Williams Lake public meetings in 2025
48 substantive meetings from 2025, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Public Hearing
The Williams Lake City Council will hold a public hearing to consider adopting Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2429, 2025, which replaces the 2011 plan, and Zoning Bylaw No. 2430, 2025, which replaces the 2002 bylaw. Residents may speak at the hearing or submit written comments by email. Draft bylaws and supporting documents can be inspected at City Hall from Dec 2 to Dec 16, 2025, or viewed online. The hearing is scheduled for Dec 16, 2025 at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers.
- Adoption of Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2429, 2025
- Adoption of Zoning Bylaw No. 2430, 2025
- Public hearing on Dec 16, 2025 at 6:00 PM, Council Chambers, 450 Mart Street
- Residents may speak or submit written comments via [email protected]
- Draft bylaws available for inspection Dec 2‑16, 2025 at City Hall or www.williamslake.ca
Regular Council
The City of Williams Lake is considering the adoption of Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2429 and Zoning Bylaw No. 2430. Council will also review 2026 budget consultation results and various grant applications for airport and economic development projects.
- Public hearings for Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2429 and Zoning Bylaw No. 2430
- Proposed $136,000 fuel system upgrade at Williams Lake Regional Airport ($34,000 municipal contribution)
- Approval of $45,000 in 2026 Community Grants for 18 organizations
- Proposed $150,000 traffic calming project on Western Avenue ($125,000 grant, $25,000 city funds)
- Proposal to rename Kiwanis Park to 'Kiwanis-Rotary Park'
Committee of Whole Council
The Committee of Whole Council adopted its agenda and minutes from the November 25 meeting. Delegations provided updates on the Palmer Project and on a hazard, risk and vulnerability analysis and emergency plan. Council discussed a Sierra Club BC statement on coastal First Nations and voted to deny the Williams Lake Daybreak Rotary Club’s request to rename Kiwanis Park. The meeting was then adjourned.
- Adoption of agenda as presented
- Adoption of minutes from the November 25, 2025 meeting
- Delegation: Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd. update on Palmer Project
- Presentation: Update on Hazard, Risk & Vulnerability Analysis and Emergency Plan (MNP)
- Kiwanis Park Renaming Proposal – Council denied the request to rename the park
Special Council Meeting
Council is reviewing the preliminary 2026 Budget, 2026-2030 Financial Plan, and 10-Year Capital Plan. The body is discussing a recommendation to target a 0% budget increase in principle and plans to hold a public consultation session on December 9, 2025.
- Proposed 2026 capital expenditures of $18.9 million
- Identified $2.8 million shortfall for the 2026 proposed capital plan
- Staff cost increase of $559,955
- Policing cost increase of $366,480
- Potential $14 million cost escalation for the Water Treatment Plant
Regular Council
Council will consider the first and second readings of Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2429 and Zoning Bylaw No. 2430, and schedule a public hearing for December 16, 2025. The meeting also includes approvals for a three‑year Handy‑Dart service renewal with the Cariboo Regional District, the award of a one‑year lease for the Airport café to On the Fly Coffee & Tea, and the adoption of the 2026 regular council meeting schedule and Acting Mayor designations.
- First and second readings of Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2429 and Zoning Bylaw No. 2430
- Three‑year Handy‑Dart renewal agreement with the Cariboo Regional District
- Award of Airport café lease to On the Fly Coffee & Tea (one‑year term, optional three‑year extension)
- Adoption of the 2026 regular council meeting dates
- Designation of councillors as Acting Mayor for each month of 2025/2026
Committee of Whole Council
The Committee of Whole Council will review a preliminary 2026 budget, 2026-2030 financial plan, and 10-year capital plan. Council is also discussing appointments to community committees and a proposal for an outdoor winter skating area on Williams Lake.
- Preliminary 2026 Budget, 2026-2030 Financial Plan and 10-Year Capital Plan
- Proposed outdoor winter skating area on Williams Lake with estimated budget increase of $15,000 - $20,000
- 2026 Council and community committee appointments
- Update on the Palmer Project from Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd.
- Proposed list of climate projects from the Cariboo Climate Circle
Regular Council
The City of Williams Lake is reviewing several service agreements, including a new Sunday transit schedule and a BC SPCA contract. Council will also consider grant applications for road safety and school routes, and a value engineering contract for the Water Treatment Plant.
