May 23, 2024

STILLAFLOAT: FLOATELTOBE RECONSIDERED

Councilvoted 4-3toreconsider WLNG’s floatelapplication

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

The floateljustgot aliferaftfromSquamish council.

At theregular business meetingonMay 21, councilvoted 4-3toreconsiderthe temporaryuse permit (TUP)applicationfor WoodfibreLNG’s floating worker accommodation,the floatel.

Thefloatel is arefurbished ship that couldhouse about650 workersand wouldbemooredatthe WLNG site aboutseven kilometres away from downtown Squamish.

Councilwillreconsiderthe decision—which originally didnot pass on April30—to approvea one-year TUPwithconditionsonJune4

MayorArmandHurford andcouncillors Eric Andersen,JohnFrenchand Andrew Hamilton votedin favour of thereconsideration whereascouncillors Lauren Greenlaw,Chris Pettingill andJenna Stoner were opposed.

On April30, theTUP wasdeniedbythe votesof Greenlaw,Pettingill, Stoner andHamilton.

Notably, theTUP maynot have anychanges forthe June 4reconsideration,althoughthe councilmay choose to go adifferent route, such as approvingthe

COUNCIL: Continuedon5

PHOTOBYBRIAN AIKENS

PRETTY BIRDY: Ayellowwarbler enjoys theSquamishsunshine.

NEWS BRIEF

BE BOAT SAFE

Squamish RCMSAR says it is “steering boaters towards safety” ahead of Safe Boating Awareness Week, which runs from May 18 to 24

As the weather warms and water travel becomes more popular, Squamish RCMSAR says folks should follow these safety precautions:

• Wear a lifejacket

• Boat sober

• Bring safety equipment and test prior to departure

• Familiarize yourself with the visiting area

• Be aware of submerged objects

• Leave a sail plan with loved ones and check the weather before departure

• Always have a way to call for help: Use channel 16 on a marine VHF radio or dial *16, #727 or 911 on a cell phone, if there is service.

“Being prepared and following these key safety tips can make the difference between a good time on the water and a life or death situation,” said Heidi Specht, who is part of the rescue crew with Squamish RCMSAR and president of Howe Sound Marine Rescue Society, in a release.

For additional safety for kids, the Squamish RCMSAR provides free-to-use personal floatation devices (PFDs) for infants, toddlers and youth through its Kids Don’t Float program. These PFDs are available at the Squamish Yacht Club and the Harbour Authority dock near the public boat launch in downtown Squamish

CORRECTION

In the story, “Woodfibre LNG clears SLRD’s ‘little roadblock’ of minor amenities,” published in print on May 16, it was erroneously stated that only directors Chris Pettingill and Vivian Birch-Jones voted to oppose the issuance of a TUP to FortisBC for amenities on the site.

In fact, directors Birch-Jones, Pettingill, Armand Hurford, and Katrina Nightingale were opposed. The Squamish Chief apologizes for this error.

BEAR INVOLVED IN ESTUARY ATTACK WILL NOT BE PUT DOWN: COS

The BC COS says the Squamish Estuary trails are reopened after May 10 ‘defensive’ black bear attack

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

The B.C. Conservation Officer Service (COS) says the bear involved in the May 10 incident will not be captured or put down.

According to a social media post, COS concluded that the recent bear attack in the Squamish Estuary was “defensive in nature.” As such, COS will not capture or put down the bear.

“A woman was walking her dog along a trail south of Bailey Street when the dog ran off into thick brush. The woman then noticed two bear cubs and was suddenly charged and bitten by the sow, which ran off. The woman received medical attention for non-life threatening injuries,” reads a Facebook post from COS.

“Conservation Officers remained in the area for several days during their investigation, which included an assessment of the attack site, as well as interviews with the victim.”

COS states that the trails have been reopened to the public and urged people to give bears space, make noise and leash pets at all times. Furthermore, the service encouraged walking in groups and carrying bear spray.

A spokesperson for the District of Squamish referred an inquiry from The Squamish Chief to the COS Facebook post, but reiterated that dogs must be leashed in the estuary and the Wildlife Management Area.

The trails were closed from roughly Friday, May 10, to Wednesday, May 15, although some trail closed signage remained in the area on Thursday, May 16.

This isn’t the first time the COS chose not to put down a bear in the Squamish Estuary after an attack. In November 2022,

COS also determined that two bear attacks were defensive behaviour and, therefore, they chose to close the area and let the bears be.

Locals are encouraged to report bear conflicts to the Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) hotline, at 1-877-952-7277.

PHOTO BY ANDREW HUGHES/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF Signage was put up in the estuary after a woman was attacked on a trail.

DISTRICT OF SQUAMISH IMPOSES CAMPFIRE BAN

A campfire ban was implemented on May 16

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

The District of Squamish (DOS) implemented a local campfire ban in Squamish on May 16

According to a news release, the DOS imposed the ban largely due to warm, dry weather and other wildfires already happening around B.C. Category 2 and Category 3 open fires are also banned in the area

“With several wildfires burning throughout the province already in May, both provincial and municipal resources are already being utilized, and it’s important to consider this in

our community safety planning,” said Squamish Fire Rescue Chief Aaron Foote in the release.

“Thank you for your cooperation to help keep our community safe in advance of the long, hot summer ahead.”

Already this year, a wildfire near Fort Nelson had residents nearby needing to evacuate

The DOS noted the campfire ban is coming ahead of a provincial ban and that permits will be suspended until the ban is rescinded.

“Community awareness and early reporting is key to being prepared in the event of a wildfire and we all have a responsibility to support this effort and follow the advice of local authorities,”

said Mayor Armand Hurford in the release.

“Thank you to our residents and visitors for your vigilance as we approach the summer season.”

Under these bans, the following types of fires or activities are prohibited:

• Campfires

• Category 2 and Category 3 open fires, which are large burn piles

• Fireworks

• Sky lanterns

• Binary exploding targets

• Burn barrels or burn cages of any size or description

• Air curtain burners

• Tiki torches

• Wood-burning saunas and hot tubs

Gas and propane cooking stoves are allowed as well as portable campfire devices that use liquid or gas fuel

To report a wildfire, unattended campfire, or open burning violation, call 911 if within the municipal boundaries or call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cell phone. Check out current wildfire activity throughout B.C. on bcwildfire.ca.

Within the DOS boundaries, fires are never allowed in public spaces including on riverbanks, beaches, mountainsides or forests. Open air burning is also never allowed within the DOS.

OMICRON SPLITS FROM NEXII THROUGH DEMERGER

Nexii ‘bridge CEO’ says financially troubled company has potential buyer

NELSON BENNETT BIV

The principals of a Squamish construction company that was acquired by a green building materials company that is now battling bankruptcy have their company back

Five Omicron Canada principals—Bill Tucker, Korey Roberts, Pablo Yuste, Hank Sam and George Sawatzky—have bought the company back as part of a restructuring of Nexii Building Materials, which is under creditor protection.

In a 2021 merger, Nexii acquired Omicron as a wholly-owned subsidiary, but then ran into financial trouble three years later. In January, Nexii sought creditor protection. In court filings, it was noted that, while Nexii owed money and was in financial trouble, Omicron had remained a viable, profitable business, so as part of a restructuring, the five Omicron senior managers agreed to buy Omicron back Tucker, who is CEO for Omicron, is doing

double duty as “bridge CEO” of Nexii as well

He was asked to step in when Nexii’s former CEO, Stephen Sidwell, was asked to step aside, Tucker said

“I was asked, at the end of October, beginning of November, if I would step in and take over as an interim CEO of Nexii and restructure the business because the business was in a very difficult position previously,” Tucker told BIV News

“The board of directors asked the CEO to step aside and asked me to step into the role so that the business could be restructured.”

Nexii developed a “green” building material —Nexiite—that is a low-carbon alternative to concrete

It attracted a lot of attention from venture capitalists and had high-profile partners and executives, including former Vancouver mayor Gregor Robertson, and American actor Michael Keaton, who at one point was an investor in a planned Nexii manufacturing plant in Pittsburgh.

In 2022, the company boasted an estimated valuation of $2 billion, following a $45 million raise from investors. Two previous funding rounds in 2021 and 2020 raised $45 million and $33 million, respectively

Nexii has faced a couple of lawsuits, but that’s not what got the company into such dire financial straits, Tucker said The company’s

burn rate simply exceeded its revenue, he said

“Nexii structured itself for hyper growth,” Tucker explained. “And the hyper growth required a lot of capital investment in corporate structure, well before the company achieved profitability, and the company burned through its cash reserves prior to becoming cash flow positive.”

But Nexii’s core product—its Nexiite technology—is sound, Tucker said Omicron has built 45 buildings using Nexiite, he said Tucker said there is a prospective buyer for Nexii. He expects to stay on as Nexii’s interim CEO for another three to five months until a sale can be executed.

“There’s a potential buyer of Nexii, its manufacturing operations, its technology, and their interest is to continue the development and growth of the business,” Tucker said. “Nexii will be restructured with new ownership, and new capital investment focused on growth and expansion.”

In the meantime, a Nexii manufacturing plant in Squamish that employs 45 to 50 people will continue to operate, Tucker said With files from Tyler Orton

GFL provides Curbside BatteryService

FILE PHOTO BY ANDREW HUGHES/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

The Nexii manufacturing plant in Squamish is still in operation.

