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JACKSON DOES IT AGAIN
RETROFIT
Goldstone wins second straight downhill World Championship
What Bridgemans did to the WLNG floatels to convert them to worker accomodation
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S Q U A M I S H C H I E F. C O M
WHAT THE PROPOSED TA C K E D ’ O R ‘ I CO N ’ LOGO C O RDISTRICT P O R A T E / N O DEAL N-MASTHEAD / SOCIAL MEDIA WITH WLNG MEANS FOR YOUR TAXES Over a decade in the making, the CEPA and RTE agreement would resolve lawsuits and lock in municipal revenue LIZ MCDONALD
emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca
A
E V E R S Eproposed D + Cagreement O L O Ubetween R P the ALETTE District of Squamish (DOS) and Woodfibre Liquefied Natural Gas (WLNG) is finally seeing the light of day. The proposed agreement, announced Aug. 25, first involves public input over six weeks. It would result in “at least” $142 million spread out over 10 years, according to the DOS. The amount comes from two pieces, a Community Enhancement Payment
PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF
WLNG: Continued on 2
The Woodfibre LNG site is currently under construction.
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WLNG: Continued from 1 Agreement (CEPA) and a Revitalization Tax Exemption (RTE) bylaw. “The negotiations that ultimately led to this proposal were started well over a decade ago, really near the inception of the project,” said Mayor Armand Hurford. “The community has always shown interest in understanding and securing benefit to the community. So this has really been a very long journey to get to this point in time.”
WHAT’S CEPA? The CEPA document outlines what the DOS would receive and the agreement’s conditions. CEPA would amount to $117 million “voluntarily” provided by WLNG over 10 years, and it is not adjusted for the Consumer Price Index (inflation). Amounts are frontloaded, with the DOS receiving larger amounts in the first five years than in later years. The District can only spend the money on improvements like water and wastewater, flood protection improvements, recreation, transport, and climate adaptation projects. Hurford says the capital spending caveat is intentional and aligns with existing District policy. “This matches a policy that we’ve had for some time, which is really based on ensuring that the organization doesn’t rely on one major industry or taxpayer for operations, as we’ve seen a boom and bust cycle,” he said. And while payments in CEPA are voluntary, missed payments become a form of debt. According to the terms of the proposed agreement, the District “may” terminate the CEPA if the default isn’t corrected within the grace period. CEPA also still stands even if a court ruling strikes down the proposed RTE tax exemption. If WLNG’s municipal property taxes in a year are higher than that year’s CEPA
payments, the DOS must repay the difference to WLNG, up to the amount it received through CEPA for that year. If the plant is sold, the buyer must adhere to CEPA.
HOW THE RTE WORKS The RTE works as a municipal tax exemption and isn’t unique to Squamish. As the province explains, municipalities can use an RTE “to targeted areas within the community or to targeted properties, activities or circumstances in order to economically, socially or environmentally revitalize an individual property or area of the municipality.” It would provide at least $25 million in tax revenue over 10 years. The tax exemption formula is this: Tax Exemption = Municipal Property Tax – Tax Payable. In 2027, the tax payable is $2.5 million, and it increases with the consumer price index each year. It means WLNG is protected from increased tax rates even if BC Assessment assesses the value at a greater amount. The deal doesn’t impact non-municipal taxes, so school, hospital, regional district and other taxes are paid in full by WLNG. The RTE applies during construction and operation, as well as maintenance shutdowns. Once the company signs the bylaw and the CEPA agreement, the RTE is issued; WLNG pays all applicable bills to the District and must comply with the terms of the agreement. The RTE could be withdrawn if WLNG requests it, if conditions are breached, if WLNG terminates the CEPA, or if a purchaser of the land won’t take up the obligation. Unlike CEPA, the RTE revenue can be used for general funds and isn’t restricted to capital spending. “There’s a level of flexibility there. You know, if we were a community that (was) good on capital projects, and this would be a stretch to find capital projects to spend it on. Perhaps that would be more worth more
Invite Connection. Inspire Curiosity. www.squamishlibrary.ca Community Writing Group Wednesday / September 9 / 5:30 - 7:00pm Drop-in to the library for a monthly writing group for writers of all abilities. Bring your own project or start fresh! Tea will be provided.
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scrutiny, or might be addressed in a different way. But we have lengthy capital needs here in Squamish,” Hurford said. The RTE bylaw is slated for three readings Sept. 22, and adoption is anticipated in early October.
DEAL DOESN’T GUARANTEE LOWER TAXES While capital spending makes up a large slice of the DOS’s budget, and the windfall may provide a cushion, it’s hard to predict whether this will reduce the tax load. “That forward-looking piece is really challenging, because it’ll depend on the needs and wants and desires of the community in future. I struggle to (answer) that question because of the variability in future, but it does give certainty to the decision makers of the day as to what is coming from this project,” Hurford said. Aside from what’s inside the proposal, Hurford said other aspects of the relationship between the two parties won’t be impacted. For example, an existing capacity agreement, where WLNG foots the bill for staff to handle the workload the project puts on the District, isn’t reduced, Hurford said.
WHAT HAPPENS TO THE LAWSUITS? Currently, WLNG has three petitions filed against the DOS’s tax rates. As reported by The Squamish Chief, the total assessed values for WLNG properties went up in 2025 because of development on the sites. The values went up according to assessments from B.C. Assessment, a Crown corporation which evaluates market value and property classification in the province. The 2025 approved mill rate of 125 meant tax revenue from Class 4 MI is $7.2 million for 2026. The tax rate jumped by $5.8 million, more revenue than expected under the 2026-2035 Financial Plan. That plan pegged taxation at $1.5 million based on previously assessed values.
That forwardlooking piece is really challenging, because it’ll depend on the needs and wants and desires of the community in future. MAYOR ARMAND HURFORD
In June and November 2025, and in June 2026, Woodfibre LNG General Partner filed claims against the DOS in the Supreme Court of British Columbia, seeking to strike down the tax increases. In the June 5, 2025 claim, it alleged that the year’s tax rates “are illegal, unreasonable, and/ or enacted in bad faith.” The November claim names the District as a defendant, and accuses it and some members of council of “intentionally misusing the District’s powers for the improper purpose of delaying and/or stopping the project, despite the project having obtained all requisite approvals.” The claim alleges the 2025 major industry tax rate applied to WLNG was “illegal” and that a rate “as high as the 2025 Major Industry Rate will adversely impact the Project while it remains under construction and is not generating any revenue.” The third filing in June of 2026 built on the previous filing, but applied to the 2026 tax year. None of the claims have been proven in court. According to the District’s FAQ, the hypothetical estimated tax rate collection without the agreement would be between $10- $15 million WLNG: Continued on 3
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WLNG: Continued from 2 on average over 10 years once the project is fully built out. That estimate “includes Class 4 Major Industry, Class 2 Utilities, and Class 6 Business/Other. This is based on the 2026 BC average tax rates in all relevant classes, noting that the BC average rates change year to year.” The DOS also stressed that these numbers are “ultimately unknowable” due to annual fluctuations. At the time of the third court challenge, WLNG said it was “preserving its rights.” “The standstill agreement remains in place as we continue to focus on working with the District on finding a fair and balanced tax and amenities agreement,” they said in an emailed statement. The DOS affirmed that stance. “WLNG has initiated legal proceedings against the District to preserve its rights before expiry of applicable limitation periods but has not required the District to respond to these proceedings yet. This is not unusual when there is a possibility of a mutually satisfactory resolution being reached,” a spokesperson wrote. Cue this week’s news of “a mutually satisfactory resolution.” If the deal goes through, the DOS wouldn’t be required to refund the 2025/2026 taxes under litigation, according to its FAQ page. Should the proposal fail, legal action is still on the table. “The short answer is yes,” Hurford said. “The legal action piece wouldn’t be resolved. So then it would need to be brought to some sort of resolution, whether that’s continuation of the court process or some other way that these things get addressed then.” An agreement would resolve the legal cases, Hurford confirmed (this detail is also included in the FAQ). And while some may see the negotiations as a way to force a favourable outcome for WLNG, which launched its court case to block the 2025 approved tax rate, Hurford said it’s much more about certainty. “The agreement aims to provide certainty in some matters, and those would be, you know, a piece of the puzzle, but there’s a long list of matters contemplated here. So, how much weight individuals are giving that is up to the individual, I suppose.”
