September 14-Council Highlights

From the meeting of September 14, 2020

Declarations

October 1, 2020 has been declared as “UN International Day of Older Persons” in the District of Kent.

Established in 1950, the Council of Senior Citizens’ Organisations (COSCO) of BC is an umbrella, volunteer run organization made up of many seniors’ organizations and individual associate members. Their mandate is to promote the well-being of seniors and their families, advocating for policies that allow seniors to remain active, independent, and fully engaged in the life of our province. Their motto is “Plan with seniors, not for them.”

More information on the organization can be found at: https://www.coscobc.org/

Fire Truck Replacement

In a report to Council, Fire Chief Gerald Basten requested that staff begin the procurement process for a new first line fire engine/pumper truck, like what is in service today. The cost to replace the fire engine is identified in the 5-year capital plan as long-term borrowing.

The Agassiz Fire Department currently maintain two engines in the fleet, one first line service and the other as a second line service/reserve unit.

In order to keep our residential and commercial insurance premiums low, municipalities are mandated by Fire Underwriters Survey to have first line fire vehicles that can respond effectively and efficiently to fire calls.

Council made the motion to apply to the Fire Underwriters Survey for a 5-year extension which would delay the replacement until 2027.

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” – Mahatma Gandhi

The Agassiz-Harrison Community Services hosted a safe and physically distanced Volunteer Appreciation lunch. Mayor Pranger stated: “it was great to thank the many volunteers who do so much for our community. Our community would not be the same without volunteers. I urge anyone to look for volunteer opportunities.”

Friends of the Library, another volunteer group, brought to completion two book exchange kiosks which are in Pioneer and Schep Parks.

Mayor Pranger was joined by Councillors Spaeti and Schwichtenberg for the grand opening on August 26^th.

The project was led by Elinor Bell and Sam Nelson with books donated by the FVRL – Agassiz Library.

COVID-19 Update

Councillor Spaeti attended the Fraser Health CEO Stakeholder meeting on September 11^th. Unfortunately, in Fraser Health the number of reported cases of COVID-19 has surpassed those of the first wave and is the largest health authority affected. The number of in-hospital cases remain low. Fraser Health continues to remind us all to keep our social bubble small.

Fraser Heritage Society AGM

On August 29 Councillor Post attended the Fraser Heritage Society Annual General Meeting where he presented Mary McGee a plaque on behalf of the society. Mrs. McGee has been a member for 47 years.

The Society was also thankful for a Grant in Aid they received from the District which will be used to update a First Nations exhibit at the museum.

Light at the End of the Tunnel

CP Holiday Train

Mayor Pranger spoke with Mike LoVecchio, CP Rail Director of Indigenous Relations and Government Affairs, and it was confirmed that due to gathering restrictions, there will be no CP Holiday Train this year. Event coordinators are working on ideas on how their promotional dollars will still be spent and how they can continue to support local food banks.

Each year the CP Holiday Train donates $7000.00 to the Agassiz-Harrison Community Services Food Bank. This contribution makes up a large portion of what the food bank would require for the year.

According to the Agassi-Harrison Community Services Facebook page, the current needs are: Canned soup, Kraft Dinner, Pasta Sauce, Canned/Dried Beans, egg cartons and plastic or reusable grocery bags. To donate please call the Food Bank at 604-796-2585.

Train Derailment

There is a large train derailment on the CN Tracks outside of Hope. During a phone call with Mayor Pranger, Mike LoVecchio, wanted to remind residents to be vigilant as there will be trains travelling east and west on the CP Tracks with increased volume in train traffic until it can be cleared. CP and CN are working in conjunction to clear the site, it is estimated that the repairs will take about 48 hours.

Members of the public are reminded to only use designated railway crossings. There are many railway signs and warning devices, such as lights, bells and gates, to tell you when a train is coming or where and when you should cross. Following their directions will keep you safe.

September 21 – 27, 2020 has been recognized by Mayor and Council as “Rail Safety Week”

Every year, more than 2,100 North Americans are killed or seriously inured in railway crossing and trespassing incidents. Almost all these incidents are preventable. Railways play an important role in our society by transporting both people and goods. As more rail lines are built across Canada, we need to work together to ensure that residents know how to keep themselves safe around tracks and trains.

To learn more, visit: https://www.cpr.ca/en/safety/railsense

“Be kind, be safe, continue to shop local”-Mayor Pranger