldi Fire Hall 192 Retta Lake Rd., Whistler, BC Totem Hall 1380 Stawamus Rd., Squamish, BC Squamish General Hospital 38140 Behrner Dr., Squamish, BC (for eligible patients & staﬀ) Britannia Beach Fire Hall 360 Copper Dr., Britannia Beach, BC Myrtle Philip Community School 6195 Lorimer Rd., Whistler, BC Brennan Park 1009 Centennial Way, Squamish, BC

Mail Ballot Voting: Qualified electors wishing to vote by mail may apply online at SLRD.bc.ca/voter-information or, contact the SLRD Election Office at election@SLRD.bc.ca or 604-894-6371. Applications must be received by 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 15, 2026. Completed mail ballot packages must be received by the Chief Election Officer by the applicable deadline in order to be counted. Return instructions and deadlines are included with each mail ballot package. Learn more and apply online, visit SLRD.bc.ca/voter-information.

Elector Registration There is no pre-registration process. Qualified electors must register at the time of voting by completing an application form available at the voting place and making a declaration that you meet the following requirements: All Electors Must: be 18 years of age or older on general voting day, October 17, 2026; and be a Canadian citizen; and a resident of BC for at least 6 months immediately before the day of registration; and not be disqualified under the Local Government Act or any other enactment from voting in an election and not otherwise disqualified by law.

Resident Electors Must Also: be a resident of the electoral area on the day of registration. Non-Resident Property Electors Must Also: be a registered owner of real property in the electoral area for at least 30 days immediately before the day of registration. Additional Rules for Non-Resident Property Electors: Property owners must be individuals and not hold the property on behalf of a corporation or trust. Where property has more than one owner, only one owner may register as the NonResident Property Elector, with written consent of the majority of owners. (Please contact the SLRD in advance to obtain the required consent form. The form must be signed by a majority of the property owners. Unsigned or incomplete consent forms cannot be accepted). In addition, in order to register at time of voting: Resident Electors must produce two (2) pieces of identification (at least one with a signature). The identification must prove both residency and identity. Non-Resident Property Electors must produce two (2) pieces of identification (at least one with a signature) to prove identity, proof that they are entitled to register in relation to the property, and, if there is more than one owner of the property, written consent from the majority of the property owners. Types of Documents that will be accepted as identification: For identification, the following classes of documents will be accepted: Driver’s Licence or BC identification card; BC Services card (with or without photo); a document, issued by the government of Canada, that certifies that the applicant is registered as an Indian under the Indian Act (Canada); Citizenship or membership card issued by a first nation; Citizenship card issued by Métis Nation British Columbia; Owner’s Certificate of Insurance and Vehicle Licence issued by ICBC; BC CareCard or BC Gold CareCard; Ministry of Social Development and Economic Security Request for Continued Assistance Form SDES8; Social Insurance Number card; Citizenship Card issued by Citizenship and Immigration Canada; property tax notice; credit card or debit card; or utility bill (electricity, natural gas, water, telephone, cable).

Election oﬃcials must accept the listed identiﬁcation documents and may also accept other forms of documents that provide evidence satisfactory to them (such as valid current passport).

For more information Angela Belsham, Chief Election Oﬃcer Phone: 604-894-6371 | Toll-free: 1-800-298-7753 Email: election@SLRD.bc.ca

