July 28, 2020

By Arthur Topham

https://quesnelcariboosentinel.com/thief-night
-quesnel-mayor-simpson-removes-controversial-
gold-pan-city-sign-stormy-night?

July 22, 2020

Gold Pan moved to train station at 11:00 last night.
Mayor must have been upset by the report  provide around 5pm
proving how dishonest he has been.  I believe this to be
a very vindictive move - but in the end he will pay the price.
So sad, now instead of blue sky we will see graffiti trains.

 

 

July 21, 2020

QUESNEL IN ACTION WRITES: By Debra McKelvie

 

July 21, 2020
Open letter to Mayor and Council City of Quesnel, BC
Re: City Manager’s “fact check” on relocation of gold pan - June 23, 2020
Last fall, after it was first made public that the City had voted at a meeting to relocate the gold pan to the rail yard, I requested all the information through FOI regarding the relocation of the gold pan over the past three years. Mainly, in view of Mayor Simpson asserting that the gold pan was simply a marketing “gimmick” from the 80's and the matter of relocating the gold pan had been settled two - three years, or perhaps two years previously by Council, and therefore was a done deal.
I am confused, as will you be, at the report given by our City Manager at the Council meeting on June 23, 2020 unless there are two sets of minutes, one for the City and one for the public.
It is interesting to note that at the Council meeting just prior to June 23, 2020, the City Manger was given license in a policy resolution to oversee and reprimand the Council members. To my knowledge this should not be the mandate of any City Manager as politics and the operations of running the City are to be kept strictly separate.
Quite frankly, I was shocked at the footage I watched of the June 23, 2020 Council meeting as I certainly had NOT discovered the same information as the City Manager. I thought it best to have another serious examination of the materials sent to me and to do some careful research of my own. Not only was our senior member of Council completely shut down by our Mayor because he questions and sometimes opposes the status quo, he was not given anywhere near his 15 minutes to defend the allegations against him. What did Ron Paull want to say?
From what I have seen and not heard from our Council members through reaching out personally (with respect to the relocation of the gold pan) to all of our Council members via email and hand delivering a 600+ name petition is puzzling. The silence from our elected officials other than the Mayor with respect to the matter is doubly puzzling. I can only come to the conclusion that the bullying and intimidation by the Mayor of our Council members is out of hand and must be addressed.
On November 6, 2019, myself, along with other folks concerned with respect to the relocation of our gold pan attended a heritage forum at City Hall. We were muzzled at that meeting and told that there would be no discussion on the gold pan at that meeting. We were assured that there would be another opportunity to share our concerns. I have letters from other people who attended this meeting to confirm this statement. There were City staff present and several Councillors.
Our gold pan is not, as the Mayor asserts, a marketing gimmick from the 80’s. The Cygnus consulting group who developed the branding plan indicated that the gold pan was indeed a landmark. To relocate our gold pan is to erase the impact our iconic landmark offers to the Cariboo. This important fact was conveniently left out of reports to Council and the public. You can see for yourselves in the information attached. The lack of honesty and transparency with respect to this matter is nothing short of corrupt.
In closing I would like to add that after you, the public, elected officials, and the media peruse the re-examination report of the City Manager’s June 23, 2020 “fact check” you will understand how the public’s trust has been violated. These types of incidents do not engender and cultivate a sense of transparency and honesty among the general public.
Leave our landmark gold pan where it is. The train yard is not a safe nor appealing location for future visitors to our iconic landmark gold pan, which is not a gimmick!
Please see the following re-examination of the City Manager’s fact checking report.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the public who signed the petition.
Debra McKelvie

REPORTS

At the June 23, 2020 Council Meeting, City Manager, Byron Johnson stated he “fact checked” the time line relating to the removal and moving of the Gold Pan.  His sources were dated:  January 17, 2017, July 24, 2018, November 27, 2018 and October 19, 2019.  Video of meeting

We very carefully conducted our own fact checking of these same City documents and uncovered much more evidence  proving committees, staff, and some councillors apparently avoided mentioning moving the gold pan.

City Manager’s “fact checking” from his report to June 23 Council meeting:

CM  Comment:                “January 17, 2017, Council endorsed the City of Quesnel Branding strategy, which included the discussion of moving the gold pan. The discussion was reported by the local news media on January 18, 2017.”
IF THIS MEETING WAS SO IMPORTANT AND THE ONLY SO-CALLED PROOF OF COUNCIL DISCUSSING MOVING THE GOLD PAN WAS IN THE MEDIA…CARIBOO RADIO, NOT THE OBSERVER, WHY WAS THE DISCUSSION NOT NOTED IN THE MINUTES?

January 17, 2017             Regular Council Meeting - Page 98 of Stormy Lake Consulting Communications Plan Brand Strategy            
“• Install new gateway signage with new identity north and south of the City.
• Repaint the gold pan (remove Gold Pan City text)”
ACCORDING TO OUR RESEACH, THE CITY MANAGER’S “FACT CHECKING” IS MISLEADING OR IN ERROR AS THERE IS NO MENTION OF MOVING THE GOLD PAN AT THIS POINT.

CM Comment:                  “Placemaking & Wayfinding Plan included more discussion about the new entrance sign, voted on by the previous Council on July 24, 2018.  Because this project is significant to Quesnel, the same presentation was brought to another open Council meeting on November 27, 2018 to the newly elected Council for re-affirmation.”

July 24, 2018                    Regular Council Meeting Agenda:
Page 16… “Landmarks….”
 CYGNUS DESCRIBES GOLD PAN WAS A LANDMARK.  ACCORDING TO OUR RESEACH, THE CITY MANAGER’S “FACT CHECKING” IS MISLEADING OR IN ERROR AS THERE IS NO MENTION OF MOVING THE GOLD PAN AT THIS POINT.

CM Comment:                 “Because this project is significant to Quesnel, the same presentation was brought to another open Council meeting on November 27, 2018, to the newly elected Council for re-affirmation.”

November 27, 2018        Economic Development City Staff Report
Wayfinding and Placemaking Community Engagement Workshop
Page 26 - Initial Research – Gold Pan shown as Landmarks and Attractions
ACCORDING TO OUR RESEACH, THE CITY MANAGER’S “FACT CHECKING” IS MISLEADING OR IN ERROR AS THERE IS NO MENTION OF MOVING THE GOLD PAN AT THIS POINT.

CM Comment:                 “In 2019, in an open meeting the Executive Committee (“ECOMM”) discussed potential new locations for the gold pan sign.  On October 9, 2019 the Executive Committee made the following recommendation to Council:            
19-09-22 MOVED Councillor Paull, Seconded Councillor Goulet and resolved: 
 THAT the Executive Committee recommend that Quesnel City Council approve the relocation of the gold pan from its current site.

