FRAA Board Meeting via Zoom December 16, 2020

In attendance: Sally Watson, Kathryn Cameron, Sonya Leenders

Excused: Paulina O’Brien, Heather Galligan, Greg Dowman

1. St. Joseph’s Project – Grant extension and quotes from structural engineers

            Grant for engineered drawings, architectural approval and geotechnical work was originally due to be completed by December 15, 2020. However, the FRAA revisited the whole concept in June 2020 following consultation with neighbours, which meant new drawings with public consultation before going ahead with engineered drawings. This was completed by November 30, 2020. We have received acceptable quotes for electrical and mechanical drawings, and architectural review through the process and are currently waiting for quotes from two structural engineering firms. The FRAA anticipates receiving the quotes by the end of this week. We applied for an extension and the final grant report is due by January 15, 2021.

2. FFRD 

            In a meeting with Parks Canada on December 11, 2020, the FFRA learned that Parks Canada is pursuing their regional solution approach. 

  • Parks Canada met with the society that administers Lake Louise Fire Department (LLFD), Banff Lake Louise Emergency Services Society (BLLESS) last week, and Parks Canada will ask to enter into a formal agreement for LLFD to respond to road rescue in Yoho National Park between Lake Louise and Field. BLLESS Board to review the request in January 2021. 
  • Parks Canada has sent a formal request to Town Of Golden Chief Administrative Officer to Have Golden Fire Department (GFD) respond to road rescue from Yoho National Park West Gate to Field. 
  • No timeline on when agreements will be signed.
  • Emergency Management British Columbia (EMBC) will reimburse any Fire Department that responds out of their jurisdiction in the province of British Columbia. Responses to road rescue in Yoho National Park by LLFD and GFD will be reimbursed by EMBC. No cost to Parks Canada
  • This is not a stop-gap measure. Parks Canada sees this as a reasonable way to provide a long-term approach to road rescue services in Yoho National Park. Only talking about road rescue service from LLFD and GFD. FFRD will continue to provide structure fire protection services to Field and Yoho National Park. On the question of HazMat response, it is 99% fuel spills and long term clean-up is required, there is seldom short-term containment needed. 
  • FFRD will continue to provide structure fire protection services so no foreseeable impact on insurance in the community. Parks Canada has a strong interest in maintaining FFRD long term.
  • CP Rail is responsible for providing emergency response to CP Rail emergencies.

Rebuttal from FRAA:

  • LLFD has recruitment issues, greater than those experienced by FFRD. LLFD has a minimum 30 minute response time on a highway that covers four weather patterns over the 27 km distance from Lake Louise to Field.
  • GFD is 57 km away, so longer response time on a highway that is approaching the start of a 4-year construction project to twin 4.8 km in Kicking Horse Canyon, with long and short-term closures expected.
  • Risk of Kicking Horse River contamination from hazardous materials/spills.
  • Do these departments have the resources to expand their areas of response?
  • Response time to any road rescue incident is critical. FFRD can respond much faster with a team that is trained and competent.
  • Parks Canada regional solution is downloading the same concerns to two other volunteer fire departments that deal with the same difficult responses. Looking at the timeline and substance of FFRD request to Parks Canada for a full-time Fire Chief it shows that the shared demands of leadership without a Fire Chief were put on the Captains that increased their responsibilities and time commitments. FFRD asked for a position to provide leadership. The proposed Parks Canada regional approach seems to dismantle and sideline a functional organization.
  • FFRD, LLFD and GFD were working on mutual aid agreements so the idea of a regional solution was already substantially in play. With identified areas of jurisdiction for each department, there has been a very functional model. 
  • Parks Canada leadership is not listening to feedback or critique of their “regional solution”. 

3. Kicking Horse Ski Club

            E-transfers to purchase memberships are in place via payments@khsc.ca and they’re working out well. Set up for automatic deposit so not passwords necessary. Ski Club is charting membership list. Conditions improve with each snowfall. For all Kicking Horse Ski Club details, please visit the website at www.khsc.ca. Marilyn is keeping us informed!

4. Programs

HIIT is on Zoom with Lake Louise Sport and Recreation Society. Please visit their Facebook page for details. Classes were free in December; there may be a fee to attend virtually in January.

All the equipment for the gym grant has been purchased and delivered. When the gym can be used as a public space again there will be circuit training and ping pong. Final report for the grant has been submitted and a press release to publicly thank Columbia Basin Trust for support of the program will be sent to The Golden Star.

Public Health Orders have changed and in-person low-impact yoga classes are once again allowed to take place. This means, for lucky us, that Yoga Flow with Julie will start again January 7, 2021. Mark your calendar and dust off your yoga mat. Please wear a mask and use hand sanitizer on entrance to the community hall. Once people are on their mats, in their allocated space, masks can be removed for the yoga session then put back on to exit following the class.

5. Rink Protocols 2020

            Weather has not been our friend this year when considering the ice rink. We’ve had big snowfalls, then warm weather, then more snow . . . and not much good cold weather to get some floods on the rink. Thanks to the rink people who have been clearing the snow, doing some floods, then clearing more snow. It’s a slow process. Once the rink is usable, only ice maintenance people will have access to the change room. Please bring your equipment and take it home; no equipment storage in the change room this winter.

6. Round Table

  • Parks Canada has not paid any invoices submitted in 2020, some of which are for services from 2018. Tracey LeBlanc said the invoice for the Honorarium must be resubmitted following the guidelines outlined in the new Contribution Agreement. Sally is working on it and will also submit invoice for public washroom for 2020.
  • Given the proximity of CP Rail infrastructure and operations to the community of Field, the FRAA feels that sole response by CP to CP emergency situations has the potential to put Field residents in grave danger. 
  • Public Health Guidelines for Christmas gatherings has meant many people may be alone this Christmas. Any word on what’s happening or ideas on how to mitigate?

Meeting adjourned at 8:20 pm.Next FRAA Board Meeting scheduled for January 11, 2020 via Zoom and invitations sent to Board Members. 

Columbia Basin Trust Support Helps Expand Indoor Fitness Programs in Field

Field Recreation Advisory Association (FRAA) extends heartfelt thanks to the Columbia Basin Trust for support provided to the community of Field, BC to establish an expanded indoor fitness and event option through the Community Initiatives and Affected Areas Program.

In concert with volunteer organisers, Parks Canada and Journey to Fitness, the FRAA will offer circuit training, High Intensity Interval Training, a ping pong league and community concert events in the gymnasium of Field Elementary School once these indoor activities are again deemed safe by the Provincial Health Officer. In the meantime, the FRAA has used the grant money awarded, $9,450.00, to purchase equipment and a secure entry system. This facility will offer additional activities to the community, with a particular focus on expanded indoor options in the winter when residents are interested in getting together for some fun that involves physical challenge in a warm setting.