SLRD.bc.ca/2026elections

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026 | 19

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HOUSING: Continued from 17 people want to live in and contribute to a place like Squamish, but we need to be really conscious of making sure there’s accessible and affordable housing for everyone to handle that growth,” said Jill Atkey, CEO of the BC Non-Profit Housing Association. Asked about the opposition in Squamish that arises whenever a location for supportive housing is raised, Atkey said that is something she sees across the province and doesn’t reflect the broader population. “Often people come out in opposition to something. If they’re OK with it being in their neighbourhood or their municipality, they’re not going to take the time to come out and speak to council about that, because people have busy lives,” she said. “(The survey) data is really important to say that by and large, most British Columbians in communities right across the province are supportive of these types of actions and developments,” she said. “That’s not to say that we’re dismissive of people’s concerns. … Most communities in the province are dealing with pretty rapid change at the municipal and the neighbourhood scale, and change is difficult for people to accommodate some of the time, but what the data shows is that by and large, people are supportive (of supportive housing).” Asked what is at stake if housing gets lost in the conversation and is not a focus of local governments, Atkey said it impacts not just those individuals and families that are struggling. “There is significant displacement of those living at the margins or those with lower incomes who can’t afford to remain in communities, and the more people are precariously housed, the less they’re able to contribute to their communities,” she said. “If people are spending more than 50 per cent of their income on rent, they’re not able to put their kids into extracurricular activities, which reduces the inclusion that those kids are experiencing in their own communities, and it really eliminates the opportunity for stability. Once people are stably and affordably housed, it puts that mental capacity that it takes when you’re worried about whether or not you’re going to make rent next month, or are you going to be foregoing other basic necessities in order to afford rent, and you’re able to focus on educational opportunities for yourself and your children. So it really is a question of individual family and then the broader community stability.” Atkey acknowledged that the municipality can’t supply all the housing needed alone, however. “Every level of government has a role to play, but it’s not the same role, and municipalities can’t do it alone, so we focus on what municipalities can do,” she said. “Squamish is doing a lot of these things—waiving development charges, permissive tax exemptions, contributions of land, contributions toward affordable housing projects, but really, when we look at who can create the deepest level of affordability that comes to senior levels of government, and that is

consistently our message to both the province and the federal government: ‘Look, it’s great you’ve set these housing targets, it’s great that they include non-market housing, but with some of the recent budget decisions, you’ve stripped away the ability for municipalities to deliver on those targets, particularly the non-market targets.’ So, we are conscious of, yes municipalities can play a role, there are contributions they can make, the public supports municipalities making those contributions, but they absolutely can’t fix it by themselves.”

HOUSING SQUAMISH In an emailed statement, Housing Squamish said the survey data reflects what the organization knows already. “Leaders at all levels of government must continue to support our local non-profit housing providers so that they can keep creating and protecting the community-owned housing we so deeply need. “Here in Squamish we are lucky to have groups like Housing Squamish working to increase the supply of community-owned non-profit housing. But we are still catching up from decades of under-investment by senior governments in this work. We know people in our community are feeling squeezed by high rents, and that we aren’t delivering the needed housing fast enough,” reads the statement by executive director Sarah Ellis, who is running for a seat on council this October. “I will be honest, I am worried. In the last year, we have seen both the province and federal government move away from the type of funding programs we need to make this work happen. We felt this impact directly when the BC Housing Community Housing Fund call was cancelled earlier this year, stalling our 100-unit affordable rental project at Government Road,” she said. “We need to keep pushing our leaders to commit to funding affordable housing delivery, because every year we miss puts us further behind. And while we need senior governments to do their part, we also need our local government to step up so that we are competitive for very limited senior government funds. This means contributing public land with adequate servicing, waiving development charges, fees, and taxes, and expediting approvals.”

PROVINCIAL RESPONSE For its part, the Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs said through a spokesperson that it remains committed to expanding affordable and non-profit housing throughout B.C. “Due to the significant number of housing projects already approved and underway across the province, Budget 2026 includes a responsible adjustment to the pace of some housing investments, including rescinding the 2025 Community Housing Fund (CHF) request for proposals,” the spokesperson said. “This approach allows us to remain fiscally responsible while prioritizing the delivery of thousands of homes currently in the development and construction pipeline.”

The spokesperson also clarified the ministry is not cancelling the CHF. “Thousands of homes continue to be built through the program across the province,” adding that as of Dec. 31, 2025, more than 5,900 homes have been completed under the program, with more than 4,600 homes actively under construction and more than 3,000 in earlier stages of development across the province. “The province continues to work with partners whose projects were affected by the rescinded 2025 CHF intake to explore alternative funding pathways, including BC Builds and Build Canada Homes.” In terms of current provincial government projects in Squamish, the spokesperson noted the HEART and HEARTH program—which includes temporary shelter housing and supports for the unhoused—and housing targets imposed on the municipality. The spokesperson also said that discussions are ongoing and remain a priority as it works with partners to identify new funding opportunities and advance affordable housing projects. “At the same time, active work is underway with federal partners to fast-track 700 transitional and supportive homes that are already construction ready. As funding options are confirmed, project timelines continue to be reviewed, and some projects planned for future years may ultimately proceed without changes to their anticipated schedules.” The Squamish Chief reached out to the

Leaders at all levels of government must continue to support our local non-profit housing providers so that they can keep creating and protecting the community-owned housing we so deeply need. HOUSING SQUAMISH

District of Squamish for this story. After deadline, a spokesperson pointed us to previous reports in council on affordable housing, but couldn’t provide a fresh comment. “We are actively working to maintain neutrality in our communications with respect to mayor and council. So, where possible during this period we will be pointing to reports and discussions already in the public realm to address some questions,” the spokesperson said.