PUBLIC INPUT PERIOD AHEAD OF ELECTION The DOS is seeking public input, with a landing page on its website that hosts FAQs and the proposed CEPA and RTE bylaw. That feedback goes to council, and Hurford said it’s taken into consideration as each elected official weighs their decision. “This decision, although important and
potentially impactful for the community, isn’t unlike other decisions before council, where council will actively solicit feedback from the community and ultimately make a decision informed by that feedback and other matters,” he said. “So really, it’s a council decision, and ultimately will be at the discretion of council with the input of the community … Each elected official … will have their own process for determining how they vote on the matter.” Hurford said the timing, a month and change before the municipal election, is “awkward,” but reiterated the RTE needs to pass by the end of October to take effect in 2027. The new council doesn’t meet until November, so the window for implementation next year doesn’t work. When asked whether the process could be paused until after a new council is sworn in, he reiterated the legislative requirements for the RTE and highlighted the work the current council has done to reach this stage. “This council has been working hard in the background on this agreement, and I feel it’s important to get it to the public. We know that in discussions in community, whether that’s at election time or not, there a high level of interest in this topic, and as well as there’s been some pretty wild rumours about what had been offered, what the District or council said yes or no to, and so on and so forth,” he said. “My preference would have been that we could have got to have this discussion with community far earlier in the term, and ultimately, that wasn’t the case as we were still quite far apart. So, those are the pieces why I think it’s important for this council to discuss this and ultimately vote on it, but it is awkward timing, and I think with the legislative requirements, I think it’s important to contemplate it within the timeline.”
of operations, we look forward to being part of this community for decades to come.”
MY SEA TO SKY QUESTIONS PROPOSED DEAL Tracey Saxby, executive director for the opposition organization against WLNG, My Sea to Sky, thinks the company has not negotiated in good faith with the community of Squamish. “Woodfibre LNG has not been acting in good faith for the last 12 years,” she said, highlighting several actions taken by Woodfibre. The advocate highlighted WLNG original offered to pay $2 million in taxes in 2014, which would cap with inflation at $3 million. She noted Woodfibre supported the start-up of the website Squamish Forward, which eventually became a partisan advocacy site seeking to influence voting in the last municipal election, according to reporting by the investigative journalism outlet The Breach. Now, she said they are pursuing legal action against the District over the proposed tax rate. “It’s clear that Woodfiber LNG does not want to pay its fair share, and that because this project is not economically viable, they are doing everything they can to get a subsidy and a tax deal from the District of
Squamish, and that’s not fair,” she said. “Why should Woodfibre LNG get a deal on taxes? I don’t get a deal on my taxes. Do you get a deal on your taxes? So what we’re seeing is Woodfibre LNG is unfairly shifting its tax burden to Squamish residents. It is acting as a bad corporate citizen that does not want to pay its fair share.” She thinks the locked-in rate of CEPA over 10 years should account for inflation, and that it doesn’t account for any potential expansion of the site. The Squamish Nation, a regulator for the project, said it has not received a formal application to increase capacity. On the potential expansion plans, Hurford said the DOS negotiated based on the business before them today, not what it could become in the future. “This deal doesn’t contemplate that scenario, as that’s not something that’s currently … here at this point,” he said. He also explained that if the site grew in size, the assessed value from BC Assessment could increase, and the tax rate could increase. But growth in export volume doesn’t necessarily mean a higher assessed value. Squamish citizens have until early October to provide feedback, then council will make a final decision.
WLNG ‘PLEASED’ TO REACH AGREEMENT IN PRINCIPLE In response to a request for an interview, Woodfibre LNG provided the following statement. “Woodfibre LNG and the District have been working together for years to find an approach that provides long-term certainty for both the community and the project and we’re pleased to have reached an agreement in principle. “The intent has always been to find a fair and predictable arrangement; one that gives the District greater certainty around future revenues, particularly at a time when the community has significant infrastructure and capital needs, while also giving Woodfibre LNG clarity around its long-term tax obligations. “This is now the District’s process to lead. As Woodfibre LNG moves closer to the start
PHOTO BY PAT BELL
WASH OUT: Access past the 21.7-kilometre mark on the Squamish River Forest Service Road is currently prohibited due to road damage at Mud Creek. The provincial government says road repairs are planned to begin early to mid-September, once rainfall subsides.
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AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROFESSIONAL SARAH ELLIS SEEKS COUNCIL SEAT ‘No one left behind’: Ellis is currently executive director of Housing Squamish JENNIFER THUNCHER
jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca
S
arah Ellis has engaged with numerous councils over her career, and now she is hoping to sit on the elected official side of the table. Ellis is running for a councillor seat in the upcoming municipal election. Many may know Ellis as executive director of the non-profit housing authority, Housing Squamish. “In that role, she has worked with community partners, governments and funders to help bring more than $17 million in funding and financing to Squamish to protect and expand the community’s affordable housing supply,” reads a press release announcing her campaign. Ellis told The Squamish Chief that if elected, she will step down from her executive director position. Her experience locally also includes serving as OurSquamish Placemaking Society board president. Prior to her time in Squamish, she spent eight years working on affordable housing policy at the City of Vancouver. Ellis considered running before, but said this time it feels right. “I think there’s a lot of really big decisions in
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Sarah Ellis.
front of our community …. We’re facing global, national, provincial, local forces that are, in a lot of ways, unprecedented for communities like ours, and we’re navigating that the best we can,” she said. “I think the council has a lot to do to set the tone and also make really important decisions that will direct what our future looks like.” She highlighted her experience working with government. “I think my current role and also my past experience working for local government, professionally and personally, really gives me something unique to bring to the table. I’m a new voice on council, but really have the experience to back it up,” she said. Asked about increasing property taxes, Ellis said there needs to be more transparency around how tax dollars are being spent. “I think people have a lot of questions about where their tax dollars are going and especially with the increases that we’re seeing. And I think there’s ways that we can bring some more visibility to that so that people can see where they’re going and then also hopefully see the results,” she said. Ultimately, what drives her is the desire to see “no one left behind.” “With all of the pressure that we’re facing in our community and in terms of affordability, it affects us all, but it affects some people especially. I’m thinking about single parents,
I think my current role and also my past experience working for local government, professionally and personally, really gives me something unique to bring to the table. SARAH ELLIS
seniors, and also youth. These are the people that … I work with … to try to make sure that they continue to have a foothold in Squamish because a lot of these folks really don’t have anywhere to go if they don’t have the housing we need,” she said. “So, I think making sure that we’re continuing to be a community that cares for people, that looks out for each other, and that really prioritizes everyone’s needs.” Ellis is hosting a campaign launch at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 9 at O’Siyam Pavilion at Junction Park. Find out more at sarahellisforsquamish.ca.