 

Our research and “fact checking” of City Manager’s “fact checking”:

January 4, 2017               Stormy Lake Consulting: City of Quesnel Brand Communications Plan “A number of potential symbolic actions representing brand-driven change in Quesnel that could be considered include:
• Install new gateway signage with new identity north and south of the City.
• Repaint the gold pan (remove Gold Pan City text)”
 PAGE 7. 
ACCORDING TO OUR RESEACH, THE CITY MANAGER’S “FACT CHECKING” IS MISLEADING OR IN ERROR AS THERE IS NO MENTION OF MOVING THE GOLD PAN AT THIS POINT.

January 17, 2017             Regular Council Meeting #2  
Stormy Lake Consulting Communications Plan - Brand Strategy              Page 98
“• Install new gateway signage with new identity north and south of the City.
• Repaint the gold pan (remove Gold Pan City text)”
PAGE 7.
ACCORDING TO OUR RESEACH, THE CITY MANAGER’S “FACT CHECKING” IS MISLEADING OR IN ERROR AS THERE IS NO MENTION OF MOVING THE GOLD PAN AT THIS POINT.

January 17, 2017              “Minutes: Administration Report #11/17 - City of Quesnel Brand Endorsement - Economic Development Officer Reid to Report (30 Minute PowerPoint Presentation) - Please visit www.Quesnel.ca for entire report attachments totaling 257 pages. Various Members of Council thanked City staff, Quesnel's business community, community volunteers, Council members and Will consultants for their hard work regarding this issue.
17-02-43 MOVED Councillor Elliott, Seconded Councillor Roodenburg and resolved: THAT Council endorses: as presented as the official brand and visual identity of the City of Quesnel; AND THAT Council refers the Brand Communications Plan to the Executive Committee for further review and prioritization of actions.”
OPPOSED: Paull
ACCORDING TO OUR RESEACH, THE CITY MANAGER’S “FACT CHECKING” IS MISLEADING OR IN ERROR AS THERE IS NO MENTION OF MOVING THE GOLD PAN AT THIS POINT.
The report can be found at:
Brand Strategy,
Visual Language,
Brand Communications Plan,

 

January 18, 2017             My Cariboo. com reported there was a discussion about the Gold Pan at the meeting the previous evening.  Last line…”as to exactly where the gold pan will be moved, that is still up in the air.” The news article can be found at:
 

January 20, 2017             Executive Committee: Administration Report from Economic Development Officer to City Manager
Symbolic actions: Page 1
“Install new gateway signage
Repaint the gold pan:
Page 3
“Install new gateway signage – suggest delay until 2018”
Repaint the gold pan – moving the gold pan has also been discussed”
MOVING THE GOLD PAN DISCUSSED BUT WITH WHOM? NO COUNCIL DECISIONS ON MOVING THE GOLD PAN. NO RECORD OF COUNCIL DISCUSSING THE MOVE.

February 7, 2017             Regular Council Meeting City Staff Report Page 11
Symbolic actions:
Page 11- Install new gateway signage
Repaint the gold pan
Page 33 – Install new gateway signage – suggest delaying until 2018
Repaint the gold pan – moving the gold pan has also been discussed.
MOVING THE GOLD PAN DISCUSSED? SAME REPORT AS JAN 20TH.  ACCORDING TO OUR RESEACH, THE CITY MANAGER’S “FACT CHECKING” IS MISLEADING OR IN ERROR AS THERE IS NO RECORD OF COUNCIL EITHER DISCUSSING NOR DECIDING ON MOVING THE GOLD PAN AT THIS POINT.

March 2017                      Quesnel City News… No mention of the Branding and moving the Gold Pan.
ACCORDING TO OUR RESEACH, THE CITY MANAGER’S “FACT CHECKING” IS MISLEADING AS THERE IS NO MENTION OF MOVING THE GOLD PAN AT THIS POINT.

March 29, 2018               Cygnus Wayfinding & Placemaking Report Audit & Recommendations – Draft – Revision 1
WE RECEIVED A PORTION OF THIS REPORT UNDER A FREEDOM OF INFORMATION REQUEST BUT WE CANNOT FIND THE REPORT ON THE CITY WEBSITE. 
Page 16
Gateway Sign Review – Traveling South (Hwy 97)
“The North gateway sign is defined by the “Gold Pan”, a large iconic sculpture with the words “Quesnel – Gold Pan City” and inclusive of a large pick and shovel.  The rebrand has made clear the new Quesnel is about the future and less about the past.  Placement” Location of the new gateway sign would be in the current position of the gold pan.” 

 

Description: C:\Users\Pat\Documents\Gold Pan\Cygnus Draft March 29, 2018 page 16.jpg
ACCORDING TO OUR RESEACH, THE CITY MANAGER’S “FACT CHECKING” IS MISLEADING OR IN ERROR AS WE CAN FIND NO EVIDENCE THIS DRAFT PAGE WAS EVER PROVIDED TO COUNCIL

March 29, 2018               Cygnus Wayfinding & Placemaking Report Audit & Recommendations – Draft – Revision 1
Page 35 –“ Gold Pan Observations: As noted in Section 3 (gateway signs), the gold pan is a structure better used as a landmark than a gateway sign….It has uniqueness and does hold some significant inherent value in the storytelling of the gold mining days of Quesnel’s past.

“WE CAN FIND NO EVIDENCE DRAFT PAGES 16 AND 35 WERE EVER PROVIDED TO COUNCIL.  MORE IMPORTANTLY TRY TO FIND THIS REPORT ON THE CITY’S WEBSITE. 
THIS DRAFT REPORT WAS PRESENTED TO THE CITY.  IT APPEARS THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CONSISTING AT THE TIME OF BOB SIMPSON, JOHN BRISCO, AND ED COLEMAN REVIEWED THIS REPORT AND REMOVED THE REFERENCES TO THE GOLD PAN FROM THE REPORT BEFORE CYGNUS PRESENTED THEIR FINAL REPORT TO COUNCIL AND TO THE PUBLIC.  THE DECISION DEFINETLY SHOWS THE INTENT OF THIS COMMITTEE AND POSSIBLY SOME OTHER COUNCIL MEMBERS AND STAFF TO HIDE THE FACT FROM THE PUBLIC THEY INTENDED TO MOVE THE GOLD PAN.
 WHERE IS THIS REPORT? WAYFINDING & PLACEMAKING REPORT AUDIT & RECOMMENDATIONS – DRAFT- REVISION 1”

June 14, 2018                  Executive Committee, Bob Simpson, John Brisco, and Ed Coleman
Minutes of May 30, 2018
Page 3: F.5) Placemaking and Wayfinding project budget - Discussion
For information only regarding the sign project.  A full budget will be coming to a future FSAC meeting for discussion.
ACCORDING TO OUR RESEACH, THE CITY MANAGER’S “FACT CHECKING” IS MISLEADING OR IN ERROR  AS THERE IS NO MENTION OF MOVING THE GOLD PAN AT THIS POINT.