Columbia Basin Trust has supported many important community initiatives in Field that encourage personal well-being and opportunities for social gathering, and have established some great traditions. Although the pandemic has curbed some activities for now, the FRAA looks forward to picking up where we left off. The current indoor fitness and events initiative will be a welcome addition to the community, and give us a break from all the amazing cross country skiing and skating we enjoy now, programs also supported by Columbia Basin Trust in the past!Thank you Columbia Basin Trust.

Field Recreation Advisory Association Board Meeting November 28, 2020

In attendance: Sally Watson, Paulina O’Brien, Kathryn Cameron

Excused: Sonya Leenders, Heather Galligan, Greg Dowman

1. Set Meeting Dates for December 2020 to November 2021

FRAA Board MeetingsMondays, 7:00 pmField Utility Board MeetingsWednesdays, 10:30 amTown Hall MeetingsMondays, 7:00 pm
November 28, 2020January 20, 2021January 25, 2021
December 14, 2020March 17, 2021March 29, 2021
January 11, 2021 May 19, 2021May 31. 2021
February 8, 2021September 8, 2021September 20, 2021
March 8, 2021 November 15, 2021 (AGM)
April 12, 2021  
May 10, 2021  
June 14, 2021  
August 30, 2021  
October 18, 2021  

            Tonight we met via Skype. Will explore other virtual options. Paulina suggested we try Google Meetings. Seems to be an easier process. All meeting formats will be determined for safest attendance option prior to the meeting, and communicated to participants. Zoom has worked well for Town Hall Meetings, with limited personal attendance.

            Usual events on hold until it’s safe to celebrate together. Nothing scheduled for 2021 yet.

2. Programs

            Programs are suspended until December 7, 2020, and perhaps beyond pending Public Health Orders.

HIIT will go online via ZOOM by Lake Louise Sport and Recreation Society. Go to their Facebook Page for details. The same details will be sent through a separate email to the community email list.

Yoga Flow With Julie: We’re waiting for new guidelines from the Public Health Office to be posted online. Most recent message says the PHO is working on them and will be posted soon.

Ice Rink and Public Health Orders: FRAA to coordinate with volunteers on safest methods to establish and maintain the ice surface, and develop guidelines for ice rink use with or without the change room.

3. St. Joseph Project

            Church plans have been circulated to the community email list and posted on the bulletin board by the Post Office for public consultation. Comments are coming in. Overall positive so far. All comments will be compiled and circulated when email public consultation ends. Great feedback!

Communicating with russell and russell design about completing the items for the Columbia Basin Trust grant by the December 16, 2020 deadline. Also talking to the grant administrator about potential extension to complete the work. 

4. Constitution Update

            Revised constitution will be circulated for formal vote via email the week of December 6, 2020. One task at a time!

5. Field Fire and Rescue Department

            No regional emergency response plan from Parks Canada to date. MP Rob Morrison wants to meet with Field Residents to discuss concerns about the current state of emergency response in Field and Yoho National Park. We are working on a meeting with MP Morrison the week of December 6, 2020. Parks Canada Field Unit Superintendent Rick Kubian will be invited to address Parks Canada’s position. If Rick is not able to attend then, he will be invited to present at the Town Hall Meeting scheduled for January 25, 2020 or an earlier date of his choice. 

Field Recreation Advisory Association supports a full-time Fire Chief for Field Fire and Rescue Department to support and build the department from within. The FRAA sees that Parks Canada’s attitude and actions since July 2019 have not supported this vital group of emergency responders who serve visitors and residents. In our role as advisors to Parks Canada, we strongly suggest that as the organization responsible for emergency response in Yoho National Park, Parks Canada, take immediate steps to support and rebuild Field Fire and Rescue Department by hiring a full-time Fire Chief who can focus completely on the rebuilding process.

6. Kicking Horse Ski Club

Membership information is on the website: https://www.khsc.ca/members-perks/

In fact the website is treasure trove of information! Conditions are superb! www.khsc.ca

Thank you ski club volunteers and trail maintenance personnel.

7. Community Hall Walk-Through Responsibility

To meet insurance requirements, we will inspect the Community Hall three times a week with a complete walk-through of upstairs and downstairs rooms: Sally on Tuesdays; Kathryn on Thursdays; and, Paulina on Saturdays.

8. Round Table

  • Let’s decorate our outdoor spaces for Christmas! And, someone has posted a Snow Man/Person/Being Challenge on the bulletin board. Follow Public Health guidelines and stay safe. 
  • Sally to contact Roger Hostin and find out who is responsible for checking Field VRC to ensure building security when there are power outages.

Kathryn to work on Board member paperwork this week. 

Field Recreation Advisory Association Annual General Meeting and Town Hall Meeting November 16, 2020

In Attendance: Craig Chapman, Ryan Cameron, Jen Coffman, Patrick Cais, Paulina O’Brien, Kathryn Cameron, Sally Watson, Carla Evans, Phoebe Jackson, Tracey LeBlanc, Bonnie Brandt, Andrew Bullock, Pierre Lemire, Wendy Edge

All participants were asked if they are comfortable with recording the meeting. Everyone agreed they were comfortable and said to go ahead.

1. FRAA Report 

            Kathryn Cameron, President FRAA

Two separate reports presented

FRAA Report November 16, 2020: The files the FRAA have worked on since our last Town Hall Meeting on September 28, 2020:

            1. Constitution Update: Final Revised Certificate of Incorporation has been circulated to the community. We need a motion and a vote to adopt the document. Originally the Board planned to do that item of business tonight but we may need to figure out a different way to conduct this item of business. Perhaps a mail-in ballot system will work. Please read the document in the meantime so you are familiar with the definitions and structure of the organization.

            2. Field Fire and Rescue Department: The FRAA has sent a letter of advice to Parks Canada recommending that a full-time Fire Chief be hired immediately to provide local, on-site leadership for emergency response in Yoho National Park, and to retain that position after the regional approach chosen by Parks Canada is clearly mapped out and implemented. In a conference call with Parks Canada this past week, Parks Canada held firm in their position to not hire a Fire Chief, and stated that they are confident their chosen path forward is the best decision. Parks Canada says the Chief Administrative Officer for the Town of Golden has said Golden Fire and Rescue will respond if necessary to road rescue in Yoho National Park.