Woodfibre LNG invites you to attend our Open House Waste Discharge Authorization (Air) and Flaring Update Date: September 17, 2026 Time: 4:30pm-7:30pm Location: Executive Suites and Resort, 40900 Tantalus Road, Squamish, BC
woodfibrelng.ca
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IAN BROWN LAUNCHES COUNCIL BID, ZEROES IN ON SENIORS AND ARTS The longtime schoolteacher and community volunteer says regional transit, housing and long-term care are also top of mind ahead of the fall election LIZ MCDONALD
emcdonald@lodestarmedia.ca
F
or Ian Brown, running for a seat as municipal councillor was the “next natural step.” That was his message to attendees at his campaign launch event, held Aug. 25 at The 55 Activity Centre. The long-time schoolteacher says he has spent the last 12 years contributing to the quality of life in Squamish—from the Brackendale Art Gallery to Squamish Arts, or his time with Hilltop House Family Council and the Squamish Sunshine Choir. Brown says he’s focused on the issues he’s heard raised by people in Squamish, and believes the two areas he can best advocate for are seniors and the arts. “My two greatest strengths are arts and culture, and seniors’ issues. So I think I would bring a lot of expertise in those areas,” he said in an interview with The Squamish Chief. “As the chair of the family council at Hilltop House, I represent all the families up there, and so I feel a great responsibility to communicate in the community, but to the provincial
government as well, about the desperate lack of long-term care beds.” Other issues, from the hospital to housing, fall under provincial jurisdiction, he says, but he believes he’s well-positioned to advocate for them at that level. On housing, he pointed to co-living as a way to provide options that don’t break the bank. For about 20 years, people have campaigned on the promise of regional transit, with little success to show for it. “I think it is such an easy solution. I think we need one bus … if we can get people to Lions Bay, they can transfer to a West Vancouver bus and take it anywhere they want to go,” he said, adding he would start by talking to Lions Bay’s government and other communities along the corridor. Traffic, parking, implementing the recreation task force, and ensuring developers cover the cost of added strain on infrastructure were all pieces of the puzzle, he said. He’s also interested in creative solutions, including exploring a public-private partnership to fund a new recreation centre. In attendance were mayoral candidate Sean Easton, who said he and Brown are aligned on many issues, and school district trustee Lisa Turpin, along with about 30 other supporters
My two greatest strengths are arts and culture, and seniors’ issues. So I think I would bring a lot of expertise in those areas. IAN BROWN
PHOTO BY LIZ MCDONALD/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF
Ian Brown.
and friends. Other issues Brown raised include wildfire evacuation planning, saying technical documents need to be better communicated to the public. On economic growth, he pointed to
the decline of large industry and Squamish’s overreliance on small business, saying he’s open to a range of industries as long as they match the community’s identity. “Ecotourism is pretty cool, and I would definitely support that,” he said. Ultimately, he acknowledged he’d be one vote among seven, and that understanding Squamish’s issues and charting a path forward will require collaboration. For more information about his campaign, visit his website at www.ianbrownsquamish. com.
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WHAT YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT THE WOODFIBRE LNG FLOATELS ‘We strip the vessels down to their core and rebuild (them) from the ground up,” says Bridgemans founder
JENNIFER THUNCHER
jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca
W
hile tourists in the Sea to Sky likely mistake them for docked cruise ships, the Bridgemans Services Group (BSG) floatels moored on the southwest coast of Howe Sound house about 1,300 workers who are building the Woodfibre LNG export facility. While much of the focus of attention—and controversy—has been on the liquefied natural gas project and its associated Fortis BC Eagle Mountain - Woodfibre Gas Pipeline project, the floatels are a unique story in themselves. Since its inception, Vancouver-based Bridgemans has operated seven floatels. Currently, three floatels are owned and actively deployed by the company, including the two at Woodfibre LNG—though these vessels are technically classified as ferries. For the two ships docked locally, the MV Isabelle X and the MV Saga X, the retrofits to make them suitable for worker accommodation included, among other things, private ensuites in cabins, dining and lounge spaces, medical and office facilities, sports amenities, UV water purification, and shore-power capabilities. “Creating a Bridgemans floatel involves a
PHOTO COURTESY OF BRIDGEMANS
Saga X sets sail.
much deeper overhaul than people often realize,” Brian Grange, president and founder of Bridgemans, told The Squamish Chief. “We strip the vessels down to their core and rebuild (them) from the ground up. Beyond updating cabin interiors and transforming common areas into premium workforce
SQUAMISH BAHÁ’Í COMMUNITY
Baha’i Faith Reconciliation Justice The Purpose of is Justice
Bahá’u’lláh wrote: “The purpose of justice is the appearance of unity among men.Justice and equity are twin Guardians that watch over men. From them are revealed such blessed and perspicuous words as are the cause of the well-being of the world and the protection of the nations.” The Baha’i International Community wrote: “No one is free from the exacting demands of justice; all will be called upon to continuously re-examine their own attitudes, values, and relationships with others. The faculties needed to construct a more just and sustainable social order —moderation, justice, love, reason, sacrifice and service to the common good— have too often been dismissed as naive ideals. Yet, it is these, and related, qualities that must be harnessed to overcome the traits of ego, greed, apathy and violence, which are often rewarded by the market and political forces driving current patterns of unsustainable consumption and production.” “Justice is made evident to the degree that unity and reconciliation is reflected in our relationships and social structures. In other words, we must seek to recognize injustice and then see that justice is restored within our society and institutions. Justice also requires that capabilities be developed for universal participation in the process of building a better world”. It is during the process of reconciliation that the means of restoring harmony, resolving differences, or bringing conflicting ideas, facts, or accounts into agreement. This is the manifestation of justice.” The best beloved of all things in My sight is Justice; turn not away therefrom if thou desirest Me, and neglect it not that I may confide in thee. By its aid thou shalt see with thine own eyes and not through the eyes of others, and shalt know of thine own knowledge and not through the knowledge of thy neighbor. Ponder this in thy heart; how it behooveth thee to be.Verily justice is My gift to thee and the sign of My loving-kindness. Set it then before thine eyes. – Baha’u’llah”
www.squamishbahais.com
amenities, this process involves extensive marine engineering—upgrading mechanical systems, environmental technologies like shore-power and water treatment, and specialized infrastructure tailored to remote industrial projects.” With the MV Isabelle arriving in Squamish
about a year before the MV Saga, Grange said the first ship retrofit provided a “blueprint” for navigating Canada’s regulatory and environmental standards. “We applied those insights directly to MV Saga, allowing us to significantly streamline our shipyard workflows and supply chains. That added efficiency proved critical, as it enabled us to execute MV Saga’s full conversion and achieve strict regulatory compliance within a compressed timeline,” he said. One of the necessary retrofits folks might not think about is soundproofing. “(Having) commercial passenger ferries (dually used) as floatels requires significant soundproofing upgrades,” Grange confirmed. “Given that workforce teams operate on opposing 12-hour shifts, enhanced acoustic barriers between cabins and corridors are an essential part of our retrofit to guarantee quiet, undisturbed rest for night-shift workers during peak daytime hours.” Accommodating shift changes and mealtimes for so many workers, though, wasn’t difficult, due to the size and former use of the ships, Grange said. “Because these vessels were originally engineered to transport up to 2,000 passengers, housing approximately 600 residents gives us BRIDGEMANS: Continued on 7
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BRIDGEMANS: Continued from 6 massive spatial flexibility,” he said. “During shift handovers, traffic flows seamlessly due to wide main thoroughfares, staggered meal schedules, and expanded dining and lounge zones. We strategically zoned high-traffic areas—like mudrooms, dining halls, and transport dispatch points—to keep incoming and outgoing crews moving without bottlenecking residential or recreational areas.”