June 19, 2018                   Regular Council Meeting  Page 47 - F.5)   Placemaking and Wayfinding project budget - Discussion “For information only regarding the sign project. A full budget will be coming to a future FSAC meeting for discussion.”
ACCORDING TO OUR RESEACH, THE CITY MANAGER’S “FACT CHECKING” IS MISLEADING OR IN ERROR  AS THERE IS NO MENTION OF MOVING THE GOLD PAN AT THIS POINT.

June 26, 2018                  Regular Council Meeting Page 46 Action:  
· Implementing the wayfinding strategy currently in development.
· Relocation and refurbishment of the Gold Pan as recommended in the Brand Communications Plan  JANUARY 4, 2017 Stormy Lake Consulting: City of Quesnel Communications Plan,: Repaint the gold pan (remove Gold Pan City text)
ACCORDING TO OUR RESEACH, THE CITY MANAGER’S “FACT CHECKING” IS MISLEADING OR IN ERROR  AS THERE IS NO MENTION OF MOVING THE GOLD PAN AT THIS POINT.

July 24, 2018                    Regular Council Meeting Agenda:
Page 16 Landmarks….
NO MENTION OF THE GOLD PAN AS A LANDMARK AS PREVIOUSLY SUGGESTED BY CYGNUS.  ACCORDING TO OUR RESEACH, THE CITY MANAGER’S “FACT CHECKING” IS MISLEADING OR IN ERROR  AS THERE IS NO MENTION OF THE GOLD PAN BEING REPLACED BY THE NORTH GATEWAY SIGN.  

Regular Council Meeting Minutes:
Andrew Thompstone, Senior Project Manager for The Cygnus Design Group, provided an overview of the City’s Wayfinding Strategy that includes designs of signage, utilizing the City’s new brand, that would assist pedestrians and/or vehicle traffic to locate various destinations/sites in all four major zones (North Quesnel, South Quesnel, West Quesnel and Downtown Quesnel) of the City. The Wayfinding Strategy includes designs for main community gateways, minor community gateways, major and minor parks, neighbourhood entrances, trailheads and trails, that are scaled to be easily read by both vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
WAS RON PAULL AT THIS MEETING OR WASN’T HE?  MINUTES STATE HE WAS PRESENT AND ALSO GAVE HIS REGRETS.

July 24, 2018                    Wayfinding Program Design Development - R1 Page 22 -Major Gateway Sign (North)
The report can be found at:
WHY NO NOTES REGARDING THE NORTH GATEWAY SIGN REPLACING THE GOLD PAN, WHEN THERE ARE NOTES ABOUT OTHER AREAS?

July 25, 2018                    Economic Development City Staff Report
PAGE 22   July 25, 2018  Economic Development City Staff Report
“Relocation and refurbishment of the Gold Pan as recommended in the Brand Communication Plan.”
THE BRAND COMMUNICATIONS PLAN DID NOT SUGGEST MOVING THE GOLD PAN. 

October 2, 2018              Economic Development Transition Strategy Report – FINAL  Page 66
Presented to Council on October 2, 2018 Action:  
· Implementing the wayfinding strategy currently in development.
· Relocation and refurbishment of the Gold Pan as recommended in the
Brand Communication Plan.
ACCORDING TO OUR RESEACH, THE CITY MANAGER’S “FACT CHECKING” IS MISLEADING OR IN ERROR AS THERE IS NO MENTION OF MOVING THE GOLD PAN AT THIS POINT. 

November 27, 2018        Economic Development City Staff Report
Wayfinding and Placemaking Community Engagement Workshop
Page 26  Initial Research – Gold Pan shown as Landmarks and Attractions
ACCORDING TO OUR RESEACH, THE CITY MANAGER’S “FACT CHECKING” IS MISLEADING OR IN ERROR AS THERE IS NO MENTION OF MOVING THE GOLD PAN AT THIS POINT.

October 9, 2019              Council Standing Committee Executive Meeting
Members: Laurey-Anne Roodenburg, Ron Paull, Tony Goulet
Gold pan relocation [attached map]
• BC Rail has approved the City request to allow the installation of the gold pan in the parking lot adjacent to the Station House to allow easy access for travelers arriving by vehicle and rail and close proximity to the Quesnel & District Museum and Visitor Information Centre.
• Staff has estimated a relocation cost of approximately $7000
• The Gold pan should be refurbished prior to re-installation at the new site, bearing in mind City branding requirements.
19-09-22 MOVED Councillor Paull, Seconded Councillor Goulet and resolved: THAT the Executive Committee recommend that Quesnel City Council approve the relocation of the gold pan from its current site.

October 22, 2019            Minutes 19-23-428 Moved Councillor Paull, Seconded Councillor Vik and resolved: THAT Council directs City staff to bring a report to Council outlining all options considered for the relocation of the Gold Pan.
DEFEATED
19-23-429 Moved Councillor Roodenburg, Seconded Councillor Goulet and resolved: THAT Council approves the Executive committee recommendation to relocate the City’s Gold Pan sign from its current site on Highway 97 North to the BC Rail lands adjacent to the stationhouse, located at 710 Legion Drive, Quesnel BC;
AND THAT Council approves the funding for relocation and refurbishing of the City’s Gold Pan sign be included in the City of Quesnel’s 2020 budget.
Carried (5-2)
OPPOSED: Paull

November 20, 2019        Request by Debra McKelvie under Freedom of Information Act for all information regarding the relocation of the gold pan.  Response provided below :

City of Quesnel response:

 

November 28, 2019                                                                           Via:  debramckelvie@yahoo.ca

 Your Request File No. 11-19-2

 Dear Debra McKelvie:

 Re:         Request for Access to Records under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (the “Act”)                                                                                                                                      

As per Section 8 of the Act, we have thoroughly searched the City’s records and found records to your revised/clarification of your request dated November 27, 2019 for records on the following: 

Primarily we are looking for information with respect to Councils decision to relocate the gold pan from three years ago as stated by Mayor Simpson.

