council correspondence november 13 - 19, 2015 document... · 13. letter dated november 19, 2015...

COUNCIL CORRESPONDENCE

November 13 - 19, 2015

CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED

1. Letter dated November 10, 2015 from Nicholas Simons regarding BC Ferries

November 16, 2015

Pg 3

2. Email dated November 14, 2015 from Cecilia Ohm-Eriksen regarding Logging in the Chantarelle Forest

November 14, 2015

Pg 4

3. Email dated November 15, 2015 from Arthur Whistler regarding the Downtown Revitalization Committee Meeting

November 15, 2015

Pg 5 - 6

4. Email dated November 15, 2015 from Jeri Patterson regarding Burning

November 15, 2015

Pg 7 - 8

5. Email dated November 15, 2015 from Jeri Patterson regarding Mclaughan Road

November 15, 2015

Pg 9

6. Email dated November 16, 2015 from Dana Wilson regarding Cutblock EW28

November 16, 2015

Pg 10

7. Email dated November 17, 2015 from Darlene Kells regarding THC Oil

November 17, 2015

Pg 11 - 12

8. Email dated November 17, 2015 from Jeri Patterson regarding Bylaw No. 25-266, 2015

November 17, 2015

Pg 13 - 15

9. Email dated November 18, 2014 from Jeri Patterson regarding Complaint of Bylaw 25-266, 2015

November 18, 2015

Pg 16 - 18

10. Email dated November 18, 2015 from Juergen Dankwort regarding Syrian Refugees

November 18, 2015

Pg 19

11. Email dated November 18, 2015 from Marc Nixon regarding Lot L

November 18, 2015

Pg 20 - 21

12. Email dated November 18, 2015 from Ross Muirhead, Elphinstone Logging Focus regarding The Chanterelle Forest

November 18, 2015

Pg 22 - 25

13. Letter dated November 19, 2015 from the Residents of Selma Park regarding S&M Sweet Shoppe

November 19, 2015

Pg 26 - 32

14. Email dated November 20, 2015 from Jeri Patterson regarding Norwest Bay Road

November 20, 2015

Pg 33

Nicholas Simons, M.L.A. Constituency Office:

(Powell River — Sunshine Coast) 109 —4675 Marine Avenue

Parliament Buildings Powell River, B.C. V8A 2L2

Victoria, B.C. V8V 1X4 Phone: 604 485-1249

Phone: 250 953-4702Fax: 250 387-4680 5—4720 Sunshine Coast Highway

Sechelt, B.C. VON 3A0Phone: 604 741-0792

-i1 ‘ii

November 10 2015NOV 1 62015

Hon. Todd StoneMinister of Transportation and InfrastructureRoom 305, Parliament Buildings DISTRICT OF S.ECHFLTVictoria, B.C. V8V 1X4 -.--“--

Dear Minister Stone, J

I hope you are well.

There appears to be a misapplication of the Performance Term 3 agreement between your Ministry andBC Ferries so your attention to this matter would be most appreciated.

Because capacity utilization rates for the entire fiscal year 20 14-2015 was 55.2% for Route 3 (Langdale —

Horseshoe Bay), which is above the threshold for service cuts, the cuts re-introduced in October of thisyear should not have been.

As you have been told, long waits and repeated overloads during the off-season are a result of cutting thisSunday sailing. This likely explains the excessive overtime and additional discretionary sailings required,resulting in a disproportionate increase in operating expenses related to our route.

As capacity should be increased for the increase in demand (the first quarter of this fiscal year showsutilization above 60%), Ijoin the thousands of Powell River — Sunshine Coast residents who aresignificantly impacted by this cut in urgently requesting the restoration of eight round-trip sailings onRoute 3 all year-round.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Nicholas Simons, MLAPowell River — Sunshine Coast

cc Town of Gibsons‘%-Oistrict of Sechelt

ShIshálh First NationTla’amin NationSunshine Coast Regional DistrictPowell River Regional DistrictCity of Powell RiverMP Rachel BlaneyMP Pamela Goldsmith-Jones

District of Sechelt

Council Correspondence

For the Week of November 13 - 19, 2015

From: Cecilia Ohm-Eriksen [mailto:[email protected]]

Sent: Saturday, November 14, 2015 10:21 AM To: Information Request

Subject: re: logging in Chantarelle Forest

Dear Mayor and Council,

Please do NOT log Block EW028. It would destroy a very valuable resource, i.e. a large variety

of edible mushrooms growing in this area, it would destroy old growth trees, and wildlife

habitat. Is it really necessary to "de-nude" the Sunshine Coast to this extent?. There's already

been far too much clear cut logging in this area, which lies within shishalh Nation territory. Also,

as parts of it are in the proposed Mt. Elphinstone Provincial Park expansion, it seems short-

sighted and irresponsible to the highest degree to log this area. Please put some value on the

natural beauty of the Sunshine Coast.