Join Carolyn Grass & “Friend” At the Ageless 55+ Seniors Expo October 1st 1:30 to 5:00pm 55+ Seniors Centre, Downtown Squamish

Carolyn Grass & "Friend"

cggrass@shaw.ca • 604-892-4051 https://www.youtube.com/@CarolynGrassAndFriend

20 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

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View online:

Permissive Tax Exemption Public Notice

Permissive Tax Exemptions allow the District of Squamish to support voluntary, non-profit organizations by exempting land, improvements or both, from taxation, under section 224 of the Community Charter. Bylaw No. 3275, 2026

Estimated property value taxes imposed if not exempt.

A bylaw exempting properties from taxation. Authorized by Section 224 of the Community Charter.

2027

Bylaw No. 3277, 2026

Estimated property value taxes imposed if not exempt.

A bylaw exempting properties from taxation. Authorized by Section 224 of the Community Charter.

Squamish Sikh Society

Squamish Helping Hands Society – OPS

Lot 1 Block 14 District Lot 486 New Westminister Land District Plan VAP 15013 BCA Group 1. Held by the Squamish Sikh Society, 37957 Fifth Avenue (Assessed under Roll No. 5000000865000). BC Assessment Class 8 only exempt for land surrounding Place of Worship.

Lot B District Lot 486 New Westminster Land District Plan VAP3960 BCA Group 1 PTN – FOR PERMITTED USECONTINUOUS EMERGENCY SHELTER ACCOMMODATION INCL DAY TIME DROP-IN PROGRAM.

Total

Bylaw No. 3276, 2026

5,537

Estimated property value taxes imposed if not exempt.

A bylaw exempting properties from taxation. Authorized by Section 224 of the Community Charter.

2027

Total

Bylaw No. 3278, 2026

23,814

Squamish Valley Golf Club

PARCEL 1 DISTRICT LOT 3186 NEW WESTMINSTER LAND DISTRICT PLAN BCP3125 GROUP 1 LOCATED ON 46021 GOVERNMENT RD

(a)

9,528

Estimated property value taxes imposed if not exempt.

A bylaw exempting properties from taxation. Authorized by Section 224 of the Community Charter.

Squamish Search and Rescue Society

Total

Leased to Squamish Helping Hands Society held by District of Squamish (Assessed under Roll No 5000000932001).

Leased to Squamish Search and Rescue Society held by District of Squamish (Assessed under Roll No. 1000048885011).

2027

BLOCK C SECTION 1 TOWNSHIP 50 NEW WESTMINSTER DISTRICT PLAN VAP12475 PART NW1/4 BCA GROUP 1 LEASED FROM DIST OF SQUAMISH TO SQUAMISH VALLEY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB. 2458 Mamquam Road (Assessed under Roll No. 4000067676000).

2027

334

(b) LOT D, TOWNSHIP 50 NEW WESTMINSTER DISTRICT PLAN VAP12475 BCA GROUP 1 EXCEPT PLAN BCP30206, EXC PLANS: SROW PL 15402 AS HWY/ PT DEDICATED RD BCP30206 NW 1/4 OF SEC 1 & OF NE 1/4 OF SEC 2. PID 008- $ 886-211 Leased to Squamish Valley Golf and Country Club and held by District of Squamish. 2458 Mamquam Road (Assessed under Roll No. 4000067681000).

59,220

Total

59,554

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026 | 21

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View online:

Notice of Public Hearing – Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 6 p.m. Council Chambers at the District of Squamish Municipal Hall, 37955 Second Avenue, Squamish, B.C. or electronically at squamish.civicweb.net

What’s Proposed:

To designate all lands within the District of Squamish with a slope of 30% or greater as Steep Slope Development Permit Area, and adopt guidelines intended to assess safety, minimize visual impacts and improve fire safety for developments in these areas.