 The City has located the following records: 

·       Repainting the gold pan is mentioned in the Brand Communications Plan: https://www.quesnel.ca/sites/default/files/uploads/reports/quesnel_brand_communications_plan_draft.pdf and this report which I brought to the January 20, 2017 Executive Committee outlining the plan: https://quesnel.civicweb.net/filepro/documents/84686?preview=85791

·       January 2017 Executive Committee Agenda:  https://quesnel.civicweb.net/filepro/documents/84686?preview=85793&splitscreen=true

 ·       February 7, 2017 Special Open Council Meeting – New Brand:  https://quesnel.civicweb.net/filepro/documents/85537?preview=86285&splitscreen=true

 ·       February 7, 2017 Special Open Council Meeting – Meeting Minutes:  https://quesnel.civicweb.net/filepro/documents/86147?preview=87669

 ·       Implementing the relocation and refurbishment as mentioned in the Brand Communications Plan is reiterated in the Economic Development Transition Strategy: https://www.quesnel.ca/sites/default/files/uploads/reports/92-18-2-quesnel_economic_transition_strategy-final.pdf (p. 9).  Council adopted this at the October 2, 2018 Regular Council Meeting:  https://quesnel.civicweb.net/filepro/documents/98725?preview=106001 

 ·       The Brand Steering Committee  Reviewed:

 o   Moving and repainting the gold pan was suggested in the Wayfinding and Placemaking Audit and Recommendations (p. 16 and 35, 1st attachment); and

o   Early ideas were presented in the Placemaking Schematic Design (2nd attachment). 

Under Section 52 of the Act you may ask the Information and Privacy Commissioner to review any matter related to the City’s response to your request.  The Act allows you 30 days from the date you receive this notice to request a review by writing to:

 Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner

P.O. Box 9038, Stn. Prov. Govt.

Victoria, B.C.  V8W 9A4

Telephone:  250.387.5629  Fax:  250.387.1696

 If you request a review, please provide the Commissioner’s office with:

 1.           The request number assigned to your request (11-19-2).

2.           A copy of this letter;

3.           A copy of your original request for information;

4.           Detailed reasons or grounds on which you are seeking the review.

 Please do not hesitate to contact the undersigned at 250.991.7458 should you have any questions or concerns regarding this letter.

 Sincerely,

 Original Signed by Kari Bolton 

Kari Bolton

Head of FOIPPA

 /gla

 Attachment

1.     Copy of Applicant’s Request for Records – Dated November 20, 2019 & Applicant’s Clarification of Original Request – Dated November 27, 2019

2.     City of Quesnel Wayfinding & Placemaking Report - Audit & Recommendations

City of Quesnel - Placemaking - Schematic Design – R1




 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

July 8, 2020

July 7, 2020 City Council Meeting # 18
City Staff Report regarding June 23, 2020 outburst by the Mayor states:

Administration Report #70/20 - Correct the Record -

"Misrepresentation of Council's Decision Making Process - City Manager to Report (Late Agenda Attachment) Administration Report #70/20 was brought forward to correct the public record around the misrepresentations made in public by Councillor Ron Paull of Council's decision making process regarding the relocation of the gold pan sign to the BCR Railway Station House located at 710 Legion Drive."

Shouldn't these minutes state Councillor Paull had 15 minutes to defend the allegations of misrepresentations made by the Mayor? Or are minutes to only provide what the City wants recorded? The allegations were made by the Mayor, in a written letter. 
The City Manager, at the last minute prepare a report which was provided at the last minute and and his "Fact Checking" was an embarrassment.  Maybe the reason for the last minute report was so it could not be challenged!


At this same meeting Council was presented with:

Our Vision and Mission

VALUES
• Fiscal prudence
• Proactive planning
• Accountability
Openness and transparency
• Responsiveness
• Partnerships
• Creativity and innovation
Integrity and respect
• Fairness and inclusivity

Actions of the Mayor prove this is not being adhered to. 
 

 

 

 

July 2, 2020

City Council Meeting June 23, 2020

 

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KUhNHAz9Bas&t=5025s

At about 1:28 on the video of the Council Meeting watch Councillor Ron Paull try to defend himself against allegations made by the Mayor that he falsely stated  Council did not provide the public with information regarding moving the Gold Pan until late 2019.   The Mayor becomes unhinged  and would not let Councillor Paull present his case without his constant angry interruptions.  So sad the other councillors, or the City Manager did not step in when the Mayor was out of order.

From 1:20 - 1:28 on the video, City Manager, Byron Johnson, provides a report and states he "fact checked" for information where council discussed moving the Gold Pan.  Stay tuned!

 

June 3, 2020

Please - Do not move our Gold Pan

From this "Natural" site

To this noisy, concrete jungle

A Little History of Our Gold Pan!

February 11, 1987 | Quesnel Cariboo Observer

Quesnel's $20,000 effort to build the largest gold pan in the world is almost on the launch pad.

To be located at the junction of Highways 26 and 97, plans include extending the site currently occupied by the Wells-Barkerville tourist bureau. The city intends to mount the 18 to 25 ft. high structure into the mound created last year to pay tribute to Expo 86. Accompanying the gold pan will be the world's largest mock gold nugget and the world's largest shovel and pick.

Early May has been set as a tentative opening celebration for the new tourist attraction. The 'Goldpan Park' is expected to be a focal point for visitors and will also include the Quesnel and District Chamber of Commerce city map billboard. The huge structure — which currently sits along side Highway 97 South, is expected to be moved to its new location to coincide with the opening. The sign features a map of the city on one side and promotes Troll Resort on the other. 
From the Quesnel Cariboo Observer

 

The Sign replacing our Gold Pan site

____________________________________

 

                                              December 18, 2019


After 10 years of fighting for the right to keep Johnston Neighbourhood free from secondary suites, last nights council meeting ended it all. A special thanks to Ron Campbell for being there as the President of the Neighbourhood Association and his concern for our area.
Councillor Ron Paull, my husband and a resident of this neighbourhood we thank you for caring and everything you have done for this neighbourhood and for the City.  Thank you for being the only Councillor that cared enough to vote no to the Official Community Plan that dictates what the Zoning Bylaw regarding Secondary Suites could be.

I guess it is time for me to face the fact this world is changing and is not what I want for my grandchildren but have to conceded, the fight is now theirs. 

But...I have to undo something I did.

As my last posting was just after the election in 2014 when I thought Bob Simpson would be the best thing for Quesnel I have to set the record straight.  I was so wrong!  It appears to me this man is a bully and doesn't want people to see him in action even though the costs of live streaming is under 10,000.  He promised in 2014 he would have it up and running in February 2015. 

As far as I am concerned Bob Simpson is destroying Quesnel by trying to change history, or just rewrite it.  So sad, as the pioneers that build this town do not deserve to be discarded.   All the pictures of past councils in City Hall have been replace with, what looks to me, like native art.  

Taking away our Gold heritage and replacing "Gold Pan City" with "It's in our Nature" says a lot...Simpson wants Quesnel to be another Whistler, a place with no history.  The silly million dollar way-finding signs are such a waste of money.  Is it wise for money to be spent on trails on Dragon Mountain while  neighbourhoods are without sidewalks?  Strange priorities!  Really do all the changes  we see in town have anything to do with nature?  Do any of the signs, such as "share the road" protect our "Nature" or just ruin the landscape?