ENVIRONMENT According to the company, Bridgemans is the world’s only provider of full-service marine workforce housing, transport and supply chain services. Through its Clean Oceans initiatives, the company aims to be environmentally sensitive, with each vessel equipped with water purification, zero-discharge sewage treatment, industrial electric heat pumps, integrated power systems, and measures to eliminate single-use plastics. The vessels run entirely on land-based hydroelectric power, eliminating local diesel emissions while docked, Grange noted. He said industrial heating and cooling systems that were installed drastically cut thermal energy consumption compared to traditional marine HVAC. Bridgemans also integrates marine transport to move crew members directly to and from project sites during two-week shift rotations, which “eliminates” worker vehicle traffic on local roads, the company says.
Asked the cost of the retrofits for the Squamish floatels, Grange said, depending on scale, these types of refits cost in the tens of millions of dollars per vessel. “Each project involves hundreds of specialized shipyard workers and tradespeople operating around the clock, logging hundreds of thousands of (worker)-hours,” Grange said, adding that from dry dock to delivery, the entire transformation typically takes from three to six months. While the ships were built to be at sea, they are stationary for years as worker accommodation. Grange said Bridgemans developed a “specialized conversion process” specifically because these projects carry unique engineering challenges. “Transitioning a vessel to full shore-power requires integrating high-voltage, land-based power systems with marine infrastructure, eliminating the need for continuous generator operation,” he said. “The main complexity lies in converting engine-dominated ships into self-sustaining, zero-discharge ecosystems— upgrading industrial HVAC, UV water treatment, and long-term mooring stability to withstand local marine conditions without disturbing the surrounding seabed.” Grange said, while the company works around the world, the retrofits for the Woodfibre LNG floatels stood out for its requirements. “Meeting Canadian regulatory benchmarks demanded an extraordinary level of detail— particularly regarding shore-power integration
and local environmental protections. At the same time, Canadian workforce expectations set a high bar for comfort, requiring us to design private ensuites, expanded recreation spaces, and premium amenities that go far beyond standard overseas industrial accommodations.” Another unique aspect of these retrofits was the supply chain challenge. “Navigating the unique supply chain logistics of different global shipyards adds significant complexity,” said Grange. “For instance, during MV Saga X’s refit at a shipyard in Singapore, we had to coordinate the global shipment of nearly 300 shipping containers filled with specialized equipment to meet Canadian regulatory standards that weren’t available locally in Asia. That stands in stark contrast to refits conducted in European shipyards, where specialized marine manufacturers and equipment suppliers are in the same region.”
ADAPTING SHIPS BUILT IN EUROPE Both ships were built in Europe—MV Isabelle X was built in Croatia, while the MV Saga X was built in Finland—Grange said adapting European-built vessels for operation in Canada involves much more than plug adapters. “On the electrical side, we install specialized frequency conversion systems. Beyond power, ‘Canadianizing’ these ships requires rigorous structural and mechanical upgrades to satisfy Transport Canada’s strict regulations, enhance thermal HVAC systems for local weather, and integrate environmental controls that meet Canada’s high regulatory baseline,” he said.
FUTURE FOR VESSELS The company said in a recent press release that it is scaling up its operations to meet the new global reality of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government, as it fast-tracks liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects. For example, in May, northern B.C.’s Ksi Lisims LNG and SEFE (Securing Energy for Europe) of Germany signed a deal for a long-term supply of LNG. This was followed in July with a deal between Ksi Lisims LNG and Germany’s Uniper SE, a multinational energy company, which has been state-owned since 2022. Bridgemans sees itself as well positioned to provide worker accommodations, like it has at Woodfibre LNG, to get those developments underway quickly. “I grew up working in my family’s fishing lodge on a remote island off British Columbia’s north coast, learning early the demands of operating in remote places and protecting the environment,” said Grange in a news release. “When B.C. verged on an LNG mega-project boom more than a decade ago, my upbringing became a straightforward business vision: turn the sea into a strategic advantage.” As for what is next for the two ships at Woodfibre LNG once that project is done, both have been officially re-flagged under the Canadian registry. “(This) positions them perfectly to support future clean energy, mining, and coastal infrastructure projects right here in British Columbia and across the Pacific Northwest long after Woodfibre LNG is complete,” Grange said.
Britannia Mine Museum gratefully acknowledges their community sponsors:
Squamish Transit
Service Change Effective September 8, 2026
} School trips on Routes 1 and 4 will return this Fall. } Route 5 trip will be discontinued for the season. } OnDemand service zone will be expanded to include the Loggers East and Brennan Park area. Download the BC Transit On Demand app today. } Minor trip adjustments to routes across the system to improve connections.
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For more information about trip planning, schedules and to sign up for customer alerts, please visit bctransit.com/squamish. Transit Info 604·892·5559 bctransit.com
Final Call for Giants at Work!
SUMMER EXHIBIT ENDS SEPT 7, 2026* *The Cat® 793C Mining Truck is a permanent feature.
8 | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2026
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NOW RECRUITING Paid On-Call Firefighters
squamish.ca/recruitment
The District’s next 10-year Financial Plan review process will begin September 8, 2026 and continue through to December. Follow along at LetsTalkSquamish.ca/budget-2027
Public comments invited on proposed financial arrangement with Woodfibre LNG The District and Woodfibre LNG (WLNG) have negotiated, in principle, a 10-year financial agreement. If approved by Council, the community would receive at least $142 million over the next 10 years in pre-committed revenue. If not approved, the District would continue to rely on property taxation, with the amount of tax revenue received based on the annual BC Assessment valuation of WLNG properties, and the tax rate set annually by Council. Council is seeking public feedback on the proposed agreement before a final decision is made in early October. Learn more and submit a comment or question at: squamish.ca/WLNG-agreement
Holiday Hours
Monday, September 7 Municipal Hall
Fall Program Launch
BREATHE, STRETCH, THRIVE
Fall programming returns to The 55 on Tuesday, September 8. Enjoy free cake and get help finding the right programs for you.
Annual Pool Shutdown
Family Yoga
at Brennan Park Recreation Centre
September 9–24
Fridays, 4–5 pm
Join us for an interactive yoga experience designed for caregivers and children. By weaving together breathwork, creative storytelling, interactive games, and music, we make mindfulness accessible and fun for the whole family. No prior yoga experience is necessary— suitable for children of all ages and abilities.