- BC SPCA Pound Services Operating Agreement: $25,994.40 annually for three years
- Sunday transit service MOU with BC Transit: additional cost of $53,481 starting April 2026
- Water Treatment Plant Value Engineering contract to NCE Value Engineers Inc.: $137,000 (excluding GST)
- BC Vision Zero grant application for Western Avenue traffic calming: $30,000 total project value
- Green Municipal Fund application for Safe and Active School Routes: $125,000
Regular Council
Williams Lake City Council will consider approving several grant applications for business improvements and emergency services, as well as a development permit for a storage shelter at 16 Broadway Avenue North. The meeting also includes a recommendation to pursue a mutual-aid fire agreement with neighboring districts and a three-year agreement with ICBC for parking at the Stampede grounds.
- Approve $20,000 NDIT grant for business façade improvements
- Approve up to $30,000 UBCM grant for emergency support services
- Approve development permit for storage shelter at 16 Broadway Avenue North
- Direct staff to pursue mutual-aid fire agreement with District of 100 Mile House and City of Quesnel
- Enter into three-year agreement with ICBC for parking at Stampede grounds
Special Council Meeting
The council will consider adopting Bylaw No. 2432, 2025, which provides a two‑year municipal tax exemption for properties owned by First Nations, charitable, philanthropic or other not‑for‑profit organizations used for public purposes in 2026‑2027. The bylaw lists specific properties in Schedules A‑F, such as Abraham’s Lodge & Care Society at 505 Wotzke Drive and the Guru Nanak Sikh Temple Society at 3024 Mackenzie Avenue N. The council will also receive the Chief Administrative Officer’s report dated October 10, 2025 and consider applications for Fee‑for‑Service funding for the 2026‑2028 term. After these items, the meeting will be adjourned.
- Adopt Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 2432, 2025 (tax exemption for listed nonprofit properties for 2026‑27)
- Review CAO report (Oct 10 2025) and consider Fee‑for‑Service funding applications for 2026‑2028 term
Committee of Whole Council
The Committee of Whole Council adopted its agenda and minutes, then received three informational presentations. Council members heard a request for an indoor multisport turf facility from Brian Hansen and Alexis Walch, an Asset Management Score Cards briefing from Sai Hong Chan, and a review of the Snow and Ice Policy from the Public Works manager. No formal decisions were taken on these items.
- Indoor Multisport Turf Facility presentation (information only)
- Asset Management Score Cards presentation (information only)
- Review of Snow and Ice Policy (information only)
- Adoption of agenda
- Adoption of minutes from October 14, 2025
Regular Council
The Williams Lake Council adopted its agenda and minutes, received a police budget update, and approved several financial and infrastructure items. Key decisions included endorsing a $390,000 Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program application with a $78,000 city match, awarding the Frizzi Storm Pond reconstruction contract, extending the outdoor space lease at 351 Hodgson Road, and adopting a highway closure bylaw pending ministry approval.
- Approve REDIP 2026 application for $390,000 over two years and city contribution up to $78,000
- Award Frizzi Storm Pond and Headwall Reconstruction contract to Peterson Contracting Ltd. for $321,847.41 (total project value $468,593.41, city share $93,718.68)
- Extend outdoor space rental at 351 Hodgson Road with Ledcor for six months at $1,500 per month
- Award tender for dried bulk highway salt to Amrize Canada Inc. at $243.06 per cubic metre
- Adopt Highway Closure & Removal of Highway Dedication Bylaw No. 2431, 2025, subject to Ministry of Transportation approval
Committee of Whole Council
The Committee of Whole Council is meeting to consider funding applications for the 2026-2028 Fee for Service term. The body will also receive information on the 2025 Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan and funding concerns for the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex Arena.
- Review of 2026-28 Fee for Service continued funding and new applications
- Presentation on the Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan 2025
- Presentation from Williams Lake Stampeders regarding Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex Arena funding and ice time
- Discussion on Regional Community Grant / Grants for Assistance applications
- Closed meeting to discuss litigation or potential litigation affecting the municipality
Regular Council
Council is reviewing grant applications for water infrastructure and a reservoir feasibility study. The meeting includes decisions on a permanent road closure on Sixth Avenue South and a new permissive tax exemptions bylaw.
