November Update

Greetings Bloggers,

     This will be short and sweet.  Update on the gravel pit petition.  The petition drive now has approximately 1000 signatures and there is an online petition available for anyone that is interested.  It is at the link below:
http://www.change.org/en-AU/petitions/agriculture-land-commission-of-bc-turn-down-the-request-to-allow-nonfarm-use-a-gravel-pit-on-the-agricultural-land-known-as-5801-brentwood-rd-in-the-bx-ravine-vernon-bc 
     There are 30 signatures out of 70 needed.  I am not sure how the total number of 70 was arrived at, but if your interested please fill out the required information.  One signer, the farthest away is out of Lakeland, Florida. Others cite Calgary and others cite Langley as their locale.
     There is more information or developments ongoing and we will post the information when available.

      Speaking of the A.L.C., the "Globe and Mail" article http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/british-columbia/sacrosanct-agricultural-land-commission-eyed-for-breakup/article15306864/?cmpid=rss1  is quite concerning.  As the points below were reported to be from "confidential government documents"

•     Create two A.L.R. areas with different rules.

•     Change the A.L.C.’s legislative mandate, in one or both ALR areas

•     Remove some decisions from the A.L.C.

•     Community growth applications decided by local governments.

•     Modernize A.L.C. operations by moving the A.L.C. into the Ministry.

From the link within the article ( http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/british-columbia/bc-government-documents-summarize-proposal-to-dismantle-agricultural-land-commission/article15322690/ )
The proposed changes, if approved, will:

     1) Dismantle the Agricultural Land Commission – staff and their functions will move into the Ministry of Agriculture. There will be regional panels but decisions will be able to be appealed to a third party and overturned.

     2) Change the mandate of the ALC – the ALC will be required to give equal weight to economic development as well as agriculture.

     3) Create two classes of ALR – one area will be status quo – this will be the Okanagan and Fraser Valley-Vancouver Island. The other area will cover the Interior, Kootenays and everything north of the Okanagan, where the rules will be “anything goes.”

     4) Change what local governments can and can’t do around land use decisions.

     5) Make oil and gas decisions the priority land use decisions and the Oil and Gas Commission the primary authority.

Please share your comments below or with your provincial representative (M.L.A.) as this doesn't really help the agriculture culture in British Columbia.

Thanks for your interest, until next time.

Stop B.X. Creek Gravel Pit

Hello Bloggers,

     It has come to our attention that a property owner is starting up a gravel pit.  Nearby residents / property owners have started a petition and informational campaign to let everyone know what this means to them and the nearby creek.  As per their handout (see below.)
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     A property located at the end of Brentwood Road, off East Vernon Road, and bordered by B.X. Creek on the west, the Grey Canal Trail on the east, and B.X. Falls Trail on the North may become a GRAVEL PIT!  The BX Falls Trail is listed by Vernon Tourism as the number one trail in the N. Okanagan and the 19.1 acre property is zoned Country Residential and is in the Agricultural Land Reserve.

     The property owner has applied for Non-Farm Use to the Agricultural Land Commission (A.L.C.) in order to develop a gravel pit.  Because of complaints about use of the land in the past year (operating a pit without a permit) the A.L.C.  hasn't made a decision yet.  This gives area residents an opportunity to voice their concerns.  A petition campaign has begun and letters from concerned citizens and groups affected are being collected.

     North Okanagan Regional District (N.O.R.D.) recently passed motions to disallow the extraction of sand/gravel from Country Residential properties in Electoral Areas "B" and "C" (there are 476 properties within a 1 Km radius of this proposed gravel pit.)  Regional Director for Area "C", Mr. Mike Macnabb and the Mayor of Vernon, Rob Sawatzky are lobbying the Minister of Energy and Mines to squash any application for mineral extraction on the B.X. Creek ravine.

     We are supported by N.O.R.D., the Naturalist Club and have spoken to the Sierra Club, Friends of BX Creek Society, Ribbons of Green, Vernon Tourism, Foothills Community Association, Allan Brookes Nature Center, B.X. Elementary School, School District 22 and others.

