After the recent devastating earthquake and tsunami in Japan, a decision was reached by the Ohtaki Twinning Committee to forgo our upcoming visit to Ohtaki/Date City. Due to the uncertainty and safety concerns, we did not want to impose on our friends at this time. It is in everyone’s best interest to postpone our trip for another year. We hope the student delegation is not too disappointed and will all remain in the program.
Recently, the Cowichan Water Board held their monthly meeting at the Cowichan Lake Education Center. The turnout of local residents was encouraging. Many studies have been done in regards to the watershed and these reports are very educational. The presentation from the Technical Advisory Committee included seven water related targets. The targets included water quality, water supply, water use, salmon sustainability, estuary health, riparian, and water IQ. If you have an opportunity, try to attend these informative meetings.
Council recently attended the Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities conference in Sidney. The Town of Lake Cowichan hosted a meeting bringing together various communities involving the Pacific Marine Circle Route. Positive dialogue followed a video presentation prepared by Katherine Worsley of our Visitor and Info Center.
The respective Mayors and regional District Directors associated with this particular route will meet again to form a working committee to help market and improve awareness and activities involving this beautiful drive. Thank you to Katherine for your hard work.
This year, Union of BC Municipalities changed the procedure for how Gas Tax money is to be allotted regionally. UBCM stipulated that municipal projects were to be included in the regional funding.
After many meetings, the Regionally Significant Projects Committee decided that Lake Cowichan is to receive money to be put towards two projects. First, the arena parking lot will receive $367,000 and second, the Town sewer treatment plant will receive $350,000.
Once again, many of you stepped up to help with the Town Clean-Up. The work was focused on the Rhododendron Park and the BMX hill and what a vast improvement! Thank you to everyone who helped out.
Thanks to all our employees. I would like to give special recognition to Ray Bourassa.
Ray has been a dedicated public works employee for over 30 years. He is retiring at the end of the month and will be missed. Congratulations Ray, we wish you, Sandy, and your family all the best. Good golfing!