Proposed Bylaw District of Squamish Official Community Plan Bylaw 2500, 2017 Amendment Bylaw (Steep Slopes Development Permit Area) No. 3244, 2026.

Affected Lands Affected lands include land with a slope equal to or greater than 30%, within Squamish B.C., as shown on Schedule E, within Amendment Bylaw (Steep Slopes Development Permit Area) No. 3244, 2026.

Proposed Official Community Plan Amendments 1. To designate the identified lands as a Steep Slope Development Permit Area and to adopt guidelines intended to: • Assess safety of development proposal through Steep Slopes Hazard Assessment. • Assess development impacts on groundwater and surface water. • Ensure safety of excavations, cut slopes, rock cuts and setbacks though engineer approval. • Minimize visual impacts of site alteration, building form and retaining walls. • Ensure cleared vegetation is replaced with fire-resistant, culturally significant vegetation. 2. To amend OCP polices to align with implementation of the Steep Slope Development Permit area, and to increase alignment with District of Squamish transportation mode shift policy goals.

View the Proposed Bylaw A copy of the proposed Bylaw and related information that has been or may be considered by Council may be inspected online or at Municipal Hall. • Online at: letstalksquamish.ca/steep-slopes • In person at Municipal Hall; 37955 Second Avenue, Squamish, British Columbia, from September 24, 2026, to October 6 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Questions? More information about the Steep Slope Development Permit Area can be found at LetsTalkSquamish: LetsTalkSquamish.ca/steep-slopes Contact the Planning Department at 604-815-5002.

All submissions will form part of the public record.

Council will not consider submissions received after the close of the Public Hearing.

How to Participate

Persons who believe that their interest in property is affected by the proposed Phased Development Agreement amendments will have an opportunity to be heard and to present written submissions for the Hearing.

In Writing

You may deliver a written submission to hearing@squamish.ca, or drop off to the Corporate Officer at Municipal Hall before 4 p.m. on the date of the Hearing. For those participating via telephone or electronically, the District is encouraging that a written version of thei statement be submitted as well.

By Telephone

You may participate by telephone during the Hearing by calling 1-604-449-3026 and entering the Access Code 277 351 97595. Dial *3 to ‘raise your hand’ indicating that you’d like to speak. You will hear a message that “your line has been unmuted” when it is your turn to speak. Prior to the meeting, please visit squamish.civicweb.net for detailed instructions.

Electronically

You may participate electronically in the Hearing through the use of the WebEx platform by visiting squamish.ca/participate. Instruction for electronic participation on WebEx can be found at that site. If you have any questions regarding participation in electronic hearings, please call the District at 604-892-5217.

In Person

You may participate in person during the Hearing in Council Chambers at Municipal Hall, 37955 Second Avenue, Squamish, British Columbia. If you do not wish to participate but would like to watch the meeting, you can do so by streaming the meeting at squamish.ca/live-meetings.

This is the second of two notices. Publish date: October 1, 2026.

squamish.ca/public-hearings-and-meetings

22 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

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PEARLSPACE CALLS ON CANDIDATES TO ADDRESS INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE

As the municipal election approaches, PearlSpace is lobbying candidates to treat intimate partner violence as a critical public safety policy issue JENNIFER THUNCHER

jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca

o far, intimate partner violence hasn’t been a part of the Squamish municipal election campaign, but the leaders of PearlSpace are hoping to change that. Squamish-based PearlSpace is joining Battered Women’s Support Services (BWSS) and anti-violence organizations across B.C. in the Downplay Effect, a campaign lobbying municipal candidates to publicly commit to addressing intimate partner violence (IPV) during the campaign period. The Downplay Effect campaign notes that IPV is minimized through “language, systems, and inaction, until it escalates into crisis.” Every candidate and incumbent is asked to publicly commit to five actions: appointing a municipal or regional IPV lead, establishing a municipal IPV task force, supporting community-based services like victim services and transition houses, investing in prevention through community education, and improving local data collection on IPV trends.

FILE PHOTO ANDREW HUGHES/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

PearlSpace calls for IPV to be an election topic.

