Westview issue addressed, but Housing concerns are still on Councillor Thorkelson's to do list

A good portion of Monday night's council session seemed to focus on the uproar over the proposed development of condominium housing on land bordering the Westview park area, a proposal that made for much controversy, provided for a public forum and seemingly sent a message that resonated clearly with many on City council.

After a fair bit of discussion, including some concerns on the issue expressed by the Mayor as to a rush to decision making, Council voted to abandon the prospect of development in the park area of Westview, putting that proposal down by way of a motion from Councillor Ashley.

You can review the lengthy contributions from a number of councillors on the issue from the Council video archive for October 28th , the Westivew topic comes up for discussion from the 16:30 mark and continues on to the  36 minute mark.

And while that particular idea may be a non starter, the theme of housing requirements in the city will soon come up again for discussion and it would appear that  a much larger review is on the horizon.

While the Mayor counselled his fellow member of City Council as to the increasing work load that they were providing for city staff,  housing would appear to  be one issue that seems destined to be on the day planners for council and staff as the council year moves on.

Following the Westview discussions of Monday night,  Councillor Joy Thorkelson expressed her concerns over the need to develop a comprehensive plan on Housing for the community, something that goes beyond the Official Community Plan.

The first stage it would appear is to have the City Planner compile a listing of land held both by the city and privately, that could be used for development purposes in the city.

From there,  the Councillor would like to see Council and the community engage in a discussion as to what kind of housing they would like to see in place within the community, ranging from condo developments to social and public housing.

You can review her concerns on the issue of housing from the City Council video archive, the Councillor outlines her concerns on the theme from the 36 to 39 minute mark. 

She put forward a motion to move the process forward at council on Monday evening, which Council voted to adopt (with the exception of Councillor Garon), and not without that cautionary advice  on the already heavy workload of city staff from the Mayor.

Once City Council has received its reports, compiled its lists and no doubt held a few more discussions around the council table on the theme, it would appear that the whole issue will be brought to the public. Allowing for a review and discussion of what they would like to see as far as development in all aspects of housing for the community.

Considering the workload already at hand for City Council, that potential forum is more likely one that won't come up for discussion until the new year.

The City makes Ms. Bomben's appointment official

While the announcement of Corinne Bomben's permanent placement in the senior management ranks was made public back in September, the City of Prince Rupert made it official on Wednesday with an announcement posted to their website.

As we outlined on the blog last month, Ms. Bomben's appointment as the Chief Financial Officer was made in Council Chambers on September 9th, Ms. Bomben making the announcement at the session herself.

At that same time, the word was delivered that the City Manager, Robert Long had successfully completed his probationary period and would continue on with the duties of his position.

Earlier this month, Council advised that the third position of the senior management team, that of Corporate Administrator had been filled, with Mr. Rory Mandryk announced as the successor to the position vacated in May by Robert Grodecki.

However, the latest addition to staff has yet to make take his place at City council sessions thus far and no notice of his hiring has been posted to the City website.

And while those three senior positions on staff would now appear to have been taken off of the City's to do list, the quest for new talent for Prince Rupert continues on.

Last week we reviewed the pending departure of the City's Economic Development Officer, as Derek Baker wraps up his time in that position this week.  Mr. Baker now destined for the private sector and the city's percolating LNG industry in November.

Details of the requirements for Mr. Baker's old position have yet to be posted to the Career opportunities section of the City's website.

RCMP seek public assistance on case file

The Prince Rupert RCMP are looking for some help from the public on a case that they have been investigating for a month now.

The incident in question took place  on September 28th at the Skee-Ann Apartments on Park Avenue on the city's west side.

On that date and in the early hours of that morning, Prince Rupert First responders answered a call to the parking lot of the apartment building, at which time they found an unconscious male with a significant head injury lying near a truck.

He was taken to Prince Rupert Regional Hospital for treatment, but the RCMP have no further information on how he was injured, or what they may be dealing with.

With that background, the RCMP now turn to the public, asking that anyone that may have been in that area on September 28th, or who may have information on the incident to contact them at the Prince Rupert detachment.

The number locally to contact the RCMP is 250-627-0700, you can also make use of the Crimestoppers line of 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)  to provide assistance on this file.

Nathan Cullen announces dates of his "Let's Talk LNG" sessions

Following on the format of his Renewal Northwest tour of February, Nathan Cullen, the NDP MP for Skeena-BulkleyValley is making preparations for a similar style of forum for the region.

This one  to address the topic of LNG development in the Northwest.

Mr. Cullen outlined the dates so far and a bit of background on his tour of the Northwest, which will see him hold sessions in a number of locations in November.

Marked on the calendar so far, are the following dates and locations for the LNG forums.

Smithers, November 12, 7 PM, Della Herman Theatre

Terrace, November 13, 7 PM, R E M Lee Theatre

Kitimat, November 14, 7 PM, Mount Elizabeth Theatre

Prince Rupert, November 15, 7 PM, Highliner Hotel

Among some of the topics that the MP will be offering up for discussion, the kind of opportunity that LNG might bring to the local economy and workforce. What if any impact that the industry may have on the environment and whether companies involved in the industry will act upon what they hear from First Nations and communities during consultations.

The announcement for the planned sessions advises that a number of other participants will be joining the MP as he travels across the Northwest.