MUNI PLANS FUTURE BOAT LAUNCH, FIXES TO CURRENT LAUNCH UNCERTAIN

District of Squamish moving ahead with planning a future boat launch with the top spot identified at Darrell Bay

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

The District of Squamish is planning a future boat launch facility with the top spot identified as Darrell Bay, but short-term fixes to the current boat launch on private land were left undetermined.

At the May 7 special business meeting, Squamish council unanimously endorsed the final marine access review, which has been years in the making With the endorsement, council approved a slew of recommendations from staff—including the ongoing planning of a future boat launch that can manage both motorized and non-motorized watercraft

“Today, we’ve achieved a real milestone with this report,” said Coun. Eric Andersen. “Lots of pieces still to come but a big piece resolved today.”

Perhaps the biggest piece is that the District will now look to plan a boat launch facility with the top spot being at Darrell Bay. The second potential property is privately owned on the west side of Mamquam Blind Channel at Blocks 45 and 46, which is near the current boat launch downtown The final potential spot is at Site B on the east side of Mamquam Blind Channel owned by the Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation).

COUNCIL: Continued from 1

permit or deferring it back to staff. The council may also ultimately choose to defeat the application again.

While no one from WLNG spoke at the meeting, WLNG hasn’t just sat quietly since the April 30 motion from Squamish council that defeated the company’s TUP application.

WLNG invited regional media to view the

The approved staff recommendation says the District will “investigate boat launch and barge ramp feasibility and future integration in identified sites” over the next one to three years.

“I’m happy that through the process Darrell Bay has been confirmed as the lead candidate location for a future boat launch,” said Coun John French

“I look forward to ongoing co-operation and co-ordination with Squamish Lillooet Regional

floatel as it was moored in Vancouver, sent a couple of letters to council, and published an open letter addressed to council and Squamish residents.

WLNG has also said since the decision that they would offer a $10 million security deposit instead of $2 million. The new number was originally proposed on April 30 by Hamilton. While this new information technically cannot be considered by council on June

District, Squamish Nation, northern First Nations, our business community and resident boaters, who have been constructive with their input.”

While moving ahead with that planning was certainly seen as a positive step ahead by those on council, some also shared worries about the state of the current privately owned boat launch and resident water access while they plan a new facility

“I have some concern that we’re missing this

4—because council is not allowed to consider new information in the vote it did set in motion the May 21 decision to reconsider the TUP.

“A key piece of my decision is our ability to hold the proponent accountable for the promises they make in the TUP,” said Hamilton, who brought the reconsideration forward.

In terms of concerns, Greenlaw said she is still waiting for a cumulative impact assessment,

interim need that is going to become more and more poignant for a local boat launch,” said Coun. Andrew Hamilton.

“I don’t see a simple solution. I don’t see it being a responsible expenditure of public funding to invest in significant infrastructure on private land. And so I see a challenge here that I would encourage the community, that are interested in finding solutions, that will help us move this forward.”

“I, too, am really wrestling with what does it mean in the interim?” said Coun Jenna Stoner, adding she was also wrestling with the role of local government with boat launch facilities

She questioned whether there were ways the District could essentially “move out of the way.”

“While I hear that there’s a real need, I also see a lot of opportunity for folks to come up with solutions outside of the municipal government structure.”

The deterioration of the downtown boat launch has been noted for years. Lately, local advocate Rich Duncan has been frustrated with increased industrial usage, which he said has made matters worse. In an interview with The Squamish Chief, Duncan said a launch at Darrell Bay was the best solution going ahead.

Read the full report on marine access on council’s May 7 special business meeting agenda

cumulative housing impacts, how the company is handling local procurement, and a hazard assessment on the Henrietta Lake dam, which is up the mountain from the WLNG site.

After the vote, reconsideration was set for June 4.

The Squamish Chief has reached out to WLNG for a comment about council’s decision to reconsider and we will update this story online when we get it

PHOTO BY ANDREW HUGHES/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF Darrell Bay is a favourited both by advocates and the municipality as a good spot for a future boat launch.

NOTICE OFBYLAW READINGS FORZONING AMENDMENT

District of Squamish Zoning BylawNo. 2200,2011, Amendment Bylaw(1006 and1018McNameePlace)No. 3031,2024

AFFECTEDLANDS: 1006 and 1018 McNameePlace,SquamishBC

PROPOSED BYLAWAMENDMENT: Thepurposeofthe proposed Bylawisto rezonethe parcelsFROM Multiple Unit Residential2 (RM-2) andResidential 4(R-4) TO aComprehensiveDevelopment (CD) zone to developa fivestorey apartmentcomplex with 150 square metres of neighbourhood commercial space

BYLAWREADINGS: Council will consider firstand second readingsofthe proposed Bylawattheir Regular Council MeetingonJune 4, 2024 at 6p.m.in Council Chambers at MunicipalHall, 37955SecondAvenue, Squamish BC.

LOCATION MAP:

BRITANNIAAVE McNAMEEPLACEBUCKLEYAVENUE

NOPUBLIC HEARING: In accordance with thenew Provincialhousinglegislation, Section 464(3) of the LocalGovernmentAct,local governmentsare now prohibited from holding public hearings relatedtorezoningapplications fordevelopmentsthatare primarily residentialand areconsistent with the local government’s Official Community Plan (OCP). This proposal meets those requirements.

HOWTOVIEWTHE PROPOSED BYLAW

A copy of theproposedbylaw andrelated informationthathas been or may beconsideredbyCouncilmay be inspected online or at Municipal Hall.

•Onlineat: squamish.ca/showcase

•37955 Second Avenue,Squamish,British Columbia,from May23to June 4, 2024 between8:30a.m.and 4:30 p.m., Mondaythrough Friday,excluding statutoryholidays.

Enquiriesregarding theproposedamendment bylawmay be made to the Planning Departmentat604.815.5002orbyemail to planning@squamish.ca.

Thisisthe first of twonotices of bylawreadings.

Datedthis 23rd dayofMay 2024 at Squamish,British Columbia.

INCREASED EDUCATION AND PATROLS AIM TO PROTECT SQUAMISH VALLEY FROM ABUSE

Learn about the new initiative aiming to protect Squamish Nation territory and promote safe recreation practices

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

Where the paved road turns into dirt along the Upper Squamish Valley Forest Service Road, a driver in a 4Runner pulls over and is greeted by a smiling Kimberly Kelly, an information officer with the BC Wildfire Service.

She asks him if he is camping and then briefly explains the importance of respecting the land in the valley, which is Squamish Nation territory, and fire safety in the region.

Though properly contained campfires are still permitted, as of Friday, Category 2 and Category 3 open burning is banned across the Coastal Fire Centre, including in the valley (Campfires are currently prohibited within the District of Squamish.)

The driver is receptive to the information— thanking her for it—and Kelly said, so far, that has been the feedback from folks who stop.

Kelly is one of several land steward representatives at a kiosk on Friday night, May 17, the first night of the Victoria Day long weekend. They had also been out on Thursday night.

“We’re just hoping to change some behaviours and educate, observe. [Have] people recognizing that we’re here and monitoring,” Kelly told The Squamish Chief.

On three more long weekends throughout this summer, the Wildfire Prevention Ambassador Program, Squamish Nation Land Guardians, and Natural Resource Officers will be at the Information Kiosk at the valley’s entrance

This is an example of how the BC Wildfire Service, in partnership with the Nation and Sea to Sky Natural Resource District, will be

elevating its presence in the Upper Squamish Valley throughout the summer season

The Upper Squamish Valley Public Education Initiative is a pilot project that could serve as a model for other areas in the Coastal Fire Centre.

“The intention is to use this pilot and learn from this weekend and actually take it out to the Fraser Valley as well. Some of the other areas that we’re seeing are having similar things like high visitation rates and some unwanted recreational activity.”

In the Squamish Valley, the program is paired with increased patrols by the Nation’s Land Guardians and BC Wildfire Service Fire Wardens, and further support from the Conservation Officer Service and Natural Resource Officers

It is no secret that the region has been seeing an increase in visitors, and with that comes some dangerous and disrespectful behaviour, including target shooting, poaching, illegal fires and trash dumping.

Kelly notes that in 2023, vehicle traffic on the Squamish River Forest Service Road was approximately double what it was in 2012, with more than 120,000 people visiting the area.

On Thursday and Friday evenings this week, the representatives informed those driving into the area about fire safety, how to report suspected illegal activities, safe travel and respectful behaviour.

“We do want to acknowledge that this is the traditional territory of the Squamish Nation, and they have been utilizing it for hunting, food, medicine and cultural practice since time immemorial,” Kelly said “The explosion of recreational use is impacting their ability to do their cultural practices in this valley And we want to be able to sustain and maintain this for future use.”

PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF

At the entrance to the Squamish Valley, a BC Wildfire Service rep chats with a driver on Friday as Natural Resource officers look on

DISTRICTOF SQUAMISH

PUBLIC HEARINGNOTICE

Tuesday, May28at6p.m.