     Beyond the incompatibility of a gravel pit within proximity to B.X. Elementary School are concerns with the narrow country roads and lack of sidewalks, the constant dust and noise that a commercial operation generates, the danger of wildlife in the treed ravine and the disruption of the wildlife corridor.  Bears, bobcats, deer, owls and many other birds find habitat in the B.X. Ravine.  Orchards, a Bed and Breakfast, a therapeutic riding center, hay and timothy fields, cattle/horse farms and gardens surround the property.

     If the A.L.C. says No to allowing Non-Farm use, the permit goes no further.  It dies.  Please help us demonstrate THAT A GRAVEL PIT HAS NO PLACE IN AN AREA AS UNIQUE AS THE B.X. RAVINE.

How can you help?

• Sign the petition and/or ask for a petition to be emailed to you and then canvas your neighbourhood, church or groups you belong to.
• Write a letter of concern to the Morning Star Paper.
• Check out: http://www2.worksafebc.com/i/construction/Toolbox/pdfs/TG07-42_dangers_silica_dust.pdf for dangers of crystalline silica produced in the gravel industry.
• http:/www.tourismvernon.com/index.php/activities/hiking  for Trail information.
• Email your concerns to stopbscreekpit@outlook.com . Your comments will be passed onto the A.L.C. when we present our brief.
• For pick-up of petitions or letters, call Sue at (250) 545-5624, Elaine at (250) 545-3536, Louise at (250) 542-7687, Peggy at (250) 542-1661 or drop them off at any residence on Brentwood Rd.

We need to act quickly.  PLEASE HELP.

____________________________________________________

     Here is the youtube link that the residents made

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nPmElng5uUk&feature=youtu.be

     Additionally, we would like to add http://www2.worksafebc.com/i/posters/pdfs/2009/ws_09_04.pdf with regards to Silica Dust.

     In conclusion, the residents diligent work shows the threat that this part of the B.X. Creek (and ravine) is facing.  Any and all support in this endeavour will be greatly appreciated.

     Lastly, I am reminded of what Thomas Jefferson wrote to Benjamin Rush in April 21, 1803.

"It behoves every man who values liberty of conscience for himself, to resist invasions of it in the case of others; or their case may, by change of circumstances, become his own."

 Until next time, keep bloggin'!!

October's Entry

Hello all,

Sorry for the delay, our August meeting was cancelled.  The September meeting was quite informing.  Discussion orientated around the "Society for the Future Governance of Greater Vernon" petition.  The Association's members and directors were skeptical that this would be beneficial at all to any of the parties proposed.  Some members felt that it was a non-starter topic.  Others, felt that this initiative should be met with empirical and historical information.  This will require more blog postings as the information is quite involving and lengthy.  For interested individuals,  the Amalgamation of the 'former' Electoral Area "A" (a.k.a. the Okanagan Landing, down by the Vernon airport) is a prime example.  Other local examples, are the "Middleton Mountain" area, which was rezoned by the City of Vernon for "light industrial" and now sits nothing but subdivisions.  Ironically, new buyers of the aforementioned houses complained about the businesses in the 'light industrial' area despite their predating the homes' construction.

The "Society for the Future Governance of Greater Vernon" last article in the Morning Star was quite surprising, shocking and in our opinion quite contradictory.  Previously, the impression was for the Amalgamation of all Greater Vernon areas.  However, in the most recent article Mr. Peter Moore (Society Director) said there was a major misconception regarding the Society's aims.  It isn't for just the amalgamation of Greater Vernon Areas but "We are looking for a new municipality and not just an absorption by Vernon of the other jurisdictions." ( http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/news/225575722.html )

Wow.

So the obvious question that leaps to mind is.  What total costs are entailed in creating a completely new jurisdiction, involving all Electoral areas, District of Coldstream and the City of Vernon??!  Pardoning the old cliche this sounds like 'throwing out the baby with the bath water.'
Additional questions include, to remove all existing agreements and personnel would require elections for the new positions, changing of stationary/logos, negotiation for taxation, as well as the 100% funding for road maintainence (which would be alot more in fiscal costs vs the status quo.)  Unless, somehow the quote above means something else?  Also, could rural property owners (of 3 acres or more) be taxed at City of Vernon levels (on per square foot basis ??)  Would the new entity honor the agreement for "Agricultural Rates" for water as well?

For brevity sake, the plethora of additional questions will be added later.  But before the question is put to a referendum, perhaps these questions and others should have pragmatic answers first and not be based on emotional rhetoric.  Of course, we appreciate all comments on this matter so please feel free to write and leave them in the comments section below.

