Minutes from FCC and FRAA meetings.

Field Recreation Advisory Association Board Meeting, April 6, 2020

In Attendance via Skype: Flint Palmer, Paulina O’Brien, Sally Watson, Sonya Leenders, Kathryn Cameron

Excused: Greg Dowman

1. Events at the hall.

Last events at the Community Hall were the Town Hall Meeting on March 9, Yoga on March 12 and self-lead HIIT on March 15. Laura has settled up with the FRAA as of March 11. Kathryn to contact Mardi to settle yoga account when she is able.

Until pandemic physical distancing guidelines are lifted, all meetings and events at the Community Hall are suspended including: Early Earth Day and Easter Bunny Hop and Pot Luck scheduled for Monday, April 13; FUB is on May 6 and Town Hall Meeting scheduled for May 11. Not certain about Spring Fling on June 7 at this point; let’s see how it all plays out. We’re flexible.

Craig has set up a Comcast option on the TV at the Community Hall. Unfortunately wifi isn’t working, again. Might be time to purchase a new router; Sally to talk to Chirs about a recommendation. Craig also did a walk through the building to make sure all was well. So far so good. 

2. Contribution Agreement

Received the Contribution Agreement from Parks Canada for signature. Signed and initialled with corrections for FRAA mailing address and quorum. Document e-mailed to Superintendent’s office for his signature.

3. FFRD

Looks like Parks Canada and Field Fire and Rescue Department have reached agreement on short term coverage while both parties continue to work on long-term options. Alex Kolesch indicated there would be an announcement by Parks Canada soon.

4. Church Project

Working on tasks to complete before the Development Permit application can be submitted. Helen Irwin has sent us the first draft of the Basic Impact Assessment required for the Development Permit. Helen has done an amazing, thorough job. Citizen Science project is in the works to monitor owl nesting in 2020, and potential bat use of building over the spring/summer/fall 2020. So far, Bruce Bembridge and Axel Cameron have signed up to provide observation data. If you are interested in participating, please contact kathryn.cameron105@gmail,com

5. Public Workout Space at Field Elementary School Gym

Once Parks Canada completes the lease surrender from School District #6, the FRAA will enter a License of Occupation with Parks Canada to use the gym. Proposed that HIIT classes will move from the Community Hall to the gym. General discussion about program options and rental policy once we enter into a License of Occupation agreement .

6. E-mail transfers via account at Columbia Valley Credit Union.

Sally to talk to Kaela L’Heureux at CVCU to see what we need to do to institute online banking to pay bills and receive e-mail transfers. 

7. Heather MacNeiil’s idea about funding a track setting position for Kicking Horse Ski Club

The Lake O’Hara Trails Club does quite a lot of fundraising, and actually funds two Parks Canada trail crew positions at Lake O’Hara. Heather suggested that perhaps Parks Canada would consider a similar agreement with KHSC, so Parks Canada would hire a track setter, provide all equipment and KHSC would direct fundraising activities to fund the service provided by Parks Canada. Takes the onus off Kicking Horse Ski Club for hiring staff, equipment purchase and maintenance but still allows for businesses and users to contribute. FRAA will discuss the proposal with Parks Canada. Intent is to work on the options for the 2020/21 winter season.

8. Community Small Grants

Craig and Aleysha have applied for money to purchase art supplies for people who are interested in participating in a project to commemorate the current state of hand-washing, staying home and physical distancing as we move through the Covid-19 experience.

9. FRAA Email account

fieldraa@gmail.com is our new FRAA dedicated communication account. Community e-mail notifications will come from this account now. It will also be used for e-mail transfers when the process has been set up.

10. Elements Physiotherapy and Massage Therapy from Golden are interested in renting the Community Hall one day per week in the summer season to offer services in Field.

Antoinette has seen the interior of the building and has talked to Sally about a better rate than $150 per day, our standard rental fee. The other option is 20% of gross revenue, like we charge to program leaders for yoga and HIIT, or other classes where people pay a fee to attend. Board members agreed that if Elements proceeds with the plan, they will be given the option to chose whichever option is least expensive for them. Sally to talk to Janice Ottoson about insurance requirements from Elements and FRAA. Board feels that the relationship can be handled through the existing Hall Rental Agreement document. Great service to offer in the community.

10. Round Table

In a recent round of communication with the Townsites Office in Field regarding emergency use of Field Community Hall by CP in the event of a bunkhouse evacuation, it became clear that knowledge of the existing Field Emergency Plan as well as updating the plan are critical for all parties involved. Kathryn will communicate with Alex about training and a possible timeline to update the plan.

Flint: In discussion with fellow organizers about going ahead with Field Summer Music Festival for 2020 in the face of so much social uncertainty. Needs to sell 350 tickets to succeed; 50 tickets sold to date. It’s a fluid situation. Track FSMF Facebook account for Elk Run and Riot live stream concert coming up in about two weeks, and announcements about FSM 2020.

Paulina and Flint: Is there something the FRAA can do in the near future to bring people together? Street dance with 10’ squares marked on the road with chalk; one square per person? Physical Distance Party? Amazing community of amazing people – we miss getting together these days.

Sonya: Concerned about potential second wave of Covid-19 in the fall. Suggested monthly Skype meetings in addition to regular e-mail communication to stay in touch until regular meetings and events can proceed. Board meeting by Skype set for May 4. Sonya and Paulina will coordinate virtual Easter message to community.

Truffle Pigs offers a mail-order grocery service. To participate, please contact coffmanej@gmail.com

Field Recreation Advisory Association Town Hall Meeting, March 9, 2020

In Attendance: Patrick Caïs, Brenda Selkirk, Heather MacNeill, Christine Selkirk, Dave Selkirk, Ginette Therrien, Stephen Selkirk, Hollie Tataryn, Ryan Cameron, Carla Evans, Lorraine Zirke, Craig Chapman, Mike Vanderveen, Alex Kolesch, Paulina O’Brien, Kathryn Cameron, Sally Watson

Excused: Sonya Leenders, Flint Palmer, Greg Dowman

1. FRAA Report 

            Kathryn Cameron, President FRAA

Since the last Town Hall Meeting on January 20, a short 7 weeks ago, Field Recreation Advisory Association had some periods of intense activity which include:

Events: 

  • Yoho Blow Winter Festival, January 31 to February 2

Weather is always a big part of the Yoho Blow Weekend story. 2020 saw heavy snow Friday night, changing to rain all night and until 1 pm Saturday, then a beautiful break of sunshine Saturday afternoon, and more snow Saturday night. Sunday was beautiful! Really great event for the community! Financials: took in $4009 in revenue and spent $2623.72 on expenses for a net gain of $1385.25.

Shinny Hockey: Torpedoed by the weather. The weather was too snowy, the rink was too soft and there was no way to improve conditions.

Bocce: Total revamp of the tournament that happened on Friday night with discussion about Round-Robin vs. Elimination models, and Round-Robin won! Which meant games every hour with the team winning most number of games winning the tournament. Great idea! Lots of good competition! 2 hour break for Heritage Relay on Saturday. Bocce all day on Sunday. 

Heritage Relay: A couple of changes to the challenge line-up that everyone loved. Energized by Saturday afternoon sunshine. Good participation with 11 teams; good generational representation.

Dance: 54 people attended. The band was good.

Anything Goes Downhill Race: Second last event of the weekend. Seven participants on skis, snowboard and toboggan! Mass start this year – that was fun, and not as dramatic as you think. Great big Thank You to Kicking Horse Ski Club track setter Joe Nixhipi for grooming the race course, and starting the race from the upper reservoir in 2020 rather than the lower, easier start point at the cemetery. Superb snow conditions at the top, a bit icy toward the bottom. 

Pot Luck Supper: Delicious as always. Lovely way to end the weekend. 

Suggestions for future:

Hold the Anything Goes Downhill Race earlier in the day on Sunday, during a scheduled Bocce break, similar idea to Saturday line-up. 

Reschedule for one weekend later, tentatively February 5, 6 and 7, 2021. 

Find ways to encourage Emerald Lake and Great Divide Lodge staff to participate in events and come to the dance.

  • Vegan Pot Luck Supper and Information Evening, February 9

25 participants, delicious food, plenty of good information via samples, literature and videos about vegan options. Thank you Bonnie and Jana!

  • Groove Is In The Heart, February 14

Elk Run and Riot from Canmore played for the dance. Great band! They are in the line-up for Field Summer Music Festival so it was really nice to get a sneak preview. 27 people attended. Door proceeds went to the band. Bar proceeds to FRAA. Lots of social media promotion. No posters printed for the event; in the future will definitely print and post to augment digital communication.

  • Yoho Nordic Challenge, February 15

Organized and run by Kicking Horse Ski Club. Superb turnout of around 80 participants. Great weather and ski conditions this year. Well done KHSC!

Programs: 

  • HIIT going strong with two sessions weekly, one lead by Laura Penner on Wednesday evenings and a self lead session Sunday evenings
  • Yoga with Mardi Elliott on Thursday evenings

(Both programs have been subsidized by a grant from Columbia Shuswap Regional District since September, to boost attendance and promote personal health and well being for participants. The FRAA will do a second accounting this month of grant monies used since the end of December to see how much is left.)

  • Learn to Make Healing Foods Vegan Cooking Class with Bonnie Brandt on February 23. Full registration of 8 participants, great program! Well organized and presented, delicious food, lovely to spend a few hours together making food, eating food and visiting – everything we love as a community. More courses in the works.

Meetings:

1. Constitution Update Meeting on February 10, full review, identified areas that need amending, call to Societies Branch for definition and process clarification. The organization defines terms in the By-Laws and if the By-Laws are submitted as a package for update, then we pay one fee, rather for each article changed. Hope to have a draft to circulate in the next month.

2. FRAA Board Meeting February 17 – see minutes circulated in mid-February.

3. Meeting with Parks Canada management on February 18 to touch base and discuss community concerns.

            a. Volunteer contribution to community of Field compensates for lack of Parks Canada presence. 

Role of Kicking Horse Ski Club and track setting; out dated Winter Trails Map – needs to be updated and reprinted; YNP twitter account promotes winter recreation without acknowledging that KHSC is providing the service – encounter with snowshoers on the trail shows misunderstanding of role of KHSC; aging volunteers. FRAA feels it is in everyone’s best interest for Parks Canada to maintain winter trails and provide up-to-date information that gives users accurate trail info and critical safety messages.
            b. Field Fire and Rescue: solution to impasse, role of FFR for community and Yoho National Park, burn-out, recruitment, retention long term vision, administrative continuity re: ensuring propane tank is full and insurance policy is paid and current. Role of FFRD is primarily public safety on TransCanada Highway. 57 call-outs in 2019. Structure fires are rare.
            c. Yoho VRC open year round to offer services to visitors. Average daily use since October 2019 averages 438 people per day. 

            d. Community access in winter: snow removal and storage. We need a new model, not same old method that leaves Field at the end of the maintenance line, looking like an abandoned village. Concern about top-down attitude of Highway Operations Unit (HOU) staff toward maintenance in Field; this community is seen as a burden when the reality is insufficient funding to HOU in the Field Unit. Entrance to community is not inviting: snow is piled in front of the Village of Field sign, summer banners are still up, and are in tatters. Note:Banners have been replaced.
            e. Emergency Plan Update: During the communications blackout and power failure on February 3, 2019 Field Fire and Rescue Department (FFRD) played a leadership role in organizing a response plan, communications door-to-door to assess needs, and staffed the Community Hall as an emergency shelter. When the CP train derailed in the early hours of February 4, 2019, CP Bunkhouse was put on evacuation notice due to oil tankers in the Field yard and uncertainty of what would actually happen to the out of control train. Residents heard after the fact; there was no evacuation protocol in place for residents (keeping in mind that particular emergency situation unfolded very fast).
            f. Status of Contribution Agreement: Alex is working on Contribution Agreement and Memorandum of Understanding options.

            g. Community use of school gym when Parks Canada finishes paperwork for lease surrender from Rocky Mountain School District 6. Very close to signing all paperwork for lease surrender, then Parks Canada will start process to renovate structure for use as National Park Administration Building. Use of school gym for community recreation and events will be managed through a License of Occupation between Parks Canada and FRAA

            h. Reinstate Outstanding Items List that identifies maintenance issues in Field. Provides a guideline and priorities. Addresses general state of neglect.

            i. Individual issues between Parks Canada and residents need resolution before acrimony develops. FRAA supports cooperative, reasonable, logical solutions to issues.

            j. Overall, what does Parks Canada envision for Field over the next 10+ years? Aging demographic, volunteer burn-out, steady loss of services over the past 25 years – it’s easy to be demoralized. Any movement on CPR land not used for CPR operations reverting to the Crown?