With contributions to be made from the environmental group Friends of Wild Salmon, as well as proponents of LNG development and local First Nations of the Northwest.

Also on the itinerary for the discussions, will be the participation of economic development groups and other partners.

The information sharing sessions are described as seeking to provide for open and educational conversation about what LNG development could mean for Northwest communities.

Also on tap for the tour,  an examination as to what kind of legacy that LNG development may leave for the region.

You can learn more about the November forums from the NDP MP's website.

Ferry Advisory Committee calls Ferry funding issue an "unnecessary crisis"

With the British Columbia Government collecting opinion and observations as part of its 2014 Budget consultation process, the advocates for coastal ferry transportation have offered up their thoughts on the current status of the ferry system.

The main takeaway of their presentation being a request, that the provincial government adjust its plans for the coastal ferry service and increase funding towards it.

Their overview of the current situation facing the coastal ferry system, comes following a review of the consultation and engagement process which was released  in the fall of 2012.

Those conversations and findings, in part were steered by the January 2012 report from the BC Ferry Commissioner.

A document which has made for much in the way of discussion, as well as a fair amount of concern for those in smaller coastal communities that are served by the ferry system.

Reflecting much of that background on the issue, the Chairs of the Ferry Advisory Committee have provided a fifteen page submission for the Budget consultation.

A review which calls the current scenario facing the ferry system as an "unnecessary crisis" and delivers a number of points towards making the Ferry Services along the British Columbia coast sustainable.

Key among those items:

Sustainability starts with affordability, highlighting the current level of fares to travel on the ferry system and how it provides for an "affordability death spiral". They also outlined how in their opinion, the user fee principle is working against higher traffic levels on the system.

The Committee offered up three scenarios to stimulate more traffic for the Ferry fleet, calling for a freeze or even a roll back on Ferry fares, which they believe will deliver more traffic and more revenues to the system.

They recommended that the province provide more capital funding for the Ferry system, particularly for those vessels that serve the minor routes of the coastal system.  Towards that funding, they suggested that the province should go over its history and learn some useful lessons on funding gaps that have been building through the decades.

They also highlighted the theme, that if the province were to treat coastal ferries like other forms of provincial transportation, then the crisis in the system would be eliminated.

Towards that theme they draw comparisons to other infrastructure in the province, such as roads, bridges, airports, transit and inland ferries all of which require government support. Asking why there is a distinction between the coastal ferries and that provincial infrastructure.

The conclusion to their presentation to the government highlights how they believe the ferry system is a deal for taxpayers and that any vision moving forward for the Ferry system should involve a vision for coastal communities.

The closing points perhaps designed to remind the government of the integral role that the Ferry system plays in many communities up and down the British Columbia coast.

The final line of the summation, providing what appears to have been the guiding principle of their presentation.

"In order to develop a long-term vision for that service, we need to hear what is the provincial government's vision for our communities and their needs, and whether our communities have a place in the government's vision for jobs and growth."

You can review their participation in the Budget consultation process from this link to their submission.

A full review of the past work and items of interest from the Ferry Advisory Committee Chairs is available on their website.

Airport Loan Authorization Bylaw next up on the city's consultation list

As we outlined last week, the City and its Council have an ambitious list of consultations planned with Prince Rupert residents through the fall.

Last night, it was the proposed re-zoning of a parcel of land on Atlin Avenue that went to a public forum, a controversial topic for some on the West side of the city, but perhaps not for the city at large.

Tonight,  the city introduces a new topic for review, an issue that may be of more widespread interest to the community.

City staff and maybe a few councillors will be in attendance at the Lester Centre tonight, prepared to answer any questions and to offer some background to the contentious, (well contentious for some at  Council) issue of the Airport Loan Authorization Bylaw and in particular, the approach that the city is taking in moving it forward.

At the September 30th Council session, Councillors Ashley and Thorkelson outlined that while they were not against the Loan Authorization Bylaw directing money to the Airport for much desired renovations, they did have concerns over the process that the City has put in motion to move the Bylaw forward.

With both suggesting that they didn't find the Alternate Approval Process, a counter petition mechanism that requires 10 per cent of the population to sign up expressing their disapproval, to be a particularly democratic method for moving the topic forward.

With that background on the story, we arrive at tonight's information session and what may be a helpful barometer for the two Councillors, as to whether the public shares their concerns over the issue.

If attendance is high to the public information session at the Lester Centre tonight from 6:30 to 8:30, then perhaps that 10 percent (estimated to be at around 901 signatures) required in counter petition will be reached.

A benchmark that would set in motion the need for Council to consider other options on the file, perhaps taking the issue to referendum after all. A prospect originally suggested by Councillor Ashley on September 30th, but voted down by Council at that time.

Once tonight's public session comes to an end, Residents have until Tuesday November 12th to submit the required counter petition forms to City Hall.

By the time  they put away all the charts and information sheets this evening, Councillors Ashley and Thorkelson may have a good indication, as to whether there is a groundswell of support for a referendum on the topic.

Or, if the Alternate Approval Process will move forward towards that November 12 deadline without any further public interest.

Northwest MLA's want action on Missing Women's Commission recommendations

There may not be much happening at the Legislature these days, the fall session being a non session if you will, but for opposition MLA's the work continues, as they seek to raise issues of concern with the government.

Last week the three Northwest NDP MLA's, outlined their concern over the lack of  attention provided by the Liberal Government on the recommendations from the Missing Women's Commission.