            3. Programs for the winter that give residents opportunities for fitness and health with guidelines that keep us safe and healthy through the lens of covid-19:

Tabata High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): Wednesday evenings with Laura Penner at Field School Gym, 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm, maximum eight participants, $12 admission fee; Sunday evenings, group lead, 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm, maximum eight participants, no admission fee. If you want to be on the text communication list, please send your information to fieldraa@gmail.com. It will be passed on to the moderators.

Yoga Flow With Julie: Thursday evenings from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Field Community Hall, fall session until December 17, maximum 15 participants, admission by donation.

  • Breaking Note: At this point, HIIT and Yoga Flow with Julie have been suspended until December 7, 2020 in accordance with BC Public Health Office restrictions put in place on November 19, 2020. 

Kicking Horse Ski Club: Tracks are set on the Yoho Valley Road from Monarch Campground to the switchbacks. Simply beautiful! Kicking Horse Trail is track set to the junction of the short trail to the bridge over the Otterhead River (the ruined and very unsafe bridge over the Otterhead River, don’t go on it). Memberships are coming in. Bridges have been put in place. As the snow level grows, more trails will be groomed. For updates and membership information: www.khsc.ca A big shout out to ski club people for their dedication and hard work.

Ice Rink: Another big shout out to the usual suspects! The core group is working to get the ice surface in place and monitor guidelines regarding distance, mask wearing, hand washing/sanitizing. Rink use guidelines will be posted on-site and circulated via the community email list.

Gym in the Gym: Equipment has been purchased for pick-up at the end of November. Three ping pong tables also purchased and will be delivered when all the pieces are in place. License of Occupation with Parks Canada is in process. Great work Craig.

            4. Events: Generally, this time of year, we’re ramping up for some Christmas fun Field style, preparing for the concert, pot luck supper and Skate With Santa. In 2020 we may go ahead with Skate With Santa but the concert and pot luck are tabled for now. Let’s see how the next year unfolds.

            5. St. Joseph Project: New conceptual plans received late last week. Next step is community consultation. Plans will be sent out via email to residents for review and comment. The FRAA wants to hold a one-day open house event (to be scheduled, stay tuned) for people to provide in-person feedback if they chose to use this option. We are getting quotes for engineered drawings (structural, electrical, mechanical) and architectural review. Then we present everything to the Parks Canada Development Office to start the Building Permit process, and apply for more grants. 

            6. New Traffic Lights at Field Intersection TCH: The lights are operational yet no communication from Parks Canada. Residents are concerned that the 70-kph zone is no longer indicated on the approaches to the intersection. Having the reduced speed zone provides a safer approach. The Prepare To Stop signals are very, very close to the intersection, apparently based on having a 70-kph zone in pace on both approaches.

            7. Milestones/Passages: A great big warm welcome Elizabeth Frankie to 306 Stephen Avenue, a baby girl who has joined Janna, Frank and Josephine on Saturday, November 7, 2020. Congratulations! She likes to be called Frankie!

FRAA Annual Report August 6, 2019 to August 5, 2020: What a year. We’re working together to be safe, stay active and connected, follow direction from the Provincial Health Officer and think about others. Good work everyone. Good work volunteers. Don’t let your guard down.

            For the historical overview, visit our website The Village of Field at www.fieldbc.ca and click on Journal. Minutes of FRAA Board Meetings and Town Hall Meetings are posted there. The website is up to date!

            This is what we did.

Events 

  • August 28, 2019: Perennial Plant Exchange and Garden Party
  • December 19, 2019: MCGA – Make the Christmas Concert Great Again
  • December 22, 2019: Skate With Santa and Christmas Pot Luck Supper
  • January 10, 2020: Pond Hockey Tournament hosted by Kurt Devlin
  • January 31 to February 2, 2020: Yoho Blow Days winter festival
  • February 14, 202: Groove Is In The Heart with Elk Run and Riot from Canmore
  • February 15, 2020: Yoho Nordic Challenge
  • April 22, 2020: Earth Day spring litter pick 

Cancelled Events: Early Earth Day, Easter Bunny Hop and Pot Luck Brunch (April 13), Spring Fling (June 7), Canada Day (July 1), Field Summer Music Festival (July 11), 

Meetings

FRAA Board Meetings – 10 Mondays, 7 pmField Community HallField Utility Board Meetings – 4 Wednesdays, 10:30 am Field Admin BoardroomTown Hall Meetings – 6 Mondays, 7 pm Field Community Hall
September 9, 2019September 18, 2019September 30, 2019
October 22, 2019November 6, 2019November 4, 2019
November 25, 2019February 27, 2020January 20, 2020
January 6, 2020June 16, 2020March 9, 2020
February 17, 2020 May 11, 2020 (paper report)
April 6, 2020 June 22, 2020 (paper report)
May 5, 2020  
May 11, 2020  
June 1, 2020  
July 20, 2020  

Programs

  • Shake It Up With Paulina: August and September 2019
  • Tabata High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): August 2019 through to March 13, 2020, resumed June 2020, outdoors through August 2020
  • Yoga with Mardi Elliott: November 7 2019 through to April 2, 2020
  • Yoga Flow With Julie: June 11 to July 2, 2020, summer hiatus

Keeping it Going

            October/November/December 2019: CP Rail installs a third track at the crossing with controlled crossing mechanisms: arms, lights, bells. It takes until summer 2020 to finish roadwork at the crossing. Ongoing equipment malfunctions, and engineer errors parking trains too close to the sensors meant that more people chose to exit Field by the back road. People also experience long delays at the crossing when entering Field, or simply drive around the crossing arms. Not that safe.

            October 7, 2019: FFRD initiates talks with Parks Canada on sustainability of the department, and request a full-time paid Fire Chief position to give stability and long-term viability to emergency response in Yoho National Park. Field Unit Superintendent says Field Fire and Rescue will continue to operate as a volunteer Fire Department with all positions as Paid On Call (POC), no paid full-time Fire Chief.

            October/ November 2019: The hot water tank at the Community Hall fails, flooding the storage room, causing major mould infection in the storage room. Miles replaces the hot water tank, Next Gen Cleaners from Golden mitigates for mould, Flint paints KILZ on all surfaces in the storage room to kill any remaining spoors; major clean-out of stuff contaminated by mould. Register and license trailer and skidoo in name of FRAA.

            November 2019: Renew Community Hall Lease with CP for five year term, effective November 1, 2019. 

            November 4, 2019: AGM. Six Board members. We have quorum (three).

            January 2020: Insurance renewal with Johnston Meier, Golden BC. Information updated. First meeting held with Helen Irwin to discuss the Basic Impact Assessment of St. Joseph Project for Development Permit. First discussions surface about new virus spreading in China. 