4. Field Utility Board Meeting February 27 – Alex will report

General Business:

  • CPR Lease has been signed for five years, in place to October 31, 2024
  • Working on repairs and maintenance in the Community Hall. Miles has agreed to do important plumbing repairs to the hot water tap in the bar and a leaking toilet in the women’s washroom. Joe and Flint looking at the change room door replacement/repair.
  • Grant Applications submitted to Columbia Basin Trust for St. Joseph Project for cost of Engineered Drawings and Architectural review submitted to CBT Community Initiatives (requested $45,625.00) and to purchase gym equipment (requested $9450). Presented February 24 to selection committee in Golden. Anticipate hearing results of applications by the end of March.

In case you didn’t already know:

  • Styrofoam meat trays stamped P6 made from Expanded Polystyrene can be recycled through the British Columbia program and are accepted at the Golden Bottle Depot. They are not accepted through the Town Of Banff recycle program – that is where our recycle program materials are sent. So, if there is P6 material in our plastic recycle bin, the load is contaminated and ends up in the landfill, which none of us want.
  • Neighbourhood Small Grants “program helps residents of any age, experience, or background take part in building community”. Grants up to $500. Check out details and info at the website: www.neighbourhoodsmallgrants.ca  

Overall, lots of opportunities to get together to have fun, learn, participate and talk about the issues that are important to our community. As always, volunteers support activities that enrich our lives and manage the details required for a Society registered in the Province of British Columbia that operates in a National Park with one asset on CPR land and one asset on Parks Canada land. Great big shout out to everyone! FRAA always welcomes new Board members. If interested, please talk to one of us.

Passages

Former resident and retired Parks Canada Highways employee Bruce Wiebe died in early March 2020. Bruce, Heather and their son Jeff owned and lived in the home currently owned by Susan and Ian McIlreath, They moved to Calgary when Bruce retired; Heather continued to work for CPR in Calgary. Bruce was a great neighbour and colleague. We offer our condolences to his family and friends.

2. Treasurer’s Report 

            Sally Watson, Treasurer FRAA

Motion by Paulina, seconded by Kathryn: to accept financial reports as presented. Carried.Files attached to minutes email, and posted on inside bulletin board at Post Office.

3. Parks Canada Reports 

            Alex Kolesch, Acting/Townsite Manager

Highway Twinning Basic Impact Assessment and Mitigation Plans Open House on February 5, 2020 was well-attended. 

Field School: Parks Canada recognizes the important role of the school in the community. Will preserve memory in renovations; feedback is welcome as are ideas for commemorative space/presentation. Renovations will also enable entrance for use of gymnasium, access to washrooms for gym users. Building will be Parks Canada Administration Office. Considering parking area for staff, currently looking at playground area for parking. Once all offices have been moved to new space, Parks Canada will end its lease with CPR in the present Admin Building; status of building is responsibility of CPR. Site may be developed as community green space, possibly site for new playground, picnic area.

Parks Canada Housing: New triplex ready to be let to staff. Contains two 2-bedroom suites and one 1-bedroom suite. Anticipate start of construction this season on second triplex on former Dollhouse lot. Boulder Creek Bunkhouse renovations will be complete for winter staff residence, not ready for summer staff in 2020. Superintendent’s Residence is ready for tenants. It’s very expensive to heat; potential renters are hesitant to take it on. Ideas for use other than housing? Contact Alex. Parks Canada is committed to improving staff accommodation. Assets team is preparing a report on some properties to determine if they could be sold or should be demolished.

Field Utility Board Report: Review of quarterly reports. Rates for water and sewer continue to be frozen and will remain the same. Parks Canada anticipates the subsidy for 2019/2020 fiscal year will drop from around $18,000 down to between $12,000 and $13,000. In previous fiscal year there were major equipment, and wage expenses (wage increase and retro pay due to contract settlement) that are not repeated in current year. May see increase in solid waste costs. These rates are not frozen. 

            Alex is doing research on insurance and honorarium options as part of Contribution Agreement update.

            Covid-19: Parks Canada takes direction from Health Canada. No special direction at this time regarding visitors however this could change; the situation is very fluid. Parks Canada will look at policy and direction over the next 2 to 4 months. In the meantime, follow Health Canada’s advice. It sounds like Parks Canada is looking at visitation and economic impacts as a result of the virus spreading worldwide.

            Michael Vanderveen, Highway Service Centre

Nothing new to report. Currently in late winter/early spring operations, cleaning medians and pushing back snow build-up on TransCanada Highway shoulders. Freeze/thaw cycles, more snow forecast. Will have water maintenance team look at frozen storm drain south of Community Hall to mitigate water pooling at bottom of Centre Street.

Nothing to report at this time from Visitor Experience, or Resource Conservation.           

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

The nice winter break is almost over! Store opens April 2, 2020; April is a busy month for the Friends of Yoho store. Come on down and see what’s new! Two full-time staff positions filled; one part-time position is still open. Parks Canada plans to open May 1, 2020.

5. British Columbia Emergency Health Services

            Craig Chapman, Community Paramedic

Quiet in general. Covid-19 is a big part of conversations. If you are elderly with existing health conditions risk is higher. It’s important to take precautions to protect yourself: don’t travel; carry hand sanitizer, avoid large gatherings. The virus is passed by large droplets. Cough or sneeze into elbow. Wash hands frequently using soap and water. Don’t touch your face. No cruises. Use of masks more effective on clean-shaven face, but ultimately masks are an illusion of protection. If you have symptoms (fever, runny nose, dry cough) call 811 for information and direction, i.e. isolate in place or call 911. Follow Get Prepared www.getprepared.ca advice on stocking food and supplies in event of quarantine; assess support systems. If you run a business, have hand washing facilities and hand sanitizer readily available on site. For reference visit British Columbia Centre for Disease Control website: www.bccdc.ca

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

  1. Call Outs: 7 in November, 13 in December, 4 in January, 3 in February – 27 for 2019/20.
  2. Members: One new recruit with Brad Tataryn
  3. New and Planned Purchases
    1. No new purchases
    1. Propane generator is in place in case of power outage with an automatic switch.
    1. Bunker gears are going through their annual clean up.
    1. The hydraulic pump and extrication tools have been maintained by KGC.
  4. Completed Training: No external training during the winter.
  5. Upcoming Training: Spring training is posted with CSRD facilities in Salmon Arm.  Strategies and Tactics, interior fire, exterior fire, ventilation, pump operators, emergency driving, etc…
  6. Apparatus
    1. Engine 1 (all good) 
    1. Rescue 1 (all good) 
    1. Rescue 2 (all good considering its age).  
  7. Ongoing Projects
    1. Discussions with PCA about importance of fulltime fire chief on FFRD (Fire Chief) ongoing
    1. Last meeting was on Feb 18 with Pauline Boisier (FFRD president), Rick Kubian (PCA), Alex Kolesh (PAC), a new representative for PCA and Patrick Cais (deputy chief). 
    1. PCA met with Sophie (FFRD secretary) later through a phone conference to look at improving the administrative procedure. FFRD has not received any news from PCA since regarding this development.

Parks Canada asks the community for time to resolve the negotiation with FFR on issue of full-time Fire Chief. Advised by community that FFR understand their operation and are a very valuable resource to consult. Observation that this has been in process for nine months, the current contract expires on March 31, 2020 and with no Fire Chief in place (it’s an onerous task that no current members want to take on under present contract model) no one has the authority to sign new contract. 

7. Round Table

Not offered for open discussion, sorry. However, Go International Volunteer program, operated through Lake Louise Ski Area is interested in any projects individuals or businesses may have in mind for this summer. If you have a project in mind, contact Ron Allen:yohoguesthouse@gmail.com

Field Recreation Advisory Association Board Meeting, February 17, 2020

In attendance: Sally Watson, Paulina O’Brien, Bonnie Brandt, Andrew Bullock, Flint Palmer, Kathryn Cameron

Excused: Sonya Leenders, Greg Dowman

1. Event Recap

            3rd Annual Pond Hockey Tournament January 10 & 11, 2020: Organized by Kurt Devlin, who pays all expenses out of entry/registration fees. FRAA received tips ($486.05), net bar revenue ($1522.00) and hall rental ($300), for a total of $2308.05 for the weekend event, plus a donation of $160 to the St. Joseph Project. Thanks for your generosity Kurt!

            Yoho Blow January 31, February 1 & 2, 2020: Weather is always a big part of the Yoho Blow Weekend story. 2020 saw heavy snow Friday night, changing to rain all night and until 1 pm Saturday, then a beautiful break of sunshine Saturday afternoon, and more snow Saturday night. Sunday was beautiful! Really great event for the community! Financials: took in $4009 in revenue and spent $2623.72 on expenses for a net gain of $1385.25.

Shinny Hockey: Torpedoed by the weather. The weather was too snowy, the rink was too soft and there was no way to improve conditions.

Bocce: Total revamp of the tournament that happened on Friday night with discussion about Round-Robin vs. Elimination models, and Round-Robin won! Which meant games every hour with the team winning most number of games winning the tournament. Great idea! Lots of good competition! 2 hour break for Heritage Relay on Saturday. Bocce all day on Sunday. 

Heritage Relay: A couple of changes to the challenge line-up that everyone loved. Energized by Saturday afternoon sunshine. Good participation with 11 teams; good generational representation.

Dance: 54 people attended. The band was good.

Anything Goes Downhill Race: Second last event of the weekend. Seven participants on skis, snowboard and toboggan! Mass start this year – that was fun, and not as dramatic as you think. Great big Thank You to Kicking Horse Ski Club track setter Joe Nixhipi for grooming the race course, and starting the race from the upper reservoir in 2020 rather than the lower, easier start point at the cemetery. Superb snow conditions at the top, a bit icy toward the bottom. 

Pot Luck Supper: Delicious as always. Lovely way to end the weekend. 

Suggestions for future:

  • Hold the Anything Goes Downhill Race earlier in the day on Sunday, during a scheduled Bocce break, similar idea to Saturday line-up. 
  • Reschedule for one weekend later, tentatively February 5, 6 and 7, 2021. 
  • Find ways to encourage Emerald Lake and Great Divide Lodge staff to participate in events and come to the dance.

            Vegan Pot Luck Supper February 9, 2020: 25 participants, delicious food, plenty of good information via samples, literature and videos about vegan options. Thank you Bonnie and Jana!

            Groove is in the Heart Valentine Day Dance February 14, 2020: Elk Run and Riot from Canmore played for the dance. Great band! They are in the line-up for Field Summer Music Festival so it was really nice to get a sneak preview. 27 people attended. Door proceeds went to the band. Bar proceeds to FRAA. Lots of social media promotion. No posters printed for the event; in the future will definitely print and post to augment digital communication.