With Jennifer Rice, Robyn Austin and Doug Donaldson all observing that the Liberals are not moving fast enough on the report, one that was delivered in November of 2012.

And while, in their press release, the NDP may be employing a bit of  hyperbole in their claim that the Liberals are burying the Commission's report, "pulling down the Commission's website" as they put it, (the report itself and the recommendations from it, are still fairly easy to find with a simple google search see here), they are correct on the rather glacial pace of the Liberals attention to it.

When the Commission, led by Justice Wally Oppal crossed the province seeking out information and possible answers, the prospect of action seemed fairly high.

However as the months slip by, the report it seems runs the danger of finding space on a dusty shelf, like many other reports, on any number of topics before it.

That is a fate that should not arrive for the Missing Women's Commission report.

Learning where the Government stands on the recommendations and whether they agree, or disagree with the point by point recommendations that came from the findings is something that the public should hear.

Then Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Shirley Bond pledged at the time of the report's delivery to immediately begin the process of implementing his recommendations. Though it would seem that the term immediate perhaps has a different timeline in Victoria.

Reviewing the many issues that the Commission raised is something that should be addressed sooner, rather than later.

As Doug Donaldson, the NDP's critic for Aboriginal Affairs rightly points out, "What is the point of having a commission if the government isn't going to act on the recommendations in a timely manner?"

A very good question, and one that deserves an answer, quickly from the Provincial government.

Knit one, pearl two? Coastal Fibres has something for you...

October it seems is opening month for Prince Rupert's commercial class, with word that Coastal Fibres LYS, a shop dedicated to those seeking yarns and knitting supplies has opened its doors.

The announcement came by way of their facebook page which has been updating North Coast residents as to the progress of their store launch.

Setting up in the Cow Bay District of the city, Coastal Fibres can be found at 167 3rd Ave East, in the same building as the Pioneer Backpackers Inn.

Their initial hours of operation are set for Noon to 5 PM.

They are the latest of new business offerings to be announced for Prince Rupert this month, for a full review of recent developments in the Commercial sector of the North Coast check our archive section.

Scratching Mr. Cullen off the BC NDP Leadership depth chart?

Time, NDP style it seems, will wait for no one.

Not even a popular NDP MP, who has recently been taking to a little toe testing into changing his political focus to the provincial scene.

The BC NDP announced on Monday, that the most likely date of a leadership convention to replace Adrian Dix will be in May 25, 2014.

A timeline that perhaps won't be much to the liking, or helpful for planning for the Skenna-Bulkley Valley MP.

As we outlined on the blog last week, Mr. Cullen had outlined that his prospects of running in a leadership campaign would be better for a long range target of 2015, as opposed to a short track campaign in 2014.

His is an opinion that has been shared by a number of other potential NDP leadership hopefuls, the consensus being that the BC branch of the NDP may wish to take the long view, not the short one when it comes to a convention date.

That however, would appear to have been a talking point that didn't get much time on the agenda for the upper ranks of the provincial party.

In a media release on Monday, NDP officials announced their preference for the timeline of replacing Mr. Dix. The recommendation of a May 2014 convention apparently coming after consultations with the legislative caucus, local constituency presidents and Mr. Dix himself.

It appears that the thinking for the provincial NDP officials is one of the sooner the better, when it comes to launching the leadership campaign.  Putting that future face of the NDP into the Legislature, as soon as possible to face Premier Christy Clark.

Political observers in Victoria believe that should the BC NDP go with the 2014 option, the current wish list of Federal MP's looking to come home, may soon find names dropping off in quick order. That as the Federal members weigh their best personal and political options.

In the case of Mr. Cullen, as he outlines for Gary Mason of the Globe and Mail, an early leadership date for the convention could be the sign off point for him, indicating his intention to step aside from a provincial competition once again.

Spring date too soon for B. C. NDP leadership convention, Cullen says

Should he decide not to seek the provincial leadership, it will mark the second time that he has given consideration to a switch to provincial politics and then decided to remain in Ottawa instead.

The final answer answer from NDP officials as to the timeline of a leadership convention is expected to be delivered by the end of the week.

The potential of a May 2014 leadership date, one which sideswipes a number of high profile potential candidates, may soon prove to be the next controversial thing for the party to deal with.

A decision which may divide the party even more between party insiders and the larger collective of NDP supporters. One which goes against their wishes for a leadership race that offers as large a pool of talent as possible, with perhaps a larger discussion on the NDP future, one with a few new ideas and plans for the party faithful to consider for the path ahead.

Some of the views on the NDP dilemma can be found below.

Vancouver Province-- B. C. NDP's May 2014 leadership date works against MP Nathan Cullen
Straight.com-- B. C. NDP executive disses MPs and local politicians in recommending May 2014 leadership convention
Victoria Times Colonist-- NDP win won't come from a computer
Victoria News-- May vote proposed to replace Dix
Globe and Mail-- B. C. New Democrat's date for leadership elections could rule out promising candidates

Frank Slubowski named to All-Tournament Team in Alaska Goal Rush Tournament

A return to the shores of the Pacific seems to have agreed with Prince Rupert's Frank Slubowski as he and his team competed in the Alaska Goal Rush hockey tournament this weekend in Fairbanks, Alaska.