PearlSpace supports survivors of gender-based violence throughout the Sea to Sky Corridor. A news release from the organization states that the Downplay Effect campaign reflects work already underway across the region. “Intimate partner violence is not a series of

isolated incidents, it is rooted in gender inequity, and it shows up differently in the Sea to Sky Corridor, where seasonal housing shortages, distance from services, and high cost of living can make it harder for survivors to reach safety,” the release reads. “PearlSpace’s position is that municipal safety planning needs to account for these realities, not treat IPV as a private matter separate from housing, health, and public safety policy.” Shannon Cooley, sexual assault response coordinator at PearlSpace states that combatting IPV needs to be embedded across the board in policy making. “Bold and meaningful local public safety policy requires bold and meaningful local leadership. IPV causes immense community harm that is difficult to measure, and preventing it takes collaborative, assertive action from the people leading our communities,” Cooley said in the release. “That means integrating practices to prevent the harms caused by IPV into all facets of policy making across the Sea to Sky.” PearlSpace is asking candidates in Squamish and throughout the region to treat the Downplay Effect’s five actions as a starting point, not an end point.

Bold and meaningful local public safety policy requires bold and meaningful local leadership. SHANNON COOLEY Representatives will be at the local all-candidates meetings, including the Squamish all-candidates meeting on Oct. 5 at Brennan Park Recreation Centre. “Over the next several weeks, PearlSpace looks forward to meeting with municipal candidates to raise awareness about gender-based violence in the Sea to Sky Corridor and the impact of downplaying intimate partner violence in our communities,” said Ashley Oakes, executive director of PearlSpace. “Throughout the election campaign we will be advocating for regional municipalities to commit to five actions.”

The 23rd issue of Discover Squamish publishes in November 2026. Now is the time to reserve your space!

EXPLORE • WORK • LIVE As Discover Squamish continues to grow, our mission remains the same: delivering engaging, informative content to locals, visitors, and newcomers eager to explore our vibrant, rapidly expanding community. You do not want to miss your chance to feature your business in Squamish’s premier magazine and digital guide. Call to book your space now. Ad space deadlines are October 26th, and Art work due on October 30th.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026 | 23

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LIBRARY HOSTS WORKSHOP TO SUPPORT INDIGENOUS HEALING JOURNEYS

The Squamish Public Library and the District of Squamish have partnered to raise awareness for the intergenerational impact of colonization, and support for survivors INA PACE

ipace@lodestarmedia.ca

n the wake of intergenerational colonization come those who advocate for healing and reconciliation as a journey. Cultural safety practitioner Kathi Camilleri is one of these people, someone who believes that everyone can be a part of that journey without shame, which she said keeps people “stuck.” She is Métis-Cree, and as of the last decade, has partnered with the District of Squamish in educational workshops about de-colonization and reconciliation. “We have to address shame,” she said. “I’ve met a lot of people afraid to come (to workshops) because they’re worried they’re going to be shamed about what their ancestors did. But residential school survivors I worked with said, ‘Tell people from settler culture, if they come to your workshops with open hearts and open minds, it’s not their shame to carry because shame will keep us stuck.’” Camilleri’s latest workshop took place at the

Squamish Public Library on Sept. 17 ahead of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation this month (Sept. 30). The experiential workshop, A Village Around Every Family: Decolonization in Systems, was an explainer about circular structure and support within Indigenous family units. It is based on the work of family systems therapist Dr. Jann Derrick from the 1990s. Derrick, who has Mohawk heritage, coined the Indigenous “circle system” and the non-Indigenous “box system.” Within the “circle system”, according to Derrick, learning comes through direct experience, learning inner experience comes through storytelling, and oneness is established with others. The “box system” in contrast is hierarchical, in which emotions are repressed, males dominate, and learning is a step-by-step approach. Camilleri encouraged a return to the “circle system” in her workshop through cognitive and emotional understanding of traditional Indigenous values, by literally setting up a circular “village” of people. She kept a collection of cultural artifacts at her feet, with chairs set up around it. Volunteers