PROPOSED BY Developme RiverDevelo

Centre

LAWS: DistrictofSquamish Official CommunityPlan BylawNo. 2500, 2017, AmendmentBylaw(CheekeyeRiver ent)No. 2615, 2018; and DistrictofSquamish Zoning BylawNo. 2200, 2011, AmendmentBylaw(Cheekeye opment) No.2306, 2013

PROPOSED AM Figure1fro “Residentia and Recreat GreenwayC proposedC TheCheeke 1215 reside detached h commercial Brackendale

MENDMENTS: To re-designate the lands identified in m“Civic and Institutional”, “RestrictedIndustrial”, lNeighbourhood”and “Parks,GreenwayCorridor tion”to“Residential Neighbourhood”and “Parks, Corridor and Recreation”inorder to allowthe Cheekeye RiverDevelopment.

eye RiverDevelopmentproposes approximately ential units including small and medium lotsingle ousing,townhomes,apartments,neighbourhood l establishment, as well as aparkdedication of the e Farmers Institutelands and RayPetersTrail

To extend th in Schedule proposed d

WAYS TO PARTICIPATE

Persons who believe thattheir interest in property is affectedbythe proposed OCP and Zoning Bylaw amendments will have an opportunitytobeheardinperson and to provide written submissions.

In Person

public hearing at Brennan Re Centre (gymnasium),1009Centen Squamish, B.C.

PUBLIC HEARING CANCELLED

he Growth ManagementBoundarycontained e “C”tothe OCP in order to include all of the evelopmentarea.

To reduceD contained i proposedd Industrial D

DevelopmentPermit Area No.10 (DPA 10) Map nSchedule “M”tothe OCP to excludethe evelopmentareafromIntensiveand Restricted DPA 10 designation.

To add apo the propose

olicystatementtoPart3 of theOCP recognizing eddevelopment.

To rezone th (Residential Developme of Zone Par CheekeyeR

helands identified in Figure2fromRS-1 l 1) and RE (Resource)toComprehensive ent Zone 82 (CD-82), which will be comprised cels AtoH,inorder to permit the proposed River Development.

A copy of the

LOCATION: Thelands subjecttothe twoOfficial CommunityPlan and Zoning BylawAmendments abut the east side of GovernmentRoad and both sidesofRoss Road

Youmay participate in personduring the bli hi B Pk Recreation nnial Way, d. Youmay epublic rbycalling er in person gat5:30 Centre

ASpeakers List will be established register to speak in advanceofth hearing by emailing phspeakerslist@squamish.ca or 604.892.5217.You can also registe on the dayofthe hearing,starting p.m. at Brennan Park Recreation C (gymnasium entrance).

Everyone will be provided an opp speak.Those not on the Speakers wish to provide commentsatthe will be provided an opportunity t aftereveryone on the SpeakersLi addressed Council.

Speakers areprovided3minutes comments to Council regarding t being considered

*Please notethatdue to technica considerations at this venue and to ensureafair and undisrupted h electronic and phone-in participa not be available.

portunityto sList who hearing to speak ist has to make the bylaws al capacity in order hearing, ation will

If youare unabletoattendthe pu hearing,ordonot wish to speak a hearing,you can still participate b submitting your written commen hearing@squamish.ca,orbydro them off at Municipal Hall before In Writing

HOWTOVIEWTHE PROPOSED BYLAWS

HOW TO VIEW THE

thathas

or maybe considered by Council maybeinspectedonline or at MunicipalHall

•squamish.ca/public-hearings-and-meetings

•37955 Second Avenue,Squamish, British Columbia, from May17to28, 2024 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Mondaythrough Friday, excludingstatutory holidays.

Questions? Contactthe Planning Department:604.815.5002

All submissions will form partofthe public record.

Please note thatCouncil maynot receivefurther submissionsreceived from the publicorinterested parties concerning the Bylawdescribed above afterthe conclusion of the Public Hearing.

This is the second of twonoticesofPublic Hearing.Dated this 23rd dayofMay,2024 at Squamish, British Columbia.

ublic at the by ntsto opping pe 4:30 p.m. on May28, 2024 to the attention of the CorporateOfficer

Written submissions will be accepted up to and during the hearing and will form partofthe public record. Anysubmissions received afterthe close of the hearing cannot be considered by Council.

Watchthe meeting withoutspeaking: If youdonot wish to participate butwouldlike to watch the public hearing, youcan do so by watching the meeting at squamish.ca/live-meetings.

DISTRICTOFSQUAMISH

We all know howgood recyclingis forthe planet, but sometimesitcan be achallenge.

Take our surveytolet us know thechallenges youfacewhen recyclingsowecan work together towardssolutions to reducerecycling contamination.

To make glass recycling easier,help us identify potential locations forneighbourhood glass collection stations through anonline mapping tool

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

•Sewer CCTV Reporting &RehabilitationProgramRequest forProposals

•AdventureCentreRevitalization Phase 2:DesignBuildServices -Request forProposals squamish.ca/doing-business-with-the-district

Signup forthe District’sweekly e-Newstoget importantupdates in your inboxevery Friday.

Strengthen

Summer Swimming Lessons

Learnhow to swim, diveand be comfortable in the water with our range of summer swimming lessons! Spots available in multiple levels

Thelast dayofthe 2023-2024 ice season will be May31. Thelast public skatewill be May 26.See youinthe fall!

Stage 1restrictions nowineffect

DuringStage 1, lawn wateringwitha sprinkler is allowedtwo days per week from

•Odd numbered addresses can wateron Thursdays and Sundays

•Evennumbered addresses can wateron Wednesdayand Saturday.

INFRASTRUCTURE

IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS

Work to upgrade and repair selectwatermains throughout Squamishwillbegin shortly.Visitthe websitefor locations and timing.

squamish.ca/building-our-future

GARIBALDIATSQUAMISHSALEOK’D, DESPITEPROVINCIALOPPOSITION

‘Aquiliniremains committed to developing aworld-class all-season resort’

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

AB.C. SupremeCourt judgeapprovedthe sale of theGaribaldi at Squamish ski resort despitesomeopposition from the province,and thecompanies taking over say they are“committed”todeliveringthe resort

In awritten decision datedMay 3, JusticePaul W. Walker approved thesaleofthe Garibaldiat Squamish skiresortfromGaribaldi at Squamish Inc. (GAS Inc.)and GaribaldiatSquamishLP (GAS LP)tothree creditors: Aquilini DevelopmentLimited Partnership, Garibaldi Resort Management CompanyLtd., and1413994 B.C. Ltd.,which areowned by LuigiAquilini.

In 2001,GAS Inc. wasformedto converta logged forest on BrohmRidge in Squamish into a skiand snowboarding resort with avillage of amenitiesand accommodations.GAS Inc. and GASLPhad theright to developinthe area via an environmentalassessmentcertificate with theprovince, whichisits main asset.

More recently,disagreements betweenthe project’spartners, theAquiliniand Gaglardi families,havestalled thedevelopment.In2023, GASInc.defaulted on about$65 milliontothe three creditor companieslistedabove

In January, thethree companiesput in what’s called astalkinghorse bidofabout $80million, whichsetsthe floorfor bids on an insolvent company. With no otherqualified bids,the transactionwentahead with areverse vesting order, whichisthe part of thetransaction that theprovinceopposed.

Accordingtothe decision,areverse vesting order (RVO)isa recent method in insolvency cases to “avoid thepurchaser assuming an insolventdebtor’sunwantedassetsand liabilities.”The RVOsends theunwanted components of an insolventcompany to athird companytohold them,inthiscasea company called Excluded Co., andthenthe companywill be assigned to bankruptcy.The decision notes RVOs should be only used in “exceptional circumstances.”

“RVOshavetypically been grantedwhere the debtor operates in ahighlyregulated environment whereitisdifficult to impossible to transfer licenses,permits,intellectualproperty, non-transferabletax attributes,or other intangiblesunder atypical assetpurchase agreement,” readsthe decision.

Theprovince, however, opposedthe useofthe RVO. Thedecisionstatesthe province argues thereisnojurisdictionunder theBankruptcy andInsolvencyAct to approvethe transaction withthe RVOnor wasitwellenoughestablished that an RVOwas necessaryinthe case.

Accordingtothe decision,the province argued,“As astakeholder,itisworse offunder theRVO as opposedtoatransaction involvinga traditional assetvesting order[AVO].”

Yet, Walker ultimately disagreedwiththe province,sayingthere wasenough“evidencebasedrationale to approvethe RVO” and “exception circumstancesexist to warrant approval.”

RENDERINGBYWLLANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS/GARIBALDI AT SQUAMISH

Theproject includes 21 chairlifts andover120 runs on topofover5,000

“They arise from theurgency to complete the construction pre-conditions (inorder to preserve valuetothe Garibaldientitiesand their stakeholders, including theprovince) coupled with thelackofany meaningful response from theprovincethatwould allowfor an expeditious AVOtransaction,” concludedWalker.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Notably, thereare approximately40construction pre-conditionsfromanenvironmental assessmentcertificate that must be completed before Jan. 26,2026. Thedecisionsaysthe three companiestakinghold arecommittedtopaying forthe construction pre-conditions,estimated at $5.5million over thenext12months.

In general, theproject wouldoccur in four phases over 30 years, with theadditionof4,000 long-termoperational jobs when completedplus 2,000constructionjobs. It is proposed to have 21 chairlifts andover120 runs on topofover5,000 residentialunits betweenhotels, condos, townhouses anddetacheddwellings.The Squamish Nationmaintains a10% interest in the partnershipand didnot oppose thesale, accordingtothe decision

Sincethe decision waslevied, anoteonthe GaribaldiatSquamish websitesays, “Aquilini remainscommitted to developing aworld-class all-season resort that achieves thehighest environmentalperformance in NorthAmerica, whileresponsibly meetingthe growingdemand foroutdoor recreation infrastructure in BC’s SouthCoast.”

~Withfiles from BobMackin/BIV

residentialunits betweenhotels, condos, townhousesand detached dwellings.