During this time, we will be conducting comprehensive preventative maintenance throughout the Aquatic Centre, including the steam room, showers, and hot tub.
squamish.ca/rec
Closed
Bylaw Services Call 604-815-5067 for assistance
8 am–4:30 pm
Brennan Park Recreation Centre
9 am–3 pm
Public Works For emergencies: 604-815-4040
Office Closed
Squamish Fire Rescue For emergencies: 911
Office Closed
Squamish Public Library
Closed
The 55 Activity Centre
Closed
Residential Campfire Ban lifted 12 pm, September 3
squamish.ca/fireban
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squamishchief.com
‘GIVE THEM THEIR SPACE’: CYCLIST HAS CLOSE CALL WITH GRIZZLY BEAR, THREE CUBS
Conservation officers advise trail users to keep dogs on leash, carry bear spray, make themselves heard and be on alert for bears
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LOCATION MAP
Queens Way
After the encounter, conservation officers were advising trail users to avoid the area for a time to give the bears space. Warning signs were placed near the trail. Local conservation officer Sgt. Chris Doyle told The Squamish Chief the bears were likely just passing through and carried on after the incident. “The bears carried on together as a family
What’s Proposed
The District of Squamish (“District”) hereby gives notice pursuant to Section 26 of the Community Charter that the District intends to grant a statutory right of way to BC Hydro and Power Authority and Telus Communications Inc., beginning October 2026, for approximately 100m2, for the purpose of relocating hydro infrastructure under District owned land referred to as PID 027-199-436 Lot A Section 3 Township 50 New Westminster District Plan BCP32369, for a fee of $1.
jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca
GIVE BEARS SPACE
Notice of Disposition Disposition of a portion of District owned land at 39500 Queens Way to BC Hydro and Telus, as part of the transition from overhead power and communication wiring to underground systems. This will allow for the relocation of the existing pole-mounted transformers to ground level on District property (shaded area shown on the map below).
JENNIFER THUNCHER
t was a typical Sunday evening bike ride for Squamish resident Rick Armstrong, until it wasn’t. On Aug. 23, Armstrong was riding under the powerlines on the Ray Peters trail network when three bear cubs suddenly “flew out” in front of his e-bike. He said the cubs made a noise like they were scared. He immediately slowed and came to a stop—and then the sow was in front of him, up on her hind legs. She then charged to within three metres of Armstrong at which point he put his bike between himself and the sow. “I backtracked and just let out a little bit of noise,” he explained. Once he had backed up, the momma bear stopped coming at him. He and conservation officers believe it was a grizzly bear and her cubs. Armstrong said he has seen a lot of bears in his time, but it is not often that cubs come that close. The cubs looked different from what he was used to and he noticed the sow had a larger hump and her claws were “huge,” he said. In comparison to black bears, grizzlies are relatively rare in this region, and are considered at high risk, with a projected population of 46 in the Squamish-Lillooet region, according to a BC Government population assessment from 2018. Armstrong stressed the sow was just doing what was right for her cubs in defending them. “Once she knew I wasn’t a threat anymore, she just turned around and went about her business,” he said. “She didn’t actively keep pursuing me or anything like that. So, I think if we can give them their space and let them do their thing, hopefully they’ll move on their way.”
View online:
PHOTO BY RICK ARMSTRONG
Sow and her cubs on the powerline trail.
unit. As far as we know, there haven’t been any sightings of this family unit prior and so far, nothing since then. But we’re just advising the public to avoid that area for now,” he said. Later, trail cameras and social media reports of what seemed to be the same grizzly family showed they were travelling off Squamish Valley Road and beyond. Doyle said it’s not unusual for grizzlies to be in and around Squamish at certain times of the year, like now, though the area of this encounter isn’t a common spot for sightings. “Many times they’ll be around, and we don’t even know they’re around, they’re fishing in the river or just doing their thing,” he said. “Certainly, sightings around there are very infrequent. There’s not a lot of food or natural food there right now for those bears to stick around. So I’m thinking they’re just travelling through to somewhere.” He said Armstrong did all the right things during his encounter. The COS also advises all trail users to keep dogs on leash, carry bear spray, make themselves heard and be on alert for bears. “It’s really important for people to have dogs on leashes. I know that area is popular with dog walkers. (It) would be quite easy for a dog to get in the mix with a sow and cubs, and that can be quite dangerous for the dog and the dog walker, for sure,” said Doyle. Additionally, residents are being reminded to pick ripe and fallen fruit from their yards and ensure food and garbage are contained in bear-resistant totes and structures, so these bears and others aren’t encouraged to stick around near humans. For more tips and resources, go to wildsafebc. com.
39500
Pioneer Way
Infrastructure Upgrades • Annual Watermain Upgrades continue in Brackendale. • Wastewater System Upgrades continue in Dentville, on the Madill Forcemain. Construction work is paused. • Annual Line Painting is complete. • Work on the Paradise Valley Bailey Bridge repairs is now under way.
Development Review • 39773 & 39775 Government Road Zoning Amendment
squamish.ca/review
Expect overnight closures on September 10 and 11, from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. • Phased construction work on Squamish River Dike at Harris and Dryden Pump Stations and Central Lift Station continues through November.
squamish.ca/building-our-future
Business Opportunities
Requests for Proposals
• Wastewater Treatment Plant Master Plan • Archaeological Consulting Services
Requests for Quotations
• Powerhouse Springs Generator Infrastructure
squamish.ca/doing-business-with-the-district
10 | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2026
squamishchief.com
Connect with Active Seniors & Care Seekers in Squamish Reserve Your Spot at the 2026 Ageless 55+ Seniors Expo Are you a local business, healthcare provider, lifestyle brand, or community organization looking to expand your reach? Whether your services cater to independent, active adults enjoying their retirement or provide vital support and care for seniors and their families, this is your premier opportunity to engage directly with your target audience.
TIRED OF SEEING LITTER IN SQUAMISH? HERE IS HOW YOU CAN HELP CLEAN UP OUR COMMUNITY Two Squamish residents have launched the Sea2Sky Community Stewardship Network to centralize local cleanup efforts and protect regional ecosystems
PHOTO BY AMIE ROUSSEL
Erika Sohni (pictured) Ranya Dube are the women behind the Sea2Sky Community Stewardship Network.
Why You Should Exhibit • Dual-Market Reach: Connect with high-energy, active seniors looking for travel, fitness, hobbies, and financial planning, as well as adult children and caregivers seeking home care, assisted living, and wellness resources. • Direct Face-to-Face Engagement: Build trust, answer questions in real time, and demonstrate your products or services directly to locals. • Brand Visibility: Gain valuable exposure through our event marketing channels, including local print, digital campaigns, and event signage. Who Should Vendor? • Active Lifestyle & Wellness Providers • Care, Health & Support Services National Seniors Day Thursday, October 1, 2026. 1 pm to 5 pm at the 55+ Seniors Activity Centre Squamish
Secure Your Booth Today — Spaces Are Limited! Call: 604-892-9161 ext. 45230 email: Sales@squamishchief.com
JENNIFER THUNCHER
jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca
I
t all started with the desire to give back to a new home. Erika Sohni moved to Squamish from the Silver Star Vernon area in June. The retired nurse, who has a long history of being involved in her community in her old home, noticed the garbage near her home on Loggers’ Lane and bears breaking into dumpsters daily and she wanted to do something about it. She connected with some locals who do it regularly to start and then wanted to have even more impact. “I felt this needed to be a community effort,” she said. She wanted to get more people involved with tackling the trash there is around town, so she put up a post on social media and began rallying people for group cleanups. “Then somebody suggested I make a Facebook site, which I did, and then that’s how it all came to be,” she said. She started posting for folks to come together to clean up specific areas, and then celebrated what they collected after.