Slubowski's stellar work in the nets for the University of Western Michigan Broncos earned his team a split at the University of Alaska (Fairbanks) Tournament, placing him on the All Tournament team for his weekend efforts.

The former Prince Rupert Minor hockey player joined two other WMU players named to the six player All Tournament Team at the end of Saturday nights final.

Friday evening, the Broncos won their first game against the University of Alaska Anchorage by a score of  6-2 , with Slubowski turning aside 22 of the 24 shots that he faced.

Saturday, the Broncos went into OT before the home state Fairbanks squad scored the winning goal, taking the 4-3 victory, in a close fought game which again saw the Prince Rupert goaltender tested, with 29 shots directed at the Bronco net.

Over the course of the two game tournament, Slubowski turned aside 53 of the 58 shots that opposing teams made on the Western Michigan net.

The Overtime loss placed the Broncos in second place in the four team Alaska Goal Rush, the University of Seawolves  picked up their own OT win, placing third with Denver University landing in the fourth spot of the four team tourney.

Video Highlights and more information on the tournament can be found on the Broncos website, while further background on the Alaska Gold Rush series can be found from the U of A Nanooks website.

The Broncos now make the long trek back to Michigan, with their next NCAA action set for November 1st, when Colorado College arrives in Kalamazoo for a two game series.

Some media accounts of the Alaska Gold Rush Tournament can be found below:

M Live-- WMU hockey battles Alaska to 3-3 tie, drops shootout
M Live-- WMU hockey defeats Alaska-Anchorage, 6-2
M Live-- WMU hockey team looks to get first win of season in Alaska tournament
M Live-- WMU hockey forward Sam Mellor excited to face former Alaska-Anchorage team
Fairbanks News Miner-- Never quit Nanooks: Sakters rally to beat Western Michigan in shootout
Fairbanks News Miner-- Alaska Nanooks hope for repeat Goal Rush win
Anchorage Daily News-- UAF wins its tournament in a shootout (and UAA's Bailey makes all-tourney team)

There are more items on former members of the PRMHA and the latest developments in minor hockey in Prince Rupert in our archives.

Prince Rupert Council heads into "consultation" season

Members of Prince Rupert City Council are going to have to be quick studies of their day planners, as they have a number of public consultations on the way.

And if the plans of some of the City's councillors come together, many more consultations could be on the horizon for the fall.

At Tuesday night's Council session the prospect of much more consultation seemed to be the working theme of the night.

Tuesday's meeting outlined the desire of council for a meeting with the Airport Authority, a get together designed to discuss a wide range of items from airport services, to a safety and security plans.


Then, after hearing of Tuesday's accounts from the Mayor, regarding his recent travels to the Caribbean, the impression left with observers on the night, is that the prospect of representatives of the BG group being asked to come to council seems rather likely.

An information session that would outline more of the plans of the Company and the impact of the LNG industry on the region.

Tuesday also provided for the path ahead when it comes to the Community Enhancement Grant's to be awarded by the City.  As Council advised that they will be looking for a meeting with the public in November, to learn more about which services and offerings that Rupertites believe are the most desired in the city.

The meeting planning however doesn't appear to stop there.

When you go through the minutes of previous Council sessions, it seems that at almost every session there's a request from Council, for someone to come on down and sit for a while, ready to offer up answers or provide information for Council to consider.

Still to be heard from and perhaps before the year is out, will be upcoming Public Sessions on the Airport Loan process, the Moresby Park land rezoning issue and not to be forgotten, the most recent request for a public forum with Canpotex, that to discuss the state of their Potash terminal plans.

Council would also like to discuss housing issues in the community with BC Housing and have the RCMP and trucking industry reps address the flurry of recent container truck incidents in the city.

Not to mention their plans for the Regionalization of the Prince Rupert Airport and the proposed municipal boundary expansion, a topic that will surely require a fair amount of discussion.

When they aren't seeking meetings, Council has been busy expressing their disappointment at lost opportunities for talks.

In particular they are seemingly upset that the string of provincial cabinet ministers that recently visited the city, visitors who it seems never found time to come and share some thoughts with them.

Then there's the whole run up to the Budget consultations, the planning of which is to be set up shortly and a topic that Councillor Thorkelson addressed on Tuesday night.

Offering up some of her observations for Council to consider on both Budget Planning and the need to determine a Strategic planning process.

"I certainly am in favour, that we do as much of the budget planning in public meetings, but also if there is something difficult to understand sit down and workshop on some decisions" ...  "I was concerned that we not be as black and white as we were last year. We've never made any decisions in private. All of those decisions are made in public meeting, but I want to make sure that we have a chance to workshop on some issues. -- Councillor Thorkelson on the process of Budget considerations and Strategic planning.

The Councillor's review of Council's dedication to that cause can be found at the twenty seven minute mark of the October 15th Council session, available for viewing at the City's Video Archive.

Of course, her theme that Council always makes decisions in a public meeting, might bring a few hands to the air with a question or two.

Especially those that might be thinking back to the recent budget consultations of the spring of 2013.

At that time, Council and the Mayor heard from many citizens through a much celebrated public forum at the Civic Centre, taking in all that public advice for consideration.

However, many of those that shared their views with Council were a tad surprised to learn that but a few days later, that a deal had been reached outside of the public view with CUPE, the union representing the city's workforce.