            Yoho Nordic Challenge February 15, 2020: Organized and run by Kicking Horse Ski Club. Superb turnout of 85 participants. Great weather and ski conditions this year. Well done KHSC!

2. Upcoming Events are on track. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for details.

            Early Earth Day & Easter Bunny Hop/Pot Luck Brunch – April 13, 2020: Sonya
            Spring Fling – June 7, 2020: Paulina – band or DJs? In discussion.
            Canada Day – July 1, 2020: Kathryn – Dance? Pot Luck? Both?
            Field Summer Music Festival – July 11, 2020: Flint

3. Winter Programs
            HIIT: Wednesdays from 6:30 to 7:30 pm with Laura Penner from Lake Louise, $6, and Sundays from 6:30 to 7:30 self lead, no charge.
            Yoga: Thursdays from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm with Mardi Elliott from Banff, $6.
            Cooking Classes: First one is Learn to Make Healing Foods Vegan Cooking Class on February 23, 2020. To register: please contact Bonnie Brandt at 250-344-1548, $25 fee.
            Grant application for equipment purchase: Submitted to CBT Community Initiatives. Intent is to set up activity centre in gym at former school with ping pong tables and circuit training options. Presentation to selection committee scheduled for 6 pm on Monday February 25, 2020. Requesting $9450. Once Parks Canada has formally secured the building from Rocky Mountain School District #6, the FRAA will enter a License of Occupation Agreement to use the space for community programs and functions.

4. Hall Rentals

CSRD Information Session Friday, March 13, 2020 from 7 pm to 9 pm at Field Community Hall:Columbia Shuswap Regional District is researching the feasibility of advancing an indoor aquatic facility in Golden that would service the Town of Golden and Electoral Area A.  The first round of public engagement is being scheduled for March 12, 2020 in Golden and March 13, 2020 in Field.  The CSRD will be developing a website and survey which is set to go live on February 24th. Poster on the bulletin board.

5. FRAA Discussion Items for Meeting With Parks Canada February 18, 2020

            a. Volunteer contribution to community of Field
 compensates for lack of Parks Canada presence. 

Role of Kicking Horse Ski Club and track setting; out dated Winter Trails Map – needs to be updated and reprinted; YNP twitter account promotes winter recreation without acknowledging that KHSC is providing the service – encounter with snowshoers on the trail shows misunderstanding of role of KHSC; aging volunteers. FRAA feels it is in everyone’s best interest for Parks Canada to maintain winter trails and provide up-to-date information that gives users accurate trail info and critical safety messages.

            b. Field Fire and Rescue: solution to impasse, role of FFR for community and Yoho National Park, burn-out, recruitment, retention long term vision, administrative continuity re: ensuring propane tank is full and insurance policy is paid and current. Role of FFRD is primarily public safety on TransCanada Highway. 57 call-outs in 2019. Structure fires are rare.

            c. Yoho VRC open year round to offer services to visitors. Average daily use since October 2019 averages 438 people per day. 

            d. Community access in winter: snow removal and storage. We need a new model, not same old method that leaves Field at the end of the maintenance line, looking like an abandoned village. Concern about top-down attitude of HSC staff toward maintenance in Field; this community is seen as a burden when the reality is insufficient funding to HSC in the Field Unit. Entrance to community is not inviting: snow is piled in front of the Village of Field sign, summer banners are still up, and are in tatters. 

            e. Emergency Plan update: During the communications blackout and power failure on February 3, 2019 Field Fire and Rescue played a leadership role in organizing a response plan, communications door-to-door to assess needs, and staffed the Community Hall as an emergency shelter. When the CP train derailed in the early hours of February 4, 2019, CP Bunkhouse was put on evacuation notice due to oil tankers in the Field yard and uncertainty of what would actually happen to the out of control train. Residents heard after the fact; there was no evacuation protocol in place for residents (keeping in mind that particular emergency situation unfolded very fast).

            f. Status of Contribution Agreement: Through communication with a person in the Townsite Office in Lake Louise the FRAA learned that it will include the Honorarium and FRAA Insurance policies. No other discussion; Parks Canada drawing up the agreement without consultation.

            g. Community use of school gym when Parks Canada finishes paperwork for lease surrender from Rocky Mountain School District 6. What does Parks Canada see? Contact person?

            h. Reinstate Outstanding Items List that identifies maintenance issues in Field. Provides a guideline and priorities. Addresses general state of neglect.

            i. Individual issues between Parks Canada and residents need resolution before acrimony develops. FRAA supports cooperative, reasonable, logical solutions to issues.

            j. Overall, what does Parks Canada envision for Field over the next 10+ years? Aging demographic, volunteer burn-out, steady loss of services over the past 25 years – it’s easy to be demoralized. Any movement on CPR land not used for CPR operations reverting to the Crown?

6. CPR Lease: Signed document received. Lease is in place until October 31, 2024. FRAA discussed a cap on land rent in the future. 

7. Constitution Update: Initial meeting on February 10, 2020 to review, discuss changes to reflect current operations and start changes. We have questions about definitions to discuss with Society Act office. It’s really happening.

8. Building Maintenance
            Leaking toilet in Women’s Washroom – Kathryn to talk to Miles
            Change room door and window replacements – Flint to explore other contractor options.
            Hot Water tap cartridge replacement in bar sink – Kathryn to talk to Miles

9. St. Joseph Project
            Designer update: FRAA has asked russell and russell design to go ahead with engineered drawings and architectural review for Development Permit Application

            Grant application for cost of Engineered Drawings and Architectural review submitted to CBT Community Initiatives. Requesting $45,625.00.

            Helen Dickinson is working on the Basic Impact Analysis, also needed for the Development Permit application.

10. Agenda Field Utility Board 9:30 am Yoho Admin on February 27, 2020: Determined after meeting with Parks Canada Tuesday morning. FRAA Board sees the opportunity to build on some of the things we talked about Tuesday morning. Here are the FRAA proposed agenda items:

1. Clarification of the purpose of Field Utility Board Meetings; 

2. Review quarterly reports and the subsidy; 

3. Talk about the contribution agreement; and, 

4. How we proceed in our relationship i.e. Terms of Reference, or Memorandum of Understanding, or other method.


11. Agenda Town Hall Meeting March 9, 2020
Presentation: Constitution Update

FRAA Report

Treasurer Report

Parks Canada Reports

            Townsite Manager

            Highway Operations Unit

            Assets

            Resource Conservation

            Visitor Experience

12. Round Table

Go International Volunteers: What projects can the volunteers help us with this summer? Volunteers can assist individuals, businesses or organizations. Ron Allen coordinates the program.

Rachel Fernandez-Ubell is the new Townsite Manager for the Waterton Townsite in Waterton Lake National Park. Rachel and Laurie are moving to southern Alberta! Sally to talk to Rachel about a date for a going away roast . .  no, we mean party . . .

What does Parks see as Community use of the school gym under their ownership? To discuss at meeting Tuesday morning.Flint is negotiating job offers that will probably take him away from Field. Will keep us posted.

Field Recreation Advisory Association Town Hall Meeting, January 20, 2020

In attendance:  Sally Watson, Flint Palmer, Kathryn Cameron, Paulina O’Brien, Greg Dowman, Michael Vanderveen, Alex Kolesch, Hollie Tataryn, Kim Chapman, Lloyd Lafrance, Jandi Škriantová, Carla Evans, Jen Coffman, Darren O’Brien, Pauline Boisier, Doug Mostert, Patrick Caïs, Craig Chapman

1. FRAA Report 

         Kathryn Cameron, President FRAA

Paperwork for all six Board Members is now complete, and filed.

We are over five months into our operating year, which started on August 6, 2019. Winter and spring are traditionally the busiest seasons of the year for the FRAA, and the pattern holds! Volunteers rock.

The Christmas Concert on December 19 was great – exactly what Flint and Karen planned when they tossed out the idea to Make the Christmas Concert Great Again, hold it at the school gym, challenge the community to perform for the first time, and welcome event favourites. Thanks!

Skate With Santa and Christmas Pot Luck Supper on December 22 – super special as always. Fit Santa, thank you.

Winter programs continue with: 

High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) with Laura Penner on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 7:30 pm, $6 admission and self-lead on Sunday evenings from 6:30 to 7:30 pm, no charge. Introductory HIIT was a sound success, and participants have either dropped out, left the country or graduated to regular HIIT. We are approaching the 2nd Anniversary of HIIT with Laura in Field. Excellent program; and

Yoga with Mardi Elliott on Thursday evenings from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm, $6 admission fee. Mardi is away for the next three Thursdays; classes with Mardi resume on February 13 at the Community Hall. We’re planning to do TV Yoga on January 23, 30 and February 6, 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm as long as we can get the internet and Wi-Fi working.

The FRAA received a wellness grant of $1260 from Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) in the fall of 2019 to subsidize HIIT and Yoga for $6 per attendee per session to boost attendance at both programs. To date, we have used $618 of the grant, and will review attendance again in two months to see where we’re at with it.

3rd Annual Pond Hockey Tournament organized and operated by Kurt Devlin took place on January 10 and 11. Thanks Kurt! Financial reports in process.

This has been a really challenging year to keep the rink maintained. Thanks to the tractor operators, shovellers, flooders and skaters for keeping the rink as clean as possible, and for cleaning up the change room. Looks really good downstairs. Suggestion by Jen Coffman to train additional people to use the Kubota and share the workload of rink maintenance. Kathryn to talk to Dave Allen about how to implement.

Gentle reminder to all hall and change room users: please make certain the lights are off inside and outside the hall; close all the windows and turn down the heat; change room rules are posted on the wall – read them and take them seriously, specifically, please put the skates back on the shelf and take ALL your garbage when you leave. It’s a public space.

Yoho Blow starts in less than two weeks. We have confirmation that Craig and team will again design and administer the Heritage Relay and Small Town Revival will play at the dance on Saturday, February 1. Posters and details like sign-up sheets will be on the bulletin board this week.

Parks Canada Trans Canada Highway Twinning Project Open House – Tuesday, February 4, 2020 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Vegan Pot Luck ‘Supper and a Movie’ on Sunday, February 9, 2020. Details and poster in process. Start looking for vegan recipes!

Groove Is In The Heart with Elk Run and Riot from Canmore on Friday, February 14, $10 entry fee. 

3rd Annual Yoho Nordic Challenge hosted by Kicking Horse Ski Club on Saturday, February 15 starting from Field VRC at 10 am. Poster has been circulated and is on the bulletin board as well.

Kicking Horse Ski Club has also faced weather and snow challenges this year, but as always, has cleared, packed, groomed, set and maintained the trails really, really well. Thanks Joe, Flint, Lorraine, Heather, Paulina, Lucy, Hans and all others who give residents and visitors fantastic trails in Yoho National Park.

The Mould Remediation Project is complete. The FRAA now does a weekly walk-through of the building.

Change Room Door replacement is in process. Flint is dealing with Olson Construction to get an estimate.

Board is working on the Constitution. Really. Working meeting scheduled for February 10, 2020 to start revising specific articles. Changes will be presented at public consultation meeting.

The FRAA renewed the lease for the Community Hall property at 315 Stephen Avenue with CP for five years, effective November 1, 2019 to October 31, 2024. 

St. Joseph Project: Received word from the Gaming Grant application submitted in July 2019 that our request for $200,000 was not approved, based on their belief that we would not have enough money to complete the project and to apply again on the next intake when it’s posted. Waiting to hear from designer on engineered drawings; once received we will put the project out to tender. Lots of discussion about timeline, grants to pursue, fundraising ideas, impact of highway construction and Development Permit Application. Helen Dickenson has offered to do the Environmental Impact Assessment for the Development Permit process, pro bono. Thanks Helen.

Snow Removal and Storage in the Townsite of Field continues to be an annual conversation. General feeling is that the Field Unit is underfunded given the scope of the kilometers on Highways, secondary roads and townsites to maintain in a high elevation environment. 