BETTER TOGETHER Long story short, through that page, she connected to local Ranya Dube. “We hit it off because we’re the same type
of person and because I build systems,” Dube said. She has a business that creates templates, guides, and frameworks for people and businesses. In 2016, Dube started the Whistler Wildlife Protection Group, which aims to educate resort tourists and newcomers on how their choices impact wildlife and their habitat. The women say they saw the same frustrating pattern repeating itself: litter left behind after local events, fragmented volunteer efforts, and garbage overflowing from dumpsters. “So, from a systems background, I thought let’s create something where we can gather everyone’s information in one place and then we’re going to start creating relationships with the conservation officers the other wildlife associations because we have so many great organizations in Squamish but also to centralise in one place in a database that we have the information of people and to create a system of how can we make sure that all parts of town are taken care of,” Dube said. Realizing that sporadic cleanups weren’t enough, the pair decided to build and launch a dedicated community cleanup page, turning a local problem into what they hope will be a full-fledged movement: Sea2Sky CLEANUP: Continued on 11
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CLEANUP: Continued from 10 Community Stewardship Network. It is entirely volunteer-run, non-political, self-funded and meant to be citizen-led. Officially up and running on Aug. 23, the website is currently being hosted on Dube’s professional site, to start. They have a lofty goal—protecting sensitive local ecosystems across the Sea to Sky corridor. “From implementing strict Bear Smart waste practices to preventing litter from entering our coastal waters, our framework provides actionable pillars for wildlife, marine, waste, and land stewardship,” Sohni said in an email to The Squamish Chief.
ADOPT-AN-AREA As part of the network, the pair are launching an “Adopt-an-Area” program that calls on local residents, businesses, and outdoor groups to take direct responsibility for cleaning up and caring for specific trails, shorelines, parks, or neighbourhoods within Squamish. “Our goal is for this initiative to be implemented within all communities within the Sea to Sky Corridor,” Sohni added. To get involved, there is a form folks can fill out with what they would like to help with. “This is the first point and we’re creating a map that we’re going to start outlining … what parts of Squamish have lots of volunteers and then after this we can put a call out and say,
for instance, Valleycliffe doesn’t have anyone,” Dube said, noting the pair are learning as they go with something that hasn’t been tried before. It is very early days as the website just launched, but they have already had a business sign up. Avesta Strata Management has adopted their block to take care of, said Dube.
TAKE THE PLEDGE When it comes down to it, it is all about stewardship and getting back to basics, Sohni said. The women both point to a sense of entitlement that can lead people to not care for their environment and the wildlife in it, but they are choosing to focus on bringing like-minded people together who want to make a difference in a positive way. “We all live here and it’s our land, our investment. As humans, we can’t just rely on a government agency or a municipality and live here for free—and I’m not talking about free in the monetary context—we have to put in the work,” Sohni said. For those who aren’t able at this time to commit to anything, the women ask that they consider making the pledge that is on the site. It has four pillars: wildlife, marine, waste and land. The pledge is to “help care for the land, water, wildlife, and community that we share.” Find out more by searching “Sea2Sky Community Stewardship Network” online.
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12 | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 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
FENTANYL BEAR?
I
t started with a couple of calls to our newsroom that a black bear had been killed after getting into fentanyl downtown. Wow. We had to check that out. For more information, we contacted the Conservation Officers Service (actually, media have to contact the Ministry of Environment and Parks’ communications folks who then get a Sea to Sky conservation officer to call us. We can’t call them directly, which is a story for another day). The officer said that while a dead bear had been found, there was no evidence that it died from fentanyl. The bear had gotten into something and its breathing was obstructed. So, there was something toxic that killed it. The Conservation Officers Service doesn’t routinely have animal autopsies—called necropsy—performed unless they are investigating wrongdoing. For example, back in 2023 a necropsy was done on a grizzly that had been illegally shot and dumped in the Squamish River. In this recent case, a bear killed by trash isn’t, unfortunately, unheard of. Conservation officer Sgt. Chris Doyle said that there’s lots of toxic things bears can get into in our trash. This is why it is extremely important that human garbage is kept locked up. Could a bear get into drugs and die? Sure. The so-called Cocaine Bear was a real bear that died from an overdose in 1985 in the forests of Georgia. Bears could also be harmed from getting into over-the-counter medications, antifreeze, mouthwash—the list goes on. Bottom line, trash is bad for bears. While we let the two people who called us about the supposed “fentanyl” bear know there was no evidence confirming this, the inaccuracy continued to be presented as fact online. Now we had a journalism question. Do we drop other stories to write one countering what was on social media about the bear? We were all swamped with other valuable stories we wanted to share with readers, so we picked our battles. The fact is, if we were to chase down and write stories on all the untrue things on Squamish social media, that would become our main job. We don’t think that is a valuable use of our time. All this to say, don’t automatically believe what you see on social media. The election is ramping up and so there are likely to be a lot of assertions, accusations and pontificating on Squamish pages. Like the trash in our dumpsters, there’s plenty of questionable and toxic stuff on there. Ingest with caution.
WHAT NEPAL’S DISASTER IS TEACHING ME ABOUT SQUAMISH MANISHI KC
GUEST COLUMN
W
e moved from Nepal to Squamish in 2011. Fifteen years later, I still find it remarkable that we somehow exchanged one mountain valley for another. Kathmandu Valley sits beneath the Himalayas. Squamish sits beneath some of British Columbia’s most spectacular mountains. In both places, mountains and rivers are not scenery. They shape how people live. That is why the news from Nepal this week has been difficult to watch. On Aug. 26, a catastrophic debris flow and flood in Nepal’s Rasuwa district involved a glacial collapse. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the resulting debris flow travelled nearly 100 kilometres, affecting communities along the Trishuli and Bhote Koshi river systems.
A MEMORY FROM 2015 When the devastating earthquake struck Nepal in 2015, my 10-year-old son gave a small speech at the Squamish Farmers Market asking people to
help earthquake victims. Squamish responded. We collected donations, including matched contributions, and gave the money to a Nepali family who had lost almost everything. I remember the father searching through the rubble for something he could offer us. He had almost nothing. Yet he wanted to give. That generosity is something I will never forget. Eleven years later, that 10-year-old is a fourthyear university student. Once again, we woke up in Squamish to horrifying news from Nepal. And once again, I found myself thinking about the relationship between people and mountains.
A CHANGING ENVIRONMENT There is something deeply unfair about what is happening in the Himalayas. Nepal contributes only about 0.1% of global greenhouse-gas emissions, according to the World Bank, yet it faces significant climate-related risks, including flooding, landslides, water stress and glacial-lake overflow. The broader Himalayan cryosphere is changing rapidly. The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) reports GUEST: Continued on 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
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(We have good feelings that we live, we work and we play on the lands of the Squamish Nation) GUEST: Continued from 12 accelerating glacier loss, declining and shifting snow patterns, degrading permafrost and increasingly unpredictable river flows. Scientists are still determining exactly how climate change contributed to this week’s disaster. That distinction matters. A warming climate does not mean every individual disaster is caused by climate change. But the underlying landscape is changing. That should matter to every mountain community. Which brings me back to Squamish. Squamish has changed enormously since we arrived in 2011. There is more development, more construction and greater pressure on land. Growth is not inherently bad. People need homes. Businesses need space. Communities evolve. But Squamish has assets that cannot simply be rebuilt once they are gone: Its mountains. Its rivers. Its forests. Its wildlife. These are not merely what make
Squamish beautiful. They are why Squamish is Squamish. People move here because of them. Visitors come because of them. The local economy benefits from them. Protecting these assets is not anti-development. It is smart development. Nepal and Squamish are thousands of kilometres apart. But watching the disaster unfold in the Himalayas reminds me that mountain communities share something fundamental. We live with nature. We depend on it. We benefit from it. And sometimes, we underestimate it. Mountains are not obstacles. Rivers are not drains. Nature is not an unlimited resource. Whether we live beside the Himalayas or beneath the Stawamus Chief, our future depends on remembering that we are part of the landscape. What we protect today is what our children will inherit tomorrow. Manishi KC is the owner of handmadehappiness.ca and founder of Mool.space, an environmental awareness initiative focused on Nepal.