BritanniaMineMuseum gratefully acknowledges their communitysponsors:

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EDITORIAL

BANCAMPFIRES

Itisfairtosay that many of us in Squamish breathed asighofreliefwhenthe District putina campfireban within themunicipality, “due to ongoingdry weatherand currentwildfires causinga drainonprovincialwildfireresources”onMay 16, aheadofthe Victoria Daylongweekend.

(Despite what we sometimessee locally, campfires are never allowedinany public spaces within Squamish, includinginour forests, mountainsides, onriverbanks, or beaches.)

However,outside of theDistrict, theprovincial CoastalFireCentre, on May17, only banned slash pile open burning—Category 2and Category 3fires

(This is also banned within theDistrict.)

Thus,there were stillfolks having campfiresat Alice Lake,out in theSquamishValleyand thelike.

To itscredit, theBCWildfireService personneland other land managers were outwarning folksinthe valleyabout respectful backcountrybehaviour, includingpropercampfiresafety.

Butwhy no campfire ban?

Given that thereare currentlyabout 118active wildfiresburning in B.C. and172 firesweresparked since April1st, burning267,664 hectares of our province,and that 85%ofthose fireswerehumancaused,itseems like ano-brainertohaveput in a provincewide bansoonerratherthanlater.

TheBCWildlifeService seemstohavegiven its answer on X.

“Fires caused by industry,trains, open burning, powerlines,reflected lightorreallyanythingother than lighting, areclassifiedashuman-caused. Campfirescan be,and oftenare,usedsafelyand play an importantroleinB.C., from campingand tourism toculturaluses,”the post reads.

Andthere arestudies that back up alessrestrictive useofbans.

One2005 U.S. studyfound that fire bans didnot eliminateorevensubstantially decrease fire sites andtreedamagein campsites.

“Given theimportanceofcampfires to visitor experiences, campfire prohibitions couldbeviewed as unnecessarilyrestrictive basedontheir limited successinpreventingresourcedamage,”the study reads.

That said,given climatechange, whichis increasingour conditions fordevastating wildfires, andour lack of successin strategies that rely on peopletoact responsiblyin ourbackcountry in past years(seereports from theSquamishNation’sRoger Lewis aboutthe reckless campfire behaviourhesaw in theSquamishValleylastyear),itstill seems reasonable to bancampfires throughout the provinceto at leastreducesomewhatthe chance of wildfires, whileweworkonreducingthe other issues as well,suchasindustry, powerlines andthe like.

Yes, we allloveroastingmarshmallowsarounda campfire—itisfun—but surely we love ourforests, the jobstheyprovide andour backcountryoases more,don’t we?

LESSONSLEARNED THANKS TO GARY THEGRUMPYGALLBLADDER

Lastweek, Iwas offworkrecoveringfrom surgery(Isaidgoodbye to Gary theGrumpy Gallbladderand hisstonedband)

Once home from thehospital, Ihad apost-surgerybrain that left me literallystaring at thewall fordisturbinglengths of time.So, by Day3,I decided to distract myselfwithanonlinecourse Iendeduptakingtwo free LeaveNoTrace courses: 101, andBackcountry.

As someonewho hascampedand hikedliterally sinceIwas an infant,Ifigured therewasn’tmuchI couldlearn,which wouldbefinegiven my wall-staringbrain state. Andgiven thenegative impact humans arehavingonthe SeatoSky Corridor,itseemedlikea worthy endeavour. Iwas wrong. Therewas much to learn!

Here are12pointsfromthe coursesthatstopped me in my tracks:

•Fewer than 25 passes hiking on sensitive vegetation canpermanently damage sensitive

plants

•Six inches of compactedsnowprotectsplants during winter from hikers’impacts

•Aslittleas40decibelsofnoise will alterwildlife behaviour.

•Whenthe trailiscovered in puddlesormud,we want to walk rightthrough it to preventitfrom widening

•Over100 typesofbacteriaand viruseshavebeen identified in humanwaste

•Orangepeeltakes twoyears to decompose.

•Aluminumtakes 100years to decompose.

•Diapers take hundreds of yearstodecay

•A glassbottlemight take 1,000,000years to biodegrade

•Plasticsnever biodegrade

•The thumbtrick forviewing wildlife:Aim your thumbatthe wildlife yousee.Ifyou cancover theentireanimal, youare an appropriate distance away.Ifnot,backupslowlyuntil you cancover them.

•Heading out, it is importanttohave1/2 litreof waterper hour of activity.

Even if youhaven’t been sidelinedbyyourown Gary theGallbladder,Irecommend taking the LeaveNoTrace courses. Youmight be as surprised as Iwas by what youcan learn.

Go to lnt.orgtosignup.

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

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

RECONSIDER FLOATEL

Editor’s note: This letter was sent to Mayor Armand Hurford prior to Tuesday’s council meeting and copied to The Squamish Chief.

Iam writing to request/suggest that you bring the decision to deny the floatel concept for this project back to council for reconsideration. I support this project and view that too much emphasis is being placed on the complaints of organizations such as My Sea to Sky at the detriment of the rest of Squamish This concept was a reasonable solution and if we started working with WLNG rather than against them I think we could extract far more community benefits from this project for the wider community of Squamish perhaps contributions towards our planned community recreation centre. We have already benefited by the CT scanner; will that now go away?

We also have to be aware that should this project be stopped, there will likely be legal challenges for the community, and it will be important to show how the community was not being reasonable. Turning down this floatel concept was unreasonable; it was rejected for reasons around safety and traffic that do not apply to other projects in our community. Please reconsider.

Thank you.

Glenn and Valerie Stainton Squamish

ABOUT OUR SEA TO SKY HOSPICE

It takes a community to heal, to reconcile loss, and to live well with a life-limiting illness

In the past 11 months, I have accessed our local hospice services as I grieved the loss of my best friend, and again, only two weeks ago for pain and symptom management following a recent cancer diagnosis and thoracotomy surgery

Typically, when anyone mentions “hospice,” we tend to think of end of life, of dying—perhaps with care at home.

It’s not something any of us have learned about, want to think about, plan for or even talk about. Nor is it anything we expect to ever need or experience. So yes, I understand how the word “hospice” can be confusing.

In our community, hospice can refer to:

• A place - “The Whistler Blackcomb Sea to Sky Community Hospice;”

• A medical specialty or philosophy of care

– “Hospice Palliative Care;”

• A community organization –“The Sea to Sky Hospice Society.”

Our local hospice is the Whistler Blackcomb Sea to Sky Community Hospice, a four-bedroom unit, built in a Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) building, with capital funds raised by the Sea to Sky Hospice Society. Our hospice opened in 2019, and is run by VCH, offering compassionate hospice palliative care to clients and their families, who cannot be cared for at home.

Typically staffed with one or two nurses working 12-hour shifts, and a care aid, this unit offers hospice palliative care that is unique and different than the acute care delivered in hospital. The hospice is available to those in need at end of life, or if space is available, it can also be accessible to those with life-limiting illness who may need extra care for pain and symptom management, or short respite stays.

The term “Hospice Palliative care,” is a way of care, and a medical specialty that sometimes is referred to as “hi-touch” versus the “hi-tech” of acute care delivered at the hospital and clinics. Each method of care has its place in our medical system, and in healing.

The “Sea to Sky Hospice Society” is a key piece of our local community “hospice” puzzle This non-profit society complements the care provided by VCH palliative care team at the Hospice Unit, and in

community, as it engages and trains volunteers to provide additional support for clients and families, pertaining to life limiting illness, bereavement and caregiving

The Sea to Sky Hospice Society is a very small community organization that depends on community membership, donations and grants to operate. The society has two part-time contract staff, and one contracted clinical councillor, in addition to the 80-plus volunteers who support its clients, programs, fundraising, sewing, shopping, chemo tea, gardening and other hospice related events and initiatives.

In our Western society, “end-of-life” conversations are difficult and rare, and bereavement literacy / education is minimal to non-existent No one needs a life-limiting illness to realize we are mortal, and one day we will all experience the grief and loss of a loved one. Knowing about the local hospice can be so helpful. Grief and illness are what they are, and even though we all experience them differently, it takes a community to heal. I am so grateful to our compassionate community of hospice folks, and my loving family, friends and neighbours!

From my personal experience, I believe every family in Squamish ought to support our Hospice Society either through a “membership” or perhaps a personal donation or fundraising initiative May is “Hike for Hospice” month. Go to the Sea to Sky Hospice Society and check out programs and resources available.

Diana Gunstone Squamish

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

What do you think would reduce the abuse in our backcountry?

Have your say at squamishchief.com

WEEK’S

Do you think Squamish has an issue with unleashed dogs?

MOST READ STORY

Garibaldi at Squamish sale approved, despite provincial opposition

TOP TIKTOK OF THE WEEK

This week, reporter Andrew Hughes visited the estuary for his TikTok video, in the wake of the woman being attacked by a black bear on the trails See this video and more @squamishchief

PHOTO BY AAFREEN ARORA

THIS BEAUTIFUL PLACE: Have a photo to share? Send it to news@squamishchief com

NO SMOKE, NO FIRE, BUT PLENTY OF FIREFIGHTERS: FIRE SERVICE PERSONNEL COME TO SQUAMISH

Firefighters from around British Columbia were in town for an annual training event

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

Don’t fret if you’ve seen some extra fire department vehicles or personnel from out of town, Squamish Fire Rescue hosted a conference

Outside of the Alex Munro Fire Hall No 1 on May 14, there was a fleet of vehicles from neighbouring communities such as the Township of Langley, Lake Cowichan and Nelson.