Cecilia Ohm-Eriksen

Sechelt

885-3738

District of Sechelt



mailto:[email protected]

From: Arthur & Barbara Whistler [mailto:[email protected]]

Sent: Sunday, November 15, 2015 10:50 PM To: Bruce Milne; Bill Beamish; Information Request; Connie Jordison; Council; Darren Inkster; Noel

Muller; Alice Lutes; Doug Wright; Mike Shanks; Darnelda Siegers; Mike Vance; Gerry van der Wolf; John Devison

Subject: DOWNTOWN REVITILIZATION COMMITTEE MEETING

RE:DOWNTOWN REVITILIZATION COMMITTEE MEETING

Community Meeting Room

Thursday Nov. 19, 2015 12:00 p.m. Attention: Mayor Bruce Milne, Councillors & Support Staff

Item 7.5 Public Works Update

a. Bollard Lighting as per front of THe Beach House

Ray Parfitt, Previous head Planer, had indicated that the Landscaped Bond

Covers the complete Cost

All that has been done is the installation of the footings for the Bollard Lights

When will it be completed?

b. Trail Bay Float Repairs

Considerable amount of damage is done each year. ( Est. $30,000.00) I recommend that float is not installed. a. It is used by tugs that tow gravel/sand barges for loading

of Ocean Loading Piers

b. Swimmers use its

c . Owners of Yachts tie up at the floats that are in Trail Bay

and they row to shore/

Trail Bay waterfront between Selma Park & Wharf St

Emanuel Machado, Manager of Sustainabilty Services

Report

Trail Bay Foreshore PLan- Final Report (File 6240-56)

(Kerr Wood Leidel Associates Ltd in 2012)

District of Sechelt




The Trail Bay Foreshore Plan considers impacts to the area for the next 50 years

It indicates that elevations of existing buildings do not allow for future sea level rise

of 3 feet. This includes secondary homes built on existing properties along the Boulevard

Contractor that constructed new pre School for (Secheclt Indian Nation have raised elevation.

Sechelt Beach Storm, March 12, 2012 - YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_LsfIZtESA

b. Complete Landscaping of Boulevard St. between Trail Ave & Ocean Ave.

with automatic Irrigation, regular Grass Maintenance, etc etc. and improve road drainage and stairs to beach with a safety rail.

When will Mayor Bruce Milne & Council install electric power supple for the charging electric Scooters and wheel chairs in Bay Mall, Wharf Ave Inlet Ave and Cowerie Street, Etc. Etc This will reduce traffic problems with cars by people who would use their Scooters. As for the Store Expansion near War Memorial there in District of Sechelt Is there Bylaw by the District of Sechelt that property developments must accomodate parking requirements? Is this being applied for this expansion?

Did Mayor Bruce Milne & Council approve the expansion of Bethel Baptist Church on the East Side of the Strata Condo at 5711 Mermaid St.?

Many of the owners whose unit face the expansion are very unhappy. Their property value has been reduced. Who will compensate them?

Concerned Senior Citizen

Arthur Whistler

604-885-5076

District of Sechelt



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

From: Jeri Patterson [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Sunday, November 15, 2015 1:22 PM To: Jeri Patterson; Council; Alice Lutes; Noel Muller; Doug Wright; Darren Inkster; Mike Shanks; Bruce Milne; Darnelda Siegers Subject: Bylaws - selective enforcement? Targeted enforcement? Exemptions?Re: New District burning ban bylaw fails November 15, 2015 'With prejudice' District of Sechelt Attn. : Council Cc: others that are watching Sunny, but smoky, Sunday, Where are your Bylaw staff? Friday the fires were burning. Sunday the fires are burning........ So when you decided to adopt a Bylaw prohibiting individuals such as myself from burning the waste from the gardens, and keeping the property tidy..... Was that Bylaw only to target a few of us? And are the others exempt? Please advise, as I would like to burn too! Regards, Jeri Sent from my iPad > On Nov 6, 2015, at 4:50 PM, Jeri Patterson <[email protected]> wrote: > > November 6,2015 > > Council, > > After seeing several smokey fires burning in Sechelt, in less than ideal conditions, I called Greg to ask if the burn ban bylaw was in effect. After some thought Greg advised that it is. > > I asked about enforcement. The information provided by Greg regarding complaints, and enforcement is once again inconsistent with the District website. Perhaps this issue should be addressed?! >

District of Sechelt





> I did not file a complaint as my experience in Sechelt is that the airborne contaminants, and odours from Salish soils, the various grow-ops and the WWTP are more harmful to health, businesses, and quality of lifestyle than backyard fires. > > In addition, prior experience indicates that some persons are 'exempt' from bylaw enforcement. > > Jeri > > Sent from my iPad