 And...the last straw is moving the large gold pan to a location across from the museum where no one will see it when the bypass goes in.  I am sure he is hoping the attempt to move it will create problems and ruin it.  Hopefully the taxpayers of Quesnel will take action and the Gold Pan will not be moved. 


We are not Whistler, and never will be.  Whistler has no history...but this seems to be the direction of this Mayor and his councillors are following his lead...except for one councillor that has represented and supported  this city for over 40 years as a public servant.
I hope the new councillors learn they are there to represent the people not to rubber stamp everything the mayor wants.

 

 

November 20, 2014

My Work With Quesnelnews is now Complete
 
 I apologize for not keeping you updated on the election results but I was in the hospital and was too sick to even care.  What a great hospital we have and the Doctors,nurses and other staff were fantastic. 
 
 I am very happy the voters put  Ron back at the council table. It will be so nice to get him out of the house!  Seriously though, he is such an asset to this community. Thanks for all the support!
 
 I must say the outcome with Mayor Mary losing by so much made me feel a lot better though.  I feel vindicated!  My prediction was Bob would get 75%.  He did get 71% so my optimism was not far off. 
 
 With Bob Simpson as mayor our City will see major changes.  Most importantly is he will make sure this City is open and transparent. I doubt a councillor will ever have to make an FOI request to gain information.  I doubt a councillor will be stripped of their committees and have their travel allowance take away to be used by other councillors. Every line item of the budget will be reviewed.   I believe it will not be long before we can view each council meeting live on the internet.

 All the changes with Bob's ideas, supported by council, will make all other municipalities envious and they will be following our council’s example. 
 Thank you Bob for caring enough to run for Mayor!  And thanks to the voters that made this a reality.

Thanks for reading and good bye! 

 

November 6, 2014

New Candidates Forum a Great Success
 

Ernest Gamache's idea that the public needed to hear from only the new candidates running for municipal office made sense.  He stated the current council has had three years to inform the public of their views. The audience was given the opportunity to ask questions of the candidates and I believe no one left disappointed.  All the candidates were knowledgeable on all the issues.  Shawna Siemens was not present as she has withdrawn from the race.

This forum was unlike the Chamber of Commerce's All Candidates Forum where the Chamber screened all written questions before they were asked and no questions from the floor were allowed. 

Other communities like Saanich and Nanaimo offered their new candidates the same opportunity to be heard.  

Unlike other elections and after hearing and speaking personally with the new candidates I would like to see them all elected so I am posting what I believe would make the best council for Quesnel.

Bob Simpson for Mayor: Inclusive governance...extensive knowledge of the forest industry and well informed on all issues

Council:

Ron Paull: Spending and Seniors Care
Sushil Thapar: Honesty and Transparency
Ernest Gamache: Best Value for the Dollar
Kyle Jones: New Innovative Ideas


Ed Coleman
Scott Elliott

All men, yes but it is time again, we started selecting the best people for the job. Please give this list to your friends!
 

Janice is Back!!!

If you can still get tickets go see Janice Butler's latest show the "Fantastics" at the Kersley Hall.  Great show and superb acting!  We are so lucky to have such talent in our community.  (the mention of Ron Paull losing his hat did not go unnoticed).
We asked our grandkids on the way home what the show was about and our 6 year old grandson said "love".
This show is a fund raiser for Bev Pontius who is struggling with a medical condition. 
Get your tickets now!

November 3, 2014

New Candidates Forum
November 5th
Seniors Center 7:00pm


This to give people the opportunity to find out what the new candidates have to say about the issues and to actually ask them questions.

____________________

  BOB SIMPSON

I will post responses to rumors if I feel they need to be addressed...as this one does.

Bob Simpson's response from his facebook page:
Elect Bob Simpson for Mayor of Quesnel

October 23 · Edited

It has come to my attention that there is a rumour being spread that I do not support the Arena Replacement Project and would stop this project if I am elected as Mayor. This is especially disturbing to me because it has caused unnecessary fear and concern among the parents and volunteers who have worked so hard to get this project approved and a new arena built.

 So, I want to set the record straight: I actively supported the Multi-centre as your MLA and I unequivocally support the expedited replacement of our current arena.

 I voted YES on the referendum (even though I can’t skate and I don’t personally use the arena) because we need a new arena as part of our full complement of sports and recreation facilities. A replacement for the arena is long overdue and, if elected as Mayor, I would do everything in my power to expedite this project — anyone suggesting otherwise is simply fear-mongering for political reasons.

 The arena project is not a function of the City of Quesnel, it is a Joint Planning Committee project. This eleven member committee is made up of the Mayor, six City Councillors, and the four Northern Directors of the CRD. All members of this committee have an equal voice and vote, so no one newly elected member of that committee could stall or stop the arena project even if they wanted to. The people suggesting that if I am elected as Mayor I would single-handedly revisit, stall or stop the arena project are not only misrepresenting my position, they are misrepresenting the process. It is nonsensical to suggest that any single member of Joint Planning could interfere with the arena project.

 Along with supporting getting a new arena I would also, if elected, immediately begin working with the Theatre and Arts groups to continue working toward getting a community theatre and arts facility — the part of the original Multi-Centre Project that was lost when we failed to secure federal government financial support for that project.

 I don’t accept that rumour-mongering and disinformation are "just part of politics.” That is a cynical view of the political process that I reject and have worked hard to change. If we want good, community-minded people to run for political office then each of us must actively reject any claims made about candidates that are not based on fact or that we haven’t validated ourselves. The best way to do this is to simply ask candidates directly if what is being said about them is true.

 If you hear things about who I am as a person or what I stand for that you want clarity about please get in touch with me directly, either through Facebook, my website (www.bobsimpsonformayor.ca) or by phone (250-255-1433).

 We are a community in transition and we must work together to build a sustainable future, please don’t let the rumour and fear mongers divide us. Please help me spread the word to set the record straight. I appreciate your support and welcome your comments.

 

October 15, 2014

Tri-City News

COLUMN: 5 terrible reasons to run for municipal office

·       posted Oct 24, 2013 at 12:00 PM

Ever wonder what motivates a person to run for municipal council?

In many Alberta communities this year, there are high numbers of candidates for council as well as many mayoral hopefuls. But it seems that with every election, I repeatedly hear the same misguided and even mendacious rationales for taking the plunge.

As a former councillor, I’m dismayed and even irritated by people who expect the voter to select them when they haven’t done their homework and they don’t have the right intentions.

Here are my top five bad reasons to run:

• “People are ready for change!”

Newsflash: Every new candidate says that every election. Sometimes it’s true; sometimes it’s just perception.

If the best you can do is “Hey, I’m new!”… I mean, come on. You need to understand taxation, budgets, financial statements, water, sewer, garbage, road construction, residential/commercial/industrial development, the role of governance, inter-municipal relations, bylaws, social and economic development, and more.