            February 2020: Meet with Parks Canada to discuss: role of volunteers in Yoho National Park; support for strong and viable Field Fire and Rescue; emergency plan update for Field and Yoho NP; visitor support by opening Field VRC in winter; community access with better snow removal in townsite; Parks Canada’s vision for Field and Yoho NP over next 10 years.

            March 2020: On Deck public consultation by Columbia Shuswap Regional District on Aquatic Centre for Golden. Provincial lockdown initiated to break and compress the spread of Covid-19. Programs and events hosted by FRAA suspended until it’s safe.

            April 2020: Basic Impact Assessment of St. Joseph Project complete and sent to russell and russell design in Canmore for Development Permit file. Contribution agreement signed with Parks Canada on April 6, 2020 to set out conditions for Honorarium. Observations by residents and visitors that there is a substantial increase in litter throughout the community and Yoho NP, attributed to the pandemic; people seem unmotivated to open bins to dispose of their garbage.

            June 2020: Consultant audit of Field Fire and Rescue starts early June with report expected by end of September. St. Joseph Project team meets with residents to discuss impacts of conceptual design for the church renovation. FRAA goes back to the drawing board for a smaller project. Programs start again under guidelines specified by Provincial Health Officer. Businesses, accommodations, Parks Canada facilities open again under modified operations, all guided by the Provincial Health Officer with emphasis on personal and community safety. CP does not renew lease for Fireweed Hostel; hostel closes June 29, 2020.

            July 2020: Starts out cool and wet then summer descends with a heat wave! The pond is busy and wonderful. We all miss Canada Day celebrations. New wording from Government of Canada on Contribution Agreements means revisiting the agreement signed in April to meet new guidelines. Received new agreement late July, signed and returned August 13, 2020.

To wrap up this annual report: Field has followed health guidelines to avoid Covid-19 infections. We live in a community where people have been able to be outside, enjoy small and distanced visits with friends and neighbours, work and live. Thanks to everyone for the monumental contributions to safety, health and well-being in our community. Keep up the conscious efforts, on every front.

2. Treasurer’s Report 

            Sally Watson, Treasurer FRAA

 November statements and the Annual Financial Report were presented and will be attached to the minutes when sent out by e-mail.

Motion by Paulina, seconded by Kathryn to accept the November statements as presented. Carried.

Motion by Kathryn, seconded by Paulina to accept the Annual Financial Report as presented.

3. Parks Canada Reports 

            Tracey LeBlanc, Townsite Manager

Reporting for Parks Canada Departments that submitted information.

Currently in isolation and working from home due to potential covid-19 exposure. Infections in Lake Louise and Banff have led to increased restrictions. Critical services for water, wastewater, highway and road maintenance will continue. Some washroom facilities in low use areas may be closed. Townsite Office at Yoho Admin will be staffed on Tuesdays; Townsite Office in Lake Louise will be staffed on Mondays. Parks Canada has communicated to residents of Lake Louise and will send the same information on to residents of Field, as requested by FRAA, recognizing that many Field residents work in Lake Louise.

Travis Wert, Assets Manager: Parks Canada has contracted Associated Engineering to assess what needs to be done to mitigate water saturation above 2nd Avenue. Part of the dewatering project on Mount Dennis. It seems that the issues on 2nd Avenue are the result of decommissioning the reservoir that served as a collection point for water for CP’s water tower. There are three plus old water lines that were simply cut off above the reservoir, so don’t deliver water to the reservoir but still direct water into the ground above the reservoir. Question raised about responsibility of CP if it was their reservoir and water pipes that were abandoned, Tracey to find answer.

Question posed to Tracey about role of Development Office in CP planned accommodation facility to replace two historic log buildings and one residence adjacent to CP’s Field Resthouse. Tracey said it is unclear if Parks Canada has authority over CP land, and in the past in Banff, CP has not been required to go through the Development Office. It’s a larger question with national implications being examined by Parks Canada. Tracey suggested that a meeting with CP Vice President Mike Lovecchio may give answers. FRAA is in contact with him and will schedule a meeting as soon as possible. He has indicated the demolition of the structures to be replaced will happen in December.

Deb Jonnason has taken over Townsite Office duties from Helena Waddock, who is now working in the Realty Office.

Concerns expressed about the 70 kph zone approach to the traffic lights at Field intersection will be discussed with Mike Vanderveen. Question asked: How will the traffic lights be powered if there’s an outage in Field? Is there a back-up system in place? Tracey to ask Mike Vanderveen to talk to the engineers and provide answers. Also noted that Parks Canad needs to inform BC Transportation that the webcam on Field VRC stopped transmitting images in early November. Camera images are an important component in providing current conditions on the TransCanada Highway through Yoho National Park.

Parks Canada and the FRAA will start to work in the near future on a formal agreement that defines out relationship.


4. Field Fire and Rescue Report 
            Patrick Caïs, Acting Chief, Field Fire and Rescue Department

  1. Call Outs –

None in October and November

  • Members – Sitting at 15 members.  No new members.
  • New and Planned Purchases
    • New purchases

New hydraulic pump for the hydraulic tools.  Ordered in September and received in October.

  • Planned purchases

New Helmets, new rescue 2

  • Completed Training 

No CSRD training this fall.

  • Upcoming Training

In house training for the winter.

  • Apparatus
    • Engine 1 (all good) 
    • Rescue 1 (all good)  
    • Rescue 2 (major repaired for a week in October)
  • AGM

Happened in October 27th.  Patrick Cais considered resigning from his position and then took a week to reconsider his decision.

Pauline has been reconducted as president of our association.

Sophie has been reconducted as secretary.

Patrick has been reconducted as board member.

Still no Fire chief.

  • Full time Fire Chief
    • FFRD decided to renew its actual contract with PCA at its AGM.  The contract is valid until March 31st 2021 and covers fire services in Yoho National Park (vehicle fire is excluded).
    • FFRD declined to respond on the highway because it considered that it did not have the operational support from PCA.
    • No new information from PCA.

5. Election of Officers by Acclamation

Sally Watson, Paulina O’Brien, Greg Dowman and Kathryn Cameron have all said they will continue as Board members of the Field Recreation Advisory Association (FRAA), Sonya Leenders is still considering her position. Heather Galligan has said she will join the Board. All paperwork will be completed this week.

Although we have a smaller Board of Directors there are many people who volunteer to support the programs, projects and facilities the FRAA. Thank you to everyone who contributes. In a community of around 130 people, volunteers with Field Fire and Rescue, Kicking Horse Ski Club, Friends of Yoho and Field Recreation Advisory Association (FRAA) do so much to make our lives meaningful. The FRAA feels very fortunate to receive the support and help people give.

Question from the floor: Does the old Board have to concede for the new Board to take office? 