District of Sechelt



From: Jeri Patterson [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Sunday, November 15, 2015 8:13 PM To: Council; Bruce Milne; Darnelda Siegers; Mike Shanks; Alice Lutes; Darren Inkster; Noel Muller; Doug Wright; Mike Vance; Connie Jordison; Bill Beamish; Jeri Patterson Subject: District of Sechelt RE: Mclaughan Road and Mercer Report November 15,2015 'With prejudice' District of Sechelt Attn.: Mayor MIlne and Councillors Attn.: Bill Beamish, CAO Attn.: Mike Vance Attn.: Public Works Committee Cc: others by separate communication for privacy RE: Mclaughan Road and Mercer report Fleming Tree Experts were onsite today conducting work on behalf of BC Hydro. I was informed that John Mercer obtained an estimate regarding Tree removal, and trimming on Mclaughan Road after he prepared, and submitted his erroneous report dated September 24,2015 to the Public Works Committee. The Committee meeting was held on September 30,2015. The Public Works committee accepted the report, (despite my communications documenting concerns, and errors), and proceeded with a recommendation. The Fleming estimate, provided verbally to Mr.Mercer, informed John Mercers that his cost estimates in his September 24,2015 report regarding Mclaughan Road were inaccurate. Was the Mayor, and Council informed prior to their vote at the Regular Council meeting on October 7,2015 that the report that they received from John Mercer, and relied upon to vote was inaccurate? Please advise how the District intends to address this violation of Procedural Fairness. Jeri Patterson Sent from my iPad

District of Sechelt




From: Dana Wilson [mailto:[email protected]]

Sent: Monday, November 16, 2015 3:03 PM To: Bruce Milne; Information Request; Elphinstone Logging Focus; [email protected]

Subject: Cutblock EW28

Dear Mayor Bruce Milne and Council,

I am writing on behalf of Cutblock EW28 that is currently under threat by the Community

Forest.

I have recently come to view a Google Maps overview of our territory on the coast and am

appalled by how much logging has taken place.

With the drought of last summer and the increasing acceptance that Climate Change that is very

much upon us, I have no understanding as to why there is still an allowance for logging,

particularly on our water shed.

I also believe that supporting our indigenous food systems such as wild salmon and mushrooms

should be a priority on the coast.

When I look into the future the next generations, bald mountain tops and eroded landscaps are

not what I envision. There are those in the community now referring to the coast as an arid

rainforest and this is a rapid transition from the temperate rainforest conditions that many of us

grew up with.

Natural intact natural forests and looking for other ways to evolve our forest management that

actually takes into account community needs must be a priority.

I look forward to the realigned values for Cutblock EW28 and the rest of our coastal heritage.

Thank you for your consideration,

Dana Wilson

District of Sechelt





From: dkells [mailto:[email protected]]

Sent: Tuesday, November 17, 2015 12:59 PM To: Council

Subject: I am sharing 'scrd letter.docx' with you from This device

Shared from Word for Android

Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

District of Sechelt




To Sunshine Coast Regional District

Re:Council meeting Nov 18th, 2015

My name is Darlene Kells, I will get right to the point. I have lung cancer!! May not affect you but sure

does affect me. The Dr’s are not offering me any treatments because along with cancer I have COPD and

my lungs won’t take radiation and Dr’s are not willing to do surgery either. I started to take the THC Oil

since it’s the only choice I have. In the last 4 months I’ve had 2 Pet Scans and the results show that the

big tumor has shrunk by 0.7 of a cm and the 2 smaller ones seem to have resolved themselves!! There is

only one thing I can contribute this awesome results to and that’s the THC Oil. I am only one person that

needs this but I do know many that are fighting all kinds of ailments and use it for pain management as

well as killing cancer. Please give us the legal ability to purchase our choice of medicine without

persecution!!! It’s our rite to be able to heal thy selves if we can legally. We need dispensaries who are

not out to make a fortune off of those who are suffering.

I ask you if it was you or God forbid someone you love and the only thing that helps them is not

available to them unless they got it illegally. Wouldn’t you want it to be available to them without the

illegal factor?

Sincerely,

Darlene Kells

222 Grandview Heights Rd., Gibsons BC V0N 1V3

604-886-8334

P.S. My life and how I get my meds is in your hands. I am a law bidding citizen who has to break the law

just to get medication that’s saving my life!! No one who is sick and fighting for their lives should have

added stress of having to get their meds illegally.

District of Sechelt



From: Jeri Patterson [mailto:[email protected]]

Sent: Tuesday, November 17, 2015 3:19 PM To: Angela Letman; Bruce Milne; Mike Shanks; Alice Lutes; Noel Muller; Darren Inkster; Doug Wright;

Darnelda Siegers; Jeri Patterson Cc: Mike Vance; Council

Subject: Attn. Council/ Planning RE: bylaw 25-266,2015 Re: For clarification- the growing of fruits and

vegetables

November 17,2015

'Without prejudice'

District of Sechelt

Attn.: Council

Attn.: Planning

Cc: others by separate communication for privacy

Re: Zoning / OCP amendment Bylaw 25-266,2015

Further to the attached communication from Ms.Letman.