Discussion on adequate resources: Highway Services Centre (HSC) will probably never have the resources they need.

BC Hydro Line Update from Diane Tammen, January 20, 2020: 

“Our understanding is that CPR has removed over 200 dead hazard trees with the recent work they have done through the Yoho corridor. They have also slashed out regrowth and completed some widening of the corridor. Overall it looks to be in excellent condition.  Please check with CPR if you wish to confirm this information, or for more details.

BCH currently has a contractor working on the distribution feeder between the ESF and Town. They are slashing regrowth and removing the four hazard trees we identified last year. This work is planned to be completed by week’s end.

There are still some hazard trees on Parks Canada property and a small section of regrowth to slash this year.  A BCH vegetation specialist is meeting with Parks today to look at these remaining hazard trees, and if conditions are favourable we are going to try to attend to these over the next month.”

Working with Jen Coffman to post information in the washroom lobby at Field VRC on services available in Field in the winter season. Parks Canada has offered to translate and format the information. The FRAA feels that it would be far more beneficial to have the facility open in winter to serve visitors and support leaseholders in Yoho National Park. Request noted by Alex Kolesch.

Next Meeting Cycle:

February 17, 2020: FRAA Board Meeting

February 26, 2020: Field Utility Board/Municipal Services Meeting

March 9, 2020: Town Hall Meeting

2. Treasurer’s Report

         Sally Watson, Treasurer FRAA
Reports attached to the Minutes distribution email.

Motion by Greg, seconded by Flint that Financial Reports be accepted as presented. Carried.

3. Parks Canada Reports 

         Alex Kolesch, Interim Townsite Manager

  • Parks Canada working through steps with Rocky Mountain School District #6 (RMSD 6) to surrender RMSD 6 lease to Parks Canada. Renovation planned to increase office space. Gym slated to be available for community use. 
  • When Parks Canada is able to move out of current Administration Building the lease with CP will be terminated. Use of building post Parks Canada? Community Plan identified site as public park. May be options for community commercial opportunities.
  • Snow removal guidelines and Plough Map will be circulated this week.
  • Field Fire and Rescue (FFR): Parks Canada understands the efforts required by members to operate FFR and is working with FFR to find acceptable solutions that will give a year to come to better solution.
  • Park Management Plan Update: Drafts are in process. Public consultation in spring.

Michael Vanderveen, Highway Service Centre

  • Best Management Practises are not necessarily written in stone, guidelines HSC hopes to achieve. Matter of patience as there are many variables that guide actions. There is a higher level of residential service in Field than in Lake Louise.
  • Private contractor to fill in when HSC not able to meet desired timeline is an option, but given that CP now has their own snow removal service and is no longer contracting with an operator from Golden the cost of bringing a company occasionally from Golden is prohibitive. Option for a local contractor? Worth examining.
  • 2019/2020 is a year with above average snowfall. Frustration comes with more demand on places without the resources to maintain and offer services.
  • Craig Chapman observed that windrows present a challenge for some residents, especially in light of the aging demographic in Field. In Golden, people who need assistance with clearing snow have their properties marked with a flag, and after ploughs clear the streets, Town of Golden employee comes around in a bobcat and clears the windrow. Michael Vanderveen said a similar program in Field is not an option; recommended establishing a Snow Angel Program.
  • Residents noted that there are no street signs for Burgess Avenue.
  • Patrick suggested different transportation management options during Yoho Blow weather events to give Travel Advisory that travel is not recommended, specifically for 10 k section of Highway 1 from top of Big Hill to Boulder Creek Compound, i.e. road signs, Drive BC. 
  • Is closing the Highway an option when conditions are exceptionally bad? Michael says that criteria for closing the highway are fatality or avalanche; political pressure to keep Highway 1 open is applied as soon as the highway is closed, no matter the reason. Apparently the loss of commerce is $1,000,000 for every hour the closure is in place.

         Travis Wert, Asset Manager

Report given by Alex Kolesch on behalf of Travis Wert:

  • Construction on triplex at Dollhouse lot (next to Superintendent’s Residence) slated to start spring 2020.
  • Triplex on former teacherage duplex lot now complete and ready for occupants.
  • Bunkhouse renovation is underway and expected to be ready for occupants for 2020 season. Generally 25 employees are housed at the Boulder Creek Bunkhouse facility.

         Jed Cochrane, Visitor Experience

No Report

Dwight Bourdin, Resource Conservation

Report given by Alex Kolesch on behalf of Dwight Bourdin:

  • TransCanada Highway (TCH) Twinning Project Open House coming up on February 4, 2020 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
  • Graduate student is working in Yoho, studying elk behaviour and movement, interactions with TCH with goal to improve migration route movement for herd.
  • 2020 Aquatic invasive Species: Mandatory Self-permit system will continue to clean, drain and dry all equipment used for aquatic recreation – boats, fishing gear, wet and dry suits, basically everything
  • Emerald Lake has tested negative for whirling disease. Closest location that tested positive is Little Herbert Lake, just north of Lake Louise on the Banff-Jasper Highway; the lake was depopulated. Discussion about status of Ross Lake? There have been anecdotal reports of erratic fish behaviour there.  Alex doesn’t know if the lake has been tested but will follow up.

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

No report presented tonight.

5. British Columbia Emergency Health Services

         Craig Chapman, Community Paramedic

Calling for Emergency Services.

  • Four agencies that we can reach through calling “911” – Fire, Ambulance, Police, and Parks Canada.
  • CP Rail can be activated through “911” but for specific railway related situations call – 1 (800) 716-9132.
  • For all emergencies calling “911” is the best plan. If you want to try other options get someone else to call “911” while you pursue those. Contacting a local member of the Fire Department / Ambulance or trying to call other numbers can slow down the response to an emergency.
  • Calling “911” can involve lots of questions, transferring call to different dispatch centers, but it is necessary. There are processes in place to protect everyone and they need to be followed. So when you call you need to be patient and stay on the line as long as required.
  • 911 call goes to Burnaby and is answered “911, do you require Police, Fire, or Ambulance” – default is ambulance.
  • Transferred to BCEHS Kamloops dispatch. “BC Ambulance, for what city?”
  • No ambulance is dispatched without this information. This can be challenging if the location is a highway. If it is an MVA they will ask for cross streets / landmarks to reference. 
  • What is the address? Very important, no help coming without this information. Landline phones were better for locating callers, with cell phones if caller does not know this information it is not easy to get coordinates from A cell phone and the response will be delayed. Have your address written in a prominent place in your home; if there is child in the house show them how to use a cell phone and can override the pass code for an emergency call.
  • What is a phone # that you can be reached at? This is not a stopping point and dispatcher can continue if this information is not known.
  • Exactly what happened?
  • Now dispatcher will provide assistance. BCEHS dispatchers are mandated to stay on the phone for “Not alert” patients or patients with breathing difficulties.
  • When expecting an ambulance – unlock door, put outside lights on, put pets away, move vehicles blocking access. If there is an entry code for the building let the dispatcher know and make sure your address is visible on the side of house.
  • Parks Canada is an additional piece for our area. Think of it as a backcountry vs on the pavement situation. Parks Canada will be involved in all wildfires / rescues / human wildlife conflicts. 
  • In BC the coordination with Banff Dispatch is not as smooth as in Alberta but you still need to call “911” and be specific in your request. If another person is present have them call Banff Dispatch directly.
  • If human life is endangered call:
  • Banff Dispatch Emergency:           (403) 762 – 4506
  • For other situations call:
  • Banff Dispatch Non-emergency:    (403) 762 – 1473
  • Often residents of Field who call an ambulance want to decide which hospital they go to. The attending crew will decide based on presentation of patient, location, road conditions, and direction from employer.  
  • In BC for residents getting transported to a hospital the cost is $86.00. Inter-facility transfers between BC hospitals following an admission by BC Ambulance are generally not charged. If we transport a BC patient to an Alberta hospital and there are inter-facility transfers by ambulance within Alberta the patient can expect to be charged. It will probably be over $1000.00. 
  • 8-1-1 is a free-of-charge provincial health information and advice phone line available in British Columbia. 
  • By calling 8-1-1, you can speak to a health service navigator, who can help you find health information and services; or connect you directly with a registered nurse, a registered dietitian, a qualified exercise professional, or a pharmacist. 

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

Call Outs –

  • 7 in Jan, 7 in Feb, 1 in March, 2 in April, 3 in May, 3 in June, 2 in July, 4 in August, 3 in September, 5 in October, 7 in November, 13 in December.  57 for 2019.
  • 10 on Sundays, 11 on Mondays, 8 on Tuesdays, 3 on Wednesdays, 7 on Thursdays, 14 on Fridays and 5 on Saturdays. 
  • Wires down 2, vehicle fire 2, mva rescue required 33, mva 12, investigation 1, hazmat 1, gasoline diesel spill 2, grass fire 1, assistance call 3, alarms 1

Members – Sitting at 13 members. 

  • 5 Officers, 5 Firefighters, 5 Probationary Members, 3 Recruits

New and Planned Purchases

  • New purchases
  • Heat in blankets, new pads for AED, bottles for gas monitor, new software for beacons,  
  • Propane generator is in place in case of power outage

Completed Training 

  • ICS 300 2 members.

Upcoming Training 

  • Nothing until springtime.

Apparatus

  • Engine 1 (all good) 
  • Rescue 1 (all good) 
  • Rescue 2 (all good considering its age).  
  • Ongoing Projects
  • Waiting from BCEHS for our agreement for first responders.
  • Discussions with PCA about importance of fulltime fire chief on FFRD (Fire Chief) ongoing

7. Round Table 

  • Discussion on how residents can support more resources for emergency services like Field Fire and Rescue, and ongoing maintenance requirements for services in Yoho National Park. Residents can appeal to government representatives and other organizations. Parks Canada employees cannot advise.
  • New CP Rail crossing malfunctions often. In event of malfunction, call CP Community Connect at 1-800-716-9132.

Meeting adjourned at 8:44 pm.

Field Recreation Advisory Association Board Meeting, January 6, 2020

In Attendance: Paulina O’Brien, Greg Dowman, Flint Palmer, Sonya Leenders, Sally Watson, Kathryn Cameron

1. Board Membership Paperwork; Who’s Here and Who’s Away

Paulina and Sonya completed their paperwork. Six confirmed Board Members on the Field Recreation Advisory Association!

Greg will be away from the end of January until mid-March.

Kathryn is away from January 9 to 13.

Sonya is away from January 10 to 12, and from January 17 to February 1.
Paulina is away from April 8 to 28.

2.  Event Recap

Christmas Concert, December 19: Great big Thank You!! to Karen and Flint for organizing an exceptionally fun and entertaining evening. Well done! To all the performers – excellent! All the laughter was as good for our abs as a HIIT session . . . 

Skate With Santa and Christmas Pot Luck, December 22: Lovely evening to share delicious food, visit and celebrate community. Santa, we know how busy your schedule is in December so a very special shout out to you for making time to come to Field on December 19, 22 and the 25th to bring us Christmas spirit.

3. Winter Programs and Upcoming Events

Tabata High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): Friday, January 10 at Field Elementary School (due to 3rd Annual Field Pond Hockey tournament at the Community Hall) from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm and Introductory HIIT from 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm with Laura Penner, $6 each session; self-lead HIIT Monday January 13 from 6:30 pm to7:30 pm. Regular Wednesday sessions (regular and Introductory) with Laura Penner resume January 15, with self-lead sessions returning to Friday evenings, 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm on January 17.

Yoga with Mardi Elliott starts up again on Thursday, January 9, 2020 from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Community Hall. $6

Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) Grant subsidy to build participation in programs: To date, Yoga has been supported for $252; cheque issued to Mardi. Waiting to hear from Laura on participation in HIIT, then will issue her a cheque. Thanks to CSRD for the support.         