Great way to end the session.

Meeting adjourned at 8:20 pm.

Attendance Options for FRAA AGM and Townhall Meeting November 16, 2020

The Field Recreation Advisory Association offers two options to participate in the Town Hall Meeting. We ask you to consider which option is best for you and follow directions for your choice. It’s a scenario for a time that asks all of us to take care of our neighbours and ourselves.

Option 1: In-Person Attendance at Field Community Hall

Maximum attendance including Board Members and Presenters: 28

Please RSVP to fieldraa@gmail.com or call 587-222-6065 to confirm attendance by noon on Monday, November 16, 2020, with the number of people in your bubble who will be seated together.

Dress warmly. The FRAA plans to have windows partly open for a higher level of ventilation inside the Community Hall.

Bring a mask. Please wear it to protect others in attendance.

Hand sanitizer will be at the entrance. If you prefer to use soap and water, a hand washing station will be available inside the public washroom.

Please maintain 2 meters distance between others in attendance who are not part of your bubble.

If you feel unwell, please stay home.

Option 2: You are invited to a Zoom Virtual Visit.

Broadcast starts at 7:00 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada)

Join the Virtual Visit

https://phsa.zoom.us/j/66720436637?pwd=UTRseXVnSHRPRFc0M2M0NllxeW9aUT09

Meeting ID: 667 2043 6637

              Password: 440725

Can’t join by computer or mobile device? Join by telephone:1 833 955 1088 (Toll-free)

FRAA Annual General Meeting and Town Hall Meeting Agenda November 16, 2020

Field Recreation and Advisory Association (FRAA)

Annual General Meeting and Town Hall Meeting Agenda 

Monday, November 16, 2020 at 7:00 pm, 

Field Community Hall, 315 Stephen Avenue, Field, BC

1. FRAA Report 

         Kathryn Cameron, President FRAA

2. Treasurer’s Report 

         Sally Watson, Treasurer FRAA

3. Parks Canada Reports 

         Tracey LeBlanc, Townsite Manager

         Travis Wert, Asset Management

         Michael Vanderveen, Highway Service Centre

         Jed Cochrane, Visitor Experience

         Dwight Bourdin, Resource Conservation

4. Field Fire and Rescue Report 
         Patrick Caïs, Acting Chief, Field Fire and Rescue Department

5. Round Table 

FRAA Update Community Hall October 27, 200

Field Recreation Advisory Association (FRAA) has resumed programs at Field Community Hall, based on guidelines from the British Columbia Provincial Health Officer. 

Please visit:  http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19

Wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face.

Keep your hands at your side when possible.

When you are out in public, keep 2 metres between yourself and others. 

Stay home when you are sick, even if symptoms are mild.

Cough and sneeze into your elbow or sleeve.

Avoid social activities in large gatherings.

Wear a mask indoors when physical distancing is not possible.

Field Recreation Advisory Association Board Meeting October 19, 2020

In Attendance: Sally Watson, Kathryn Cameron, Paulina O’Brien (virtual attendance)

Excused: Sonya Leenders, Greg Dowman, Flint Palmer

1. Meetings

Field Utility Board (FUB) Meeting scheduled for November 4, 2020.

Agenda Items from FRAA:

  • 2nd Quarter reports
  • Fire Protection for Field Townsite and Yoho National Park
  • Circulate Snow Removal map and Best Practises digitally to residents
  • CP Staff Accommodation Plan to replace three residences with a new facility
  • Report on Mt. Dennis de-watering project 

Annual General Meeting scheduled for November 16, 2020, 7 pm at Field Community Hall. We’ll use the same format used for the Town Hall Meeting on September 28, 2020: up to 28 people in person in the Community Hall, and, via Zoom for people who want to attend virtually.  It worked quite well for the September meeting. Nomination papers are at the Post Office. Please put your name forward!

2. Programs

HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) at Field School Gym: self-lead on Sunday evenings from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm, no admission fee; and on Wednesday evenings with Laura Penner, $12 Admission fee. Cleaning protocols after each use to be developed.

Yoga Flow with Julie starts on Thursday, November 5, 2020 at 7:00 pm at Field Community Hall. Admission by donation. Please bring your own mat and props. If you don’t have the equipment you can sign out what you need for the duration of the program. Cleaning protocols after each use to be developed.

Ice Rink: How can we operate this winter under COVID-19 guidelines? The FRAA needs a rink champion to oversee the program. Here’s what we discussed:

  • Hand washing/hand sanitizer on entry to the change room
  • Bring your own equipment, and take it home with you. All equipment on site will be boxed up and put in the storage room.
  • Physical distance of 2 meters on the ice and in the change room when interacting with people outside your personal bubble
  • Maximum 10 people in change room to warm up. Masks recommended when indoors
  • Alcohol consumption on site is prohibited. Please police yourself and comply. When people drink, their inhibitions are suppressed and commitments to follow health guidelines tend to disappear. 
  • Clean and disinfect washrooms daily
  • Designated Kubota operators

Feedback, suggestions welcome.

Kid’s Room: In really good shape. Clearly getting use, care and attention. Thank you parents and kids.

COVID-19 Update for Community: Last update was posted July 22, 2020. FRAA will review current Provincial guidelines, and update our community guidelines.

Potential Hall Rental – FFRD use of Community Hall for Annual Emergency Services Christmas Supper: Community Hall provides large space that may be safer than restaurant option. FRAA to get more information about potential number of people who will attend, and food service plan. We will research and may submit the plan to Interior Health for guidance. Hall rental guidelines apply.

3. Certificate of Incorporation – Update:

Definition Member: The FRAA amalgamated two definitions (“voter” and “qualified voter” in the By Laws, Part 1.1.f. to read: 

1.1.f. “member” or “qualified voter” means a person 19 years of age who has resided within the geographic area of Yoho National Park for not less than one year.

Change to be made and updated document circulated with minutes for discussion at the AGM.

Quorum: Discussion regarding questions about Part 4.16.1: “A quorum is three directors present or such greater numbers as the directors may determine at a general meeting.” and Part 6.29.2. “The directors from time to time fix the quorum necessary for the transaction of business and unless so fixed the quorum shall be a majority of the directors then in office.” This may seem contradictory. The Board feels that it is a way to allow decisions to deal with specific situations that require immediate action. The FRAA has a long history of managing the programs and assets of the organization through communication and consultation with the community. It’s a two way street. The FRAA welcomes advice and guidance that keeps our operations legal, proper and without personal gain.

Borrowing: Discussion about Part 8 – Borrowing refers to borrowing money for operations of the organization. At no time will individual Directors be allowed to personally borrow funds from the FRAA. The FRAA does have a policy that residents and local organizations/businesses may borrow tables, chairs, and/or kitchen equipment on a per request basis for dinners or events. Each request is considered on risk to assets.

4. Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) Grant In Aid

The FRAA received Grant In Aid funds of $1260 to subsidize participation in HIIT and Yoga over the last year. We have used all the grant money. A report to CSRD is in process.

5. St. Joseph Project

The FRAA anticipates receiving revised conceptual plans from Alasdair for review very soon. Then, community consultation: first, send the narrative and plans to residents by email with one week to respond, and; second, hold a one-day open house for further comment and discussion. Following community review the conceptual plan will be complete and sent to the Development Office for review and then on to engineered drawings and architectural review. It’s on a tight timeline to meet the December 16, 2020 deadline to spend grant money from the Columbia Basin Trust Community Initiatives Program.

6. Gym Facility at Field Elementary School

Equipment purchase has started. The FRAA will work on a License of Occupation with Parks Canada to sign when the lease surrender for the lot and building from Rocky Mountain School District process is complete.

7. Kicking Horse Ski Club – Operations 2020/21

  • Marilyn is training volunteers to oversee membership and communications. 
  • Michael Furfaro and Dave Allen have cleared 97 trees from the Emerald Connector. 
  • Joe will continue to clear trees and track set trails this winter.
  • Insurance on the skidoo trailer has been renewed for the season.
  • Memberships are starting to come in. Sally to set up e-transfers as payment method.

8. Round Table

Diane Tammen, BC Hydro Community Relations Manager for East Kootenay retires on October 27, 2020. Sally MacDonald will take on the role following Diane’s retirement. Sally’s email address is: sally.macdonald@bchydro.com

Parks Canada payments for the Contribution Agreement and use of the public washroom facility for 2018 and 2019 have not been received.

Field recreation Advisory Association Town Hall Meeting September 28, 2020

In Attendance:  Sally Watson, Kathryn Cameron, Paulina O’Brien, Sonya Leenders, Craig Chapman, Tracey LeBlanc, Alex Kolesch, Ryan Cameron, Jen Coffman, Brenda Selkirk, Karla Gaffney, Lloyd Lafrance, Patrick Caïs, Pauline Boisier, Doug Mostert, Karen Cathcart, Carla Evans, Pierre Lemire, Wendy Edge, Annaick Balsan, Dave Allen, Sophie Caïs

1. FRAA Report 

         Kathryn Cameron, President FRAA

Welcome to everyone present at the Town Hall Meeting in the Community Hall, and welcome to everyone who has joined us via Zoom – thanks for organizing and monitoring this virtual communication method Craig Chapman. It’s safe to say that Covid-19 has catapulted us into the “virtual” world, the “strategic behaviour” world and the “so many new ways of looking at our lives” world. Critical thinking is important.

Field Recreation Advisory Association (FRAA) has met virtually and in person to determine best actions for offering programs and sharing information with residents of Field. Basically, the usual events we celebrate together in the community were either modified (Earth Day) or cancelled (Easter Pot Luck Brunch and Bunny Hop, Spring Fling and Canada Day, some Town Hall Meetings) in 2020 to meet Provincial Health Officer guidelines to prevent the spread of Covid-19. The FRAA will continue to follow the guidelines and do what we can to keep each other informed and connected as we find our way through the maze of a global pandemic in a community that is fuelled by tourism and friendship. The FRAA continues to communicate via email with the community email list through our new email address: fieldraa@gmail.com, on our Facebook page, The Village of Field, and on our website: www.fieldbc.ca.

Kudos to everyone for making Field look so beautiful this summer! The gardens and flowers are gorgeous. Sally, the flowers at the Community Hall offer a beacon of welcome. The hall isn’t seen a lot of community use this summer, but the public washroom, the chairs and benches, the tiny library and the veranda have seen plenty of traffic.

Programs

High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) continues strong with Laura Penner continues on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 7:30 pm, and self-lead on Sunday evenings from 6:30 to 7:30 pm, either outside on the rink at the Community Hall or inside at the school gymnasium if the weather or air quality are poor.

Yoga Flow with Julie will resume later this fall. Details to be announced. 

If you have a proposal for an event or program, put together the plan from the perspective of health and safety (Covid-19 guidelines), risk and consequence assessment (for insurance coverage), budget, location, and communication plan. The FRAA welcomes ideas that promote health and well being in the community.

Grants

Winding up the Columbia Shuswap Regional District grant of $1260 to promote participation in fitness programs in Field.

Two grants from Columbia Basin Trust Community Initiatives Program are in process: engineered drawings for the St. Joseph Project ($45,625.00), and to establish a community gym facility ($9450.00).

Constitution Update

A draft will be circulated via the community email list. It’s dry but short, so please read through the document and send comments by return email to the FRAA. Have coffee, or tea, or another caffeinated drink of choice to help you stay awake! Actually it’s not that bad. We plan to vote on the amendments at the Annual General Meeting.

Contribution Agreement

New agreement with Parks Canada has been signed by both parties: Parks Canada on July27, 2020 and FRAA on August 13, 2020. Honorarium not received to date.

St. Joseph Project

Basically, we have gone back to the drawing board to develop a new, smaller conceptual plan that leaves the structure in place with a slightly larger addition to replace the back section, new foundation and modified basement plan. The Board asks residents to bring us your concerns and ideas as we work through this process. We want to get engineered drawings, tender the construction process and have all our ducks in a row when we apply for more grants, complete the development process and proceed with construction in 2022. Stay tuned for plans to review in the coming month.

Kicking Horse Ski Club will operate as normal this year, under the exceptional guidance of Marilyn Toulouse and Bruce Bembridge, with Joe Nixhipi on the grooming. Given the response of Canadians to visit the National Parks this summer, it’s fair to expect we will see cross country skiing experiences in high demand this winter. On this note, kudos to the Yoho National Park trail crew team who made safe passage over the washout at the west end of the Amiskwi River bridge in June, and cleared the major piles of blown down trees on the Kicking Horse Trail in August. It is a beautiful trail in all seasons of the year. 

Power Outages and BC Hydro

Diane Tammen from BC Hydro has kept us informed on maintenance and repairs to the Energy Storage Facility (ESF) which we tend to refer to as the battery back up. To learn more about the program, visit the website at: https://www.bchydro.com/news/press_centre/news_releases/2013/bc-hydro-completes-energy-storage-project-in-field.html

To receive information when the battery is on, the Twitter account is Field_Outage_Status, @FieldOutageInfo

The FRAA will ask Diane Tammen for an overall update on the pilot project. The FRAA asks Parks Canada: Does the Highway Twinning Project include plans to move the power line from CP’s mainline right-of-way to underground along the TransCanada Highway right-of-way?