Thank you for ms. Letman confirming that the existing Zoning Bylaw 25 does NOT contain a definition for Horticulture.

1. New Definition;

“HORTICULTURE” means the growing of flowers, fruits, vegetables, plants, shrubs and trees, indoors or outdoors, for personal enjoyment and consumption, but excludes “Medical Marihuana”.

Myself, and others were confused by the comments attributed to the municipality in the Coast Reporter that implied Horticulture was an existing definition in Bylaw 25, which is incorrect.

The existing Zoning Bylaw 25 does NOT prohibit commercial use, or sharing, or selling, of Horticulture products on any lands, in any zoning.

District of Sechelt




If adopted Bylaw 25-266,2015 would effectively prohibit the sharing, or selling of Horticulture products in all zones.

The current Zoning Bylaw 25 provides a definition for Agriculture, which applies to lands zoned for agriculture use, such as RR-2.

However, if adopted, bylaw 25-266,2015, and the addition of the Horticulture definition further defines, and restricts, the definition of uses under Agriculture as Horticulture is the main activity permitted under the current definition of Agriculture section (a).

At minimum the adoption of Bylaw 25-266,2015 restricts Horticulture activity on Agriculture lands, and prohibits Horticulture in all zones.

The conflict in the Definitions between 'Agriculture' and 'Horticulture' in the proposed Bylaw 25-266,2015 are significant, and should be addressed.

The Horticulture definition is NOT consistent with the current Zoning Bylaw 25, the OCP, Provincial, and Federal legislation.

Zoning Amendment Bylaw 25-266,2015 clearly defines Horticulture.

1. “HORTICULTURE” means the growing of flowers, fruits, vegetables, plants, shrubs and trees, indoors or outdoors, for personal enjoyment and consumption, but excludes “Medical Marihuana”.

Ms. Letman failed to address the concerns regarding the District of Sechelt, by Bylaw, approving the growth, and use of non-medicinal marihuana 'for personal enjoyment and consumption '

Mr.Horning, Bylaw Officer, failed to respond to my questions regarding Bylaw enforcement of Horticulture violations, and what the fines would be. For example; if a gardener gave, or sold a pound of Horticulture product, what would the fine be?

The district staff, including Parks, failed to respond, and advise which District parks would currently meet, and exceed, the Definition of Designated Park, and who, how, when, and why would staff determine which Parks would meet the criteria? Another violation of the OCP?!

I remain strongly opposed to Bylaw 25-2662015

District of Sechelt



Regards,

Jeri

Sent from my iPad

On Nov 17, 2015, at 9:53 AM, Angela Letman <[email protected]> wrote:

Hello Jeri.

The proposed zoning bylaw amendment makes a definition for “Horticulture”. Horticulture is already allowed in all zones for residential, commercial, institutional and industrial use properties. However it is undefined in the zoning bylaw.

Already (and remaining unchanged), all RR-1 properties and RR-2 properties can do “Agriculture” which is defined in zoning bylaw 25. See attached definitions section of zoning bylaw 25. We believe this meets the needs of all farmers and in no way limits their ability to grow food for retail market.

Regards, Angela Letman, RPP, B.ARCH. | MUNICIPAL PLANNER Direct Tel: 604.740.8474 Main Tel: 604.885.1986 Mail: PO Box 129, Sechelt, BC V0N 3A0 Location: 2nd Floor, 5797 Cowrie Street | www.sechelt.ca <image003.png>

<Definitions - Part One.pdf>

District of Sechelt




http://www.sechelt.ca/

From: Jeri Patterson [mailto:[email protected]]

Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2015 10:14 AM To: Jeri Patterson; Darren Inkster; Darnelda Siegers; Angela Letman; Bruce Milne; Noel Muller; Alice

Lutes; Doug Wright Cc: Mike Vance; Council; Connie Jordison

Subject: Re: District of Sechelt - formal complaint regarding potential Bylaw 25-266,2015 violation

Please confirm receipt.

Thank you.

JERI Sent from my iPad

On Nov 17, 2015, at 9:42 PM, Jeri Patterson <[email protected]> wrote:

November 17, 2016

District of Sechelt

Attn.: Mayor Bruce MIlne, and Councillors Lutes, Inkster, Muller, Siegers, Wright, and Shanks

Attn.: Greg Horning Bylaw Enforcement Officer

Attn.: Mike Vance, Angela Letman - Planning

Cc: others by separate communication for privacy

RE: Formal complaint regarding the District of Sechelts' violation of Bylaw 25-266, 2015 (if adopted )

Further to the District of Sechelts' Anglela Letmans' attached email of today.

Please accept this communication as a Formal Written complaint regarding the conduct of the District of Sechelt at the WWTP/ Water Resource Center and the violation of Bylaw 25-266,2015

District of Sechelt





1. HORTICULTURE” means the growing of flowers, fruits, vegetables, plants, shrubs and trees, indoors or outdoors, for personal enjoyment and consumption, but excludes “Medical Marihuana”.