- Grant application for up to $6 million for a new water reservoir in the Tower Crescent area
- Grant application for $120,000 for a Williams Lake Reservoir Feasibility Study
- Proposed permanent road closure of 3,040 m² on the 200 block of Sixth Avenue South
- Introduction of Permissive Tax Exemptions Bylaw No. 2432
- Proposal for a musical playground installation and renaming of Kiwanis Park to Rotary Park
Joint Committee
The Central Cariboo Joint Committee will decide whether to endorse the display of "The Goalie" chainsaw carving, a gift from the District of Chetwynd, in the arena lobby of the Cariboo Memorial Complex. It will also receive a discussion item on the CMRC policy for posting external publications and public artwork. Additional items include an Indigenous Relations Working Group request to plan a Phyllis Webstad mural and orange jersey project at the same arena, an update on the CMRC Naming Rights/Sponsorship policy, and a presentation on locations for harm‑reduction activities.
- Endorse display of "The Goalie" chainsaw carving gifted by the District of Chetwynd in the Cariboo Memorial Complex arena lobby
- Discuss CMRC Policy "Posting of External Publications and Public Artwork in the CMRC"
- Consider Indigenous Relations Working Group proposal for a Phyllis Webstad mural and orange jersey project at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex arena, including grant funding
- Review CMRC Naming Rights / Sponsorship Policy Update Report and provide direction on a draft policy
- Presentation by Interior Health officials on locations for harm‑reduction activities in Williams Lake
Regular Council
Williams Lake Council will consider a four-year fire protection agreement with the Cariboo Regional District and approve the purchase of 54 Rife Road for $1. The meeting also includes a public hearing on permissive tax exemptions and a request to waive sewer plug costs for the Stampede Association.
- Fire Protection Services Agreement with CRD (2025-2028)
- Purchase of 54 Rife Road for $1
- Permissive Property Tax Exemptions bylaw development
- Sewer plug cost forgiveness request denied for Stampede Association
- Council endorsement of Councillor Boehm to FCM Board
Committee of Whole Council
The Committee of Whole Council will receive a report from the Chief Financial Officer and provide direction on developing the 2026 budget and financial plan. Council will also consider a report on the city’s permissive property tax exemption program and give direction on the next‑term bylaw. An update on the shop hoist contract breach and related costs will be presented for information.
- Shop hoist update: court ordered contractor to pay $48,960.45; $41,400 of replacement costs to be drawn from capital savings.
- Permissive property tax exemptions review: 32 applications totalling $273,023 received; council to direct bylaw development for the next term.
- 2026 Budget & Financial Plan direction: CFO report (Aug 1 2025) to guide council’s budget development guidance.
Regular Council
The council will receive draft Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw documents and direct staff to begin public consultation through September. It will approve the timeline and direction for the 2026 financial plan and budget preparation. The council will consider two applications to the UBCM Strategic Priorities Fund: up to $6 million for a new water reservoir in the Tower Crescent area and $120,000 for a reservoir feasibility study. Additional items include repealing Policy No. 197 on OCP public consultation and approving travel expenses for council members to attend the UBCM Annual Convention.
- Apply to UBCM Strategic Priorities Fund for up to $6 million for new Tower Crescent water reservoir
- Apply to UBCM Strategic Priorities Fund for $120,000 for reservoir feasibility study
- Approve 2026 financial plan timeline and budget development direction
- Present draft Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw for public input
- Repeal Council Policy No. 197 – Public Consultation for OCP Amendments
Regular Council
Council will adopt the agenda and minutes, deny a request for water‑leak repair funding, and consider several contracts and community items. The council will approve a direct award for a new control kiosk at the North Lakeside Lift Station for $89,613.96 and award a $343,873 contract for airside fuel cabinets at the regional airport, authorizing an additional $52,000 from airport reserves. Additional items include a public artwork donation, a $5,000 public‑art funding allocation, and several proclamations and lighting requests.
- Deny Dairy Lane Strata Park request for financial assistance for water leak repairs at 2010 Third Avenue North
- Direct award of a control kiosk for North Lakeside Lift Station to Northlands Water & Sewer Supplies for $89,613.96 (plus taxes)
- Award contract to Code Project Enterprise Ltd. for airside fuel cabinets at Williams Lake Regional Airport for $343,873, plus $52,000 extra from Airport Reserves
- Endorse display of “The Goalie” chainsaw carving gifted by the District of Chetwynd in the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex arena lobby
- Ratify $5,000 matching allocation for the 2025 Williams Lake Public Art Committee project
Regular Council
The council approved an additional $1,295,709.00 for the River Valley Recovery project, with $259,141.80 to be funded from Sewer Reserves. It also adopted zoning amendments for 1153 Third Avenue North (R‑1 to R‑2 with manufactured home use) and 845 Eleventh Avenue North (P‑1 to MU‑1). The council authorized the transfer of Airport Lease No. CWL6900 to Interior Helicopters Ltd. and awarded the Fairview Drive Emergency Booster Station contract to Quality Excavating for $1,361,850.00 plus $120,000 consulting services.