3rd Annual Field Pond Hockey Tournament, courtesy of Kurt Devlin, at the Community Hall from 5:00 pm on January 10 to 2 am on January 12, 2020. For details, check out Facebook: 3rd Annual Field Pond Hockey Tournament.

Town Hall Meeting Monday, January 20, 2020 at Community Hall at 7:00 pm.

Yoho Blow, our winter festival, Friday, January 31 to Sunday, February 2. Information on dates and a tentative schedule of events to be posted on Yoho Blow Daze Facebook page January 6, with information starting to go up on the Bulletin Board this week. 

         Friday, January 31

7:00 pm– Doors and Bar Open

8:00 pm – Games Night, Shinny Hockey, Tickle Trunk Karaoke, Bocce Schedule Announced

         Saturday, February 1

9:00 am to 4:00 pm – Food Service: BOBs, Burgers, Dogs

9:00 am to Noon – Bocce Tournament 

Noon to 2:00 pm – Heritage Relay

2:00 pm to 5:00 pm – Bocce Tournament

9:30 pm to 1:30 am – Dance (Band TBA)

         Sunday, February 2

10 am to 3:00 pm – Food Service: BOBs, Burgers, Dogs

10 am to 4:00 pm – Bocce Tournament

4:00 pm – Anything Goes Downhill Race

6:00 pm – Pot Luck Supper and Event Wind Up!

Paulina: Liquor Licenses and Volunteer Coordination

Flint: Social Media and Band

Sally and Kathryn: Food, Donations

RAP for Firepit 2020: Kathryn

Groove Is In The Heart: Valentine Day Dance on Friday February 14 with Elk Run and Riot from Canmore, $15 entry. Door goes to the band, bar proceeds to FRAA. Poster with more details in process

3rd Annual Yoho Nordic Challenge: Kicking Horse Ski Club Fun(d)raiser on Saturday, February 15 starting at Field Visitor Centre, 10 am. Poster attached.

4. Hall Rentals
Friends of Yoho Pasta Supper, November 23, 2019 – Invoiced and paid.

December 9, 2019 Parks Canada and BC Ministry of Transport KH Canyon Project  – Invoiced 

December 18, 2019 Parks Canada Asset Management Annual Christmas Party – Invoiced and Paid

Parks Canada Trans Canada Highway Twinning Project Open House – Tuesday, February 4, 2020 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm

5. Mould Remediation Project
Last few items to clean out of the room. Salvaged equipment stored on shelves. Thanks for all the hard work cleaning and painting Flint. Thanks to Lorraine and Heather for cleaning the Kid’s Room and putting it together, and for cleaning the bathrooms for Skate With Santa and the Christmas Pot Luck. Instituted weekly building walk-through to check for issues, upkeep, etc.

6. Change Room Door Replacement and Rink Etiquette
Olson Construction to give quote in January. In the meantime, Greg tightened the screws January 6 so the door closes. 

Gentle reminders to rink and change room users: please put the skates back on the shelf, take your garbage with you when you leave, follow the rules posted on the wall by the light switch for the outdoor lights, hang the shovels on the outside wall after you clean the rink and turn off the lights (outside and inside) when you are finished using the rink.

7. Constitution Update
Board Members asked to write down their ideas of what we do and how we do it, with recommendations for Board membership by January 20, 2020 for presentation and discussion at Town Hall Meeting. Board to meet on February 10, 2020 to draft updated Constitution.

8. CPR Lease
Amending Agreement for a second five-year lease starting November 1, 2019 signed and sent to Claudio Kaschel, CP Specialist Real Estate – British Columbia. Once he signs on behalf of CP, an original copy will be sent to FRAA for our records. Anticipate receiving an invoice for land rent at the same time.

This table shows the FRAA land rent paid and to be paid to CP for 315 Stephen Avenue from November 1, 2014 through to the end of this second five-year agreement based on an annual increase of 3% per year.

2014$1500
2015$1545
2016$1591.35
2017$1639.09
2018$1688.26
2019$1738.91
2020$1791.08
2021$1844.81
2022$1900.16
2023$1957.16

9. St. Joseph Project

Received word from the Gaming Grant application submitted in July 2019 that our request for $200,000 was not approved, based on their belief that we would not have enough money to complete the project and to apply again on the next intake. Board members pointed out that generally organizations received more nays than yeas on grant applications, so our track record is really good. General discussion about scope of project – we are all in favour of plan we’re working on. To start weekly meetings again on January 7, 2020, 3:30 at the hotel. Focus on fundraising, grant applications, engineered drawings, communication. We carry on!

10. Town Hall Meeting Agenda

FRAA Report

Treasurer’s Report

Parks Canada Reports 

         Townsites

         Assets

         Highways Service Centre

         Resource Conservation

         Visitor Experience

Friends of Yoho

Field Fire and Rescue

Round Table

11. Round Table

Sally: Preliminary request for confirmation of information and operations received from Johnston Meier Insurance before renewal process. Board reviewed information; Sally to send revisions to Janice Ottoson. Sally also reported that Parks Canada has been invoiced for Water, Sewer and Garbage (WSG) for use of the Public Washroom at the Community Hall for June through September 2018 and for the Honorarium for 2019/2020. Plans to invoice for Parks Canada soon for WSG for use of the Public Washroom at the Community Hall for June through September 2019.

Flint: To talk to Kicking Horse Ski Club about upgrading equipment to groom trails. Summer Music Festival early bird tickets are on sale for $40 per person until January 15, 2020. For details on the line-up of musicians, ticket sales and more, please visit the website: www.fieldmusicfest.ca

Sonya: International Women’s Day is on Sunday, March 8, 2020. Proposed presenting The Vagina Monologues on Saturday, March 7, 2020 to celebrate. Also proposed more public presence of where we are at in fundraising for St. Joseph Project. To discuss in depth at project meeting January 7, 2020.

Greg: All good.

Paulina: All good.

Kathryn: To send email to Acting Townsite Manager Alex Kolesch about snow storage and removal concerns, i.e. community access and snow storage in front of the church; banners on the bridge need to be replaced; ploughing the parking lot behind Truffle Pigs.Meeting adjourned at 9:30 pm.

Field Recreation Advisory Association Board Meeting, November 25, 2019

In attendance: Paulina O’Brien, Flint Palmer, Kathryn Cameron

Excused: Sally Watson, Sonya Leenders, Greg Dowman

1. Meeting Calendar for upcoming year:

FRAA Board Meetings
Mondays, 7:00 pmField Community Hall
Field Utility Board Meetings
Wednesdays, 10:30 amYoho Admin
Town Hall Meetings
Mondays, 7:00 pmField Community Hall
January 6, 2020February 26, 2020January 20, 2020
February 17, 2020May 6, 2020March 9, 2020
April 6, 2020September 16, 2020May 11, 2020
June 1, 2020November 4, 2020June 22, 2020
August 31, 2010 September 28, 2020
October 12, 2020 November 16, 2020 (AGM)

2. Programs

Kudos to the rink people who have started to prepare the ice rink for the season. Thank you!

HIIT with Laura Penner: Wednesday evenings to December 11, 2019, 6:30 to 7:30 pm, $6; Introductory HIIT with Laura Penner: Wednesday evenings to December 11, 2019, 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm, $6; Group Lead HIIT Sunday evenings, 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm, no charge.

Yoga with Mardi Elliott: Thursday evenings from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm to December 12, 2019, $6

Kids’ Cooking Class: Looking for a teacher. Contact a member of the Board if interested.

Note: At the end of an evening program, please set thermostat to 10° C.

3. Event Review 

AGM: Great turnout. Delicious supper. Spicy meeting.

Friends of Yoho Spaghetti Supper: Really nice event, well done Friends of Yoho! FRAA operated the bar; report will be presented at the next Town Hall Meeting with Financial Reports.

3. Events for Upcoming Year

Pencil them in – it’s an ambitious agenda!

DateLeadEvent
December 19/19Karen, FlintChristmas Concert
December 22/19Sally, KathrynChristmas Pot Luck Supper
January 10/20Kurt DevlinPond Hockey Tournament
January 31, February 1, 2/20Flint, Paulina, Kathryn, Sally, Sonya, Greg, KarenYoho Blow Days – Winter Festival
February 14/20FlintGroove Is In The Heart
April 13/30Sonya, FlintEarly Earth Day, Easter Bunny Hop and Pot Luck Brunch
June 7/20PaulinaSpring Fling
July 1/20KathrynCanada Day
July 11/20FlintField Summer Music Festival
September 6/20Tentative EventSummer End Event

4. Townsite Manager

Alex Kolesch is Acting Townsite Manager.

5. Carla Evans’ suggestion for presentation on historic use of Yoho National Park

Board is looking at the message and maps Carla sent to the FRAA. Will forward the message to the Friends of Yoho for potential to co-host the event one evening this summer. Super interesting.

6. Lease Renewal with CPR

CPR sent the signed lease from 2014 along with an Amending Agreement. Board Members to review the files and give feedback by November 27, 2019. Lease expired October 31, 2019. Looking at 5-year renewal of existing agreement.

7. Building Maintenance and Mould Remediation Project Plan

Flint to start painting storage room surfaces Wednesday morning. Plans to install insulation and drywall once paint is dry. All the cleaned equipment and material currently in the change room to be packed and ready to move to storage area once the work is complete (tentative completion date December 6.2019).

HIPI construction is not able to do repairs to outside entrance to change room, broken window in change room and broken shelves in kitchen this year. Flint to contact Olson Construction about doing the work.

8. Board Members

We currently have six of eight positions filled. Looking for two more members. Please let us know if you are interested.

9. Round Table

Residents have received Registered Letters from Parks Canada with information about how land rent increases will be managed in the new year.

CPR controlled crossing project: waiting for window when track demand allows for eight hours to complete the work. Project Manager has been given A/Townsite Manager contact information in order to communicate when, where and how, including access to Field while the work to install the last section of third track is done. Update from Townsites on November 27, 2019: “Please be advised that CP will be closing the rail crossing in Field for up to 6 hour blocks, evening hours, starting at 20:00 hrs (8:00PM) on Thursday, November 28th and Friday, November 29th.  There will be alternate access to Field via the Field back road. Please contact the Townsites team if you have any questions or concerns, 403-522-1186 or llyktownsites@canada.ca.”

Parks Canada, working with the British Columbia Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI), has tentatively booked Field Community Hall for Monday, December 9, 2019 for presentation on the Kicking Horse Project by MOTI. Confirmation and details to follow.

BC Hydro Update from Diane Tammen on November 12, 2019: “CPR has started clearing its right-of-way and they plan to do from Field to Golden.  I hope once they’re done we’ll notice an improvement/reduction of trees falling on the line.  The work is scheduled to be completed by mid-December, 2019.”

Work Party at Community Hall on Sunday, December 1, 2019 at 2:00 pm.Decorating Party for Christmas Concert and Skate With Santa and Christmas Pot Luck on Monday, December 16, 2019, starting at the school and then moving to the Community Hall.

Field Recreation Advisory Association Annual General Meeting and Town Hall Meeting, November 4, 2019

In Attendance: Helen Barry, Ryan Cameron, Dave Selkirk, Brenda Selkirk, Juliet Van Vliet, Craig Chapman, Doug Mostert, Pauline Boisier, Bruce Bembridge, Marilyn Toulouse, Jeremy Shaw, Alicia Afeltra, Stephanie Fenton, Jerry Gallant, Beth Ashfield, Patrick Cais, Jana Skrlatova, Francis Bertrand, Josephine Bertrand, Flint Palmer, Kathryn Cameron, Boomer Lahti, Greg Dowman, Sally Watson, Miguel, Zoe Cristiano, Felicity Frost

Excused: Sonya Leenders, Karen Schmidt, Paulina O’Brien, Charisse D’hamers

1. FRAA Report and Annual Report August 6, 2018 to August 5, 2019

         Kathryn Cameron, President FRAA

Thanks to everyone who brought delicious food to share tonight!