Ms. Letman specifically stated that Zoning RR-1and RR- 2 permitted Agriculture activity as defined by the existing Zoning Bylaw no.25,1987.

I have reviewed the current Zoning maps on the District website, the current zoning bylaw, the proposed zoning bylaw 530,2014, proposed Zoning Bylaw 530,2014, and Bylaw 26-266,2015.

It has been determined that the District of Sechelts Waste Water Treatment Plant, also referenced as a Water Resource Centre, located on the Ebbtide property, is NOT located on lands zoned either RR-1, or RR-2.

Agriculture use is not a permitted at the WWTP/water Resource Center under the current zoning, the proposed amendment Bylaw 25-266,2015 or the proposed Zoning Bylaw 530,2014.

If Bylaw 25-266,2015 is adopted, the Districts WWTP or water resource Centre will immediately become in violation of the Bylaw, specifically the Definition of Horticulture, "for personal enjoyment, and consumption"

I trust the elected District Officials, and Staff are not personally 'enjoying AND consuming' the product grown at the WWTP/ water resource Center. If they are, I retract my complaint.

1. HORTICULTURE” means the growing of flowers, fruits, vegetables, plants, shrubs and trees, indoors or outdoors, for personal enjoyment and consumption, but excludes “Medical marihuana "

It would raise serious concern with Taxpayers if the elected officials, and hired Staff, failed to comply with, and enforce their own Bylaw.

Taxpayers and residents already question the selective enforcement, targeted enforcement, and exemptions on the existing Bylaws.

In review of the above referenced documents I note the proposed amendment Bylaw 25-266,2015 clearly violates the OCP as it relates to Parks. A public hearing is required.

I remain strongly opposed to Bylaw 25-266,2015.

District of Sechelt



Jeri Patterson Sent from my iPad

On Nov 17, 2015, at 9:53 AM, Angela Letman <[email protected]> wrote:

Hello Jeri.

The proposed zoning bylaw amendment makes a definition for “Horticulture”. Horticulture is already allowed in all zones for residential, commercial, institutional and industrial use properties. However it is undefined in the zoning bylaw.

Already (and remaining unchanged), all RR-1 properties and RR-2 properties can do “Agriculture” which is defined in zoning bylaw 25. See attached definitions section of zoning bylaw 25. We believe this meets the needs of all farmers and in no way limits their ability to grow food for retail market.

Regards, Angela Letman, RPP, B.ARCH. | MUNICIPAL PLANNER Direct Tel: 604.740.8474 Main Tel: 604.885.1986 Mail: PO Box 129, Sechelt, BC V0N 3A0 Location: 2nd Floor, 5797 Cowrie Street | www.sechelt.ca <image003.png>

<Definitions - Part One.pdf>

District of Sechelt




http://www.sechelt.ca/

From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Juergen Dankwort

Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2015 9:23 PM To: Council

Cc: [email protected] Subject: Proposal for Council to resolve we accept Syrian Refugees

Council

Group email to Mayor and all Councillors

[email protected]

November 18, 2015

Dear City Councillors for the District of Sechelt

I learned tonight of the exemplary position taken by the Mayor of the Town of Port Alberni in

his announcement that the Town was welcoming refugees from Syria. I want to request that a

proposal to welcome Syrian refugees into our community would also be considered by my City

Council in line with our humanitarian Canadian values, and in accordance with our screening

procedures for good health and security of all.

As a member of the Unitarian Universalists at United Nations (UU-UNO), Amnesty

International (AI Canada), and as a resident of the District of Sechelt, I would be happy to

initiate or speak in favour of such a proposal.

Thank you for your consideration

Juergen Dankwort, PhD

6375 Gale Ave., N.

Sechelt, B.C. V0N3A5

778 458-2610

Cc: The Mayor of the Town of Port Alberni

[email protected]

District of Sechelt








From: MI Nixon [mailto:[email protected]]

Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2015 2:45 PM To: Council; Darren Inkster; Alice Lutes; Doug Wright; Mike Shanks; Bruce Milne; Noel Muller; Darnelda

Siegers Cc: [email protected]; [email protected]

Subject: Is Dusty Road being rezoned for Pot Pharms?

November 18, 2015

Dear Mayor and Council,

Submitted for consideration for the Lot L disposition public hearing:

If passed tonight, the 500M setback in the proposed Marihuana bylaw amendment will allow the

south portion of Lot L to be potentially sold to marihuana stock speculators. This could

potentially seriously negatively affect a longstanding business operation in our community. It

seems so unbelievably unfair.

We believe that the 500M setback provision for parks has nothing to do with the safety of

children. It is our opinion that it is no coincidence that it cuts perfectly through Lot L as shown

above.