Have you done your homework on this stuff? Do you have informed positions? Do you have proven leadership experience? Have you ever even sat on a board?

As a voter, I need to know about what qualifies you for the job and that you get it. Simply representing “change” is woefully inadequate.

• “I’m going to clean house!”

Uh, no you’re not.

If you envision yourself walking into city hall taking over operations, firing a bunch of people and generally sticking your nose into administration’s business, you’re in for a rude awakening.

If you want to manage your town or city, apply for the job. The CAO’s job is management; your role as a councillor is governance. You don’t get to direct the staff. You are not the bylaw officer, the public works foreman or the HR director. In fact, you have only one employee: the CAO.

Get a new guy and you still don’t have the right to manage the municipality. Besides, removal would take a majority vote of council and would cost the ratepayers a whole bunch of money.

You don’t have to like the manager or any of the staff but as a councillor, you are legally bound to do things properly. (Spoiler alert: You’re going to take an oath to that effect if you get elected.)

• “We have to get rid of the current corrupt/secretive/self-serving/incompetent bunch!”

Ah, the ever-popular “anti” campaign. This tactic, sadly, is often successful. It resonates with coffee klatches and angry people.

The problem is that while it may get you elected, it’s a poor foundation for being an effective mayor or member of council.

The day after you “get rid” of the last bunch, you have to actually do something. You will have a bunch of important decisions in front of you, stuff that is already in process, that the previous council you thought was so useless was working hard to consider and that perhaps you should have put some time into understanding.

Anybody can tear down — tell me what you are going to build.

• “I’m going to make fiscal responsibility my No. 1 priority!”

This may well be the most irresponsible statement of all. If all you want to do is find ways to save money, then let’s abolish property taxes right now and we can all go home.

Yes, fiscal accountability and responsible spending are very, very important. And no one likes paying taxes, me included. But the No. 1 responsibility of the councillor is not fiscal responsibility — it is to build community infrastructure for future generations. Shame on you if in five, 10 or 25 years there is no water or sewer capacity, or the roads are falling to pieces, or there are insufficient playgrounds and recreation opportunities because you were busy pinching pennies instead of building a community.

There are good councillors and bad councillors everywhere. Some mayors and councillors who should never be in office get elected, and sometimes people are justifiably upset by actions and decisions. I get that.

But to the voter: Can we agree to make informed decisions at the polls instead of vilifying the entire group without, in many cases, even a basic understanding of the role, the decisions, the full story? How about those critical thinking skills, gang?

Why should you actually run for council?

You should run because you wish to serve your community, to provide good leadership, to plan and build for the future. You should run because you have a contribution to make, ideas to be shared, passion that won’t abate and a commitment to do the right thing no matter what. You should run if you understand that you will have to sacrifice popularity and family time, and that you will have to sometimes make decisions that benefit the community as a whole but don’t benefit you personally. You should run if you want a better future for your grandchildren, and your grandchildren’s grandchildren.

If any of the five terrible reasons I mentioned frame up your election campaign, take heart, it’s not too late. You can withdraw from the race now and free up a seat for qualified people with proper intent. Or you can reflect on your intentions and set a new course with a commitment to serve your community for the all the right reasons.

 Danielle Klooster is a Penhold, Alta. town councillor. This column was originally published in the Red Deer Advocate, a sister newspaper of The Tri-City News.

October 11, 2014

The following provides a list of candidates for the upcoming November municipal elections.  Interesting to note in the City there are only two people running for mayor so this will make for a very exciting election with, and I look forward to, great debates and major changes.


Candidate List - City of Quesnel

Mayor

Bob Simpson
Mary Sjostrom
 

Coucillors

John Wilson Brisco
Ed Coleman
Scott Elliott
Ernest Gamache
Kyle Jones
Ron Paull
Laurey Anne Roodenburg
Shawna Siemens
Sushil Thapar

 

Candidate List - Cariboo Regional District


Area A

 Ted Armstrong
 Cory Delves
 Susan MacNeill

Area B

 Jerry Bruce
Heloise Dixon-Warren


Area I

 Dylan Cash
Jim Glassford
 

Area C Director John Massier re-elected via acclamation for 4 year term

Also there is a referendum on HandyDART for those in Areas A, B, C and I. Question is:

Are you in favour of the adoption of Bylaw No. 4917, which would increase the maximum annual taxation for a contribution toward the cost of HandyDART transit services in rural areas to the greater of $70,000 or an amount raised by applying a tax rate of $0.07233/$1,000 to the net taxable value of land and improvements in the service area? (Based on 2014 assessed values, this translates to a maximum residential rate of $7.03/$100,000 to the net taxable assessed value of improvements.) 

Candidate List - School District #28
School Trustee

 David Chapman
 Wendy Clement
 Tony Goulet
 Mitch Guitard
 Gloria Jackson
 Angela Mezzatesta
 George Natalizio 
 Julie-Anne Runge 
 Howie Schonke
 

_____________________________________

 District of Wells

Mayor
Robin Sharpe - re-elected by acclamation

Councillor (4 to be elected):

Kelsey Dodd
Tyler Doerksen
Mandy Kilsby
Lorraine Kozar
 Phil Leroy
Robert Machan
 Virginia Wilkins
 Richard Wright

 

September 22, 2014

 

My apologies for not posting the current events of council but...since Bob Simpson declared he is running for council I decided to change my priorities for the summer.   I will now try to provide information I find important.

Now is the time to get involved...Run for council and help build this community. 

BOB SIMPSON RUNS FOR MAYOR

Mary Sjostrom Seeks Third Term As Mayor Of Quesnel

 

July 3, 2014

Council Defeats Their Own Bylaw
to Impose Secondary Suites


After years of trying to convince residents to accept basement suites throughout Quesnel, some Councillors on Monday night felt the pressure and voted to yield to the overwhelming opposition, by agreeing that the proposed bylaw is not in the best interest of the people of Quesnel.
 
Sushil Thapar whom we all know was not in favour of this type of dictatorship was joined with Laurey Anne Roodenburg and John Brisco.  Apparently Mary Sjostrom stated she was in favour of this bylaw but seeing as Ed Coleman did not attend this meeting her vote was not required as it was 3 against and 2 for. 

It appears to me this change of heart had nothing to do with representing the people of Quesnel but their fear of the upcoming election and their previous votes on this unpopular decision.

We need to thank Ron Paull and Susan Maile for all they did in relentlessly keeping residents of Johnston Neighbourhood informed of this important issue.  This is a big win for this area as it has always been zoned Single Family and now let's hope it stays that way and council will not allow secondary suites in single family zones by allowing "spot zoning" changes.
 
