May 22, 2025

DISCOVER CHILD CARE CHALLENGE LOCALS FACE

DiscoveryKids centre facingfundingobstacles

THURSDAY,MAY 22,2025

SPLASH PARK, SEA DIKE AND MORE: DISTRICT PROJECT UPDATES

With some projects nearing completion and others facing delays, District staff outline timelines and next steps for key developments shaping the future of town

INDIGO LEMAY-CONWAY [email protected]

District of Squamish staff have provided an update on seven key projects happening across town The key projects included in the quarterly update are defined as those that have a value of “greater than $25 million or are of high community interest and are otherwise not appearing on council agenda as a separate item in the future.”

These included the Squamish Adventure Centre, Cheekye barrier construction, the Xwúneḵw Park sea dike construction, Brennan Park Rec Centre upgrades and splash park, thenew public works facility, and Valleycliffe Child Care Facility

At the May6 special business meeting, staff provided an update on the projects, including informationon timelines and any changes made since the prior update period, which was at the end of 2024

Continued from1

SQUAMISH ADVENTURE CENTRE

The Squamish Adventure Centre is currently undergoing a “revitalization.”

District of Squamish directorof real estate, Neil Plumb, said that Phase1 of the upgrade project is almost complete.

“Phase 1 of this project has focused on the interior of the space, and is almost complete You may be aware, if you’ve been in the building, that the gift shop has been relocated, the offices have been relocated, and that was to create more potential rentable areas in that building and usable areas in that building in the future,” he said.

“That work has been done, as well as upgrades to the theatre space. The remaining piece is the Squamish Story interpretive exhibit.

“That work is in process, the materials for those exhibits are in production mode, and that will be installed this summer.”

Phase2 of the project is for the exterior of the building and is 50% complete, Plumb said

“That includes a proposed new interpretive trail playground and additional access from the patio on the outside of the building down to the proposed walkway trail,”he said.

“We’re in the process of just taking a closer look at options to improve accessibility, specifically around the patio area and the trail, and we’re working on design options on that right now and working through that, and our goal to complete this phase of the project is later this summer or early fall.”

CHEEKYE BARRIER CONSTRUCTION

According to the District’s senior manager of infrastructure planning, David Roulston, the Cheekye barrier construction project is approximately 35% complete.

The barrier will be a 24-metre-high, 200-metre-long, concrete structure with a six-metre-wide vertical slot in the middle Eight steel beams will be inserted into the slot to capture debris during extreme debris flow events.

The barrier is needed to protect boththenew people who will live in the housing provided by the Cheekye River Development and those who already live in Brackendale.

According to District staff, the debris flow barrier, to be built by the developer, will be among the largest of its type in the world.

It will be located on Crown land in the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District in the Cheekye Rivernear the apex of the Cheekye Fan.

“Construction started in July 2024, and some of the main aspects of work that have been established and completed are blasting for the slot that runs down the centre of the barrier, and placement of structural concrete for about half theheight of the barrier,” Roulston said.

“Placement of the roller compacted concrete, which forms the majority of the structure, is just beginning now, so that’s quite exciting.”

Roulston said that “substantial performance for the barriers” is expected for April 2026, and final completion is slated for July 2026

“Later this year, staff will be presenting to council onoperations and maintenance funding and a local area service tax that is intended to fund a portion of the operations and maintenance costs for the barrier,”he said.

“Staff, which includes Engineering and Public Works, are preparing to take ownership of the structure in about a year So there’s a lot of work that’s ongoing at present.”

XWÚNEḴW (WHOO-NAY-OAK) PARK SEA DIKE

Roulston also gave an update on theXwúneḵw Park sea dike, which is expected to be under construction this summer.

“This project incorporates a 200 metre long section of sea dike alongXwúneḵw Park to extend our coastal flood protection from the Sirocco development,” Roulston said.

“So this incorporates a sheet pile dike along the high water mark of the shoreline. It incorporates extensive habitat benches in front of the sheet pile wall, and also incorporates pedestrianand cycling walkways, landscaping lighting along the dike top, as well as road and

improvements at Main Street and also a water access ramp and dock.”