Jack Point and Biggs Park is located directly across the road from Tilray in Nanaimo. Clearly

Health Canada does not have an issue with this park being located approximately 100 meters

from the marihuana production facility. Will the District of Sechelt nonsense around parks and

schools be seen as frustrating the Federal objective?

District of Sechelt






It is noted that if a marihuana production facility is located on Lot L in the future it will prejudice

the development of the East Porpoise Bay Esplanade dedication (from the original crown grant in

~1910) as parkland and provide a direct benefit to the defacto new owners of the foreshore.

The 66 foot wide East Porpoise Bay Esplanade (circled in red above) belongs to the public.

Is this the Council that would give it away?

Sincerely,

Marc Nixon

District of Sechelt



From: Elphinstone Logging Focus [mailto:[email protected]]

Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2015 3:24 PM To: Bruce Milne; Information Request

Subject: Letter to Mayor & Council ('The Chanterelle Forest')

Dear Mayor Milne and Council,

Elphinstone Logging Focus (ELF) is undertaking a major campaign to protect a very important

forest zone in the Wilson Creek Watershed - we're calling it 'The Chanterelle Forest' to reflect

its high-value as a mushroom growing site.

This forest, slated for clearcut logging by the logging company that DOS operates, namely

SCCF, whose mandate is to cut in already heavily logged out, local, watersheds, and all

ironically, outside of the official boundaries of the District of Sechelt itself.

As a background to why we feel its imperative to protect this forest please note attached a letter

than raises several critical points. At this time, we would like to share with Council some of the

undertakings that ELF has planned for this forest protection campaign.

Conduct on-going public tours of the area to show residents the magnificent beauty of

this low elevation, easily accessible forest, and to build support.

Produce a film with footage of the old-growth Douglas-firs, the animal trails that cross

through the forest, the abundance of mushrooms species, interviews with mushroom

experts on site, and shishalh elders of their connection to this place.

Further critique the 2012 Wilson Creek Watershed report to highlight its flaws. This

report commissioned by SCCF, was not an arm's length document, thus not meeting the

full test of the standard Coastal Watershed Assessment Procedure (CWAP). One of its

major shortcomings, was that the author (G. Horel, PE) did not provide any

recommendations for a forest management plan to SCCF. The standard procedure is to

have the Hydrologist prepare a long-term forest plan, and then provide the forester in

charge with the forest management plan with the goal of the watershed to achieve

hydrological-recovery.

In this case, Horel left the forest management plan completely to D. Lasser who plans to

log the majority of the Wilson's intact, older forests.

Constraints need to place by DOS Council on SCCF on the plan to liquidate the majority

of the Wilson's older forests.

ELF will hire a professional biologist to conduct a flying squirrel habitat study in this

forest, as it shows quality habitat for this indicator species.

ELF will hire a RPF to examine the state of the Wilson's intact forests, and its relation to

watershed integrity. They will examine the Horel and Koop watershed reports, and bring

forward another critique.

ELF will retain a lawyer to represent our organization in Court should public resistance

reach a point where citizens have to block road construction crews to stop the destruction

of 'The Chanterelle Forest', a situation we sincerely hope is avoided.

We invite the Mayor & Council on a public walk this Sunday, November 22nd, meeting

at the SCRD offices at 1PM. See invite attached.

District of Sechelt




Should you have any comments or questions, please post them back to me. Thank you for your

attention to this matter.

Best Regards,

Ross Muirhead

Forest Campaigner

Elphinstone Logging Focus

740-5654

District of Sechelt



‘The Chanterelle Forest’ Sechelt, B.C.

On January 20, ’15, Elphinstone Logging Focus (ELF) received a call from a Sechelt resident (organic farmer and wildcrafter) concerning logging tape he came across in a forest where he’s conducted sustainable picking for over a decade. ELF conducted a site visit to the area (10 mins. from the Wilson Creek Plaza up Field Rd) and confirmed a cutblock surveyed. We cross-referenced it to Sunshine Coast Community Forests (SCCF) logging plans as Cutblock EW28. Our investigation of this forest shows a site that has not been clearcut logged before (some very limited hand-logging on the backside), thus a natural forest (Age Class 7: 140-160 years old), ecology of an undisturbed forest floor resulting in excellent fungal growing conditions, historic fire of the 1860s has led to rich soil conditions for mushroom growth (although poor for forest re-growth) animal trails cross the area (Elk droppings and black bear foraging), and an important linkage to the remaining natural forests in the low-to-mid elevation zone of this heavily logged (6% old-growth left) Wilson Creek Watershed. We request that The District of Sechelt (sole shareholders of the Community Forest logging company) pose the following questions to SCCF regarding this area:

• Whereas, EW28 contains high-value wildcrafting opportunities, how will local pickers be compensated for loss of income through the destruction of non-timber products, i.e.: their mushroom crops?