- River Valley Recovery budget over‑expenditure approval of $1,295,709.00 (city portion $259,141.80 from Sewer Reserves)
- Zoning amendment Bylaw No. 2425: rezoning 1153 Third Avenue North from R‑1 to R‑2, adding manufactured home use
- Zoning amendment Bylaw No. 2427: adoption for 845 Eleventh Avenue North, changing from P‑1 to MU‑1
- Airport Lease Transfer: Lease No. CWL6900 transferred to Interior Helicopters Ltd., effective July 30, 2025
- Fairview Drive Emergency Booster Station award to Quality Excavating for $1,361,850.00 plus $120,000 consulting to TRUE Consulting (total $1,546,700.00), with up to $246,700 overspend funded from water reserve
Public Hearing
The City of Williams Lake is holding a public hearing to consider Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2427. This would rezone the former Poplar Glade Elementary School site to allow for a multi-building development with residential housing and small-scale commercial uses.
- Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2427: rezoning 845 Eleventh Avenue North from P-1 (Civic, Assembly, Institutional) to MU-1 (Neighbourhood Mixed-Use)
- Proposed MU-1 zone permits single-family, two-family, townhouse, and apartment residential, as well as retail, restaurants, and offices
- Project involves Williams Lake First Nation and Spelem Holdings Ltd. via the BC Builds Program
Special Council Meeting
The special council meeting will consider the third reading of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2427, which rezones the property at 845 Eleventh Avenue North (Lot 12, District Lot 588) from a Civic, Assembly and Institutional (P‑1) zone to a new Neighbourhood Mixed‑Use (MU‑1) zone. The bylaw also adds the MU‑1 zone to the city’s zoning framework. The council will adopt the agenda, hold a public hearing on the amendment, and adjourn after the discussion.
- Third reading of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2427
- Rezoning of 845 Eleventh Avenue North (Lot 12, District Lot 588) from P‑1 to MU‑1
- Creation of new Neighbourhood Mixed‑Use (MU‑1) zone in the zoning bylaw
- Public hearing on the zoning amendment
- Adoption of agenda and adjournment
Committee of Whole Council
The Committee of Whole Council will consider a recommendation to direct staff to implement a Community Safety Task Force and to approve a start‑up budget of up to $18,000 from reserves or surplus. The council will also receive informational presentations on a partnership proposal for new outdoor pickleball courts near Thompson Rivers University, and on the 2025 Official Community Plan Project Engagement. These items are scheduled for discussion and possible approval at the July 8, 2025 meeting.
- Approve start‑up budget of up to $18,000 for Community Safety Task Force (G2)
- Receive information on partnership proposal for new outdoor pickleball courts across from Thompson Rivers University (Delegations)
- Receive information on 2025 Official Community Plan Project Engagement presented by CitySpaces Consulting (G1)
- Adopt agenda and minutes from previous meetings (procedural)
- Presentation from Williams Lake Pickleball Club Society (information only)
Regular Council
The council will adopt the agenda and minutes, receive the 2024 Annual Municipal Report, and consider several development permits and variances. It will ratify the RCMP multi‑year financial plan endorsement and approve a $275,000 BC Air Access Program grant plus a $42,000 additional city expense for airside fuel cabinets at the regional airport. The council will also receive and endorse the Active Transportation Plan and consider a $2,000 amendment to a community grant for the roller derby association.
- Approve Development Permit DP #04-2025 for Denisiqi Services Society – zoning setback reduction and parking reduction at 450 Mackenzie Ave S and 265 Fifth Ave S
- Approve Development Variance Permit DVP #06-2024 to reduce driveway inside edge radius at 564 Oliver St
- Ratify RCMP 2026‑2031 multi‑year financial plan endorsement and budget cap in principle
- Approve BCAAP grant of $275,000 and additional $42,000 city spend for new airside fuel cabinets at the regional airport
- Endorse the Williams Lake Active Transportation Plan and direct staff to seek grant funding
Joint Committee
The Central Cariboo Joint Committee will meet to discuss a report on naming rights and sponsorship policies for the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex. The committee will also continue a discussion on a Strategic Priorities Fund application for the Esler Sports Complex Access Road Project.