“After several years of permitting, we have finally received all of our permits, which is quite exciting We expect to begin [in water] construction in the fish window this summer.”

According to the District of Squamish website, the project—located on the Mamquam Blind Channel and Loggers Lane between Victoria and Main streets—will also include the “installation of a concrete pier that supports fixed gangways from the dike down to a floating dock on the Mamquam Blind Channel.”

“This public water access will initially support the hand-launching ofnon-motorized watercraft (kayaks, surf skis, stand-up paddleboards and canoes etc),” reads the website.

Roulston said that preparations for the project—which is budgeted for $18.3 million— could begin sooner, but construction completion is tipped for spring 2026

BRENNAN PARK RECREATION CENTRE UPGRADES

As most know, Brennan Park Rec Centre is getting an upgrade. But what are they working on at the moment?

The District’s new directorof facilities, Harmony Cornwell, said that Project 1—which is budgeted at $23.3 million—includes new ice rink change rooms, customer service expansions and lobby areas, and is expected to be completed by the beginning of 2026

“The design work for the ice rink change rooms, the ice rink roof insulation and thenew customer service mechanical rooms have been completed, and the design work for the lobby areas and the mezzanine area is approximately 90% complete,” she said.

“Phase 1, which included the ice rink change rooms and the ice rink insulation, has been completed. Phase 2, which includes the customer service expansion and mechanic exchange room, is currently under construction, and Phase3 for the arena [and] main lobbies has yet to commence.”

PUBLIC WORKS FACILITY

Providinga brief update on thenew public works facility, Cornwell said that the project is still scheduled for completion by June 2026

“We still have pre-loading on the site for the ramp and office areas, and that process is nearing completion, and we do have form work underway in multiple areas of the site,” she said

“There are no impacts or concerns at this stage.”

According to the District of Squamish website, the current public works facility is “at the end of its useful life and is no longer able to support the needs of the community.”

Thenew facility will help to ensure “uninterrupted essential service delivery such as clean drinking water, safe roads including snow and ice control, and emergency response such as flooding and extreme weather.”

The space is also set to be double the size of the original, reaching approximately 27,200 square feet–in addition to the yard and the existing maintenance bays.

Around 70 spaces have been allocated for vehicle parking as well as additional bike parking and charging spaces.

Since 2023, the cost estimate of the project has increased significantly, rising almost 40% from $26.4 million to $37.3 million in 2024.

SPLASH PARK

Parents will have to wait even longer to get the splash park.

District director of engineering, Sarah Baillie told council that the project, which was slated for the summer of 2026, has been delayed until 2027.

“As the field house is intended to house the mechanical equipment for the splash park, these projects must proceed together,’ Baillie said.

“Why we moved to 2027 was to allow for a sufficient design period. There’s also the potential that that electrical service upgrade will be required, so there’s money in the budget for that to occur in 2026 before this splash park can be commissioned.

PROGRESS: Continued on5

GOT NEWS?

Email your news tip or story idea to: [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

LOCAL MAN GETS TWO YEARS’ PRISON FOR SEXUAL TOUCHING OF MINOR

Joshua Turner pleaded guilty to a charge that he engaged in sexual touching in Squamish between March 11 and March 20, 2021

JEREMY HAINSWORTH

For The Squamish Chief

Warning: This story contains graphic details that may be distressing to some readers.

Aman who pleaded guilty to a sex offence againsta person under 16 in Squamish has been sentenced to two years less a day in prison and three years’ probation.

Joshua Turner, 25, pleaded guilty on June 22, 2022, to a charge that he engaged in sexual touching between March 11 and March 20, 2021.

“Decisions like the oneI am making today are amongst the most painful a judge is asked to deliver,” North Vancouver Provincial Court Judge Joanne Challenger said in her May 2 decision.

“An offence of sexual violence demands a disposition that will serve to denounce such conduct and deter others from engaging in it,” she said.

Challenger said Turner was just under 21 at the time of the offence while the victim was fifteen anda half.

“They were each aware of the other’s age,” the judge said.

Shortly before the first incident, Turner sent the girl pictures of his penis.