• Will the Wilson Creek Watershed Assessment (2012) be updated to take into effect the forest & vegetation cover loss from private lands in the summer of 2014, the loss of EW22 (2014), and possibly EW28, and the impacts on hydrological recovery rates for this small watershed?

• Since this site has nutrient poor (thin) soils, resulting in small trees throughout block, how will soil disturbance from clear-cut logging affect the re-growth?

• What are the projected Net timber revenues from EW28, and how do they compare against environmental services that this site provides? (standard value of environmental services pegged at 8-9K Ha - per year)

• Will a community-wide discussion be forthcoming on SCCF’s 7 proposed cutblocks (EW25, 16, 26, 23, 22, 27 & 28) in the Wilson Creek Watershed?

• Will a carbon-loss impact study be completed by this industrial activity (tree loss) so DOS knows its carbon footprint from its various sources?

• Has DOS and SCCF compared long-term revenues from its intact forests by offering them into various Carbon Offset Programs, vs. short-term logging operations? For example: www.carbonoffsetcooperative.org

• Has DOS discussed the economic impacts from continuous loss of its natural forests surrounding the community, and how these de-graded landscapes may impact tourism, and real estate?

• Does DOS support the Sunshine Coast Conservation Association’s proposal to have the Wilson Creek be granted a ‘Fisheries-Sensitive Watershed’?

District of Sechelt



HELP PROTECT SECHELT’S ‘CHANTERELLE FOREST’

When: Sunday, November 22nd, 1 pmMeet: Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) parking lot Field Rd, Sechelt 3-4 hours, steep sections, must be in moderate shape, no dogs

“Protecting Key Forests and Habitat in order to conserve ecosystems, support recreation, tourism and community enjoyment.”

Elphinstone Logging Focus (ELF) [email protected] loggingfocus.org

PHOTO: ALAIN BERGERON

‘The Chanterelle Forest’, in the already heavily logged Wilson Creek Watershed, is threatened with clear-cut logging by Sunshine Coast Community Forest (SCCF), Block EW028. SCCF is a logging company owned and operated by the Town of Sechelt. This low-elevation forest is currently surrounded by Falling Boundary Tape setting the stage for its destruction. Logging would wipe out another easily accessible mushroom harvesting site on the Sunshine Coast. This natural forest system features Old-Growth Douglas-fir ‘vets’, elk and bear trails, wildlife trees, and ideal growing conditions for a variety of fungi and lichen, including Chanterelles, Pines and Coastal Reindeer lichen. This forest supports mushroom pickers with a seasonal cash crop. It’s about time that wild food harvesting is assigned an economic value as it’s a collective, natural asset. If you can’t make it out on the 22nd, pls send a note in support of ‘The Chanterelle Forest’ to Sechelt Mayor & Council at: [email protected]‘The Chanterelle Forest’ lies within the traditional territory of the shishalh Nation, and portions of it within the proposed Mt. Elphinstone Prov. Park expansion zone.

District of Sechelt



—— -- - --

iNovember 19, 2015 \ -

The District of Sechelt [flV 19 2q15P0 Box 129

2o - 2-O —

Sechelt, BC VON 3A0Hand Delivered

- —

:.iiPJCT OF LC}T. L1

Dear Mayor Mime,

Please find attached the second Bylaw Enforcement Complaint letter from many residents ofSelma Park, Sechelt.

We believe the officers of the S&M Sweet Shoppe Inc. at 5127 Betty Road:

currently operate commercial business (further defined as a bakery and retailconvenience store) from this Residential I Zone property.

This property displays advertising signage and has an alleged customer base that visits on aregular basis.

According to their website http://smmedicinaltreats.com/the S&M Sweet Shoppe Inc.provides medicinal cannabis and non-medicinal products for human consumption from theirresidential storefront. Their product line consists of cannabis candies, baked goods, tincturesand oils.

Our particular concern, is the alleged manufacturing, distribution and sale of marijuanaproducts such as candies and baked treats in a residential neighbourhood whereseveral minors reside. Children live directly adjacent to this property.

We are aware that an officer of the S&M Sweet Shoppe appeared before you at theNovember 18, 2015 Regular Council Meeting as a Delegation and that you requestedmunicipal staff to create a Report to Council regarding this issue. In the interim, we ask theDistrict of Sechelt to take action against this business so they cease operation from theirresidential address, until such time as they can obtain a business licence and operate withinappropriate zoning and other guidelines/laws.

Residents of Selma Park

District of Sechelt



November 19, 2015

The District of SecheltP0 Box 129Sechelt, BC VON 3A0Hand Delivered

Re: S & M Sweet Shoppe Inc. (5127 Betty Rd.)

We, the residents of Selma Park, Sechelt are laying this additional complaint to the District of Sechelt(Bylaw Enforcement Department), regarding the property at 5127 Betty Rd.

A Bylaw Enforcement Complaint Form, screen shots and photographs outline the ongoing alleged infractionsand for the sake of detail, we will report them here.