A spokesperson for the District of Squamish said these extra vehicles and personnel are related to the BC Fire Training Officers Association annual training conference

“Squamish Fire Rescue is hosting the BC Fire Training Officers Association annual training conference. The conference includes firefighters, fire chiefs and Fire Training Officers from across B.C., as well as some representatives from the province - Office of the Fire Commissioner, Wildfire and a Union Executive from the BC Professional Fire Fighters Association,” wrote Rachel Boguski in an email to The Squamish Chief.

“Squamish Fire Rescue is attending, and

the Alex Munro Fire Hall No. 1 is a key venue for training.”

The host hotel for this year’s conference was the Executive Suites Hotel and Resort, and the Sandman Hotel and Suites, so

vehicles and personnel were there as well. A website for the conference says hands-on training took place over the May 11 and 12 weekend, with further education from May 13 to 16

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DISTRICT OF SQUAMISH Squamish Fire Rescue hosted the BC Fire Training Officers Association annual training conference from May 11 to 16

CREATING A CLIMATE-CONSCIOUS GARDENING CULTURE

Kathryn Weiler of Hawthorn Landscape Design shares tips & insights on lessening

your yard’s environmental impact

WILL JOHNSON

Special to The Squamish Chief

Planting a tree in your yard is like making an investment in the future of your environment

If a Sea to Sky landscaper takes the time to purchase a young native sapling and find it an appropriate spot to live long-term on their property, they’re making an instant impact on that baby tree’s surrounding ecosystem. It literally purifies the air around it, providing shade and aesthetic beauty and countless other benefits.

The older it gets, the more it gives back

Ultimately the tree will probably outlive its human parent, providing multiple generations with its reassuringly permanent presence—a looming bulwark against the effects of climate change, just one way that Sea to Sky gardeners can demonstrate their climate-conscious ideals.

UNPAVING THE PLANET

Sometimes, making a climate-conscious decision about your property is as simple as planting that tree, and sometimes the problem is more complex. Maybe you need to explore alternatives to the two-stroke engine powering your lawn equipment or install a low-drip faucet for your flowers. Or maybe you need to switch out your fertilizer for something more earth-friendly.

Whatever the particular issue, more and more gardening enthusiasts in the Sea to Sky region are seeking creative solutions to lessen their impact on the environment. This is where mentors like Squamish ecological design expert Kathryn Weiler come in

“We’re trying to unpave the planet one garden at a time. In this area, people are very enthusiastic about their greenspaces and are becoming even more so. Lawns are important, because most people have them, and now we’re seeing more lawn alternatives becoming more popular. People are using more organic products, and getting enthusiastic about native plants and pollinators,” Weiler told The Squamish Chief.

And though she advocates for planting as many trees as possible, she encourages homeowners to try to incorporate species that are native to the area Because of how the changing climate has disrupted plant growth and the health of the ecosystem, it’s strategic to plant a diverse variety of trees in case they’re negatively impacted in the future

“Gone are the days when we all plant the same cherry tree, or elm tree, because along

“Noticing plants and noticing the natural world can be really helpful in terms of understanding what you want in the garden, what matters to you.”

comes one bug or one change in the weather— maybe it’s an unusually hot summer or a harsh winter—and who knows which ones will survive? There’s no silver bullet for what you should plant, but native species tend to be the most resilient.”

NOTICE THE NATURAL WORLD

Weiler is the founder of Hawthorn Landscape Design, which has been working for over a decade to introduce more environmentally-friendly green spaces and sustainable gardening practices to the Sea to Sky Corridor Sometimes that can feel like an uphill battle But it comes down to something really simple: paying careful attention to your environment.

“Noticing plants and noticing the natural world can be really helpful in terms of understanding what you want in the garden, what matters to you,” said Weiler

“It’s about being present.”

According to Weiler, many families still want the iconic lime green lawn that they fertilize every day, and gentle education isn’t enough to convince them that it’s wasteful or destructive

to the environment

She champions alternatives like bee turf and micro clover for lawn renovation, which can effectively transform a yard from having a wasteful mono-crop to a lush and beautiful natural environment for insects and animals.

“It’s something you can be excited about that’s not hard to accomplish. You just let a patch of grass grow a bit longer, and suddenly, you have pollinators. I call it ‘create your own meadow,’” she said

Most people are uninformed about the importance of pollinators, according to Weiler, who believes they are a crucial aspect of understanding the climate puzzle Some cities have built “pollinator highways” with beds of lavender and other plants to encourage their migration, which is the sort of innovation she’d like to see in Squamish as well

“It’s not just about bees There are tons of insects and other pollinators that benefit from having access to native plants There are pollinator species that only go to their native plant, won’t go to any flower in the nursery, they need that specific one,” she said.

“Choosing to plant’s native species is something simple you can do that will have a huge impact.”

‘WE ALL HAVE TO BE CONSCIOUS’

Weiler feels that gardeners have all the tools available to them to be climate-conscious, but awareness is low and budget constraints often get in the way. Simple changes like switching to low-drip irrigation or growing vegetables can put homeowners on the path to sustainability

“Green infrastructure like gardens, plants, it’s a resource that keeps giving back over time and now a lot of cities are focusing more on green infrastructure to mitigate climate change. It’s really encouraging to see,” she said.

“When I think about climate change, there is despair. I have my own personal feelings about it One small way you can control your environment is through your garden Having a wide variety of plants, shrubs, trees and perennial flowers is a smart move, because we don’t know what the next several decades will bring in terms of weather. We all have to be conscious.”

PHOTO BY PRISCILLA AND CRISPIN CANNON Kathryn Weiler, of Hawthorn Landscape Design

GARDEN TO TABLE: WHYRHUBARB BELONGSONYOUR VEGGIE PLATES,NOT JUST IN PIES

otherpotential toxins.Duringthe FirstWorld War, many Europeanswereill-advised to eat rhubarb leaves as avegetable to ward off starvation,resulting sadly, in severalreported casesofpoisoning andevendeath dueto kidney failure.

Rhubarb,the extremelysourold fashioned“fruit” that appearsearly in spring,isactuallymoreathomeona veggie platethanitisina pie.

Rhubarbhails from Mongolia,according to botanists, butiswellsuited to Canada,where wintertemperaturesdropinhospitablylow. Botanicallyspeaking, rhubarbisa vegetable, nota fruit, as it hascometobeknown –perhaps forits propensity forresiding in sugary desserts like crumbles,cobblersand pie Like celery,the part of arhubarb plantthat we eatare itspetioles, or stalks.The huge elephant ear-like leaves arerarely eatendue to comparativelyhighlevelsofoxalicacidand

Spinach, beets, soy, almonds, raspberries, datesand some beanscontain oxalates as well,however,soIamloath to panic. A balanced diet,richinadelicious assortment of colourfulorganic vegetableseems to me, thebet hedgeagainst oxalatebuild-upfrom over-indulgence.

Iamdrawn to bitter andsourvegetables andfruitsingeneral,among thehighest ironically,incomplex phyto-nutrients. In our home,plattersoverflowing with spring and summer grilledvegetablesand stonefruits, areamong thebest-lovedofall menu items. Gorgeous purple andgreen asparagus, shiitake andmaitake mushrooms, cruciferous broccolini, rabe andbrusselssprouts,sweet

RHUBARB: Continuedon19

Before introduction as aculinary ingredient,rhubarb wasusedmedicinally to treatavariety of maladies,including gastro-intestinal conditions and bacterialinfections.

GARDEN COLUMN LAURAMARIE NEUBERT

PHOTOBYKAORI NOHARA/UNSPLASH Rhubarbhails from Mongolia,according to botanists, butiswellsuitedtoCanada.

home + garden

peppers and zucchini, and beautiful bright pink rhubarb paint every colour in the prescriptive culinary rainbow, and provide thousands of phytochemicals as well as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory nutrients.

Rhubarb alone, is an excellent source of dietary fibre pulling calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, selenium and zinc, along with vitamins B6, B12, K1, ascorbic acid, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid and folate from rich living soil

Before introduction as a culinary ingredient, rhubarb was used medicinally to treat a variety of maladies, including gastro-intestinal conditions and bacterial infections.

As a perennial food plant, rhubarb is stalwart and dependable. Few pests bother with rhubarb, perhaps because it is so loaded with defensive phytochemicals I see the odd nibble on leaves, but nothing more serious.

We planted rhubarb along the dry upper margin of a small rain garden in our backyard, right on the edge of the patio pavers. The cool, part-sun location and particular micro-climate seem ideal, and the plant thrives in the sandy, somewhat pebbly

soil that we designed to mimic a riparian edge

This will be year three for our rhubarb, which has gifted us much in exchange for virtually no maintenance other than providing a deep blanket of composting soil and clean straw at the end of each growing season

Planted downhill of the rhubarb are native nodding onion, sword and deer fern, highbush cranberry, snowberry, bog iris and dwarf horsetail. Many species of insects, birds and small mammals frequent the rain garden, advantaging the shade and shelter of the Jurassic leaves, and drinking in the cool damp.

After several extreme rain events breached the capacity of a drywell that had managed storm water for over 20 years on our property, the rain garden was born of necessity. “The problem,” as they say in permaculture circles, “became the solution.”