DARTS & DAFFODILS
QUESTION OF THE WEEK Poll: What characteristic do you value most in a Squamish politician?
TRUCKLOADS OF DAFFODILS to District of
Squamish’s FireSmart coordinator Tobi and the Youth Climate Corps who came to do our FireSmart Landscaping. There was an amazing amount of work done by a cheerful, hardworking team. We are so grateful!! - John and Jacki
Got something nice to say or some constructive criticism? Send your Darts & Daffodils: Email: news@squamishchief.com or drop off at The Chief office (38117 Second Ave.) during business hours. Deadline for submissions is Monday at 4 p.m. for Thursday’s paper. All submissions must be signed and include a phone number for verification. Maximum length is 75 words. Darts are intended to be an anonymous critique between private parties. Darts must not directly or indirectly identify an individual or business.
Have your say at squamishchief.com
LAST WEEK’S QUESTION
Squamish: Are you worried what the new U.S. 50% tariffs will mean? (Top 3 answers) UNSURE SOMEWHAT WORRIED NOT WORRIED
32% 30% 22%
MOST READ STORY
Swiss tourists’ camper van towed at Squamish Walmart during grocery trip
LETTER TO THE EDITOR VEHICLE RESIDENT STIGMA Regarding the story published Aug. 25, “Absolutely appalling’: Swiss tourists van towed while grocery shopping at Walmart,”people are outraged because a tourist was towed at Walmart, but pay little heed to the fact that people who live in vehicles are daily, being targeted, displaced and ticketed by bylaw, including myself, a Squamish vehicle resident of 25 years. My vehicle is my home. So is Squamish. I own a business here and support local businesses too. I do not identify as “housing insecure” or homeless. I do not want to be confined to a house or a parking lot. Happy to pay for a permit system though, as mobility is important to me, as it is to many vehicle residents. Vehicle residents, vehicle living, and our mobility are not the “problems.” The
problem is the outlawing of a perfectly legitimate way of living and the discourse the District perpetuates by continually referring to us as “threats to public safety, the environment or a fire hazard.” This is stigma, which fuels division. I read on social media the stigma towards vehicle residents and have experienced it firsthand. My RV tire was slashed recently. And despite that the bylaw was intended for “problematic campers,” not locals, I continue to be harassed by officers and ticketed for sleeping on public land, which I am disputing. Meanwhile, the District and Tourism Squamish, from the safety of their homes think this is OK.? It is not. There are a lot of people deeply and negatively impacted by this. Vehicle residents are human beings who, like all people, deserve safety and to be treated with dignity and equality, regardless of home.
With an air of paternalism, the District and Tourism Squamish assume that Squamish residents are living in vehicles because of housing or affordability. I suggest, as experts in our own lives, it is much wiser to ask us why we live in vehicles and what we think the solution may be. Remember, people are diverse, as are their situations. Living differently is OK, and many vehicle residents do it respectfully. Good honourable people live in vehicles, just like some irresponsible people live in houses. Best to avoid assumptions that put people into boxes or labels that confine, blame, and judge. This includes furthering the stigma, the current blanket bans on sleeping in a vehicle or relying on sedentary solutions like “one big parking lot” or housing. Thomasina Pidgeon 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
TRAFFIC SNARL: Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement is investigating an incident involving a logging truck on Aug. 26 that caused a road closure on Cleveland Avenue. Squamish Fire Rescue Chief Aaron Foote said the incident occurred around 3 p.m. and involved a loaded logging truck and a parked car. “The logging truck had experienced an issue where the logs had shifted off the trailer and impacted an unoccupied vehicle parked in the McDonald’s parking lot. The driver of the logging truck was uninjured in the incident, and Squamish Fire Rescue crews worked to secure a safe zone around the truck and trailer while plans were made to remove the logs and vehicles,” he said.
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squamishchief.com
NEWLY FORMED SQUAMISH TENNIS CLUB SOCIETY HAS BIG PLANS FOR LOCAL COURTS
Beyond teaching backhands and serves, the Squamish Tennis Club Society is advocating for the restoration of unused local courts to meet growing demand JENNIFER THUNCHER
jthuncher@lodestarmedia.ca
L
ittle feet run across the court, with little hands gripping rackets that swing through the air at oversized tennis balls. The Squamish Tennis Club Kids Tennis Camp is currently underway at the Brennan Park Recreation Centre courts. Mary Margaret McLeod Pilling, coach of the kids camp, said she started playing tennis as a child and later became an assistant coach, and now coach. Asked what she loves about the game she joked, “To be honest, sometimes it just feels really good to hit things.” For kids and adults it is a great game that builds community, she said. “I really love the lessons of tennis. The mental toughness that it takes. You have to always recover. Every time you hit a ball, if you hit a bad shot, you have to recover, you have to try again. You can’t dwell on the mistake for too long. I love the relationships that you get to make with people and I like how it’s technical. And you have
PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF
Squamish Tennis Club Kids Tennis Camp participants.
to think a lot about it, but once things click, it all just works.” About 18 children from beginner to more advanced are learning to play or improve their
game. The non-profit Squamish Tennis Club Society was launched a few months ago, according to the club’s Orazio Scaldaferri, one of its founders.
Your story starts here
A side goal of getting more folks in town playing tennis is working with the District to have the unused courts—that were pickleball courts until they were removed due to sound complaints—converted back to usable tennis courts. “We are prepared to do some fundraising,” he said. Scaldaferri picked up tennis in university, as a phys ed undergraduate and has continued to play throughout his life, bringing the sport from his previous home on the North Shore, to Squamish. “Even in my mature age, I still take lessons because I just want to keep on improving,” he said. “It is a lifetime sport. You can play it from when you are little to when you are 90. And also it’s like having another passport. Wherever you go, you stop at the local tennis club and say ‘I’m a Level 3, I’m a Level 5. Is there anybody who would like to have a game?’ And immediately you have people saying ‘Yes, why don’t we play?’” Scaldaferri stresses it is not an exclusive club. Anyone can play. Go to squamishtennis.ca or email info@ squamishtennis.ca for more information.
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
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 | 15
squamishchief.com
Application No. 437833
Environmental Protection Notice Application for a Permit Under The Provisions of the Environmental Management Act We/I, FortisBC Energy Inc. (16705 Fraser Highway, Surrey, BC), intend to submit this application to the Director to authorize the discharge of air emissions from a compressor station planned as a part the Eagle Mountain-Woodfibre Gas Pipeline (EGP) at the Woodfibre LNG site. The sources of air discharge emissions are two (2) turbines, two (2) boilers, and one (1) backup generator. The land upon which the facility will be situated, and the discharge will occur is PID 015-822-061, District Lot 5899 Group 1 New Westminster District (except part in reference plan 5238), located at the Woodfibre LNG production facility site, within the District of Squamish. The maximum rate of air emissions discharged from this facility will be 31.832 m3/s. This is comprised of air discharge points related to the compressor units, backup generator, and boiler related emissions. The characteristics of the air emissions for contaminants of concern are as follows: SO2
372 kg/year
NOX
14,835 kg/year
CO
14,996 kg/year
PM
2,753 kg/year
VOC
8,383 kg/year
The turbines are equipped with SoLoNOx pollution control technology. It also utilizes a Dry Seal and Process Gas Recompression System to mitigate fugitive methane emissions. The backup emergency generator is equipped with non-selective 3-ways catalyst system for pollution reduction and will be maintained and operated in accordance with manufacturer specifications to ensure efficient combustion and minimized emissions. The application materials may be accessed at the FortisBC Talking Energy website at talkingenergy.ca/project/eagle-mountainwoodfibre-gas-pipeline-project as well as at the Squamish Library. Any person who may be adversely affected by the proposed air emission discharge and wishes to provide relevant information may, withinw 30 days after the last date of posting, publishing, service, or display, send written comments to the applicant, with a copy to the Director, Environmental Stewardship, at the BC Energy Regulator, 6534 100th Avenue, Fort St. John, B.C, V1J 8C5, Waste.Management@bc-er.ca. The identity of any respondents and the contents of anything submitted in relation to this application will become part of the public record. Dated this 26th day of August 2026.