We allege the following:

The S & M Sweet Shoppe Inc. and it’s officers — the residents of 5127 Betty Rd. are utilizing aResidential I Zone (R-1) property for:

“commercial uses” as defined by District of Sechelt Zoning Bylaw 25, 1987 — as an“occupation, employment or enterprise that is carried out for gain or monetary profit by anyperson or corporation”

and a “business” as defined by the Community Charter as “(a) carrying on a commercial orindustrial activity or undertaking of any kind, and (b) providing professional, personal or otherservices for the purpose of gain or profit.”

In addition, we believe:

• the alleged commerciallbusiness activities are occurring without a valid District of Sechelt Businesslicense.

To further clarify, the S & M Sweet Shoppe Inc. and it’s officers at 5127 Betty Road, may be operating as a:

• “retail” activity, specifically a bakery shop (defined in the District of Sechelt Zoning Bylaw 25, 1987as the operation of retail stores, bakery shops, auction rooms, supermarkets, greenhouses and nurseries, but does not include the operation of service stations and car washes).

• and a “convenience store” (defined in the District of Sechelt Zoning Bylaw 25, 1987 as a retail salesoutlet which sells or offers for sale food stuffs, fresh fruits and vegetables, hygienic or cosmeticgoods, other similar daily household goods and the auxiliary sale of books, periodicals and videos,up to a maximum floor area of 465 m2 unless otherwise limited in the permitted uses of a zoningschedule).

I

IDistrict of Sechelt



We have included the following images to substantiate our claims. Figure 1 shows the Google search results andContact Us webpage at http://smmedicinaltreats.comlindex. php?route=information/contact, listing 5127 BettyRoad as the location for the S&M Medicinal Sweet Treats. Hours of operation are also listed

Figure. 1

S&M Medicinal TreatsBakery

Address: 5127 Betty Rd, Sectieft, BC VON 3A2

Phone: (604) 741-1178

Hours: Open today 6:00 am — 11:30 pmLabour Day might affect these hours

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2District of Sechelt



Figures 2 and 3, obtained from the website, www.smmedicinaltreats.com illustrate the products available at theS&M Sweet Shoppe. Please note that this web-page indicates that “non medicinal” products are also availableas quoted from the home-page below:

“The S&M Sweet Shoppe is now making all of their Edible Marijuana and Weed Candy products available non medicinal as well as medicinal. Please check out our Facebook page S&M Sweet Shoppe forupdates on our new line of non medicinal products.”

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Currently, two sandwich board signs (Figure 4) advertising the S & M Sweet Shoppe are usually present on theproperty’s driveway. One sandwich board often is placed on the property edge facing towards the entrance ofBetty Road as shown in Figure 5. Please note that the ‘dog biscuit” decal has recently been removed from thesigns.

Figure 4.

Figure 5.




Figure 6 and 7 are images of the property’s residential frontage. Please note, the sandwich boards, a large banner and vehicle decals advertising the S&M Sweet Shoppe.

Figure 6.

I

‘I

District of Sechelt



Traffic on Betty Road is monitored. Many vehicles have been frequently observed traveling to and leaving fromthe subject address, occasionally only staying a few minutes.

Please enforce the current Zoning and Business Licence bylaws and restrictcommercial activity to appropriately zoned property, not within residential areas.

We trust this letter, the attached District of Sechelt Bylaw Enforcement Complaint Form, screenshots and photoswill assist you in any enforcement pertaining to 5127 Betty Rd., Sechelt.

We request an update about this matter in writing on or before December 3, 2015.

Thank you for your attention to this matter and we will await your reply.

Sincerely,

Residents of Selma Park




From: Jeri Patterson [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Friday, November 20, 2015 12:44 PM To: Bill Beamish; Council; Connie Jordison; Jeri Patterson Subject: District of Sechelt- public Works-failure to maintain road November 20,2015 District of Sechelt Re: Public Works failure to maintain upper Norwest Bay Road I was requested by residents in the area to inform the Mayor, Council, and Public Works Committee that once again the Districts Public Works staff are failing to maintain, de-ice, upper Norwest Bay road above Wakefield Road. I witnessed John Mercer incorrectly informing the Public Works Committee that the de-icing was not required as School buses do not come up here. I have personally witnessed the bus here this week. > In addition, de-icing is required as there is currently a high volume of trades traffic, many who park on Norwest Bay Road, and this traffic, and parking creates further safety hazards (forcing pedestrians and motorists onto the Center of the road) those walking, riding bikes, or operating a vehicle in the area. Please ensure that Public works De-ices this section of Norwest Bay Road. We pay taxes too! Please confirm, by return, that Public works will provide the required de-icing, as it is required for the safety of all using the road in this area. Jeri Patterson 6708 Norwest Bay Road Sent from my iPad

District of Sechelt




council correspondence november 13 - 19, 2015 document... · 13. letter dated november 19, 2015...

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