Since the last Town Hall Meeting on September 30, 2019, we:

  • Bid farewell and offered best wishes to Mike, Charisse and Estelle as they move to Elkford, BC
  • Carried on with regular HIIT and introductory HIIT on Wednesday evenings with Laura Penner, and group lead HIIT on Sunday evenings
  • Started Yoga with Mardi Elliott from Banff, with a short hiatus for Halloween; resumes Thursday, November 7 at 7:00 pm
  • Attended two Not For Profit courses offered by College of the Rockies in Golden: Financial Management on October 2 and Fundraising on October 9
  • Met with Townsite Manager Juliet Van Vliet and Highway Service Centre Manager Mike Vanderveen to review snow removal operations and expectations for the coming winter season
  • Transferred ownership of the skidoo and trailer from Marilyn Toulouse and Kicking Horse Ski Club to FRAA, and licensed and registered both
  • Opened a chequing account with Columbia Valley Credit Union, deposited some money and initiated online banking options for the FRAA
  • Received excellent building maintenance service from Miles Dickinson. He replaced the failed hot water tank (and cleaned up the standing water mess) and replaced the cartridge in the upstairs bathroom sink faucet
  • Had mould contamination remediation work done in the storage room area, kids room and janitor closet in the basement by NexGen Super Clean from Golden
  • Did research on Advisory Board function by attending a Lake Louise Advisory Board meeting in October 2019
  • Communicated with CPR for answers to questions about the new controlled crossing operation, and the material piled in the CPR yard adjacent to the toboggan hill
  • Met with the Parks Canada Development Office October 30, 2019 to go over the Development Permit Application Process. We want to have the application submitted by December 1, 2019. We’re very close to starting the fine details: discussion with neighbours, and write the narrative to support the project and variances
  • Communicated with Field Fire and Rescue Department, Parks Canada and the community about cancellation and subsequent renewal of Field Fire and Rescue Department’s Group Accident and Health Insurance
  • Initiated lease renewal process for Community Hall site with CPR
  • Doug and Pauline swung the coquet mallet and tied the knot – twice! October 2019 – Congratulations!

Annual Report During the FRAA “Year” – August 6, 2018 to August 5, 2019

Condensed version. Minutes of Board Meetings and Town Hall Meetings are available online or in your email in-basket.

Programs

  • Tabata High Intensity Interval Training was offered two times a week
  • Yoga was offered twice weekly until the end of August, then weekly with short breaks for Christmas and a Spring vacation for the instructor
  • Shake It Up with Paulina débuted in June 2019
  • Kids’ Room was used by Josephine and Estelle on a frequent basis

Hall Rentals

Sally will report

Events

  • Mike Legrice 40th Birthday Party – September 2018
  • Christmas Pot Luck Supper and Concert – December 22,2018
  • Music at the Church with Carrington and Syena Mitchell – December 28, 2018
  • Pond Hockey Tournament organized by Kurt Devlin – January 2019
  • Yoho Blow – February 1, 2, and 3, 2019
  • Yoho Blow, Power Outage, Phone Systems Failure – February 3 to 4, 2019 (unplanned, not an FRAA event)
  • Yoho Blow Pot Luck Supper – February 10, 2019
  • Groove Is In the Heart – February 14, 2019
  • Sam Weber – March 28, 2019
  • Earth Day Town Clean Up, Bunny Hop and Easter Pot Luck Brunch – April 22, 2019
  • Spring Fling – June 2, 2019
  • Music at the Church with Pablo Euphoria – June 15, 2019 
  • Canada Day Celebrations – July 1, 2019
  • Field Summer Music Festival – July 7, 2019 

Projects

  • St. Joseph Project – Contracted with russell and russell design of Canmore to start the conceptual design, started weekly project meetings, held two public consultations, applied for three more grants (received one, received a second contingent on receiving the third which we are waiting to hear about), planning to apply for at least two more grants and do a public funding campaign, working on Development Permit Application with intent to hire contractor and start construction in spring 2020
  • Update Field Emergency Plan – in process, lead by Parks Canada
  • Update Constitution – in process
  • Memorandum of Understanding or Terms of Reference, formalize agreement with Parks Canada – in process
  • Kicking Horse Ski Club – management changeover in process

Meetings

  • Board Meetings – six: September 11, 2018, November 26, 2018, January 7, 2019, February 18, 2019, April 8, 2019, June 3, 2019 
  • Field Utility Board Meetings – three: September 19, 2018, February 18, 2019, May 1, 2019 
  • Town Hall Meetings – five: October 1, 2018, January 21, 2019, March 11, 2019, May 13, 2019, June 24, 2019
  • Town Hall Meeting and Annual General Meeting – one: November 19, 2018

Passages

  • Paulina and Darren became Canadian Citizens in July 2019 

2. Treasurer’s Report and Annual Financial Report

         Sally Watson, Treasurer FRAAGreg moved to accept financial reports as presented. Flint seconded.

Files included with Minutes email to community.

3. Parks Canada Reports 

         Juliet Van Vliet, Townsite Manager

  • First, to address the cancellation of Field Fire and Rescue Department (FFRD) insurance policy, there were problems processing the invoices. Parks Canada respects FFRD decision to not respond to calls from October 22, 2019 when the policy was cancelled by the provider through October 29, 2019 when insurance was reinstated. A new process to deal with invoices is in place. Juliet offered an apology to FFRD and to residents for the lapse, and for additional stress the issue caused.
  • Snow removal priorities for this area of the Field Unit explained. Hollie to send out digital copies of Highway Operations Unit Best Management Practise – Winter Maintenance in the Village of Field and levels of service in the Field Unit. Complaints and comments about how the guidelines are met will be addressed. Please communicate respectfully.
  • Emergency Management Protocols will focus on more frequent events. Anticipate a round table event in December to address relationships and focus on scenarios.
  • Field Elementary School: Parks Canada is working on License of Occupation Agreements with current tenants of school and teacherage to ensure valid agreements are in place before the lease transfer.
  • Anticipates a six to eight month process to complete either a Terms of Reference or Memorandum of Understanding with Field Recreation/Advisory Association.
  • Request for business signage at Field Visitor Centre in winter under consideration. Included short discussion about Parks Canada operating VRC in winter; Parks Canada not considering the option. Questions about the role of Field VRC in the Emergency Plan when it is not operational in winter. No resolution. FRAA wants to the building open and staffed by Parks Canada people year-round.
  • Management Plan Update: Draft expected in New Year to be followed by second round of public consultation.

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

  • Fall Event on November 23, 2019 at Field Community Hall – Spaghetti Dinner and Silent Auction. Posters in town and online.
  • $700 donation to St. Joseph Project, all from donations presented by participants in the Historic Walking Tour programs this summer. Thank you Friends of Yoho!

5. Field Fire and Rescue Report 
         Pauline Boisier, President, Field Fire and Rescue Society

  • Household Preparedness Guide available at the door. Great info from the Province of British Columbia
  • Fire Prevention Week Theme for 2019: Have a proper escape plan in place in case your house starts on fire. Fire Escape Checklist also available at the door.
  • Winter Safety: Information shared about safety when using space heaters; advised to regularly check all heating systems; danger to be aware of when using extension cords – use only for purposes they are rated for; smoking in bed when tired or under the influence of alcohol deemed the #1 source of death by fire.
  • 2020 Field Fire and Rescue Calendar available soon

         Patrick Caïs, Acting Chief, Field Fire and Rescue Department

  1. Call Outs –
    1. 2 in September, 4 in October.  51 for our year.
  2. Members – Sitting at 17 members (13 active only). 
    1. 5 Officers, 5 Firefighters, 6 Probationary Members, 1 Recruit
  3. New and Planned Purchases
    1. New purchases. Nothing significant.
    1. Planned purchases.  Heating one time use blankets
  4. Completed Training 
    1. Exterior fire (2 members), air brakes class, 4 members renewed their first responder certification (in house with Maggie).  
  5. Upcoming Training
    1. Strategies and tactics (2/3 members), 2 members to ICS 300
  6. Apparatus
    1. Engine 1 (all good) 
    1. Rescue 1 (all good) 
    1. Rescue 2.  Light bar.
  7. Ongoing Projects
    1. Waiting from BCEHS for our agreement for first responders.
    1. FFRD had a meeting with Superintendent and Townsite regarding a full time fire chief.  PCA position is to maintain a full volunteers fire department.
    1. Generator for Firehall – PCA is working on it.  Concrete pad has been built, generator in place.  Just need wiring.
  8. Events
  9. Fire department was not operational for a week Oct 22nd-Oct 30th
  10. Congratulations to Pauline and Doug who got married
  11. Upcoming AGM

Nov 5th.  No candidate for the fire Chief Position.

Discussion on Parks Canada position to maintain Field Fire and Rescue Department as a full volunteer organization. Concern expressed that Parks Canada appears to want reduced level of service from FFRD, to focus on Townsite service, that Highway, outlying commercial accommodations and CPR not priorities, but no conversations have led to this. What about hazardous material spills, avalanches or fires on the TransCanada Highway or on CPR property (with one longer siding in CPR yard there is elevated risk)? Current support for equipment, training and call-out is appreciated but given the level of due diligence necessary and administrative demands, it needs to increase to fund the department adequately to include a paid Fire Chief position and ensure there is still a Field Fire and Rescue Department in the future. Parks Canada and FFRD to continue discussion after results of FFRD AGM on November 5, 2019.

6. Election of Officers

Thank you to Sally Watson, Paulina O’Brien, Flint Palmer, Charisse D’hamers, Greg Dowman, Sonya Leenders and Karen Schmidt for the community- building volunteer service over the past year. 

  • For the first time in many years serving on the FRAA Board, Karen has decided not to stand for re-election. Karen, thanks for everything you have done to bring a lot of fun to events and thought to what the FRAA does. Come back anytime! 
  • Charisse has moved to Elkford; Field has lost a champion and Elkford has gained a wonderful resident. Same message – Charisse, come back anytime!
  • Sally is the longest serving member of the FRAA. # years? Many. Treasurer, beautification, sober second thought, adventurous, leadership on every level. Staying on!
  • Paulina is full of energy, great ideas, action and positivity. Staying on!
  • Flint – sometimes you leave me speechless with your creativity (not an easy accomplishment!), ability to get things done and contacts within the community. Staying on!
  • Greg is an accomplished juggler who has carved a place in his busy life (family, business owner, employment) to contribute to the community. Staying on!
  • Sonya demonstrates daily that life happens one day at a time, meets challenges, talks about what matters to her and brings energy and commitment to all of her projects. Staying on!
  • Kathryn to stay on Board for one more year to see the St. Joseph Project through to completion and to update the Constitution. 
  • Diverse and really interesting group to work with – we truly do need each other in the community.
  • Six people have submitted nomination papers. Still need two more Board members.

7. Round Table – Yoho Blow tentatively scheduled for January 31,February 1, and 2, 2020. Christmas Concert on December 19, 2019 and Christmas Pot Luck Supper on December 22, 2019. Stay tunes for details, but definitely mark your calendars.Meeting adjourned at 9:30 pm.