- Naming rights and sponsorship policy for Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex
- Strategic Priorities Fund application for Esler Sports Complex Access Road Project
- Interior Health Harm Reduction Activities in vicinity of Williams Lake Public Library
- Community Grants Program Policy Review & Additional 2026 Allocation for Community Safety and Cleanliness Services
Committee of Whole Council
The Committee of Whole Council will consider a recommendation to receive the Round 1 and Round 2 engagement summaries and to endorse the Active Transportation Network Plan dated June 2025. Council will also discuss direction on meeting requests with the Premier and Cabinet Ministers for the 2025 UBCM Convention in Victoria (Sept 22‑26, 2025) and set deadlines for those requests. A motion will be moved to close the meeting for items covered under Section 90 and Section 21 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.
- Endorsement of the Active Transportation Network Plan (ATNP) and receipt of Round 1 and Round 2 engagement summaries
- Discussion of meeting requests with the Premier and Cabinet Ministers for the 2025 UBCM Convention (Sept 22‑26, 2025) with submission deadline July 2, 2025 and staff advisory deadline Aug 20, 2025
- Motion to close the meeting under Section 92 of the Community Charter for confidential land‑related and privacy‑protected items
- Adoption of the agenda as presented
- Adoption of minutes from the June 3, 2025 and June 5, 2025 Committee of Whole Council meetings
Regular Council
The Williams Lake City Council will discuss several equipment procurement awards and development permits for local businesses. The body is also reviewing the 2024 Statement of Financial Information and a multi-year financial plan for the RCMP.
- Purchase of a 2026 diesel single axle truck from Velocity Truck Centre for $400,918.56
- Purchase of a 2025 half ton pick-up truck from Lake City Ford Sales Ltd. for $104,974.21
- Paving of the RC Cotton Site Trail using $98,316.00 from LGCAP funds
- Development permit for a new carwash bay at 655 Mackenzie Avenue North
- Development permit for facade renovations at 1050 South Lakeside Drive
Special Committee of Whole Council
The council will receive an informational update from Ministry of Forests representatives Harold Stolar and Josh Pressy on regional natural resource operations. The presentation includes data on 2024 cutting and road permits and a ten‑year harvesting performance summary for the Cariboo‑Chilcotin region. No formal decisions are listed; the item is for information only.
- Presentation by Harold Stolar, District Manager Natural Resource Operations, Cariboo‑Chilcotin
- Presentation by Josh Pressy, Regional Executive Director, Cariboo Region
- Report on 2024 cutting permits (44) and road permits (36) in Cariboo‑Chilcotin
- Report on volume issue in CP/RPs: 965,153
- 10‑year harvesting performance data (2015‑2024) for Cariboo‑Chilcotin
Special Council Meeting
The Williams Lake City Council will receive a report analyzing a possible State of Local Emergency and will provide direction on next steps. The discussion follows earlier council actions, including a $100,000 allocation to the RCMP for downtown safety. Staff recommendations include forming a Community Action Team and establishing a Targeted Enforcement Team of 3‑4 members.
- Analysis of State of Local Emergency – Community Safety report (file 7130-03-02; 7500-25)
- Council to receive the report and give staff direction on next steps
- Previous council resolution providing $100,000 to enhance RCMP downtown safety
- Recommendation to form a Community Action Team for coordinated agency response
- Recommendation to create a Targeted Enforcement Team (3‑4 additional RCMP members)
Committee of Whole Council
The Committee of Whole Council will discuss the proposed RCMP 2026-2031 financial plan and the 2026-2027 budget cap. The body will also consider a resolution regarding Indigenous rights and a complaint about a care home.
- Proposed RCMP 2026/27 budget of $5,156,881, an increase of $297,794
- Proposed UBCM resolution to request Provincial funding for guidance toolkits to align housing and homelessness initiatives with the UN Declaration
- Complaint from Dave Moore dated May 21, 2025, regarding care home use of a neighbouring property
Regular Council
The City of Williams Lake is discussing a proposal to declare a State of Local Emergency and establish an 11 pm to 6 am curfew. Council is also reviewing zoning changes, public works contracts, and a new Social and Non-Profit Sector Support Policy.