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came to sit in these chairs before the audience, assuming roles like “mother,” “Elder,” and “child” (there was one of each), and discussing how the structure related to their own family upbringing and life experiences, if at all, whether Indigenous or otherwise. As the workshop demonstrated, the Indigenous family circle’s centre contains objects representative of that familial culture. Immediately around these are the children. Camilleri clarified this is because it is important for the children to learn their identity, and this is easiest when they are closest to these objects. Around the children are the parents, aunts and uncles, around them are the Elders (guardians and teachers), and then the protectors and providers sit around the Elders. Camilleri noted that relatives in the Indigenous “circle system” do not have to be related by blood, as fostering and guardianship is intrinsic to Indigenous village culture. “I am so focused on reconciliation and healing because my mom is a survivor. She walked with a lot of shame about being an Indigenous woman, and my healing journey brought me to understand the impacts of colonization, the

need for decolonizing systems, and coming together as relatives to change the world,” Camilleri said. “We have to make it safe for residential school survivors and intergenerational survivors to start telling their stories, and work together towards healing … If people benefited through colonization, they can acknowledge that they benefited from it, and use the privileges they gained to help in the healing that’s happening now.” Camilleri cites the Truth and Reconciliation Commission as a “roadmap forward” in how awareness and constructive subsequent behaviour are key to the future of reconciliation’s evolution. The workshop also discussed in detail the impact of residential schools and assimilation. Attendees were forewarned and advised that participation was not mandatory, should the discussion trigger unresolved grief. 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.

Meet Latte! Beautiful Latte is a sweet, social girl who is ready to leave shelter life behind and find the loving home she deserves! This gorgeous grey tabby has a unique and beautiful coat, with soft touches of orange and brown woven throughout her stripes-just like a warm, creamy latte. Latte is ready for a life where she can be spoiled, loved, and treated like the special girl she is. She has so much love to give and is hoping her forever family is out there waiting for her. Latte deserves nothing less than the very best home!

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OCT 3rd, 2026

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026 | A25

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Housekeeping

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BOOK YOUR EVENT BOOK YOUR EVENT

Experience Hours: 37.5 hours per week

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Seasonal Employment:

ININ THE SQUAMISH THE SQUAMISH

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EVENT CALENDAR EVENT CALENDAR FOR FREE! FOR FREE!

Unit 101-38142 Cleveland Ave, Squamish

Wage: $26.75 to $28.00 Based on

• Hiring Bonus: + 6 month bonus for successful full-time hires Full time Permanent Employment: • 12 vacation days after 12 months of employment • 6 paid sick days per year • Extended medical/dental benefits. • WB Season Pass every November Apply by Email Housekeeping: David david.thomson@travelandleisure.com

PLAY HERE PLAY HERE PLAY HERE

ALUMNI BURSAR COMMENCEMENT

COMMUTER

CREDIT DORMITORY FRESHMAN GPA

GREEK

JUNIOR LECTURE MAJOR

MINOR POSTGRADUATE

PREREQUISITE QUAD

REGISTRAR RESIDENT SEMINAR SENIOR

SOPHOMORE SYLLABUS TUITION

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TAKE A BREAK

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HOROSCOPE WEEK OF OCTOBER 1, 2026 - OCTOBER 7, 2026

CROSSWORD

ACROSS 1. Had a snack 4. Cocky 8. Unhealthy air 12. Went in front 13. Sage 14. Dad 15. Floral garland 16. Orange drinks 17. Steers 18. ____ salad 20. Carrying 22. Like Snow White 24. Daze 26. Clothes presser 27. Curve 28. Healthy place 31. Preacher’s subject 32. Host 34. Center of activity 35. Possesses

36. Infant’s sound 37. Bridge charge 38. Meaning 40.Slippery 41. Entry 45. October gemstone 47. Blanket material 48. Cassette, e.g. 50. Not subtract 53. Historic time frames 54. Hero’s story 55. Stage prompt 56. Printer’s term 57. Body part 58. Lessen

5. Golden touch king 6. Put to good ____ 7. Beckon 8. Small mark 9. Long skirt 10. Ready for business 11. Crowd 19. Coffee server 21. Fairy-tale beginning 22. Trout, e.g. 23. Formal solo 25. Mexican sandwiches 28. Boot string 29. Yank 30. Skillfully 32. Souffle items 33. Dampen 37. Iced brew 39. Subject 41. Dazzled 42. Central part 43. Fuel mineral 44.Other than 46. Actor Gregory ____ 49. Tarzan’s pal 51. Name 52. Society miss

ARIES March 21-April 19

LEO July 23-Aug. 22

SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22-Dec. 21

Join friendly challenges with enthusiasm. Mars fuels your natural competitiveness this week. Moving in a group revitalizes both the body and the mind, sweeping away the habits of a sedentary lifestyle. These moments boost your physical energy and your morale.