CP Rail Operations Concerns

Ongoing problems with the crossing arms, lights and signals; trains covering the crossing for extended periods of time (44 minutes just before noon on September 8); old, noisy, diesel spewing engines used for work trains left idling in the yard along Stephen Avenue for days/nights; maintenance vehicles speeding through town and in the yard (creates dust); zero communication with the community about any of these issues leaving all responsibility on residents to call the CP Police line to find out what is going on and why.

The FRAA passed these concerns to Parks Canada LLYK Townsites. We feel that corporate to corporate conversations are more effective than individual to corporate conversations. This doesn’t mean that as residents we should not call the CP Police at 1-800-716-9132 to let them know what’s happening. Still call. We want to add weight to our concerns and get resolution.

British Columbia Provincial Election

We go to the polls on Saturday, October 24, 2020. Field Community Hall is the polling station. Covid-19 measures will be in place. There will be many details communicated as the process unfolds.

Annual General Meeting

Scheduled for Monday, November 16, 2020. Currently six members on the Board of Directors. Nomination papers will be in the Post Office on October 1, 2020. If you are interested in volunteering with the FRAA, please talk to one of the Board members and file your papers to be part of our tiny democratic process! Operating during a pandemic has presented challenges that we seem to manage well in our community. Offer your expertise and ideas to operate and connect in ways that keep us all safe and healthy.

Passages

The FRAA and community of Field offer condolences to the families of Gordon Allen and Bruce Wiebe who both died this spring. 

Gord Allen lived and worked in Field and Yoho for many, many years. He volunteered with Field Fire and Rescue Department, FRAA and the Friends of Yoho organizations, and on his own, volunteered to restore and mount Parks Canada’s retired rustic signs throughout the Field Townsite. The beautiful map of Yoho National Park displayed on the front of the Community Hall receives huge attention daily from visitors to our community. All those beautiful street markers? Gord Allen is the guy who installed and maintained them. Although Gord spent the last 9 years of his life in care, his presence continued to be felt with in conversations with Vivian and Dave. I always looked forward to Gord’s rapier sharp wit and observations! And visiting his train set upstairs in their garage. Thanks to Karla Gaffney and Marilyn Toulouse for organizing a physical distanced memorial for Gord in the spring.

Bruce Wiebe also lived and worked in Field and Yoho for many years. He lived with his wife Heather and son Jeff at 302 – 1st Avenue until his retirement from Parks Canada when he and Heather moved to Calgary; Jeff has already moved to Alberta by then. Bruce worked on the Highways Team, so we saw him in town and on the Highway maintaining roads and supporting construction and repairs in the park. Bruce was also known for a splendid sense of humour and goodwill. After retirement Bruce stopped in town to visit, and could often been seen enjoying coffee with former colleagues at Melissa’s in Banff.

And life prevails. Congratulations to Doug Mostert and Pauline Boisier on the birth of their daughter Louise Collette on August 31, 2020! Of course, she is perfect. Exactly what we expected from Pauline and Doug! (Bonus on the video feed – we were able to say Hello! to Louise, Pauline and Doug comfortably attending the meeting at home!)

Congratulations to Carter Tataryn, our only Golden Secondary School Graduate this year. All the best in your life endeavours and adventures Carter!

2. Treasurer’s Report 

         Sally Watson, Treasurer FRAA

Files attached to the distribution email.

Note: All lights in the Community Hall are LED. Matthew Morrison undertook the project and completed it about five years ago.

3. Parks Canada Reports 

         Tracey LeBlanc, Townsite Manager

Townsites

First quarter (April through June 2020) reports for water, wastewater and solid waste show expenses and revenue are both down which mirrors lockdown conditions at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Not certain all costs have been input. Expect a clearer picture at the end of second quarter (June through September). 

Assets

  • HES signalisation project is underway as per previous email and GANTT chart (traffic lights installation at Field intersection on TCH)
  • Lake O’Hara Road is roughly 3/4 complete
  • KH CG final deficiencies are being rectified
  • Yoho bunkhouse is schedule to be complete mid-late October.  The bunkhouse will be open year round.
  • Boulder compound clean-up in final stages.  Lead by ResCon.
  • Second new triplex is final stages of tender preparation.  Construction in 2021.
  • Recent geotechnical study along 2nd Ave was completed though report is not yet complete.
  • Design work underway for retaining wall replacement at 314 1st Ave. 

Highways Operations Unit

Winter operations and level of service will be the same as usual for this winter in Field. Winter snowplough map attached to the distribution email.

Visitor Experience

  • Yoho Visitor Centre will close on October 12th. Services may move indoors if weather turns cold and wintery before that. Physical distancing and masks will form part of the requirements to ensure safety of visitors and staff.
  • Monarch, Kicking Horse and Takakkaw Falls campgrounds will close on Oct 12th
  • Takakkaw Falls road will close after October 12th
  • Day use areas and highway washrooms in Yoho will look similar to last winter during the COVID-19 pandemic: Emerald Lake, Yoho VRC and the Wapta Lake truckers pull-out will stay open for the winter and cleaned regularly as per our COVID-19 cleaning guidelines. All others will close with snowfall or after Thanksgiving weekend.
  • Lake O’Hara Road is undergoing major upgrades. It will remain gravel but it will be a much-improved driving experience for the busses.
  • For 2021, pending COVID-19 guidance, we are planning to:

         – return to full capacity at Lake O’Hara and Takakkaw Falls campgrounds

         – run the Lake O’Hara bus

         – return to an indoor offer at the Yoho VRC

Resource Conservation

         Some prescribed fire operations went ahead on September 13, but they were limited by the widespread smoke from US wildfires. As a result, only a small piece (about 70 hectares) of the 1571-hectare unit was burned.

Currently, we aren’t planning to complete operations at Alexandra this fall because conditions are no longer favourable (this might change but it’s very unlikely).

Alex Kolesch

Will communicate with Mike Lovecchio, CP Rail Vice President of Community Relations, about community concerns and CP Rails future plans in the community.

Will retain the Field Fire and Rescue Department file. In the spring Parks Canada agreed to conduct a review of FFRD to look at long-term viability. Received the third party contractor’s draft report late Sunday evening. Shared with FFRD today. Has read through it once, needs time to understand. Received communication from FFRD last week that FFRD does not feel prepared to extend their contract, which ends September 30, 2020, with Parks Canada. Alex stated that Parks Canada remains committed to fire protection and road rescue service in Field and Yoho National Park.

Management Plan Review Process: Public consultation may resume in late fall digitally, i.e. share Draft Management Plan.