Cut rhubarb stalks store well in the fridge, but I don’t wash them until just before use. Rhubarb freezes well also, for use during the dark days in stews, bakes and smoothies. Skip the refined sugar though please Instead, pucker up and revel in its acerbic glories.

Laura Marie Neubert is a West Vancouverbased urban permaculture designer

Retrofityourhomefor energy efficiency andcomfort! Join RetrofitAssist (retrofitassist.ca/squamish)tosupportyou throughthisprocess

Replaceyourold naturalgas furnacewithanelectricor dual energy heat pump.

Purchase efficientappliances.

Installa lowflow shower head.

Change light bulbstoLEDs.

Wash clothesincoldwater,hangclothes to dry.

Programyourthermostat(17°C [night/away] 21°C [day]).

Turn off computersand unplug outletswhennot used.

Installrenewable energy to poweryourhome.

#ClimateActionSquamish

SIGN UP FOR AN ENERGY AUDIT AND SAVE MONEY

A growing program that supports homeowners in making their homes more energy efficient is open again

SCOTT TIBBALLS stibballs@piquenewsmagazine.com

The Retrofit Assist program is returning to Whistler and Squamish for a third year.

The program, which provides free support to homeowners so they can access energy and home efficiency rebates, has operated in Squamish and Whistler since 2022, with more than 240 local residents applying to access the service over the two previous years.

The program—coordinated through the Community Energy Association (CEA)—is delivered with support from the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) and the District of Squamish (DOS) in their respective communities together with BC Hydro and the

Real Estate Foundation of BC

“A lot of advancements are being made on the energy efficiency of our newly built environment, and so this is key to impacting existing homes,” said Squamish Mayor Armand Hurford.

“I’m happy this is continuing as we work towards our community-wide goal to decarbonize buildings in Squamish.”

The program, which was oversubscribed in 2023, gives homeowners free access to an energy advisor who conducts an audit and generates an energy assessment and suggestions on how to make applicants’ homes more energy efficient— and comfortable—year-round

According to a release from the Community Energy Association, on average, homes that have

ENERGY: Continued on 21

home + garden

ENERGY: Continued from 20

undergone an assessment and retrofit are 25% more energy efficient with the application of recommendations, which can range from added insulation to seal leaks, the addition of heat pumps, replacing windows and doors, and installing solar panels

“Reducing emissions from existing buildings is a vital step in curbing emissions as part of our Big Moves Climate Action Strategy,” said Whistler Mayor Jack Crompton

“We know there are many residents in Whistler who would like to access new technology and new building solutions to make their homes more comfortable, healthy, and safe. Retrofit Assist is just one way the Resort Municipality Of Whistler is supporting homeowners on this journey by providing access to significant grants and rebates to lower the cost.”

The Retrofit Assist program began in the Sea to Sky corridor, and has since expanded to Rossland in the B.C. Interior, with further communities set to take part in coming years.

According to the CEA, the community-specific model of the Retrofit Assist program meant it also supported local building contractors; teams assigned to each community maintained lists of local contractors that were capable of carrying out the upgrades for homeowners, while the

one-on-one support for homeowners through the CEA meant they had help in navigating rebate and loan programs that could further reduce costs of refits

Squamish and Whistler homeowners interested in applying for the Retrofit Assist program can find out more by heading to retrofitassist.ca For those considering a home renovation or planning to incorporate energy improvements into your home, a one-on-one energy advisor can help point you in the right direction on where to start.

Those who apply and are successful get an “Energy Evaluation,” which is done to establish how efficient a home is, with the report guiding the homeowner on what they can do to make their home more energy efficient and how. After a retrofit has taken place, another evaluation is done to figure out how much of an improvement it has made to the home and its energy efficiency—meaning the CEA data on average improvements from the program is backed up by before-and-after assessments of homes

Registration for the program in Whistler and Squamish is open as of May 16 Those who were registered in 2023, and didn’t get an evaluation due to the oversubscription, will be on the list for 2024, so if you want to take part, get in early. Homeowners can register on the Retrofit Assist website.

BE PREPARED: SQUAMISH SAR

The season has had a slow start but the local Search and Rescue team are ready jump into action

SCOTT TIBBALLS stibballs@piquenewsmagazine.com

Like it or not, summer’s on the way, and the Squamish Search and Rescue team are ready for the change in season—and encourage everyone else to be too.

“It’s been a relatively quiet start to our spring, though I hate to use that word,” said Squamish SAR manager B.J. Chute.

So far, so good

Chute said that the local team had bolstered numbers heading into spring which would help them respond more efficiently and faster in 2024

“Our team has spent the winter doing our winter training,” he said

“We’ve brought on a contingent of new members who are also at the point where they are ready to respond with our team, so that’s exciting for us as an organization.”

Chute said that while it was warming up, “it’s still winter in the mountains though it’s quite inviting with warm weather.”

“We would as always caution people to ensure they are prepared for whatever activity it is they are getting ready to pursue, and be prepared to the point of self-rescue,” he said, adding that everyone should have a backup plan for the outdoors, “and that backup plan is not Search

and Rescue; Search and Rescue should be the final plan.”

Chute encouraged recreators to be diligent about doing their research about conditions given that there was a lot of motivation to get out this time of year

“It’s important people understand where they’re going, and the conditions they’re going to, to help them prepare.”

While it isn’t quite summer, the melting snow of spring presents a raft of dangers.

“Right now, just looking at the rivers, it’s important for people to stay away from fast-moving waters Although it is hot and sunny out and it may be tempting to go into the water, people should know what they’re doing and where it’s safe We have seen a couple of accidents around moving water so far this year, and with this recent hot weather and the snowmelt, the waters are moving even faster.”

Another seasonal factor to think about was the temperature changes the area is experiencing.

“We see a pretty big fluctuation in temperature. So someone who heads out first thing in the morning is going to go out when it’s 4 or 5 degrees and work their way into 20 degrees, but someone who heads out later in the day in shorts and t-shirt for a sunny day will quickly find themselves in a dropping temperature after dinner, so having that extra layer is quite important this time of year.”

NEW CHIEF HARRY FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP AIMS TO BOOST INDIGENOUS STUDENTS ACROSS CANADA

$50,000 scholarship supports 10 Indigenous students over five years

JENNIFER

THUNCHER

jthuncher@squamishchief.com

It is fitting that this Squamish family, known for educating others, continues that tradition with a scholarship in its name

The new Chief Harry Family Scholarship aims to empower Indigenous students across Canada to pursue post-secondary education.

The scholarship will support 10 Indigenous students with $50,000 over five years.

Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) hereditary Chief Dale Harry, whose ancestral name is Pekultn Siyam, said that with more and more organizations and companies looking to hire Indigenous people, there needs to be training and education available so they are ready to fill those positions.

“The motivation stems from the desire to provide Indigenous peoples, our peoples, with access to economic opportunities—some people can’t access that education,” he said.

Harry and his entire family are well-known in the Sea to Sky Corridor for their community leadership and involvement, sharing of knowledge, and support of education.

His mother is Elder Chésha7 (Gwen) Harry, who has worked in education for more than 50 years and often shares her negative experiences attending a residential school in Alert Bay as a young girl

For her community contributions, she received Quest University’s first honorary degree and the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal.

“Education was one of our important things in our family,” Harry said of the five boys and two girls in the Harry family He praised the guidance of his parents—his father for teaching him cultural and outdoor knowledge and his mother for her passion for education.

“I think in 1967, I was one of her first kids in the Totem preschool, and it’s still going on to this day,” Harry said in an interview over Zoom with The Squamish Chief on Friday, May 17

“My dad, that’s where I carry my chieftainship. My dad taught us knowledge, how to hunt, how to fish drumming and singing.”

The scholarship in the family name will be awarded to those pursuing fields including education, social work, psychology, and the social sciences According to a news release about the scholarship, these fields have some of the largest funding gaps for students.

Harry stressed that although the scholarship holds his name, it represents his whole family.

“I was determined to carry on that legacy of education that was established by my mother,” Harry said.

The scholarship is funded by The Driving Force Group of Companies (TDFG), a network of transportation and fleet management companies, and through a partnership with Indspire, a national Indigenous registered charity that invests in the education of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.

The motivation stems from the desire to provide Indigenous peoples, our peoples, with access to economic opportunities—some people can’t access that education.

CHIEF DALE HARRY

“The significant cost of tuition can be a barrier to accessing post-secondary education. We’re fortunate to be in a position to help remove this obstacle and help Indigenous students realize their dreams and full potential,” said Ayman Ammoura, president and CEO of The Driving Force, in a news release.

Harry said he hopes more companies step up to support Indigenous education.

“We need more, more people willing, like The Driving Force ... stepping up and investing in our future. And particularly earlier in our youth. I like to focus on the young, young people, because they’re going to make a difference for tomorrow.”

Applications can be found on the Indspire website. The first step in the process is for interested parties to complete the linked application for the scholarships and bursaries.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CHIEF HARRY FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP Left: CEO of Driving Force, Ayman Ammoura, along with Kate Espina, VP of Major Gifts from Indspire Centre: Pekultn Siyam Chief Dale Harry. Right: Chésha7 Gwen Harry.

SP’AKW’US FEATHER PARK OPENING MAY 25

New park from Matthews West opens to the public at 2 p.m.