- Proposed State of Local Emergency and 11 pm to 6 am curfew to address public safety threats
- Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2427 to rezone 845 Eleventh Avenue North from P-1 to MU-1
- Contract award to Enviro Jet Services Ltd. for $153,100.50 for sanitary sewer main cleaning
- Direct award to Centrix Control Solutions for $109,294.00 for Scout Island Well PPD Cells
- Proposed $10,000 addition to the 2026 Community Grants Program for safety and cleanliness services
Joint Committee
The Central Cariboo Joint Committee will consider renewing field maintenance agreements for local sports leagues at the Esler Sports Complex and approve capital project funding for new facilities. The committee will also discuss potential lighting installation and appoint commission members.
- Renew field maintenance agreements for Williams Lake Slo-Pitch League ($23,000), Soccer Associations ($38,000), and Minor Fastball League ($14,000)
- Approve $25,000 in capital project support for Esler Sports Complex leagues
- Authorize entering into a new Field Maintenance Agreement with Cariboo Disc Golf Club ($5,000)
- Consider investigating design plans and cost estimates for lighting at a slo-pitch field
- Receive the Scout Island Trails Fee for Service 2024 Annual Report
Committee of Whole Council
The Council will receive the Deputy Corporate Officer's report on the one-year review of the City’s Community Grants Program Policy No. 230. It will also receive reports from the Chief Financial Officer on the Fee for Service Policy and the Permissive Tax Exemptions Program, and will be asked to provide direction to staff on those programs. No decisions are being made at this meeting; the items are for information and direction.
- Community Grants Program Policy No. 230 – one‑year review (report for information)
- Fee for Service Policy and Program Review (report, direction requested)
- Permissive Tax Exemptions Program Review (report, direction requested)
Regular Council
The council will vote on several items, including the approval of the 2025/2026 Annual Operating Agreement with BC Transit and authorizing the mayor and corporate officer to sign it. It will also consider a development variance permit for 509 Ninth Avenue North, a financial plan amendment bylaw for emergency funding, and a lease for outdoor space at 351 Hodgson Road with Ledcor. A poll to ratify the mayor’s travel expenses for the BC Modular Housing Summit will be decided as well.
- Approve 2025/2026 Annual Operating Agreement with BC Transit; authorize signing
- Development Variance Permit #01-2025 for Jocelyn and John Moon to reduce accessory‑building setback at 509 Ninth Avenue North
- Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 2426, 2025 – emergency funding (first three readings)
- Lease outdoor space at 351 Hodgson Road to Ledcor for six months at $1,500 per month
- Ratify poll approving Mayor Rathor’s compensation for attending the BC Modular Housing Summit (May 4‑6 2025)
Committee of Whole Council
The Committee of Whole Council will discuss the endorsement of three alternating locations for temporary overnight shelters and a corresponding management policy. The meeting also includes updates on costs downloaded from senior governments and procurement responses to U.S. tariffs.
- Proposed temporary overnight shelter locations: 351 Hodgson Rd, 97 1st Ave S, and RC Cotton site (Bagshaw Rd)
- Proposed Temporary Overnight Shelter Policy for cleanup, maintenance, and enforcement
- Q1 2025 report on estimated costs downloaded by senior levels of government, including $8,000 for security at Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex
- Proposal to remove purchasing restrictions and return to existing Purchasing Policy regarding U.S. tariffs
- Direction on the lake weed harvester program
Special Council Meeting
The City of Williams Lake is holding a special meeting to reconsider and adopt Bylaw No. 2423. This bylaw establishes the property tax levies for the year ending December 31, 2025.
- Adoption of 2025 Municipal Tax Rate Bylaw No. 2423
- Repeal of City of Williams Lake Tax Rate Bylaw No. 2413, 2024
- Establishment of a minimum taxation amount of $1.00 per parcel of real property
Special Council Meeting
The council will adopt the agenda as presented. It will hold a discussion on homelessness and community safety concerns. The meeting will then be adjourned.
- Discussion on homelessness and community safety concerns
Regular Council
The City of Williams Lake Council will discuss the 2025 Municipal Tax Rate Bylaw and the 2024 annual financial statements. The body is also reviewing a project launch for updating the Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw.