Of course, this blog entry accompanies the wishes for everyone to have a enjoyable Thanksgiving.  Local produce that is season is quite enjoyable and flavorful for meals.  Additionally, best wishes for a entertaining, scary but safe Halloween.

More to come (on the concerns and history) on the Amalgamation/New Municipality creation.

Stay tuned for more to come...

July/Hot Summer Entry

Greetings again Bloggers,

Welcome to the usual summer weather, we suggest trying to stay cool.  A reminder that this weather can be dangerous for pets, etcetera.  Enjoy the valley summer activites (to numerous to mention,) safely.

The mural that is for the "Sunflower Project" here in Vernon has been completed for some time.  I believe it was done by mid June.  The other murals are to be done at the locations of the other 21 internment sites across Canada.  Vernon was the first, and it can be seen beside the A&W in the fruit union plaza, on the 'backside' of the "Sutton" building.  For more information please refer to this link http://michelleloughery.org/tag/sunflower-project/ and http://www.internmentcanada.ca/ as well.

Some discussion has arisen regarding some activity up Hartnell Rd area. Some may have seen the article in the morning star http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/news/215151731.html .  There will be varying opinions on this subject matter.  However, the access to the upper residential areas have only one road.  So, if any careless behavior actually led to a forest fire per se that could easily damage property and/or threaten people's well being.  If we all act responsibly and in a civil manner then these issues resolve themselves.  We anticipate more discussion on this subject.  Your comments or thoughts are apreciated in the comment section below. Or email the assoc. at the address in previous blogs.

That's all for now, stay tuned for more to come....

End of June

Greetings Bloggers,

     Sorry for the delay in posts, the directors have found the Spring Garden work to be quite time consuming.  The the liquid sunshine has been beneficial but also has it's downsides.
     OCP Survey #2 for the Area B & C is out and we had a week's timeframe.  Unfortunely, this has to be in by Friday, June 28th.  Here is the pdf document for download, completion and remittance (to RDNO.)  http://www.rdno.ca/docs/BandC_OCP_Review_Survey_2.pdf 
     Bloggers that reside in Electoral Areas "B" or "C" that have concerns could contact the assoc. at the email address bxslca@hotmail.com or post them in the comment section below.
     Happy Canada Day to everyone, please take some time to review the Charter of Rights as they are there for all Canadians.  Here's the link to view/download the offical publication.  http://publications.gc.ca/collections/Collection/CH37-4-3-2002E.pdf 
     The president feels strongly on the GMO issue.  Recently, he read an article that had someone who had worked in the Summerland Research Facility.  Instead of posting a direct link he suggests internet searching of the title "Former GMO Engineer Drops Biotech and Goes Organic",  it is published online by "Organic Connections".  A worthwhile read in his opinion.  If bloggers want the link then post that in the comments and we shall facilitate that link sharing, or if readers' want to post the link in the comments that would be okay also.
     That's all for now, we shall post more in the near future.

May 1st, 2013 Latest Blog

Hello Bloggers,

     Short entry with the highlight of last meeting (in Apr. 2013.)  The meeting had a presenter Re:  Internment Historical sites in B.C. (and across Canada.)  Named the "Sunflower Project" because the immigrants brought seeds with them to Canada from Europe and other areas.  The sites were used during the First World War and the Vernon site was the last to close in 1920.
     Link and more specific information can be found and the following website:
http://michelleloughery.org/
Excerpt from the website:  "Beginning in Vernon, one of the 24 internment camp locations, Loughery and her team will provide educational workshops in each community. These events, focused on information and story collection, will engage all generations and affected groups within the community. The goal of each workshop will be to share the cultural history of the people featured in the mural, and to create opportunities for social healing and the promotion of human rights."
     This led to lengthy discussion, but if anyone wants to comment or share thoughts on support, please leave comments below, email the assoc at 'bxslca@hotmail.com' , or contact the artist directly through the address above.
     Also there is a news release mentioning the "Sunflower Project" at the following address:  http://www.internmentcanada.ca/PDF/media/Sunflower%20Project%20Media%20Release%20-%20Feb%2020,%202013.pdf


     The O.C.P. imput process ended for Areas B & C on Apr. 22nd, 2013.  This doesn't mean the process is over and by the fall (in or around there) there will be a request for the public to review the plan.  It was described as 'Did we get it right?' as the presenter phrased it at the A.G.M.