Contact person: Community Relations Manager Email: egp@fortisbc.com Phone: 1-855-380-5784
FortisBC uses the FortisBC name and logo under license from Fortis Inc. (26-017.10 08/2026)
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squamishchief.com
‘I HAVE NO WORDS’: JACKSON GOLDSTONE SLAYS THE BLACK SNAKE FOR HIS SECOND STRAIGHT DOWNHILL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP Valentina Höll realizes fifth consecutive World Championships title among women DAVID SONG dsong@lodestarmedia.ca
J
ackson Goldstone’s last name evidently fits him like a glove, because he just keeps winning when it matters most. On Aug. 29, Goldstone stared down a familiar nemesis: the renowned and brutally challenging Black Snake downhill track in Val di Sole, Italy. Once again he realized an athletic masterpiece, navigating its twists, turns and woods with daredevil speed and surgical precision. It all added up to a time of three minutes and 28.785 seconds: a successful defence of his World Championship crown. Lachlan Stevens-McNab fell just short of Goldstone’s heroics (+0.695), but the Kiwi turned many heads by establishing himself as a world silver medallist and a force to be reckoned with among mountain biking’s elite racers. Bronze landed around the neck of World Cup downhill overall leader Jordan Williams (+0.702). “I have no words. Winning the UCI World Championships twice in a row is a dream come true,” said Goldstone in a press release. “I am still trying to recover from an incredible run. I had the feeling I could do it, and I simply tried to draw my own lines without mistakes. Val di Sole
PHOTO BY ALICE RUSSOLO/UCI
Jackson Goldstone soars to victory during the 2026 UCI World Championship downhill race.
is the place of my dreams, this track suits my characteristics perfectly and the conditions were perfect. You are so beautiful: I love you, Val di Sole!” The Squamolian now owns four career triumphs in Val di Sole: the 2021 Junior World
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Championships and multiple World Cups preceding his latest breakthrough. Yet in a life full of epic moments on two wheels, Goldstone described Saturday’s achievement as “some of the most fun [he’d] ever had on a mountain bike, ever.” Conversely, France’s men fell back down to Earth a week after Max Alran delivered a hectic World Cup win in Les Gets. This time Alran was 21st, and his compatriot Antoine Pierron led their team in seventh.
‘I DIDN’T THINK IT WAS POSSIBLE’ Valentina Höll is a machine. By accomplishing a fifth straight World Championship victory—no, that’s not a typo—she elevated her place in the history books with another grand result (4:01.558). Only
French legend Anne-Caroline Chausson possesses more world titles with 12. Höll’s margins of success were once again notable: 1.728 seconds ahead of runner-up Lisa Baumann and 2.046 quicker than Harriet Harnden in third place. “I didn’t think it was possible to win five UCI World Championships in a row. It’s simply incredible,” Höll told the media. “It drained me physically and mentally. It’s so difficult to keep performing at this level, but fortunately I managed to do it. I’ve had an incredible season between the UCI World Championships and the UCI World Cup. Now I can’t wait to go on holiday.” Said holiday is going to be well-deserved after the Austrian gave maximum effort to build separation from her opponents through the middle of the Black Snake. Two rivals who might have pushed her hard, Gracey Hemstreet and Myriam Nicole, both withdrew: Hemstreet to recuperate for the upcoming Whistler World Cup and Nicole due to illness. Meanwhile, 35-year-old Eleonora Farina sang her swan song with one last run. She’s the only Italian woman to ever prevail at a downhill World Cup, and despite placing 26th was embraced heartily by home fans upon reaching the finish corral.
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ACROSS 1. Also 4. Jupiter’s neighbor 8. Not totally closed 12. Attorney’s field 13. Kiln, e.g. 14. Morse ____ 15. Dental problem 17. Looked at 18. Angel’s headpiece 19. Residue 21. Choir singer 22. Old stringed instrument 23. “Long ____ Tomorrow” 26. Nutritious bean 28. Trapped 30. Ravioli, e.g. 33. Annoyed 34. Has being 36. Hawaiian handout 37. Mesh
38. Fog 40.“____ Got a Way” 44.The British ____ 45. Certain roof edge 46. Hero’s opposite 49. No-show 51. Share of expenses 52. Sleuth Nancy ____ 53. Complete 54. Appear 55. Rational 56. Boar’s home
8. Certain fighter pilots 9. Delight 10. Fruity drink 11. Crimson or cerise 16. Perches 20. Bottle resident 23. Noah’s boat 24. ____ whiz! 25. Curious 27. Solemn vows 29. Awakened 30. Writing tool 31. Chopping tool 32. Hold a session 35. Greens dishes 36. Diminish 39. Striped horselike animal 41. Detests 42. Occurrence 43. Filthy 44.Component 46. Motorist’s buy 47. Smallest bill 48. Took food 50. Fleecy mama Crossword puzzle answers use American spelling
ARIES March 21-April 19
LEO July 23-Aug. 22
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Your eye for beauty is becoming more refined, prompting you to rethink your home’s layout or decor. A small, surprising discovery — perhaps forgotten money tucked away somewhere — brings real joy and inspires your decorating ideas.
This is the perfect week to recharge your batteries. A massage, spa treatment or period of peaceful solitude will do wonders. By giving yourself time to unwind, you’ll restore your vitality and feel better prepared to face new challenges with restored strength.
A shift in your daily habits will boost both your physical and emotional wellbeing. This turning point, sparked by a recent period of excess, will come with positive professional adjustments that support your overall balance.
TAURUS April 20-May 20
VIRGO Aug. 23-Sept. 22
GEMINI May 21-June 20
Your social life picks up, leading you into diverse and multifaceted groups. A polished appearance will help you make important connections, expand your network and enable you to meet contacts who can facilitate your personal growth.
Your heart is racing these days. If you’re in a relationship, you’ll experience passionate moments. If you’re single, expect an ideal encounter. Tender gestures will strengthen emotional bonds and may even lead to a sincere commitment.
You’ll speak about your feelings with both honesty and tact, gaining confidence as you do. This openness may stir a hint of jealousy in others, yet your natural grace draws admiration and admiring glances. Your creative talent will generate a welcome side income. Finishing a personal artistic project despite a busy schedule will fill you with joy and keep your momentum strong.
CANCER June 21-July 22 A demanding phase begins, requiring you to make adjustments to your routines at work and at home. Compromise will be essential to ease tensions and restore a harmonious balance within your family and friend groups.
LIBRA Sept. 23-Oct. 22
CAPRICORN Dec. 22-Jan. 19
AQUARIUS Jan. 20-Feb. 18
A welldeserved pay increase will You can lighten your load, strengthen your finances. Your both at home and at work, by entrepreneurial spirit may inspire delegating a few tasks. Let go you to launch a creative project of family worries and trust the based in your home. This initiachoices your children and loved tive will thrive on your ingenuity. ones make.
SCORPIO Oct. 23-Nov. 21
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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.
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