Questions and comments re: Parks Canada Reports

1. Brenda Selkirk asked Highways to do maintenance on the cemetery road. There are deep ruts in places.

2. Patrick Caïs: Question from a year ago for the Lake O’Hara turnoff for people entering TCH westbound traffic. Drivers don’t seem to understand the merge lane provided but pull out directly into the westbound passing lane. Is there some way to indicate the existence and purpose of the merge lane? Tracey to follow-up.

3. When will the traffic lights on the TransCanada Highway be operational? How are the lights powered? Will power outages affect the lights? If yes, how will they operate when there’s an outage? Will there be enhanced highway maintenance at the intersection, i.e. clear sightlines, mitigation for ice?

4. Friends of Yoho Report 
Brenda Selkirk, Manager Friends of Yoho

         The gift shop remained closed due to Parks Canada VRC restrictions to the public.

         Throughout the summer we had our website store providing some clothing, magnets, souvenir map and stuffed animals.

         Sales have been slow. We have had donations and memberships to contribute to funds being generated. September has been a busy month with more sales than all other months.

         The Board is going ahead with the fall newsletter. This is no plan to have any events this fall. Members will need to renew through the website for the upcoming year. A form is available with payment options for this.

         Thanks to Wendy and Sonya for keeping the school flower garden (The Glen and Irene Brook Memorial Garden) in great shape. 

Impromptu reports from Truffle Pigs owner, Jen Coffman, and Velvet Antler Pottery owner, Ryan Cameron. Both businesses were able to adjust to new operation guidelines to keep staff and clients safe, and were busy this summer. Canadian clientele. Truffle Pigs plans to close from October 13 to December 1 for maintenance and to organize for winter operations. The Velvet Antler will be open for winter operations; no break planned right now.

5. Field Fire and Rescue Report 
         Patrick Caïs, Acting Chief, Field Fire and Rescue Department

  • Most quiet summer on record. No call-outs in July or August; 1 call-out in September. Observation: primarily regional traffic, people travelling from point A to point B, familiar with the road, not sightseeing.
  • 16 members, not all are active. 4 new recruits: Brad, Heather, Slade and Lauren. 
  • One senior member/officer has resigned due to stressful situation with Parks Canada. Additional resignations possible. Members have shifted personal priorities. Training Officer has prepared effective training sessions but attendance is poor. Training opportunities uncertain with loss of use of Boulder Creek Compound for storing derelict cars to use in Auto Extrication training. No new site identified to date.
  • Overall members feel demoralized, and not appreciated. There has been a big turnover in the Fire Chief position; five Chiefs in five years. 
  • Raised concern in July 2019 that no one wanted to take the position. Sent a memorandum with concerns to Parks Canada. No written response. Later in the fall met with Superintendent Rick Kubian and were told FFRD would remain a volunteer department with no full-time paid personnel. Generally the Fire Chief spends 300 hours per year and officers/members spend 250 hours per year on FFRD duties.
  • Well-being of members is FFRD prime concern of Acting Fire Chief. Hears frustration. Being ignored, loss of motivation and lack of consideration has led to level of low morale in department. Not feeling confident in level of training at this point to respond to highway rescue. Members must be legally compliant with increased level of competence as shown in training records to offer all services.
  • Received draft audit report today. FFRD will take all aspects into consideration. FFRD does not want to turn their backs to the community. Feels that current operation of FFRD is too big to request from a volunteer department. It is time for a stronger department, not a weaker department.
  • Parks Canada is the governing body, authority for Townsite of Field and Yoho National Park.
  • FFRD not moving away from the table. Compliance and safety are top priorities.

Alex: Not much to refute in anything Patrick has stated. Understands situation. Important to take time to understand and digest draft report. Welcomes open dialogue.

Sonya: Stakeholders are highly motivated to see FFRD onsite, compliant and operational.

Kathryn: Parks Canada relies heavily on volunteers and residents’ goodwill to offer services in Field and Yoho as noted by Field Fire and Rescue, Friends of Yoho, Kicking Horse Ski Club and FRAA. We have a small population. People have their own priorities. But, we love our community and we love Yoho. We want Parks Canada to love us back.

Craig: Is Parks Canada legally required to provide fire protection and road rescue service in Yoho National Park?

Alex: Yes

6. Round Table 

1. Karen Cathcart, Area A Regional Director attended the meeting via Zoom. 

Karen offered to work with the community and Parks Canada in discussions with CP Rail on its operations in Field, and also offered the assistance of Columbia Shuswap Regional District staff in finding resolution to sustainable fire protection services for Field and Yoho National Park. Karen also reported on the progress of the proposed aquatic centre in Golden. In October, Area A residents will receive a link to a website that gives costs to selected options participants want to have in an aquatic centre, and calculates what that person will pay in property taxes to pay for the centre based on property assessment. It’s all about the money. Stay tuned. Thanks Karen.

2. Karla Gaffney advised residents that although there is now a controlled crossing that may have received a permanent fix to problems, always Look, Listen and Live – in other words, be aware of what is happening when you enter or leave Field via the controlled crossing. 

Kathryn commented that it begs the question of why the crossing, with increased noise and disruption, was installed since it’s not necessarily providing the increased safety we were told it would serve.

Meeting adjourned 9:06 pm

Guidelines and Information to Attend Town Hall Meeting September 28,2020

The Field Recreation Advisory Association is excited to offer two options to participate in the Town Hall Meeting. We ask you to consider which option is best for you and follow directions for your choice. It’s a different scenario for a time that asks all of us to take care of ourselves and our neighbours.

Option 1: In-Person Attendance at Field Community Hall

Maximum attendance including Board Members and Presenters: 28

Please RSVP to fieldraa@gmail.com or call 587-222-6065 to confirm attendance by noon on Sunday, September 27, 2020, with the number of people in your bubble who will be seated together.

Dress warmly. The FRAA plans to have windows and/or doors open for good ventilation inside the Community Hall.

Bring a mask. Please wear it to protect others in attendance.

Hand sanitizer will be at the entrance. If you prefer to use soap and water, a hand washing station will be available inside the public washroom.

Please maintain 2 meters distance between others in attendance who are not part of your bubble.

If you feel unwell, please stay home.

Option 2: You are invited to a Zoom Virtual Visit.

Broadcast starts at 7:00 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada)

Join the Virtual Visit

https://phsa.zoom.us/j/64428229179?pwd=QzM1TkFlWlhkbk5wZU9SNjF0NlJVUT09

Meeting ID: 644 2822 9179

Password: 666238

Can’t join by computer or mobile device? Join by telephone: 1 833 955 1088 (Toll-free)