I received confirmation that Williams Lake is on the leading edge of B.C. municipalities at the B.C. Mayors Caucus last week.
B.C. municipalities are taking the direction Williams Lake is already heading. The meeting, attended by 86 mayors, ended with a call “for immediate discussion, beginning with the premier and cabinet, to examine the state of B.C. communities, and specifically, for a more efficient use of existing resources to better address the challenges facing residents.” Here in Williams Lake, we are leading the charge in requesting new, fairer funding formulae for infrastructure projects. We were able to have frank, honest discussion, with action items coming out after the two-day caucus. There was consensus on the need to be accountable and we recognize that there is only one taxpayer, so we need to find creative innovative ways to move forward.
We heard the first quarter crime statistics at council meeting Tuesday night, and crime remains much lower than it was in 2008. This is very positive and encouraging news, but as always, there is work to do. Williams Lake continues to be the busiest detachment in the province. Insp. Warren Brown also presented the 2012-2013 Performance Plan, with focus on continued improvement of relationships with First Nations, youth safety, and community safety. Council thanked Insp. Brown and safer communities co-ordinator Dave Dickson and their staff and volunteers for all they do to keep our city safe. These RCMP members risk their lives day in and day out for us. Creating a safer community is still one of council’s top priorities.
This week is Local Government Awareness Week. Municipalities are the frontline service providers for our citizens, from everything from garbage collection to our recreation complex. We welcome all communications — tell us how we are doing, and what ideas you have for our city. Contact us via Facebook or e-mail, or call to arrange coffee with the mayor. We want to hear from you!
Kerry Cook is the mayor of Williams Lake.