- Proposed 2025 Municipal Property Tax Rates and Tax Rate Bylaw No. 2423, 2025
- Sole source purchase of an asphalt recycler trailer from Reclaim Asphalt for $163,654.40
- Approval to proceed to tender for the Fairview Drive Emergency Booster Station project
- Endorsement of the Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw update project launch
- Support for the Otter Bridge replacement project grant application
Committee of Whole Council
The Committee of Whole Council will decide whether to endorse the Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw Comprehensive Update project launch and public‑engagement strategy presented by CitySpaces Consulting Ltd., which has a budget of $300,000. The endorsement is required to meet provincial legislation that mandates OCP updates by December 2025. Council will also review a North Central Local Government Association membership letter about a survey on reforming the Local Government Act. A motion will be considered to close part of the meeting under Section 92 of the Community Charter.
- Endorse OCP and Zoning Bylaw Update Project Launch and engagement strategy (budget $300,000)
- Review NCLGA membership letter and survey on "Reforming the Local Government Act: A Roadmap"
- Motion to close meeting under Section 92 of the Community Charter for privileged discussions
Regular Council
The council adopted the agenda and minutes, received several informational presentations, and approved free transit service on the federal election day. It awarded the Pavement Rehabilitation contract to Peters Bros Construction for $570,451.85 and the 4th Avenue Reconstruction contract to Peterson Contracting for $1,032,452.44, bringing the total streetworks project value to $1,913,017.04. Additional decisions included authorizing equipment use for the 2025 Spring Classic Indoor Rodeo and directing the lake weed harvester program.
- Award Pavement Rehabilitation contract to Peters Bros Construction Ltd. – $570,451.85 (excl. GST)
- Award 4th Avenue Reconstruction contract to Peterson Contracting Ltd. – $1,032,452.44 (excl. GST)
- Approve free transit (conventional and HandyDART) on Federal Election Day, April 28, 2025
- Authorize staff time and equipment for hauling material for the 2025 Spring Classic Indoor Rodeo
- Provide direction on the lake weed harvester program
Regular Council
The City of Williams Lake is deciding on the adoption of the 2025-2029 Financial Plan and a water treatment plant expenditure bylaw. Council is also reviewing a proposal to prioritize Canadian-made goods and pause major capital purchases in response to U.S. tariffs.
- Award of Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex Energy Recovery Tender to Fraser Valley Refrigeration Ltd. for $1,242,289.65
- Adoption of 2025-2029 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2422, 2025
- Adoption of DCC Expenditure Bylaw No. 2424, 2025 for the Water Treatment Plant
- Proposed termination of security services at Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex effective April 7, 2025
- Ratification of a resolution regarding active transportation on rural highways for the NCLGA
Committee of Whole Council
The Committee of Whole Council will discuss a report on the impact of U.S. tariffs on city procurement and the potential launch of a "Made in Canada" campaign. The body is also considering the termination of security services at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex.
- Proposed termination of security services at Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex effective April 7, 2025
- Proposal to launch a "Made in Canada" campaign in response to U.S. tariffs
- Discussion on potential 2025 NCLGA Resolutions
- Report on city procurement showing 15 of 34 completed 2024 big-ticket projects were of U.S. product origin, totaling approximately $1.5 million
Regular Council
Williams Lake City Council will consider introducing a 2025-2029 Financial Plan Bylaw and a Development Cost Charge Expenditure Bylaw for the Water Treatment Plant. The meeting also includes the award of a sewer pipeline contract and a request to endorse a feasibility study for expanding the Central Cariboo Arts Centre.
- Award contract for sewer pipeline pigging to Southwestern Flowtech for $90,930
- Consider approval of NDIT grant application for up to $50,000
- Introduce 2025-2029 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2422
- Introduce DCC Expenditure Bylaw No. 2424 for Water Treatment Plant
- Endorse feasibility study for Central Cariboo Arts Centre expansion
Committee of Whole Council
The Council will receive a presentation from the Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society requesting the city's endorsement to pursue a feasibility study for expanding the Central Cariboo Arts Centre. Council will also discuss the NCLGA resolution concerning tracking prolific offenders on bail. A motion will be moved to close part of the meeting under Section 92 of the Community Charter.
- Presentation requesting city endorsement to pursue a feasibility study for expanding the Central Cariboo Arts Centre
- Discussion of NCLGA resolution on prolific offenders and GPS monitoring for bail
- Motion to close the meeting under Section 92 of the Community Charter
- Adoption of agenda as presented
- Adoption of minutes from the January 21, 2025 Committee of Whole Council meeting
Regular Council
The council will adopt the agenda and minutes from the February 4 meeting. It will consider a recommendation to ratify expenses for a City delegation to travel to Victoria on February 19‑20, 2025 to lobby for the continued operation of Atlantic Power’s Williams Lake plant. Additional items include an emergency communications update, a proposal for an outdoor winter skating area, and a request to light City Hall purple for National Dental Hygienists Week.