Well that's all for now, stay tuned as more information will be posted as we get it and please leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

April's Blog / Post AGM

Hello Bloggers,

     The AGM held at the Best Western Vernon Lodge was a success.  The turnout was a little less than expected however, all participants were cordial, informative and interested.  Some questions were outside of the proposed agenda however, this didn't detract from the overall timeline provided.

     Laura Frank's presentation Re: O.C.P. for the R.D.N.O. was quite informative.  I shall refer you to the links below for more information.

• Overview of the Official Community Plan Review Process = http://www.rdno.ca/index.php/services/planning-building/planning-projects/official-community-plan-for-electoral-areas-b-c-review
• Survey for completetion by area residents = http://www.rdno.ca/docs/area-b-c-ocp-survey.pdf
• Area Map (this pertains to areas within the purple borders) = http://www.rdno.ca/docs/electoral_area_b_c_plan_boundary_map.pdf

     Huguette Allen's presentation Re: Genetically Modified Organisms was very informative.  Some comments heard were in slight disagreement.  However, the majority of attendees agreed that proper "labelling" of these ingredients/products would be better for the consumers to make an informed choices.  She also mentioned the "BeeSAFE" group, which support local farmer's growing non-GMO produce; which is also more safe for bees and other pollinators.  For more information please visit  http://www.beesafemonashees.org/

We are always welcoming new members and/or directors.  It doesn't take as much time as one might think and the information is very worthwhile.  Please email the assoc. if your are interested.

Lastly, due to the President's short memory, the ammended "President's Report" is below, if you would like a copy emailed to you, please let us know through an email to bxslca@hotmail.com .

Stay tuned until next time.
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BX/SWAN LAKE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

President's Report

Apr. 2nd, 2013

     Greetings, It is hard to believe how fast a year goes by. But here is a number of items the association was involved with in the past year. It should be noted here that these are not in chronological order but rather, the order that generated discussion.
     There was the letter that was sent to Mr. Letnick (Re: Meat Regulations) to request that the issuance of Class "D" & "E" licenses, specifically here in the Okanagan valley, occur as soon as possible. The article in the "Morning Star" about Mr. Letnick's announcement was diappointing. In my opinion, five licenses is rather limiting and finite for the geographical area considered. However, more people sending their comments may help make this an issue in the upcoming election.
     Related to that indirectly, is the Provincial Government's changes to the "Agricultural Waste Regulations". The provincial documents with the information (which is considerable reading) are in the publications that are entitled "BC Environmental Farm Plan Reference Guide" & (for use with the) "Canada - BC Environmental Farm Plan: Planning Workbook". Some opinions regarding this subject are that they are expensive, onerous and ill conceived with regards to requirements. Basically it seems like a more reactionary response rather than having a symbiotic approach.
     Also, there was alot of previous references to the "BX Ranch Park" being called or titled "BX Dog Park" in 2012. Some directors showed and interest and wrote a questionaire which had numerous responses from the park's users. The secondary sign that contravened local by-laws (regarding "Parks") was removed by the R.D.N.O. (not in connection with our disagreement with it.) Some things learned from the first (weekday) questionaire include:

• 52% of all park users name the creek as their favorite feature of the park,
• 68% of park users would like a light installed in the parking lot,
• 63% would like a garbage container placed farther in the park,
• These above items being possibly supported through municipal taxation was supported by 78% of park users. Total number in these two days was one hundred and sixty-eight respondents.

     Related to previous subject was the "T.D. Tree Day" that was financially supported by the "T.D. Tree Foundation". Despite a modest turnout, Area C director, Mr. Macnabb, helped with planting with the other particpants that day. Unfortunately, at the time of this report, I had misplaced my few notes on the subject and can't really give any more details.
     Lastly, there was the issue of the road washout in the previous spring. The two sites were known to be problematic during years of flooding. New repairs took longer than previous in history (within the last two decades,) didn't involve the use of temporary bridges, but seem to be more robust and/or secure.  These repairs have future consideration of flooding that occur within five-fifteen years or so. Currently the corner (near BX Elementary School) is complete.

Thank you for your time,
Chris Edwards, President
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