If you go back and look at the City's agendas they have been dealing with this issue prior to 2009 and it is time it is put to rest.  This has cost residents far more than it should and that money could have been used for a much more needed purpose.  Now lets hope staff can get on to other  important issues and leave this one alone. May I suggest making our CIty more business friendly with easier access to building permits?
 

June 20, 2014

Bob Simpson announces he will be running for Mayor of Quesnel

Check out his facebook page!

 

June 14, 201

The Referendum for the borrowing of 7.5 million for the arena was an overwhelming success today.  2273 YES and 962 NO. It is pretty sad so many eligible to vote didn't even bother.  
Now we hope the work begins to provide an arena that we can all be proud of. 

 

June 1, 2014

When Will They Ever Learn?

Driving downtown today I noticed a vehicle with a "Vote Yes" for the new arena proposal sign in  their back window.  So are we back to this again...a Yes Committee?  Is Carol Pitkin being paid again to promote this plan?
While most agree a new arena is necessary they do not agree with the cost or trust the current politicians with this decision.   

Take a look at the plans on the City's website and see how much parking there will be and how difficult it will be to get in and out...and how it reduces the parking for the Seniors Centre. Where will people park while the new arena is being constructed? Isn't it  obvious the architects are from a major city where walking a few blocks to an event is minor?

After the 100's of thousands to construct the "Civic Plaza" it will be ripped out and replaced and is it necessary?

YES we need a new arena but a well thought out plan not just a whim of the current council wanting to build a monument before the November election. 

Read the following. Over 8 years ago this was a priority so why has this taken so long?  Poor leaders with other priorities?
 

April 19 2006, 9:54 AM 

 
I have lived in Quesnel for 25 years but was not involved when the BCHL admitted Quesnel to the league. I am now involved in the arena concern and I am the president of the Quesnel Multi-Centre society. Our task is to get a new facility in Quesnel. We have been at it for over a year and will shortly have a feasibility study presented to the local politicians of the City of Quesnel and the North Cariboo Regional District. These people determine the future of our efforts. On May 9, we will make a very important presentation to the Joint Planning Council (all the politicians). Every user and visitor to the arena is correct. It must be replaced. Our community pride is affected. We are not proud of the condition of the arena, but do have a very dedicated group that is constantly keeping the issue of the community needs in front of the politicians. Anything any of you out there could do to help our political leaders feel the pressure would be appreciated. The last study of the facility recommened total replacement as there was "not much left to put band aids on." In Quesnel molasses do flow uphill in the winter and summer, but at an unbelievable slow rate. There are good community people involved. It will happen. You can send ideas to us at daretodream@telus.net and look at our web site www.quesnelmulticentre.ca. thanks for all help and ideas.

 

 

May 21, 2014

Meeting with Concerned Citizens about Recreational Spending tonight
was very informative.  Was a refreshing common sense approach to our new arena.

Power Point Presentation
By Ernest Gamache

We are hearing rumors about the ice surface in Arena 1 being compromised
so I decided to check on the City's website for concerns about "heaves", "rusted pipes" etc and found nothing in the past records.

Some can try and convince the taxpayers we need a new arena at a different location but the last referendum didn't prove anything to them so hopefully common sense will prevail in June and after the elections in November the next JPC will be making the decisions.
 
It is time for action and the Joint Planning Committees to date have wasted so much time and money we need elected officials we can trust to do what is best for our community. From what I found on the City's website JPC started discussing a new arena in 2002.  Now 12 years later we are getting closer so why the urgency right now?  Yes, we need an improved arena but why aren't all options considered? 

May 19, 2014

Why Does the City Have Employment Contracts If They Will Not Enforce Them?

Mike Bolch's contract stated he would return a specific portion of the moving expenses he received from the City but...he returned nothing.  Bolch was provided with $9990.60 of the maximum $10000.00.   How many of the City Councillors would treat their personal money the same way they do public funds?

 

May 14, 2014

We need a new arena done the right way
Invest in an alternative plan on the existing site
 
Arena Public Information Meeting
Wednesday May 21 at 7pm
Best WesternTower Inn

presented by CCARS
(Concerned Citizens about Recreational Spending)
_____________________

Another Buyout at City Hall

Mike Bolch, Director of Public Works and Engineering is no longer on the City's payroll.  He was paid the following for being there less than a year.

Salary      25819.02

Benefits     5163.80
Total        30982.82

His contract also states he would be given a maximum of 10000.00 for moving expenses but if he did not fulfill his contract he would pay the City back on a pro rated basis.  The City has not responded with the amount he paid back. 

I requested the reason for his leaving but the city refused to state why, but the rumor about his departure makes one wonder why he was paid anything at all.  I understand when employees threaten this city council with court action these politicians decide to pay the employees rather than the lawyers.  Doesn't this mean regardless of the behaviour the employee will be given a "bonus"? 

April 14, 2014

Finally, a Common Sense  idea for the Arena

Ernest Gamache presented plans for upgrading the existing facilities to JPC

City council and the CRD directors have decided to go to another $20,000 referendum in June.  They want permission to borrow money for a new arena.  Perhaps after this referendum is defeated these decision makers will realize this community does want to borrow money for a monument for these politicians. 

SECONDARY SUITES

The City Hall meeting on Wednesday April 16th has been cancelled by the City. 

 

March 27, 2014

New Arena Meeting

An over capacity crowd attended the Legion to learn more about Joint Planning's proposal for a new arena They provided several drawings and pictures of other arenas with their building costs.  These will be on display at the Arena.

I felt everyone in the room was in favour of a new arena but the only stumbling block is can they trust those in Joint Planning when these are the same people that spent far too much money pushing for the Multi-centre and I felt were not honest about the costs. 

One thing said last night that really stood out for me was when it was asked about the cost of the Port Alberni arena we were informed that was 2005, and prices have changed.  Well, that question was asked about the 30 million for the Multi-Centre and we were told the cost would NOT increase, even five years after the original cost estimate.

Another concern is the "dry" space.  There are no real drawings pertaining to this area of the arena.  There does not need to be space for conferences and I have no objection to some smaller meeting rooms but I don't want to see a City/CRD project compete with private business. 

According to those conducting the meeting the Arena would not start construction until the Spring so a referendum with the election in November makes financial sense. 

 

February 16, 2014

City of Quesnel Affordable Housing Strategy

What a contradiction this Report is!

Vision states: “equal opportunity of people of all ages, cultures, lifestyles and abilities.”
Well, the lifestyle of the residents of Johnston Neighbourhood are being totally ignored. The petitions, the opposition, and the reasons for the opposition of secondary suites in this area are not even considered or mentioned in this report.

Challenge states: “more and better housing is needed for homeless people.” “Our neighbourhoods currently lack the diversity of housing types or residents increasingly need.”  Does this mean a few people should dictate to those with a vested income in their neighbourhoods?