On March 13, 2021, they were together at a bus stop and discussed being attracted to one another.

Turner told her that if they did start dating it would have to be a secret due to the difference in their ages Challenger said that was an attempt to conceal the situation.

They consumed marijuana and then went to a train bridge. While sitting together,he began to rubher knee, thighs and buttocks and when asked, she said it was OK to do so.

“He asked to go underher clothes and she said no,” Challenger said.

During their conversations, Turner would ask the girl to engage in anal sex.

“She would say noor ‘maybe sometime in the future,’” Challenger said.

On March 16, 2021, they met after the girl finished school for the day and again consumed marijuana. Again, he asked for sex and she said no He asked to seeher genitals and she said no.

He asked if she wanted to see his penis and she said yes.

“Mr. Turner said, ‘Well, now we know what that is like,’” Challenger noted him saying, after sex.

On March 17, they met in the woods. He asked her if she wanted to “do something again,” and she said no.

They then went to another spot and again he asked for sex and she refused.

She did agree to “spoon,” which eventually turned into sex.

They then hada cigarette andhe askedher if she wanted to have sex again. She said no. He ignored her.

She disclosed the sexual touching to a number of people thenext day.

After March 20, she met up with Turner on three occasions but no further sexual conduct

occurred.

“This offence did not involvea single act,” Challenger said.“Mr. Turner engaged in repeated sexual violence.”

“He proceeded with acts of intrusive sexual violence without consent,” the judge said. “On the second occasion,he was unsure but took no steps to confirmher consent. On the third occasion,he knew she was not consenting and engaged inintrusive acts of sexual violence twice.”

Turner was arrested on March 26, 2021. He provided a statement in whichhe admitted to engaging in sexual acts withthe girl but denied some aspects of it.

“He saidhe was uncertain abouther consent on March 16, but said it was ‘pretty much a no’ for both incidents on March 17,” Challenger said.

The judge said Turner has expressed remorse for his actions.

BACKGROUND

Challenger said Turner comes from a highly dysfunctional family home where alcohol and sexual abuse were normal.

His father and his ancestors attended residential schools, the courtheard.

Turner was diagnosed with ADHD when he was 11 years old and reported being angry and depressed throughout his life.

He was briefly hospitalized in a psychiatric bed in June of 2022 after acting out at a shelter.

“He was given antipsychotic medication but did not fill the prescription after his release,” Challenger wrote. “He also has not followed through with an anti-depressant prescribed

by his family physician.”

He reported abusing alcohol from age 15 to 22.

“He uses marijuana on a daily basis and has done so since his teens,” Challenger said.“He views cannabis as ‘medicine.’”

Turner was found to be at least moderate risk of future sexual violence.

He has been undergoing counselling and attending 12-step meetings for substance abuse.

“It is essential that he receive intensive treatment to address the risk he poses to others,” Challenger said.

The Crown prosecutor suggested a penitentiary sentence up to five years while defence asked for a conditional sentence.

TALE OF TWO OCEANFRONTS: LOCAL DEVELOPER’S PROJECT TAKES STEP FORWARD IN PORT ALBERNI

Milestone is reached as the Island city and Matthews West sign a development agreement, paving the way for a mixeduse project with park space, retail, and housing, like at Oceanfront Squamish

JENNIFER THUNCHER

[email protected]

The developer of Oceanfront Squamish, Matthews West, is in the early stages of creating another oceanfront community in Port Alberni, on Vancouver Island.

The project recently passed a significant milestone with the signing of the Somass Lands master development agreement.

The agreement, signedApril 8, is between the City of Port Alberni and Matthews West Developments Ltd. (Matthews West).

Similar to the Oceanfront Squamish project, thePort Alberni land is a waterfront property that used to be home to industry.

In Port Alberni, located 195 km north of Victoria, with a populationof close to 30,000, the 43-acre property was previously known as the Somass Division sawmill.

The island city bought the lands from Western Forest Products in 2021.

The mill closed permanently in 2017, due to

a lack of log supply and market uncertainty caused by duties on softwood lumber sold into the United States.

In 2023, the City ofPort Alberni selected Matthews West as the development partner for the transformation of its waterfront property.