The day featuring the surprise announcement of a solution to the financial discussions, one that Council seemed hesitant to share the details of.  An arrangement that has to this day, has not been revealed to the public.

That made for a situation that raised more than a few eyebrows last spring as the City's financial deliberations came to an end and they revealed that they had a decided on a fourth option to address the city's financial situation, one not previously presented to the public.

Combine that particular issue, with the large volume of in camera, or closed to the public sessions, that this council has held in the last year ( 24 and counting) and the concept of active public consultation perhaps might not resonate quite as much with the public, as Council might like to think.

Whether past instances leave residents cynical about municipal participation remains to be seen, in the end when it comes to audience participation, it will all probably depend on the issue.

The Moresby Park information meeting of October 22nd already seems destined to attract a large crowd, an example of one issue that hits the right buttons, while some of the others on Council's consultation list may not quite interest the public quite as much.

Hopefully, City Staff will be able to balance the workload of the many, many requests to appear from City Council.

Or at the least order up a fairly healthy supply of coffee, helpful for all we imagine, for what appears to be some rather lengthy Council sessions ahead through the fall.

MLA Rice sends out first "household mailer" of new political adventure

For many a new MLA or MP, the occasion of the first of the "household mailers" is one for the memory books.

The pamphlets delivered direct to our doors, serve as their introduction to the riding and offers a chance to update constituents as to what they have been doing on behalf of the riding they represent.

NDP MLA Jennifer Rice delivers her first of these household updates this week, as her debut pamphlet arrives in local mailboxes around the North Coast.

In it along with a bounty of photographs, she recounts her busy summer of events, a pole raising for Gwaii Haanas, and her efforts to collect books for the library at Bella Bella; destroyed by fire earlier this year.

As well she recounts some of the other items of her summer calendar such things as helping out at Tim Horton's Camp Day and at Prince Rupert's Canada Day celebration.

In the mailer, she introduces the staff of her 3rd Avenue West, North Coast Constituency office, with James and Pauline in place to answer any questions and/or concerns of the North Coast.

And of course the pamphlet offers her up one more chance to thank the voters of the North Coast, outlining some of her thoughts on the trust that they have put in her to represent them in Victoria.

For the most part though, the bulk of the publication provides for a review from the MLA as to her main concerns during the recent, all be it short, session of the Legislature.

Highlighting her role as Rural and Northern Health Critic, Ms. Rice offers up the checklist of some of the items she raised in the Legislature this spring. Questions about the Budget, First Nations Health Care, Addictions and Mental Health services to name a few.

One key issue that receives a bit more attention than the rest in the mailer, is the ongoing quest for a shuttle bus service to serve all of the communities along Highway16, dubbed by some as the Highway of Tears.

That would seem to be a cause she intends to continue to raise in the Legislature in the future (whenever the Legislature may meet next Madam Premier).

Seeking to ensure that the Government follows through on past recommendations to provide safer access to transportation to those that may have in the past relied on hitch hiking, or continue to use that as a mode of transportation in the region.

You can review some of the main discussion points  from the images below (click to enlarge):

If the full mailer somehow doesn't make it to your door, perhaps a trip down to the constituency office might secure you one.  Providing you with a keepsake version, complete with the photo array and keeping you up to date on the discussion points from the MLA for the fall season.

The Mailer isn't the first introduction to the North Coast MLA however, the BC NDP Caucus has been fairly active in promoting the North Coast's representative on it's You Tube portal, some of those profiles can be found below:

July 10 2013-- Meet Jennifer Rice, the New NDP MLA for North Coast
July 23 2013-- Jennifer Rice speaks about northern resource development
July 22 2013-- Jennifer Rice talks about the challenges of cancer care in the north
July 22 2013-- Jennifer Rice acknowledges memorials at Shearwater
July 17 2013-- Jennifer Rice speaks about the Fire in Bella Bella
July 12 2013-- Jennifer Rice supports a shuttle for Highway of Tears
July 10 2013-- Meet Jennifer Rice, the New NDP MLA for North Coast
July 4 2013-- Jennifer Rice makes her first speech in the legislature

As for developments and news from the Legislature,  you can access more from our Legislature Archive page.

The mainline, may be a ghost line by the end of the month

The rail line between Prince Rupert and points eastward may soon be a very quiet place, as discussions between Canadian National Railroad and the Teamsters Canada Railway Council seem to have broken down, with the clock ticking towards a potential labour disruption.

“We’re extremely disappointed by CN’s refusal (to extend the mediation period),” ... “The railway uses an old tactic: pointing a gun to its workers’ heads to force them to make concessions.”-- Teamsters Canada Railway Council spokesperson Roland Hackl, speaking on the latest developments in negotiations with Canadian National

The talks between Canadian National and the Teamsters Canada Railway Council which represents conductors,  trainmen, yardrmen and traffic coordinators, recently entered a cooling off period, with a deadline of October 28th counting down the negotiating process.

Though as the Teamster's outlined in a recent press release, even with the cooling off period, things don't appear to be going particularly well at this point.

In their comments, the Teamsters provided some background on the state of negotiations, the nature of the 21 day cooling off period and the countdown which now leads us nicely up to that key date of October 28th.

A strike at Canadian National would have a large impact on the Port of Prince Rupert, with containers,

wheat and coal shipments all key aspects of the industrial and transportation base that use the CN line in and out of the port. Providing employment for many at the Container Port, Grain Elevator and Ridley Terminals to name a few.