Leading Role states: “the City and its partners have jointly developed the Affordable Housing Strategy to address the housing needs in a sustainable way.” Who are their partners?  Why weren't neighbourhood Associations invited to be partners?

Page 16 Action: "In close consultation with residents and stakeholders, a new by-law is drafted that specifies under what conditions secondary suites are allowed in residential areas." Doesn't this give one the impression they listened to the residents?  Doesn't this give one the impression there will be areas that will remain single family dwellings?

One question I have asked the Provincial government is why someone with an income producing property is allowed the homeowners grant.  I will provide their response when I receive it.

February 13, 2014

Repeal of Seatbelt Exemption
Sam MacLeod

When does it go into effect?

 Legislated amendments to the Motor Vehicle Act that were passed in 2010 will come into effect February 26, 2014. The amendments repeal the authority for the Superintendent and medical practitioners to exempt seat belt use for medical reasons. 

Why change the regulations?

Seat belts are critical safety mechanisms, and allowing drivers to be exempt from wearing one increases their chance of injury and death, something we don’t want to happen. 

  • Countless studies show seat belts save lives; seat belt use is one of the most proven measures to reduce injury in a collision.  
  • Doctors of BC (formerly the BC Medical Association) and Canadian Medical Association have confirmed that there are no medical circumstances that justify exemption from wearing a seat belt.  
  • The change addresses concerns from the medical community, decreases pressure for medical practitioners to provide exemptions for wearing a seat belt, and limits the use of government resources for adjudication requests. 

How many exemptions have been issued and how do you qualify for a lifetime exemption? 

  • There have been approximately 100 seat belt exemptions granted by the Office of the Superintendent of Motor Vehicles (OSMV) since 2002.   Temporary exemptions issued directly by medical practitioners are not tracked by OSMV.  Existing exemptions issued to drivers prior to the effective date of this change will be grandfathered, until expiry of the exemption.  
Decisions regarding lifetime exemptions are made on a case by case basis by the OSMV driver medical fitness team, using medical evidence, guidelines and best practice.

February 11, 2011

Quesnel Library Closed By Flooding

By 250 News

Tuesday, February 11, 2014 07:52 AM


Quesnel, B.C. – Officials with the Cariboo Regional District are dealing with a flooding problem in Quesnel.

CRD Communications Manager Shelly Burich says the district’s Quesnel Branch Library sustained an as yet unknown amount of damage caused by flooding which occurred sometime over the Family Day long weekend.

The library has been closed as a result while the situation is assessed and repairs are made.

editors note: wonder who is paying for the repairs?
City Taxpayers
?
 

February 2, 2014


CITY SUGGESTS REVERSE ANGLE PARKING
 

REVERSE-ANGLE PARKING is being experimented with on 1st Street as a possible way to increase the number of parking spots in downtown Cleveland. Banner photo, DAVID DAVIS

What a mess parking on Reid Street will be with reverse angle parking.  Imagine a small car trying to get out from between two trucks.  Also what about the overhang onto the sidewalk with pickup trucks?  Would Council just ban truck parking on Reid Street?

Will business owners appreciate the exhaust from the vehicles being directed into their stores?

Please take a look at the following sites regarding reverse angle parking.  Most of these sites show examples of cars parking this way with very few, if any, pickup trucks, also from what I see the reverse parking they discuss is not on their main streets. 

http://sacramentopress.com/2012/02/27/the-ins-
and-outs-of-back-in-angled-parking/

http://www.debate.org/debates/Reverse-angle-
parking-is-better-than-head-in-angled-parking-on-streets./1/

http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20130908/
ARTICLE/130909670#gsc.tab=0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j2qzRiNT3Fw

http://www.streetsblog.org/2008/01/03/the-
case-against-pull-in-angle-parking/

http://thegazette.com/2011/06/09/farewell-back-in-angle-parking/

NOW WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN?

Does the following give a clear picture to Council and the CRD regarding Recreation in Quesnel and Area?
What  was the benefit of asking City residents about using  Parkland Recreation areas?


Quesnel Area Recreation Survey Questions

Results

Summary or Results
 

December 18, 2013
Wishing all a very Merry Christmas
and a very prosperous 2014! 

November 14, 2013

 

What happens to the Money?
thewolfonline.ca

Minister Coralee Oakes confirmed today Quesnel gets to keep the 4 million for recreation facility purposes.

November 10, 2012

CKPG TV

Thank you voters for proving money doesn't buy votes!

EDITORIAL BY PAT MORTON


Now It is time to replace the arena. 

The City/CRD or more correctly, us taxpayers,  paid Wylie Bysted and Carol Pitkin to sell us on the politicians' vision of a Multi-Centre.  I am sure with their contracts and all the staff time, printing and advertising they spent  10's of thousands of our tax dollars to sell what some termed to be a Taj Mahal.   In their promotions they were not telling us the whole story by making several unfavourable reports from their consultants virtually impossible to find on their websites. In fact, it appeared to me that it was not until I dug up the reports and posted them here on quesnelnews, the City/CRD made them easy to find on their website.  Sometimes the people need to force transparency!

A Coalition was formed which brought out all the earlier reports and these people researched the current demographics of Quesnel and provided information to the public.  Taxpayers really have to thank Eloise Dixon Warren for being the lone CRD Director that had the courage to care enough for the people she represent to provide information and she rightly refused to get involved with either the Yes or No campaign.  Eloise simply made sure people were informed.  Heide Krause, spokesperson for the Coalition also made sure the people were properly informed and even held an Open House at the Legion where anyone could voice their opinion, unlike the intimidating town hall meetings held by the City/CRD, where politicians wore their purple Vote "Yes" shirts.  I think it was their obviously bias position that turned many voters against them.

Thanks to the caring individuals that spent their own time and money promoting "be informed". Thanks to those caring individuals that put up their own "Vote No" signs around town just to have them taken down or pasted over with "Yes".  This just goes to show, sometimes one can beat City Hall!

After a conversation I had with Carol Pitkin I was a little concerned about the "Yes" committees  lack of respect for the electorate.  She said it didn't matter what the outcome of the referendum was as they had until December 12th to come up with the money for the Multi-Centre. Now lets see if they do the right thing and listen to the majority and go to a "Plan B".  I sure would like to see some new faces on the Multi-Centre task force. 

  • Preliminary results for the Multi-Centre referendum extension:
    YES: 1526
    NO : 2070
    Official results next week.
     
    Seeing as the results  for NO are much higher than YES in 2008 lets hope there will be changes.  They should start
    planning the new arena now, in time for a referendum at next October's local government election.  A final thank you to my husband Ron, for the $100 bet he lost in our bet on the referendum.

 On another matter...after all this lets hope for changes with the way this council deals with the electorate.  Hopefully they will now listen to the residents of Johnston Neighbourhood and not force secondary suites in our area.