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

The new park on the shores of Howe Sound will soon, finally, be open to the public

According to a District of Squamish memo on council’s May 7 agenda, Sp’akw’us Feather Park will open to the public on Saturday, May 25, at 2 p.m., a little over 2.5 years since it closed in late August 2021 for construction

Though council members did not speak directly to the memo, it details some of the completed amenities at the park along with others still in the works. Notably, the total cost for the park tripled since it was secured as an amenity in 2010, jumping from $10 million to $30 million, all of which is being covered by the developer Matthews West.

“The increase in costs was due to design reconfiguration to prevent erosion and enhancements in park design,” reads the memo to council.

The completed amenities include an oceanfront beach, windsports beach, meadow and dune area, paved pathways, a land’s end monument, public art, and more Temporary washroom facilities are available and the District expects permanent washrooms to be completed in the fall

The memo estimates that the sailing centre will be completed by the fall of 2026 This amenity is required prior to the first residential occupancy. The centre includes a public watercraft launch, a temporary parking area, a washroom, and boat storage. Once completed, ownership and operation will be turned over to a non-profit created with consultation from the District

The playground at the park was designed with the help of Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) students at St’a7mes Elementary

“The playground incorporates Squamish Nation stories and culture from the surrounding land The children’s voices will come to life with audio recordings accessible through QR codes on signage in the playground area,” states the memo

For the time being, the memo states there is ample parking since the region is still under construction About 40 public parking spaces will remain when construction is complete, plus street and visitor parking and the opportunity to build underground parking, if needed. There is no overnight parking, as a gate will lock the area each night between 11

p.m. and 6 a.m.

There is a multi-use path around the peninsula of the park and a bike lane on the road for cyclists Bike racks are available throughout the park

From June 10 to Sept 2, 2024, there will be seasonal public transit service to the area via Route 5 South Parks—resulting in 13 trips on weekdays and 12 trips on the weekends and holidays

“In the future, as the Oceanfront area develops, the Oceanfront Peninsula will likely be serviced by a different route that runs year-round,” reads the memo

DARTS & DAFFODILS

A HEARTFELT THANK YOU TO THE ALPENLOFTS VETERINARY CLINIC

You were our first vet when we returned to Squamish and took care of our Kiwi girl (16-year-old Min Pin/Chihuahua) for the last two years. You helped us manage her kidney disease and were compassionate when we had to say goodbye. A special thank you to Dr. Grewal and Dr. Sharma. And to the amazing team: Matt, Alecia, Meghan, Kate, Sunny, and Anmol.

The District will assume maintenance of the park upon its opening, but Matthews West will maintain some Fisheries and Oceans Canada permitting requirements for about three to five years. The District has budgeted $1.2 million for a portion of the park for lighting, some signage, contribution to the playground, site furnishings, sod lawn and wi-fi conduit.

At this time, it is noted that alcohol is not allowed and dogs need to be leashed. The presentation centre and brewery aim for completion in the fall

For more, view council’s May 7 agenda on squamish.ca.

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.

PHOTO BY JOHN BUCHANAN

The playground at the park was designed with the help of

ḵwxwú7mesh

(Squamish Nation) students at St’a7mes Elementary

FROM NOISE TO SILENCE: THE JOURNEY OF THE DISTRICT’S FIRST ELECTRIC GARBAGE TRUCK

How is GFL’s first all-electric trash truck, Zappy, measuring up?

Q: What is the average range per charge, and has this changed over time?

JENNIFER THUNCHER jthuncher@squamishchief.com

It has been about a year and a half since Green For Life (GFL) Squamish welcomed its first all-electric automated side loader truck, Zappy.

So how has Zappy been performing? The Squamish Chief asked the District of Squamish, which contracts GFL for the town’s trash pickup, this and other questions about the truck.

What follows is a version of that exchange that has been edited for length

Q: Overall, how has the electric truck done?

A: GFL reports that the electric truck has seamlessly integrated into the curbside collection program. Crews have indicated the truck is very quiet.

Q: How does the energy consumption of the electric garbage truck compare to initial estimates?

A: According to GFL, initial estimates were approximately four hours of power each day, which is what is currently being achieved. A second-generation battery should allow for an additional two hours of run time, though the batteries have yet to arrive.

Q: Have there been any unexpected fluctuations in energy usage?

A: GFL reports that energy consumption has been fairly stable. The truck is recharged at night when other electricity draws are at a minimum

Q: What is the average energy consumption per route or per day?

A: GFL reports that the truck receives between four and five hours on a charge In perfect conditions, drivers have managed to get up to eight hours. Maintaining a relatively low speed helps to extend its battery life

Q: What are its strengths and weaknesses? How has the battery held up over the year in terms of capacity and charging efficiency?

A: The battery has performed as expected and recharges according to best practices for battery longevity.

Q: Are there any signs of degradation or performance issues with the battery?

A: GFL has not noted any at this time.

A: GLF reports an average range of 4 to 5 hours per charge which can be affected by weather conditions, speed and approach to hills.

Q: How does the electric garbage truck’s performance compare to conventional diesel trucks in terms of speed, torque, and handling?

A: Performance is approximately the same. GFL crews can only collect about three-quarters of a truck’s typical load before it becomes overweight due to the weight of the batteries.

Q: Have there been any mechanical or technical issues specific to the electric components?

A: GFL has reported a few issues with the truck itself, but not specific to the electrical operating system

Q: What is the maintenance schedule like, and have there been any unexpected maintenance needs?

A: GFL does not have the tools or training to work on the electrical components That work is completed by Mack trucks according to a maintenance schedule similar to the diesel trucks

Q: What do drivers think about operating the electric garbage truck compared to diesel models?

A: GFL reports that its drivers enjoy operating the electric truck once they adjust to its quiet operating mode.

Q: How has the electric garbage truck contributed to the organization’s sustainability goals?

A: The District of Squamish and GFL share a commitment to sustainability, and finding better, more environmentally sound strategies, such as investing in EV technologies

Q: Are there any plans for more electric trucks at GFL?

A: GFL has purchased two more EV trucks in B.C., in 2024, and several others in Ontario.

Q: Anything else you would like readers to know?

A: GFL has showcased Squamish’s electric truck at a variety of EV events throughout the Lower Mainland, each time demonstrating Squamish’s commitment to sustainability and the environment.

FILE PHOTO BY JENNIFER THUNCHER/THE SQUAMISH CHIEF Zappy at GFL on Queens Way, during a media tour in late 2022, when it first arrived.

NO RACE WINS, BUT A JOURNEY FOR DRAGON BOAT TEAM

The Squamish team was the only one from North America at the Boracay International Dragon Boat Festival

SCOTT TIBBALLS stibballs@piquenewsmagazine.com

The Squamish Dragon Boating contingent—Chawanda—has returned back to Canada after their expedition to the Boracay International Dragon Boat Festival in the Philippines.

Not with a trophy, but certainly with a refreshed sense of camaraderie.

“We went out and we did our best,” said Squamish Dragon Boating Association team member, Cathie Greenlees.

In the mixed small boat race they managed to make the semi-finals but failed to qualify for the finals, and in the mixed standard boat race they didn’t make the semi-finals. In a third race on the second day, they came last.

“It was disappointing, however it almost didn’t matter because we had an amazing time,” said Greenlees.

In all, a team of 13 from Squamish had made the trek to the Philippine island of Boracay for the festival which was on April 27 and 28 which saw 52 teams mostly from around Asia converging for the races which Greenlees said were quite the spectacle.

“They really do it up right.

“They had a march for all the teams to come in for the opening ceremonies with banners and flags. We were the only North American team there.”

Greenlees said that despite the lack of victory in the races, the team came away with

It was fun, we made a lot of connections, it brought our team closer together it was a fabulous time.

CATHIE GREENLEES

a lot.

“It was fun, we made a lot of connections, it brought our team closer together—it was a fabulous time.”

So, would the team head to the Philippines again?

“In a heartbeat,” she said, adding that paddling in warm water was a treat in and of itself when compared with training in the cool temperatures of the Salish Sea.

“Overall it was an amazing experience that I think has brought our team more together, and put some fire in us to do better, to come together, and to invite others to join us.”

The Squamish team now have their sights set on key races in British Columbia that are just around the corner, with the Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival to be held in Vancouver in June.

Note: Cathie Greenlees is sales manager at The Squamish Chief

PHOTO COURTESY OF SQUAMISH DRAGON BOAT ASSOCIATION Team Chawanda, in the Philippines.

LOCAL SWIMMER WINS RELAY AT MSABC CHAMPIONSHIP

Katie Coombs and three teammates took gold in a relay, setting a B.C. record for their category along the way

ANDREW HUGHES ahughes@squamishchief.com

Alocal swimmer has won gold in a relay race at the Masters Swimming Association of British Columbia (MSABC) Provincial Championships. Squamish’s Katie Coombs emailed The Squamish Chief saying her swim team Coast won gold in the four-person, 200-metre relay at the championships held in Surrey between April 19 and 21

Additionally, the team set a new B.C. record in its category

“This is something I never ever thought would happen! I’m so over the moon proud of myself and my team!” she said

Her teammates in the relay included Robin Freedman, Sarah Pedley and Victoria Wallace.

Coombs said she is getting ready to compete in the national competition, this year in Windsor, Ont.

Coombs said she also got a personal best in the 50-metre backstroke at the provincial competition

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY KATIE COOMBS

Victoria Wallace, Katie Coombs, Robin Freedman and Sarah Pedley took the gold in the four-person, 200-metre relay.

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY KATIE COOMBS

Katie Coombs ready to go before the race

It is with heavy hearts thatweannouncethe passing ofTheresa “Terry” Brock of Squamish,BC.