It comes at a particularly critical time for the grain industry and as we outlined on the blog earlier this month, for throughput at Prince Rupert Grain which recently championed its latest numbers.

Last week CN outlined the prospects of a bumper crop for the fall harvest currently underway and for the large volume of grain shipments for export markets anticipated to pass through Canadian ports, including Prince Rupert.

That bounty of crops and the critical requirement of transportation to the Canadian economy however, could make any shutdown of one of the nation's two large railroads a rather short thing.

There is already some thought being expressed that any strike/lockout situation could face Federal intervention shortly after any labour dispute reached the off the job phase.

Parliament returned to its  business with yesterday's Speech from the Throne, so any labour troubles at the nations largest railroad no doubt would make for discussion and potential action from the Federal Government.

The Teamsters in fact pointed to that very possibility in recounting that back to work legislation has been used twice before in disputes between the Teamsters and CN, with legislation put in place in both 2007 and 2009.

Decisions from Government that ended the labour disruptions, but seemingly not the lingering issues for the two sides.

The talking points for union members can be found from this update from the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference.

For it's part Canadian National has not  issued any advisories to their website on the state of negotiations and what the future may hold.

Globe and Mail-- Talks between union and CN Rail break down, strike looms
Globe and Mail-- Contract talks with CN Rail stall as union cites rail-safety concerns
National Post-- CN Rail strike looms as talks with union break down
CBC-- CN Rail strike, lockout a possibility as labour talks break down
BNN-- CN Rail contract talks with Teamsters snagged on health, safety
CTV-- Teamsters warn of possible strike or lockout at CN Rail on October 28th

PRMHA Alumnus Oakes joins Merritt Centennials of BCHL

A Former Prince Rupert Minor Hockey player has moved to a new hockey adventure, as last week the Kamloops Blazers of the WHL, reassigned Devin Oakes to the Junior A British Columbia Hockey League circuit.

The Blazers announced their latest roster move on October 7th reducing their roster by two positions. Oakes has since reported to the Merritt Centennials,  a team which plays in the Interior Division of the BCHL.

Kamloops Daily  News-- Kamloops Blazers trim roster to 23, reassign Tristan Seiben and Devin Oakes
Kamloops This Week-- Younger Kamloops Blazers OK, veterans called out

Prior to the Blazers' roster move,  Oakes had appeared in two of the Kamloop's team's six games to that point of the WHL season.  He had been serving a three game suspension from the pre season, which included the Blazers first game of the season.

"We are excited to add Devin to our group today. He is a hard-nosed player that will help to make us tougher to play against... "Devin will add some valuable experience to our group as well after experiencing games in the tough WHL playoffs last year with a very good Kamloops team."-- Merritt Centennials GM/coach Luke Pierce on obtaining Devin Oakes from the Kamloops Blazers on October 7th

The Centennials were quick to welcome Oakes to the squad and quickly put him into the lineup.

The Rupertite wasted little time once on the roster, picking up his first point  in his second game with his new team, scoring one of the Centennials two goals in a 4-2 loss on Saturday to Coquitlam.
quickly.

The addition of Oakes to the  make up of the Centennials, is designed to add experience and stability to the young roster and bring some of his recent WHL experience into the mix.

Something that Coach and GM Luke Pierce, hopes will benefit the Merritt team as it works its way through the 2013-14 BCHL schedule.

You can follow his progress with the Centennials and the BCHL from the team's website,  as well BCHL games stream live through the FastHockey website (free login password required)

For more items of interest on the PRMHA and some of its alumni check our archive page regularly for updates.

It's quite alright, they have the right! No need to fight... Now, does this mean that the issue goes out of sight?

The great debate over Yertle the Turtle and a few other contentious issues of education over the last year has come to an end.

Freedom for Yertle has been declared, as the BCTF has found a successful outcome to a string of grievances with various School Districts in the province, including a rather famous one with School District 52.

As you recall from the Spring of 2012, School District 52 captured some of the regional and national spotlight over the case of Yertle the Turtle, or to be more precise, the quotations of Yertle as reviewed by then School District administrator Dave Stigant...

Dr. Seuss classic Yertle the Turtle-- Too Political?
Prince Rupert School District Vetoes Yertle the Turtle
Dr. Seuss quote to political, Prince Rupert teacher told
Dr. Seuss too political for B. C. students
Dr. Seuss's "Yertle the Turtle" deemed too political for B. C. classroom
Dr. Seuss quote too political for B. C. school

The declarations of Yertle and other issues went on to the hearing phase, with a freedom of expression grievance  resolved in favour of Yertle (and the members of PRDTA).

The successful outcome of that hearing, would seem at least in the minds of the BCTF, to have settled this particular issue of freedom of expression and constitutional rights for teachers in the schools.

The Yertle ruling if you will, was part of larger issues of concern that continued on into the Spring contract troubles between the BCTF and School Districts across the province.

With the resolution of the most recent hearing, the teachers who had received disciplinary measures have reportedly received apologies and any letters of discipline that were issued have been removed from their files.

As well, according to the BCTF News bulletin, the School District's involved have had to admit that their administrators overstepped their bounds of authority.

Now that the Yertle controversy has been brought to a rest, one wonders if the next item on the agenda for resolution will be from the fashion file.