Field Recreation Advisory Association Board Meeting, October 22, 2019

In Attendance: Sally Watson, Flint Palmer, Paulina O’Brien, Kathryn Cameron

Excused: Charisse D’hamers, Karen Schmidt, Greg Dowman, Sonya Leenders

1. Calendar Review

  • Kathryn is away October 23 to 28, 2019
  • Paulina is away October 26 to November 14, 2019 
  • Flint is away for a few days in early November.
  • Sally is away November 9 to December 14, 2019 

2. Events Recap

Lovely Farewell Party for Mike, Charisse and Estelle on Sunday, October 20, 2019 at their place. Thank you for helping to make Field a good place to live. We’ll miss you and hope you are able to visit often. Elkford is lucky to have you in their community now. We wish you three all the best!

Federal Election October 21, 2019: Great voter turnout in Field! Good work everyone.

3. Fall Programs and Upcoming Events

  • Tabata High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) with Laura Penner is on Wednesday evenings, 6:30 to 7:30 pm at Field Community Hall, $6 drop-in fee
  • Introductory Tabata High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) with Laura Penner is on Wednesday evenings, 7:30 to 8:30 pm at Field Community Hall, $6 drop-in fee 
  • Tabata High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) group lead is on Sunday evenings, 6:30 to 7:30 pm at Field Community Hall, no fee
  • Yoga with Mardi Elliott is on Thursday evenings from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Field Community Hall, $6 drop-in fee, starting November 7, 2019
  • Note: The FRAA received a grant of $1260 from Columbia Shuswap Regional District to pay instructors $6 per participant in Tabata and Yoga classes to encourage participation
  • FRAA Town Hall and Annual General Meeting is on Monday, November 4, 2019 at Field Community Hall. Door and Bar open at 5:30 pm, Slide show and Pot Luck Supper at 6:00 pm, Meeting and Election of Officers at 7:00 pm. Poster: Flint, Slide Show: Craig, Liquor License: Kathryn
  • Friends of Yoho Pasta Supper and Silent Auction is on Saturday, November 23, 2019 at Field Community Hall. Details and poster are in process.
  • FRAA is expecting a written proposal from a resident who is interested in offering a four to six week youth cooking class that would start in November and end by Christmas.

4. St Joseph Project

  • Craig, Sally and Kathryn have a meeting scheduled with Parks Canada Development Officer Kathleen Wilker on October 30, 2019 to discuss where we’re at with the church re: Development Permit process. 
  • We have asked russell and russell design for plans and site plan that include the selected option for the elevator/lift. 
  • We have asked the Development Office for clarification on definitions of Lot Coverage and Site Coverage in the context of Parks Canada guidelines. 
  • We’re into the fine details now. Hoping to move on to engineered drawings and the contractor tender process soon.
  • We expect to hear the results of our Gaming Branch grant application at the end of October.

5. Snow Removal Meeting with Parks Canada October 8, 2019 

  • Parks Canada will circulate the plough map and Best Practises Guidelines that outline our level of service. No changes to past protocols. 
  • Discussed attitudes and behaviours. General call for civility and respect in all communications. 
  • The FRAA wants Parks Canada to ensure the entrance to Field is cleared so access and egress to the community has clear lines of sight on the highway (safety), that visitors aren’t intimidated by huge snow piles and single lane clearance over the bridge, and that 1st Avenue doesn’t get forgotten this winter.  

6. Kicking Horse Ski Club

Marilyn, Kathryn and Sally completed the paperwork on Monday, October 21, 2019 with Johnston Meier Insurance to transfer ownership of the skidoo and trailer from Marilyn to the FRAA. 

7. Banking Changeover

We opened a chequing account for the FRAA at Columbia Valley Credit Union on Monday, October 21, 2019, deposited the CSRD Grant in Aid cheque for Tabata and Yoga, and cheques from Laura Penner and Hayley Markel for Community Hall use, ordered cheques and set up online banking. The process is underway!

8. Hall Repairs

  • Miles replaced the hot water tank at the Hall on Saturday, October 12, 2019, gave us a bill for the tank and disposed of the old tank. He also replaced the cartridge for the upstairs bathroom sink tap – it’s been a dripper for some time now. Whew. Big accomplishment. Thank you Miles!
  • As a result of the flood when the hot water tank failed, we have mould contamination to mitigate. Super Clean from Golden will do an assessment this week and we’ll proceed from there. Flint taking the lead on project.
  • Joe is on track to complete repairs to shed roofs, replace external door and repair broken windows in change room, and repair broken shelves in the kitchen by the end of October.

9. Constitution Update and Advisory Board Consideration

Kathryn attended a Lake Louise Advisory Board Meeting on Tuesday, October 8, 2019. Similar to our Town Hall Meeting but heavy on business owners/stakeholders and thin on residents. More input from Parks Canada; Kurt Devlin reported on infrastructure projects currently getting done (water and sewer lines) and planned for the spring (traffic lights at the first 4-way stop). Rick Kubian gave a presentation on traffic management. Interesting. Also, they meet in the late afternoon, generally 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm. Juliet has expressed interest a Field Advisory Board structure, with late afternoon meetings in Field. When we have had afternoon presentations or consultations, attendance was really low. Lots to consider as we update the constitution and negotiate a Terms of Reference or Memorandum of Understanding agreement with Parks Canada. It’s all still in process. 

The FRAA feels that it’s important for residents and businesses to hear information directly from the organizations we work with, which is the intent of Town Hall Meetings. There are definitely options to operate as one organization with defined duties.

10. CPR Information

  • Lease renewal for the Community Hall and rink area is in process.
  • CPR confirmed that bells on the new full crossing apparatus will be on the river side only. The arms will be down and the bells will sound for the duration of the signalled crossing. The bells will not disengage when trains are on the crossing.
  • FRAA has asked what CPR has planned for the huge pile of dirt in the yard below the hotel, if the soil is contaminated and what soil tests have been done on the material. Reply received October 23, 2019, “. . . the material has been tested and has been found to be inert and has not, nor is it now, leaching into the ground. We will be moving all the materials out of Field starting tomorrow.” – Pete Bayerle

11. Round Table

Nomination Papers to be an FRAA Board Member are at the Post Office and have been emailed to residents. This is a hands-on organization, dedicated to enriching our lives here. If you have questions about time commitments or what you are interested in doing, please talk to a Board member. You will be part of a great crew!

Confirmed that the FRAA Logo is the train.Field Summer Music Festival: Received $1500 sponsorship grant from Columbia Basin Trust and is working on a grant from Creative BC. Also working to secure headliner and professional event stage. 

Field Recreation Advisory Association Town Hall Meeting, September 30, 2019

Field Recreation Advisory Association (FRAA)

Town Hall Meeting – Monday, September 30, 2019

1. Canadian Pacific Railway – Field Projects Update

            Pete Bayerle, Senior Public Works Manager, Calgary

Pete was not able to attend the meeting due to bad weather in southern Alberta and poor highway conditions. He sent this information to share with residents at the Town Hall Meeting tonight.

The current projects are straightforward. 

  • CP is adding 1800’ of track to an existing siding in order to accommodate grain trains. The intent is to ease congestion at the crossing and make movement through the rail yard more fluid. There is no change to crew change location.
  • The new warning system at the crossing is designed to give an extra layer of safety. Low decibel bells will be installed. They are at the low end of a high decibel rating, and will be at about 85 decibels, not much louder than the noise of a train at the crossing. Flashing lights and signals will happen for the duration a train is on the crossing. Lights are LED (replaces incandescent) and focussed toward the traffic, so will not throw a big arc of light.
  • The material stockpile in the yard will be cleaned up at the end of the projects.
  • Both projects are anticipated to be complete between the end of October and the middle of November.
  • The Field Bunkhouse stays. CP has no plans to close the facility or shift the crew change to Golden. 
  • If anyone has questions, please contact Pete by email at Pete_Bayerle@cpr.ca or by phone at 403-835-9372. 

Clarification requested from CPR:

Questions about the full crossing warning system, specifically the bells:

1.Will there be bells on both sides of the system, or only on the riverside of the tracks? 

2. What is the expected duration of the signal?

Questions about the clean up currently taking place where the roundhouse used to be located. There were piles of dirt moved to that site some time ago that a contractor is currently moving up against the bank and levelling the area where it had been located. Someone called it “contaminated soil”. 

1.Where did the material come from?

2. How long has it been in the yard?

3. Is it contaminated material? Has it been tested? If yes, please provide details on testing and contamination. If no, when will testing be done to determine chemical composition of material?

Hearing health and safety websites to consult courtesy of Craig Chapman, Community Paramedicine:

This is probably the best one as approved by a significant global safety organization:

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/noise/app.html

This is a site showing the general recommended apps and apps for different devices:

https://www.healthyhearing.com/report/47805-The-best-phone-apps-to-measure-noise-levels

Canadian Safety Association wording on noise exposure and other useful sites/info:

https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/laws-regulations/labour/interpretations-policies/074.html

https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/phys_agents/exposure_can.html

https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/phys_agents/noise_basic.html

WorkSafe BC Info:

https://www.worksafebc.com/en/health-safety/hazards-exposures/noise

https://www.worksafebc.com/en/health-safety/hazards-exposures/noise/hearing-loss-prevention/annual-hearing-testing

2. FRAA Report 

            Kathryn Cameron, President FRAA

What a summer! Welcome to the next season!

We have so much to appreciate – beyond a smoke-free summer.

Thank you to Sally, once again, for planting and watering the beautiful plants and flowers that grace the Community Hall area and contribute to the beauty of the village.

Thank you to Bonnie Brandt for a initiating a low-waste Canada Day celebration by rounding up and purchasing glassware for the Community Hall, and doing dishes at the Pancake Breakfast. 

Thank you to The Friends of Yoho who offer history, entertainment and a bit of the inside story about Field through the summer Historic Walking Tour of Field.

Thank you to Flintaroo Productions and all the volunteers who put on the 2nd Annual Field Summer Music Festival. 

Thank you Sonya for grooming the public spaces that showcase the community, and for the Perennial Plant Swap in August.

Thank you to the leaders and instructors who offered yoga, fitness and dance programs this summer.

Congratulations to Paulina and Darren O’Brien who received Canadian citizenship on July 21, 2019! 

Congratulations to Reg Hawryluk on your retirement from Parks Canada, and thanks for bringing so many familiar faces back to Yoho for your party at the ranch on Friday, September 27, 2019. It was blustery and wind blown, and the weather was dynamic too. It was so great to visit with everyone!

Fall Programs and Upcoming Events

            Tabata High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) has a new schedule: Wednesday evenings with Laura Penner from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm, drop-in fee of $12. New this fall, starting Wednesday, October 9, a six-week beginner HIIT program with Laura Penner from 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm, drop-in fee of $12. No charge for first-time participants at Wednesday evening HIIT. Self-lead HIIT continues on Sunday evenings from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm, no charge.

            Shake It Up With Paulina is on autumn hiatus. Paulina will let us know when winter classes will start. The summer program ran from June 7 through September 13, with 2 sessions cancelled, for a total of 11 classes with an average of three participants per class. Donations to the St Joseph Project collected: $240, which were passed on to Sally.

            We have a yoga teacher interested in taking on the Field yogis: Mardy Elliott from Banff. Details are in discussion. Fingers crossed!

            The FRAA received a grant from the Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) to subsidize participation in Tabata and Yoga classes this winter. Each attendee will pay $6 per class and the CSRD will pay the other non-Field Fire and Rescue participants $6 of the attendance fee. The intent of the grant is to boost participation in both programs.

            Monday, October 21, 2019 is the Federal Election. Field Community Hall is the polling station for our area.

            Monday, November 4, 2019 is the FRAA Town Hall Meeting and Annual General Meeting and Election of Officers. Prepare for a slide show of the past year, a delicious Pot Luck Supper, a new slate of potential Directors and a vote. Nomination papers will be circulated this week, and will also be available at the Post Office.

            Make The Christmas Concert Great Again, date to be determined. Flint and Karen to spearhead event in the school gym in December. Start your instruments and be on the program! Ideas or suggestions? Talk to Flint or Karen.