Matthews West has an option to purchase the property.

Similar to Squamish, the island project is envisioned to become a mixed-use development that would include park space, retail, office spaces and housing, in addition to light industrial businesses and public access to the waterfront.

As with Oceanfront Squamish, the plan for the island project is that a percentage of the land would be dedicated as public space and retained under the municipality’s jurisdiction.

The development of thePort Alberni lands requires remediation before construction can begin, as did the Squamish project.

With the agreement in hand, the City of Port Alberni will share investigative studies from remediation and site preparation work completed to date, according to a city news release.

Next, Matthews West will lead a master planning process in consultation withthe community.

Just as the developer has worked with Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) for its local project, First Nations will be integral to thePort Alberni project,

according to thenews release.

(Matthews West is alsoa partner with the Nation on the Cheekeye River Development in Brackendale.)

“We look forward to the upcoming work on the site, engaging with the community, and working hand-in-hand with the city, Tseshaht [cišaaʔatḥ] and Hupačasath First Nations on this exceptional development opportunity,” said John Matthews, president of Matthews West, in the news release about thePort Alberni project.

Matthews noted the similarities of the two B.C. oceanfront projects in an exchange with The Squamish Chief.

“We’re thrilled about the upcoming work on the Somass Lands in Port Alberni. Port Alberni mirrors many aspects of Squamish’s growth story from two decades ago. Like Squamish, it’s emerging as a vibrant, outdoor-focused hub located along the main corridor to a major tourism destination,”he said, in an emailed statement.

“The area is seeing increasing interest thanks to its natural beauty, established population and economic base, access to world-class recreation—including Sproat Lake, Mount Arrowsmith, Tofino, and Bamfield—a close-knit community, and attainable housing options for young families. Much like Oceanfront Squamish, the Somass Lands is a waterfront, mixed-use development site directly connected to the downtown core—positioning it to play a transformative role in the city’s future.”

For more on thePort Alberni project, go to the City of Port Alberni website.

NEWS BRIEF

YOUNG WOMAN DIES WHILE SLACKLINING AT THE CHEAKAMUS CANYON

A 22-year-old woman has died while highlining at the Cheakamus Canyon recreation area on Friday.

A spokesperson for the Royal Canadian MountedPoliceE Division told The Squamish Chief that Squamish RCMP and other first responders were on the scene “following a fatality at a popular climbing area.”

“On May 16, 2025, at 12:34 p.m., Squamish RCMP received a report that a female fell from a slack line at Chek Canyon Recreation Area First responders attended the scene where the 22-year-old female was confirmed to be deceased,” the spokesperson said

“Squamish Search and Rescue was called to assist withthe recovery due to the difficulty of

“Thenext step in the design process is to procurea team of consulting engineers and an architect to move the projects forward concurrently.”

Baillie said that ideally, the “capital spend” will happen in 2027 and will also open sometime that year

“We’ll know more once we get consultants on board As far as process, we need to get

accessing the area at the bottomof the canyon.”

BC Emergency Health Services paramedic public information officer Brian Twaites said that they received a call at 12:07 p.m. “about a person in need of medical assistance near the Conroy Forest Service Road, north of Squamish.”

“An ambulance with primary care paramedics and an advanced care paramedic response unit responded to the scene. No patients were transported to hospital.

The RCMP E Division spokesperson said that victim services were on the scene to provide support to multiple individuals who witnessed the incident

“Anyone affected by this incident is encouraged to reach out to Victim Services for support and assistance at 604-892-6153.”

The BC Coroners Service has beenengaged and will be conducting an investigation.

consultants on board, start the design, understand theneeds, put in for permits, have that work completed, and then actually move to the mechanical components of the splash park and the field house,” she said.

“So there is just a process that has to take place, but this is a priority project for staff currently.”

VALLEYCLIFFE CHILD CARE

Thenew $3.4 million Valleycliffe Child Care Facility is expected to be completed by this

summer.

District manager of community planning, Sarah McJannet, said the base building was completed in April, with remaining work in thenear future mostly focused on landscaping.

