“This past year brought both expected progress and unforeseen challenges.”
That’s how Cariboo Regional District Board Chair Margo Wagner summed up 2024.
“One significant event was the Chilcotin River landslide, an unexpected disaster that required a swift pivot in our response efforts. We continue to monitor developments, work with regional and provincial partners, and provide timely updates to the community.”
Another highlight from 2024 Wagner noted was the what was going on with the CRD Fire Departments.
“We’re building a new Fire Hall at Red Bluff just outside of Quesnel which is much needed. And we’re buying a few new fire trucks because we have to comply with the requirements of the Fire Underwriters Insurance for the years of the trucks.”
Wagner added if a lot of people looked at the year end report when it gets published, they’ll be happy that we’re increasing the capacity for Bylaw Enforcement.
“We’ve had the one person who has done a phenomenal job over the years, but as more and more people move in from more urban areas where they may not quite understand some of the rules that we (CRD) do have living in a rural area, we’ve had a few more bylaw complaints than we normally get. So we’ve hired someone to help relieve the load a little bit.”
Wagner said the CRD also launched a news FireSmart program this year focusing on wildfire education and community engagement.
“Several town halls and events raised awareness of wildfire risk reduction, generating significant interest from residents. We are committed to expanding the program in 2025 to include more planning and assessments, pending funding approval.”
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