Hall Repairs

            Hipi Construction is working on a new outside door for the change room, windows replaced in the change room and shelves repaired in the kitchen, with a completion date of October 31. Miles Dickenson is replacing the hot water tank if it can’t be repaired (quote on new tank received today), and repairing leaking taps in the bar and upstairs washroom, with completion date imminent.

Banking

            FRAA will move our accounts to Columbia Valley Credit Union when we have a chance to go to Golden to do the work.

Highway Construction East of Golden in 2020

            Two residents have communicated with MLA Doug Clovechok’s office to gather information about the upcoming highway construction and road closures. Apparently there will be a public meeting this fall/winter sometime to answer questions about access for school bus and students, commuters, emergency vehicles, regular local traffic for groceries, banking, picking up liquor orders, etc., power supply/lines and impact on local businesses. No date set yet.

For updates on the Kicking Horse Canyon Project – Province of British Columbia: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/kicking-horse-canyon-project

St Joseph Project – Presentation by Craig Chapman

  • Final Reports submitted to CSRD (for $5000, used for the Lot Survey and designer plans consultation) and Rural Dividend Fund ($10,000 used for conceptual drawings).
  • $150,000 grant from Built Heritage (managed by Columbia Basin Trust) confirmed.
  • $150,000 grant from Columbia Basin Trust confirmed, contingent on approval of Gaming Grant or Gas Tax Grant.
  • $200,000 grant application submitted July 30, 2019 to the Gaming Commission. Anticipate an answer in October.
  • Once we have engineered drawings, the FRAA will put the project out to tender. We need three bids to submit an application to the Gas Tax.
  • Working on Development permit with Parks Canada Development Office.
  • Working on final conceptual drawings, then the FRAA will hold community consultation to get resident feedback and go-ahead.
  • Fundraising options in discussion.

3. Treasurer’s Report 

            Sally Watson, Treasurer FRAA

Moved by Flint, seconded by Kathryn to approved the financial reports as presented. Carried. Files attached to the distribution email.

4. Parks Canada Reports 

            Juliet Van Vliet, Townsite Manager

  • Water and sewer rates have been capped at a current rates. Costs for both are subsidized by Parks Canada: water at 60% and sewer at 50%. 
  • Working on recycling to get full understanding of who is taking recyclables to which centre. Campground staff in Alberta return drink containers to facilities in Alberta, campground staff in British Columbia return them to facilities in BC, highways staff pick up material in the bins (plastic, tin, glass, cardboard and paper) which enters the Town Of Banff stream. Reminder: look at the Town of Banff website for recycling specifics. If material in the bins is contaminated, the whole bin load goes to the landfill.
  • In discussion with FRAA on Terms of Reference or Memorandum of Understanding to give clarity to relationship. Monthly Advisory Board style meetings also in discussion.

            From Michael Vanderveen, Highway Service Centre, via Juliet Van Vliet

  • Fully staffed for winter at this point. Night shift starts October 13, 2019
  • Preparing for snow removal meeting on October 8, 2019 to review level of service, past issues, expectations for future.

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

  • The Friends of Yoho store at Field Visitor Centre will be open until October 31, 2019, from 9 am to 5 pm starting October 1.
  • Water fill station initiated by Friends of Yoho has been paid for and installed at the Visitor Centre by Parks Canada. Located in the washroom lobby, which will be open all winter.
  • Historic Walking Tour of Field was a resounding success again this summer. Total of $693.25 was donated to the St Joseph Project.

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

Call Outs –

8 in Jan, 7 in Feb, 1 in March, 2 in April, 3 in May, 3 in June, 2 in July, 4 in August, 2 in September.  The lowest number in 8 years.

Members – Sitting at 17 members (13 active only). 

5 Officers, 5 Firefighters, 6 Probationary Members, 1 Recruit

New and Planned Purchases

New purchases

Flash hoods, Top tarp for rescue one.

Planned purchases

Heating one time use blankets

Completed Training

Team Leader, Exterior Fire, Incident Safety Officer, Ventilation, High Hazard Flammable Trains (Crude by Rail in Colorado), Interior Fire, APO, EVD

Upcoming Training

Exterior fire (2 members), Strategies and tactics (2 members), air brakes class, 

4 members renewing their first responder certification (in house with Maggie).  

Apparatus

Engine 1 (all good) 

Rescue 1 (all good) 

Rescue 2 (all good).  Just needs a bulb.

Ongoing Projects

Waiting from BCEHS for our agreement for first responders.

Discussions with PCA about importance of fulltime fire chief on FFRD (Fire Chief) meeting with Juliet Van Vliet and Rick Kubian on Oct 7th.

Generator for Firehall – PCA Assets is working on it.  Should be done this fall.

Society contribution for HIIT classes.

Upcoming AGM

Oct 29.  No candidate for the fire Chief Position.

7. Round Table

The westbound lane at the Lake O’Hara junction with the TransCanada Highway has a merge lane, but many people go directly to the passing lane. It is quite dangerous and needs better direction on entering the westbound traffic flow safely.

Benches and tables in the Plaza have been damaged by weather and need to be sanded and painted. In the past this work was added to the landscaping contract. Juliet to look at options. Also suggestion that it could be a project for International Volunteers next summer.Meeting adjourned at 8:45.

Field Recreation Advisory Association Board Meeting, September 9, 2019

1. Calendar Review

  • Sally is away from November 9 to December 14.
  • Motion by Greg, and Seconded by Flint that we reschedule the AGM from November      18, 2019 to November 4, 2019. Passed. 
  • Kathryn is away from October 24 to 28.
  • Paulina is away from October 26 to November 14.
  • Greg will be away in early October.

2. Events Recap
Canada Day

  • Two thumbs up on events throughout the day, especially for the Pot Luck Supper. 
  • Let’s keep the option of a Canada Day Dance open next year, potentially to hire a band for the dance.
  • Final Report to Canadian Heritage sent August 29, 2019. Celebrate Canada grant application for 2020 due November 16, 2019.
  • Receipts submitted to Sally. 

Field Summer Music Festival

  • Overall really superb event.
  • Much support was received from Flint’s Mom and aunts cooking up loads of great eats! There were 35 music people and 45 volunteers.
  • Date for 2020 set for Saturday, July 11. Music line-up almost filled, with completion expected in a month. Considering groups like Barney Bentall, Red Elvises, The Boom Booms. Hotels and hostels booked for performers. Having the date announced now means festival attendees will be able to book accommodation in town or at Kicking Horse Campground. Potential to have block of sites set aside in Kicking Horse Campground for festival attendees. 
  • Different price strategy for ticket sales in 2020.
  • Identified more funding agencies and partnerships. 
  • Some vendors still to submit % of sales. 
  • Discussion about continued operation under the umbrella of FRAA until Field Summer Music Festival (FSMF) has completed Not For Profit Organization process. Flint to share spreadsheet with Board. Board is comfortable with current arrangement and supports FSMF move to society status. 

Summer Programs at Community Hall

  • Last Just Breathe Yoga session with Hayley Markel was on August 21, 2019. Hayley has moved to Edmonton to work for Indigenous Services. Thanks for all the great yoga Hayley; we wish you all the best!
  • Tabata High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) continues to be a big hit . . . 
  • Shake It Up With Paulina will end the current session on Friday, September 13, 2019. Stay tuned for winter high-energy dancing!

Perennial Plant Swap: Wednesday, August 28 at Sonya’s place. Really nice, low-key event. Good opportunity to share plants and ideas. Nice start to the fall!

3. Fall Programs and Upcoming Events
Yoga: We’re looking for an instructor.
HIIT: There will be a new winter schedule, and poster available soon. In the meantime, HIIT will meet at 6:30 pm on Sunday evenings (group lead, no charge) and 7:30 pm on Thursday evenings with Laura Penner, $12 drop in fee. 
Pickleball: The weather is good. Pickleball nets are set upon the courts behind the community Hall.

Retirement Party for Reg Hawryluk: At the Government Ranch, Friday, September 27 from 2 pm to 5 pm. Poster attached to minutes email.

Farewell Party: for Mike, Charisse and Estelle, who are moving to Sparwood, in the Far-East Kootenays at the end of October. The FRAA will host a farewell party for them in October. Kathryn to coordinate a party date with them.
AGM: New date is Monday, November 4, 2019. Pot Luck Supper, slide show and election. Mark your calendar!

4. Hall Rentals
Only summer rental was Erin Evans’ Yoga teacher training in August. One fall booking at this point for the Federal Election on October 21.

5. St Joseph Project

  • Final Reports submitted to CSRD (for $5000, used for the Lot Survey and designer plans consultation) and Rural Dividend Fund ($10,000 used for conceptual drawings).
  • $150,000 grant from Built Heritage (managed by Columbia Basin Trust) confirmed.
  • $150,000 grant from Columbia Basin Trust confirmed, contingent on approval of Gaming Grant or Gas Tax Grant.
  • $200,000 grants application submitted July 30, 2019 to the Gaming Commission. Anticipate an answer in October.
  • Once we have engineered drawings, the FRAA will put the project out to tender. We need three bids to submit an application to the Gas Tax.
  • Working on Development permit with Parks Canada Development Office.
  • Working on final conceptual drawings, then the FRAA will hold community consultation to get resident feedback and go-ahead.
  • Fundraising options in discussion.

6. Hall Repairs

Kathryn will talk to Miles about plumbing repairs and Flint will talk to Joe about the other work. We would like to have everything done by the end of September.

7. Parks Canada Honorarium: Dispersal Proposal sent by email to Board Members June 6, 2019 – Motion by Sally and Seconded by Flint to accept proposal.
            Honorarium Payment, Based on Meetings, Events and Operational duties:
Board (6), Town Hall (6), Field Utility Board (4) meeting attendance: $25 each = $400 x 8 potential attendees = $3200
Event lead/organizer: $50 each event, 12 events per year and generally 2 organizers per event = $600
Operational duties: Treasurer 18 probable sessions – 6 financial reports, 12 monthly entries: $50 each = $900
Secretary – 12 sets of minutes: $50 each = $600
Total: $5300, which leaves us $700 for volunteer appreciation or board development or in the event we have more people who take a lead on organizing an event. Any amount not used for meeting attendance can also go into this fund.

The Board agreed it’s better that Board members make individual cash donations to the FRAA if that’s their interest.

8. FUB Agenda, Wednesday September 18, 2019 10:30 am at Field Admin

            1. Quarterly Reports

            2. Recycling Protocol Review

            3. Discuss Memorandum of Understanding or Terms of Reference option for Advisory Board role with Parks Canada, and Contribution Funding Agreement

            4. Set date for Snow Removal Meeting, preferably before the end of September

            5. TransCanada Highway Construction Project – What information does Parks Canada have about the project and how it may impact the community of Field

            Flint, Paulina and Kathryn will attend the meeting.

9. Town Hall Meeting Agenda, Monday September 30, 2019

            1. FRAA Report

            2. Treasurer’s Report

            3. Parks Canada Reports

            4. Friends of Yoho Report

            5. Field Fire and Rescue Report

            6. Round Table

10. Round Table

  • Flint, Paulina and Kathryn to attend Not For Profit Workshops at College of the Rockies in Golden: October 2, Financial Management and October 9, Fundraising. 
  • Discussion about CP Rail rumours re: closing Field Bunkhouse. Kathryn to call Brenda Lam at Community for clarification.

In the Gaming Commission grant application process, we found that Columbia Valley Credit Union is very customer service oriented, and offers fee-free banking to societies and not-for-profit organizations. Motion by Greg, seconded by Paulina that the FRAA move our banking to the Credit Union. Kathryn and Sally to coordinate research and process. Greg expressed support for great service offered to residents and FRAA by Columbia Valley Credit Union.