The PRDTA was also caught up in controversy earlier this year, at that time over the issue of the wearing of T shirts that outlined the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

That proved to be a tempest that seemed to frame some of the ongoing discord between the School District and its teachers on the North Coast.

Since that time, there has been a changing of the Administration guard at School District 52, so it will be with interest that all will watch to see if relations improve or stay much the same between the two sides.

As would be expected, the tale of Yertle's triumphant return to the classroom has made for much news in the last 24 hours, some of which you can review below.

As the Freedom of Yertle continues to resonate both near and far, we shall add to the listings below, as they become available.

BCCPAC Blog-- Yertle the Turtle grievance settled
Vancouver Sun-- Dr. Seuss book ban lifted after freedom of expression case ends
CFTK-- Yertle Union (video)
CBC Daybreak North-- Yertle the Turtle allowed back in Prince Rupert classrooms

We have a larger overview of School District 52 issues on our Archive page

City makes its case on infrastructure concerns to Standing Finance Committee

The City of Prince Rupert's Chief Financial Officer outlined a number of key concerns that the City has when it comes to their infrastructure check list.

Speaking to the Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services, Corinne Bomben provided some background for Committee Members as to the challenges that Prince Rupert faces with a small population base, but some very large projects on the horizon.

"Our city is made up of approximately 14,000 people. Our people can't do this alone. With industrial developments years from adding to our community's tax base, Prince Rupert lacks the revenue to invest in the infrastructure that will enable the economic development to support the unprecedented interest for industrial development in the northwest."-- City of Prince Rupert, CFO, Corinne Bomben addressing the Provincial Government's Standing Committee of Finance and Government Service.

The City's CFO outlined the three major infrastructure issues that are of high concern at the moment for City Hall, costly projects that weigh heavily on Council's minds in the current financial climate that the city faces.

Included on the list.

The Water system which needs upgrading, the 100 year old dam and raw water supply line is not easily accessible, providing many challenges to the city should emergency response be required. The age of the pumping system is another concern, as well as the possible troubles that could come from the two submarine lines that service the city.

Ms. Bomben outlined for the Committee that the cost of replacing the water line components, upgrade the dam and construct a proper access road could reach as much as 12 million dollars.

Add into the discussion, the fact that approximately 25 per cent of the city's main trunk water system is travelling along pre 1925 lines and the challenges increase for the City.

Transportation was next up on the list, with the nature of the city's three wooden trestle bridges of particular concern, all of which are over 70 years old. The replacement cost for each would be around 2 million dollars.

Liquid waste concerns also were of note for the city, particularly with provincial requirements for the proper treatment of waste coming into effect.

Ms. Bomben outlined that while the province is looking for a secondary treatment of liquid waste, at the moment the City doesn't even have primary treatment, the estimated cost of providing for separation of storm and sewer lines to be at some 130 million dollars.

She highlighted for the committee how with a population base of only 14,000 people, the city lacks the revenues to invest in the kind of infrastructure. Particularly the kind of infrastructure that will be required, framed by the growing interest in economic development on the North coast.

You can review her entire presentation from the Committee minutes, she appears at the Committee table from 1615 to 1620 on their timeline.

The Committee is conducting hearings across the province as part of Budget Consultations, they are to deliver a report on their findings by November  15h.

You can examine the entire day of presentations in front of the Committee from our article of October 10th, which reviewed their Prince Rupert session.

Provincial Government Committee on Finance and Government Services hold Prince Rupert Session

A Wednesday afternoon session that went into the evening in Prince Rupert was the last stop of the week for the Provincial Government's Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services.

Their trip to the North Coast is part of their ongoing 2014 Budget Consultation process.

The Prince Rupert session took place at the Metlakatla Room of the Highliner Inn. With  a number of presentations made to the panel, each presenter trying to make their points and observations within the allocated time for each group that was provided for Prince Rupert.

Some of those making presentations on Wednesday were:

Des Nobels, representing the SQCRD, who explored topics ranging from requests for better revenue sharing, bridging funding, BC Hydro increase concerns and issues over infra-structure across the Regional District.

Elizabeth Wilson, representing a Task Force on North Coast Literacy, made the case for the value of increased literacy programs across the Northwest, as well as some of the challenges in the region to deliver those programs.

Dr. Denise Henning and Deborah Stava of Northwest Community College appeared in front of the committee,  with the college outlining how it is positioning to deliver programs for the industrial activity in the region. They also touched on the deteriorating nature of the some of the campus buildings across the Northwest, in particular the need for improved facilities at the Terrace campus.

Ken Veldman of the Port of Prince Rupert, provided an overview of Port related developments in the region and the need to maintain a strategic focus on the trade corridor, the need for more collaboration on land use planning and unlocking the potential of the port and export industries.

Corinne Bomben from the City of Prince Rupert, outlined some of the city's concerns regarding infrastructure and outlined three key issues that the City has for the province. Stressing that water system,  transportation and liquid wast regulations and treatment requirements were among some of the city's main priorities.

Other presentations were made by the Judy Fraser, Mikael Jensen of the NWCC Students Union and from Peggy Davenport who spoke on some of the social issues in the community.

You can review their many talking points and concerns from the transcript of the entire Committee session in Prince Rupert found on the Standing Committee's website.

Background on the Committee and their work to date can be found here.