Your dynamism cuts through the surrounding confusion. Ask direct questions and express your ideas freely to clarify sensitive issues. Your eloquence shines, turning vagueness into brilliant, reassuring inspiration for everyone.

Embrace the unknown to grow; seek new experiences to overcome your fears. Once you face these challenges, you’ll experience a boost in your selfesteem. Stepping out of your comfort zone becomes a springboard for personal fulfillment.

VIRGO Aug. 23-Sept. 22

CAPRICORN Dec. 22-Jan. 19

Soothe the turmoil of the past TAURUS April 20-May 20 and reflect calmly on your career. New professional responsibiliAdjust your path with precision to ties will call for a more polished align with your ambitions. Your look. Choose outfits that project friends appreciate your talents and authority and elegance. During will guide you toward satisfying client meetings, your distinguished choices that bring long-term appearance will impress and make benefits. negotiations flow more smoothly.

GEMINI May 21-June 20

A family trip is in the works! You’ll also form new friendships. Deepen your connection with your partner to strengthen your relationship. These shared moments weave a future full of promise.

AQUARIUS Jan. 20-Feb. 18

LIBRA Sept. 23-Oct. 22

Go shopping with fashionsavvy This week encourages you to friends to refresh your style. At the retreat into your family cocoon. Offer tenderness and joy at home, same time, explore meditation or esoteric practices. This spiritual but set boundaries to avoid engagement will enrich your week, having your generosity taken for granted. This balance protects your promote a sense of harmony and bring deep inspiration. You’ll feel wellbeing while strengthening aligned in body and soul. warm emotional bonds.

CANCER June 21-July 22 Take care of your respiratory system. Handwashing, scarves and natural remedies will help you avoid catching a cold and losing your voice. By preserving your vitality, you’ll keep your expressiveness intact as the cold season approaches.

Crossword puzzle answers use American spelling

SCORPIO Oct. 23-Nov. 21 At last, the longawaited promotion! While expanding your clientele, you’ll juggle intense work and family life with ease. This skill steadily propels your career forward, rewarding your efforts with tangible, lasting success.

You are in a period that accelerates your career through learning. New skills clear up confusion and decode unclear messages. Trusting your instincts, you’ll transform uncertainty into rapid professional growth.

PISCES Feb. 19-March 20 After a conflict, be sincerely open to compromise, so you can restore harmony with loved ones. At the same time, let go of bad habits to pave the way for deep, transformative personal growth.

SUDOKU HOW TO PLAY: Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3 x 3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once. Each 3 x 3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: you must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column or 3 x 3 box.

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS:

DOWN 1. “____ the Things You Are” 2. Golfing device 3. Newspaper issues 4. Graceful waterfowl

The Parish of

YOUR PLACE OF

St. John the Divine, Squamish

Join Us Every Sunday Worship, Word, KidsRock & Youth 38055 Cleveland Ave. therocksquamish.com

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

Exalting Jesus, Equipping His Followers, Engaging the World

Worship Service Sundays 10am on our website and Facebook Live

2262ReadCres. 604-898-3737 www.squamishbaptistchurch.org

See Website for Service times and location coastalchurch.org/squamish

Share your PLACE OF WORSHIP with Squamish for $14/week - Call today to book your spot 604.892.9161

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026 | 27

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COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL SERVICES

GUTTER SERVICES

HEATING & SHEET METAL 1005A Industrial Way, Squamish, BC

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HOME RENOVATION & CONSTRUCTION

Lawyers

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construction

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REAL ESTATE

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The A List

Squamish 2026 Who will be on the A List this year

2026

Get ready to put your favorite local business on the map! Squamish’s Readers' Choice voting opens October 8th and closes October 26th.

The very best of Squamish Business, People & Places Keep your eyes on squamishchief.com and next weeks paper links and more information.