This week, MLA Dr. Darryl Plecas brought his blue ribbon crime reduction panel to Williams Lake to discuss crime challenges and opportunities.
I was proud to present with community partners the RCMP, the School District, First Nations, TRU, and other stakeholders on the work we’ve done and continue to do to reduce crime and increase community wellness.
Our collaborative presentation reflected the partnerships we’ve developed to enhance our community.
We shared our great successes in reducing crime since 2008, when we were No. 1 in Canada for violent crime, but we emphasized that there’s still work to be done.
Dr. Plecas will present a report outlining opportunities and next steps for crime reduction to Minister of Justice Suzanne Anton by July.
Last week I attended the Premier’s BC Natural Resources Forum, a good opportunity to hear from government and resource industry leaders about the state of the province and its future.
There were presentations and discussions on forestry, mining, skills, training, transportation infrastructure, and a keynote address from the premier and President of Eagle Spirit Energy Holding Calvin Helin.
It was a great opportunity to listen, learn, and network.
On Feb. 4, Council will receive a report on Option One for the city street connections to Highway 97 as part of the province’s four-laning project. Council has referred an option for roundabouts and an overpass to the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.
It’s important to note this project has been in development since 1998, and extensive public consultation has been held.
We need to narrow down the options and move forward, and ensure it is well-thought out.
It is Family Literacy Week, and thank you to the volunteers and sponsors for raising awareness. Reading is a necessary building block for success.
Enjoying and learning from books is a gift to treasure.
My colleague Councillor Rathor lost his daughter Roop this week.
Roop was a daughter, wife, and mother of three children who will be dearly missed.
Life is so short, and we have to take advantage of each and every day with our loved ones. My prayers go out to the family and friends as they walk through this difficult time.
Kerry Cook is the Mayor of Williams Lake.