You can also look over the thumbnail sketch of what a Budget Consultation Paper looks like here.

Earlier this week the committee held sessions in Dawson Creek, Prince George, Williams Lake and Smithers.

Their next visit to the Northwest will be on October 16th when they take the Committee sessions to the Community Futures Building on Lazelle Avenue in Terrace.

The Committee is required to provide their report on the consultations by November 15th.

Rampage drop home opener in third period setback

Things were looking pretty good for Prince Rupert Rampage fans after forty minutes of play on Saturday night, the hometown side was up by one goal, holding a 4-3 lead heading into the final twenty minutes of play.

However, a strong push back from the Quesnel Kangaroos provided for three un-answered goals in the third, with the Roos streaking to the finish to take a 6-4 decision out of the Jim.

The third period proved to be a physical period of play, with Quesnel not only turning on the offence, but increasing the hit levels as well, with a number of scrums breaking out as emotions and frustrations flared.

After a scoreless first period, all of the scoring for the Rampage on the night came in the second frame, with markers from Kory Movald, Kendall Mossini, Kendal-Stace Smith and Greg Weir putting the first goals on the scoresheet for 2013-14.

The Rampage will now review how their third period mistakes opened the opportunity for Quesnel to get back into the game and put those lessons to work in preparation for their next game on the 2013-14 season.

The Rampage continue with their home stand on Saturday October 12th, as the Kitimat Ice Demons come to town for an 8 PM start.

That will be the last that the Rampage see of the Jim Ciccone Civic Centre until November, as the Rampage take to the road for the rest of October with games in Terrace and Houston.

They're back on familiar ice November 2nd when the Ice Demons make a return visit to the Jim.

You can keep up to date with all the Rampage results and items of note from our CIHL Results page, or our Rampage Archive page.

The Summary for Saturday night's game can be found here.

Deadline fast approaching for Northern Health Imagine Grant Applicants

There are but a few days remaining for residents of the North Coast to submit their proposals, seeking to claim one of the Imagine Grants that Northern Health is offering for 2013-14.

This is the fifth year that Northern Health has offered up the grants to community groups and organizations. Looking to reward those applicants who provide long lasting ideas for a health promotion projects, with the working theme that those projects will improve the health and well being of Northern BC residents.

There is up to 300,000 dollars in grant money to be awarded to successful applicants who design a project that meets the Imagine Grant criteria, the process for application is simple, though some background on the Grants is worth reading up on.

There are seven different categories for applicants to consider:

Heal-- Health Eating Active Living
Heal for Your Heart
Injury Prevention
Tobacco Free Communities
Road Health
HIV Prevention
Harm Reduction

Among the key points that all applicants should keep in mind:

Projects should have a good chance of living on after the funding comes to an end. Should impact the community in a positive fashion and help those who are disadvantaged or marginalized to improve access to better health.  

Proposals will help people connect to each other and their community, as well as offer encouragement to different groups to work together. 

And submissions should outline how the project will reduce the risks and impacts of chronic illnesses and injuries, by way of education, awareness and action.

The deadline for this year's Imagine Grants is October 11th, you can review more information regarding the Imagine Grant process from the Northern Health website.

The online Grant Application Form can be found here.

Petronas LNG development plans get major push with announcement from Malaysian PM

An announcement made earlier today from Malaysian Prime Minister Mohd Najib should resonate with much interest on the North Coast of British Columbia, as the prospect of the proposed massive Petronas investment into the region seems to be ready to move ahead.

Speaking prior to the Asia-Pacific leader's summit in Indonesia this week, Najib spoke with Prime Minister Stephen Harper and offered up his endorsement for what would be a 36 billion dollar investment into British Columbia's LNG industry.

No specifics were outlined at the meeting of the two leaders, but media accounts of their get together offered up some background on the announcement from the Malaysian leader. Highlighting the impact that it may have not only on the plans for Petronas, but on the political scene for the Prime Minister back in Canada.

The Petronas proposal is one of two currently under active study for the Prince Rupert region, (others are still in the early stages of discussion) you can review more on all of the LNG proposals mentioned of late for the North Coast from our LNG development archives.

What impact that today's announcement out of Indonesia will have on the process ahead for Petronas remains to be seen. Before anyone gets too far ahead of the development curve, there are still any number of environmental concerns to address, not to mention pipelines to be built and prep work on an actual site for the LNG terminal proposed for Lelu Island.

But with the commitment today from the Malaysian government to move the project forward, the reality of an LNG industry on the north coast may be moving closer and closer to the actual shovels in the ground aspect of development and with it the potential expansion of the North coast economy.

Some of that media review from today's announcement can be found below, we'll update the file further, as items are made available.


October 7-- Petronas's $36B gas plant investment shows vastness of LNG rush
October 7-- Malaysia eyes Canada for $37bn LNG play
October 6-- Petronas Moves Ahead With Canada LNG Project Hailed by Najib
October 6-- Petronas plans $35 Billion LNG Project in Canada, Najib Says
October 6-- Harper arrives at summit bearing $36 B boost
October 6-- Harper arrives at APEC summit greeted by $36-billion investment pledge from Petronas
October 6-- Stephen Harper arrives at APEC summit as energy giant Petronas pledges to make $36 Billion investment in Canada
October 6-- Harper arrives at APEC summit with pledge from energy giant Petronas to make $36 billion investment in Canada