- Ratify travel expenses for City and external delegates to lobby for Atlantic Power’s Williams Lake plant (Feb 19‑20, 2025)
- Receive Emergency Communications update report from the Director of Protective Services
- Consider memo to establish an outdoor winter skating area on Williams Lake each winter
- Receive letter appointing a Cariboo Regional District representative to the NCLGA Board for 2025
- Approve City Hall lighting change to purple for National Dental Hygienists Week (April 4‑10, 2025)
Regular Council
The council will adopt the agenda and minutes, receive a presentation on accessing wildfire incident information, and consider several items for information. The primary decision is to award the Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw Comprehensive Update Project to CitySpaces Consulting for a total value of $300,000. Additional items include supporting the Williams Lake Stampede Association’s grant application for a grandstand electrical upgrade, requesting a staff report on potential U.S. trade tariffs, and reviewing accounts‑payable cheque and EFT listings.
- Award Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw update project to CitySpaces Consulting ($249,451 plus tax, total $300,000)
- Support Williams Lake Stampede Association’s application for Northern Development Initiatives Trust grant for Grandstand Electrical Upgrade
- Request staff report on options for the city if U.S. trade tariffs are implemented
- Presentation by Madison Dahl (Cariboo Fire Centre) on how to access wildfire incident information
- Receive accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated January 30, 2025 for information
Regular Council
Council will receive quarterly updates from BC Housing and the local Chamber, approve a rear‑fence height variance at 791 Smith Street, and consider travel expenses for the mayor. The meeting also includes a budget development update that proposes removing $655,000 of capital projects and deferring $5.9 million of water projects to achieve an approximate 3.2% tax‑rate reduction. Additional items are a $68,000 risk‑management contract, lease renewals for the Visitor Centre at 1660 Broadway Avenue South at $1 per year, and a $20,000 purchase of a new airport parking machine.
- Development Variance Permit #05‑2024 to raise rear fence height to 3 m at 791 Smith Street
- Award Risk Management Consultant Services contract to MNP for $68,000 plus GST
- Renew leases for Williams Lake & District Chamber of Commerce and Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin Society at 1660 Broadway Avenue South for $1 per year (2025‑2029)
- Approve purchase of a new pay‑parking machine for Williams Lake Regional Airport for $20,000
- Budget update: defer $655,000 of capital projects and $5.9 million of water projects to target a ~3.2% tax‑rate reduction in 2025
Committee of Whole Council
The Committee of Whole Council will discuss options for the Building Bylaw and receive a response letter on bail reform. It will vote to approve a $20,000 purchase of a new pay‑parking machine for the Williams Lake Regional Airport. Staff will present a 2025 budget update, including a request to borrow an estimated $5.1 million for water projects postponed to 2029 and to start new capital projects before the financial‑plan bylaw is adopted.
- Building Bylaw Update Options – recommendation to keep the status quo for permit renewals
- Response Letter from Minister of Attorney General re Bail Reform – for discussion
- Approval to purchase a new airport pay‑parking machine for $20,000 from Airport Reserves
- 2025 Budget Development Update – proposal to borrow $5.1 million for water projects deferred to 2029
- Motion to close the meeting for confidential items under the Community Charter
Regular Council
The council will adopt the agenda and minutes, receive a museum update, and consider several recommendations. Key items include a request to the provincial government and Williams Lake First Nation to develop crown land for affordable and multi‑family housing, renewal of the public‑art MOU with a $5,000 annual contribution, and approval of a $30,000 grant for Emergency Support Services. Additional discussions cover tax‑assessment data, Pioneer Complex development options, and senior‑livability initiatives.
- Request to provincial government and Williams Lake First Nation to develop crown land between Highway 97‑Dog Creek Road turnoff and Fairview Drive for affordable/multi‑family housing and commercial use.
- Renewal of MOU with Downtown Williams Lake Business Improvement Association for the Public Art Committee, including an annual $5,000 contribution (2025‑2027).
- Approval of a $30,000 UBCM Community Emergency Preparedness Fund grant for Emergency Support Services equipment and training.
- Staff to report on development options for the former Pioneer Complex, including a potential long‑term mobile home park.
- Staff to provide 2025 property tax assessment totals and estimate additional taxes for possible mill‑rate reductions.