She passed peacefullyatHilltop House in Squamish on May5,2024after along and healthylife.Rest in peace,dear Sister,Mother,Aunt, Cousin, Grandma, GreatGrandma. Service to be heldMay 23,2024 at 11 AM at theSaint Joseph’sChurch,Squamish

Born Louise TheresaBeaubien on August 8, 1926 to NoraBeaubien nee Oscar,and Joseph Beaubien, she wasthe firstofnine children. She is predeceased bysisters,Regina Baker nee Beaubien, Genevieve Hack nee Beaubien, MaryMcTaggart nee Beaubien, Germaine McCall nee Beaubien; husbands,Samuel Lepitre, Archie Brock, and George Friesen; sons, Thomas and David (Jackie); and daughter Marie (Colin).

She is survivedbysisters,Angeline“Angie” Werk nee Beaubien, Helen Porsche nee Beaubien; brothers,EdwardBeaubienand Allen Beaubien; sons,:Melbourne-Paul: “Mel” andEdward“Ed” (Kay); grandchildren, Audra, Michele, Nicole,Tommy, Michael, Vicki, and Christie; and great grandchildren, Amanda,Victoria, Travis,Alex, Abigail, Tabitha, Caleb, Ryan,Bryan, Kieran, as well as manydearcousins, nieces and nephews

Terry’spositive,no-nonsense life attitude can be summed up in one story she told me

In 1947 she and husband Sam movedtheirfamily and alltheirbelongings,including Terry’s little yellowconvertible,toSquamish, via barge,because therewas no road yet. She would drivethatlittle convertible “down the hill to work in town” rain or shine, and when it rained she hadto“holdupanumbrella” while she drovebecause the top wasstuckdown!

Let’sall live likeGrandma. When life hands youarainstorminatopless convertible,put up an umbrella and drive on with asmile anyway

Lovinglywritten by granddaughter Vicki (Marie Lepitre’sdaughter), with special thanks to all the family,who helped me so much with details

To write acondolence to the family,please visit www.squamishfuneralchapel.com

are pleased to present the 7th Annual Sea to Sky Contractors Guide 2024 -2025 Edition

Thisspecialguide will be loadedwithvaluable information forresidentslooking fortradesinall areasof home repairsand newconstruction, forbothresidential andcommercialapplications

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Lions’ lairs

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Merchants

Frankly

Fuses

Flat-topped formation

Oohs and

Long journey

Santa’s time

Chatter

Contest

Architectural add-on

Ump’s kin

Intimidates

ARIES

March 21-April 19

Inspiration will strike, and you’ll feel a sudden burst of creativity, compelling you to reimagine the decor in your home and undertake some significant renovations. Fortunately, your friends will offer a helping hand, strengthening your friendships. Sept 23-Oct. 22

TAURUS

April 20-May 20

It’s time to start planning your summer vacation. Start saving for a spiritual getaway that will boost your mood Get ready for a delightful and joyous experience Oct 23-Nov. 21

GEMINI

May 21-June 20

You may feel overwhelmed by your emotions over the next few days, but you’ll manage to keep a smile on your face Your contagious mood and ability to have fun with colleagues will create a relaxed office atmosphere.

CANCER

June 21-July 22

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.

July 23-Aug. 22

You will be in an excellent position to finalize a crucial negotiation. Your strategic prowess will allow you and your colleagues to make advantageous gains

LEO

A colleague will suddenly be absent, entrusting you with their tasks in addition to your own. Although this may cause a slight delay, it could lead to a promotion. You’ll be rewarded for your hard work.

VIRGO

Aug. 23-Sept. 22

Nov. 22-Dec. 21

LIBRA

You’ll devote time to young children, which will sometimes require a great deal of patience Helping and playing with them will bring pleasant surprises, and their quick-witted reactions will amaze you.

SCORPIO

Be vigilant at work to avoid redoing tasks due to poor communication. Double-check instructions to avoid misunderstandings with customers or senior management.

SAGITTARIUS

After assessing your finances, you’ll realize you have the resources to pursue a project close to your heart. You must have serious, open conversations with your significant other to re-establish harmony.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22-Jan. 19

Jan. 20-Feb. 18

Your achievements will be recognized, filling you with great pride Your partner will listen to your desires, and you’ll plan outstanding projects to undertake together Get ready to stand out in one way or another. Feb. 19-March 20

TheParish of St.John theDivine, Squamish

Holy Communion and MorningWorship

Sundays at 10:00 AM

Rev Cameron Gutjahr 1930 Diamond Road 604-898-5100

www.squamishanglicanchurch.ca info@squamishanglicanchurch.ca

Your spirit of initiative will be amplified Before making decisions involving other people, take the time to check with them about how to approach negotiations A significant pay raise awaits you

AQUARIUS

A new approach, whether a diet or treatment, could improve your quality of life and allow you to realize one of your biggest dreams You’ll experience decreased energy, reminding you of the importance of caring for yourself

PISCES

You’ll have trouble striking the right balance between married life and your social life You may need to compromise and readjust how much you work and play People will constantly surround you, both at work and elsewhere.

ExaltingJesus,Equipping His Followers,Engaging theWorld

WorshipService

Sundays 10am

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

location

coastalchurch.org/squamish

What is afloatel?

Floatels areincreasingly beingused forworker accommodation whenland-based options pose significant challenges, as theycan bequickly positioned and removed and canbeoperatedsustainably, leaving no ecological footprintafter departure. TheWoodfibreLNG floatelisa modern vessel with state-of-the-art sewage,water and power services that meet or exceed Canadian and provincial regulations.Aconverted cruise ship,the floatel offers apremium live-work environmentfor its residents, including:

•Individualrooms withprivateensuites

•Catered dining areas

•Outdoorand sports lounge

•8,000 squarefoot fitness facility

• Billiardsand games room

Whyisafloatelbeing used on the Project?

In 2019, Woodfibrebeganthe process of gathering input fromthe communityabout thepotential impactofthe constructionproject and developmentofanLNG facility. We received thousands of comments,manyregistering concerns about traditional work camps,the potential influx of non-localworkers, and potential impactson rental housing,traffic and the safetyofwomen and girls

We listened,weheard,and we responded with a community-drivensolution in the form of afloatel.

Howdoesafloateladdress concerns expressed by the community?

From thestart,our priorityhas been to ensurethe constructionofthe WoodfibreLNG facilityhas as little impactonSquamish as possible and thefloateldoesjust that.

WoodfibreLNG received an amendmenttoits environmental assessmentcertificate to authorizethe floatel, andconditions thatrestrict communityaccess and travelintothe communityfor non-local workers.

Major projects don’tneed to have major impacts.

Woodfibre LNG’s floating workforceaccommodation, also knownas the floatel, is expectedtoarrive at the Woodfibre LNGprojectsitein spring of 2023 whereit will remain moored until the completion of constructionin2027. Thefloatelwillprovidehigh qualityhousing to approximately 650 non-local workers during construction of the WoodfibreLNG Project.

Accommodating workers on the floatel, along with firm restrictions on access to the community ,will mean that workershaveno impactoncommunity infrastructureand serviceswhile providingthemworld class,safeand comfortableliving accommodations.

Theuse of afloatelisalso supportedbya coalitionof hereditary chiefs and the project’s GenderSafety Committee AdvisoryCommittee –and will address problemssometimesassociatedwith work camps, ensuring asafeworking environmentfor allworkers, including Indigenouswomen.

When areworkers expectedtooccupythe floatel?

Theprovincialgovernmentand Squamish First Nation formally approved the floatelseveral monthsago.Wenow awaitapproval by the DistrictofSquamish. Workers are anticipatedtooccupythe floatelinspring2024.

What is thecost of thefloateland whois footing thebill?

WoodfibreLNG pays thefullcost of the $100 million floatel and thecostofcatering,housekeeping,and other services on board, as part of its commitmenttoensure the project has as little impactonSquamish as possible.

Howwill gender safetybeaddressed on the floatel?

To work on the project,all workers mustsigna code of conductwhichincludes gendersafetyprovisions and are required to take ahalf-day, in personcultural awareness andgendersafetytraining sessiondelivered by Squamish Nation trainers.Tofurthersupportawelcoming and respectful workplaceculture, IndigenousFloatelCultural Managers will be onboardthe vessel.A first-of-its-kind Genderand Cultural Safety ManagementPlanisa provincial regulatoryrequirement on theprojectand will furtherthe zero tolerancepolicyfor,and provide safe and appropriate mechanismsfor preventing and responding to,any form of bullying,harassment, or sexualized violence.

In addition, 24- hour safetyand securitymeasuresare in place, including securitybadging stations and onboard security, to ensure the comfortand safetyofall workers.

Howwill workersbetransportedtoand from the floatel?

To ensurenoimpactsontraffic through Squamish, non-local workers will be transportedbyboatfromthe Lower Mainland to and from the floatelatthe Woodfibre LNG projectsite.

What is the environmental impactofthe floatel?

Thefloatelisdesignedtohavenet zero environmental impact, will operateonhydroelectric shore powerand has awide arrayofadvanced environmental systems including awater treatmentsystem, industrial heat pumps,and sewage treatment thatincludesultrafiltration, alow intensityUVunit,and shipping to awaste management facilityinBC. In addition, the floatelisdesigned to eliminate wasteand recycleasmuch as possible.

Watchtolearn moreabout WoodfibreLNG’s commitment to community and worker safety.

woodfibrelng.ca/floatel