“There wasa delay to the hydro design, but hydro is now installed on site, as of a couple weeks ago, there’s final building commissioning and occupancy expected for the end of June, 2025,” McJannet said.

“The outdoor play area installation is scheduled as well for May and June for the child care fit-out and licensing.”

This childcare project was announced in April 2022 and is a partnership between the District of Squamish, School District 48 and Sea to Sky Community Services.

The stand-alone building just off Hemlock Avenue will have 12 spaces for infants and toddlers and 24 spaces for ages 30 months and older, equalling 36 spaces overall.

CanadianTire Squamish is Ready!

Canadian TireSquamish isbackwith afreshnewlookand anall-newcampingandoutdoorproshop. It’sbigger,betterandreimagined for lifeinSquamish. Don’tmissthegrandreopening celebrationofournewly renovatedstorefeaturingexclusive deals,contestsandswaggiveaways forthewholefamily.

SUPPORTIVE WORKPLACES HELP EMPLOYEES OPEN UP ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH, STUDY FINDS

‘People notice things,’ says SFU professor Zhanna Lyubykh, whose latest research reveals that even subtle cues from management can influence whetherworkers feel safe disclosing their mental health challenge

JENNIFER THUNCHER [email protected]

Over the years, there has been increasing awareness and understanding ofhow mental health impacts every part of our lives.

More people are also acknowledging that they suffer from a mental disorder.

Anxiety is the most prevalent mental illness in Canada, according to an Anxiety Canada 2023 report, which says one in four Canadians will be diagnosed with anxiety. Mental health can impact our jobs and thus our productivity, too.

Anxiety Canada notes that 71% of Canadians surveyed said mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression, have interfered with their ability to work in the past year.

Individuals with anxiety are also more likely to be unemployed.

Anew Simon Fraser University study

challenges a commonly held misconception that there’s little organizations can do to encourage employees to disclose mental health concerns

If employees disclose what they are going through, they can be offered support, yet many organizational leaders tend to think that disclosure is a personal choice.

The study, Facilitating Mental Health Disclosure and Better Work Outcomes: The Role of Organizational Support for Disclosing Mental Health Concerns, published in Human Resource Management, found that there is much that managers and employers can do.

‘PEOPLE NOTICE THINGS AND LOG THEM’

Its results showed that employees were 55% more likely to disclose mental health concerns to their bosses when they perceived their organization as supportive.

“People notice things and log them, sometimes consciously and sometimes not,” said the study’s lead author, Zhanna Lyubykh, assistant professor of management and organization studies at the Beedie School of Business at SFU, in anews release.

“Did they see someone who recently disclosed [their mental health condition] get passed over fora promotion? Are open, understanding conversations about mental health encouraged and happening among co-workers? Did it take six months and 100 forms fora co-worker to actually get access to

the supports they were entitled to? And when that person received those supports, were they really beneficial?”

According to thenews release, Lyubykh’s research included two survey-based studies. The first study looked at the difference between employees’ stated willingness to disclose mental health issues and actual disclosure rates, and it looked at factors that influenced employee decision-making. The second study zoomed in on the connection between organizational support for mental health and well-being, and absenteeism.

‘BETTER JOB SATISFACTION’

What they found in the study was that even for employees who didn’t have mental health issues of concern, there were benefits to the supportive environment.

“On average, when an employee has positive perceptions of support from their organization, even when it’s in the context of disclosure, they still display and have better job satisfaction They have better performance They are more likely to engage in what we call citizenship behaviours—things such as going the extra mile for the organization, for other employees. For example ... going beyond that job description, but something that is beneficial,” Lyubykh told The Squamish Chief, adding that when employees do that, it gives the companya competitive advantage.

Employees who see the support for their mentalhealth are also less likely to look for another job and have better mental health outcomes, such as lower levels of anxiety and lower levels of self-reported depressive symptoms.

Of course, first and foremost, workplaces need to have the programs and benefits easily accessible to help employees, but the work environment is also very important.

TEACHABLEMOMENTS

Supervisorsneed to manage negative events and aim to minimize them, according to Lyubykh.

“So let’s saya person talks about anxiety, and someone else replies, ‘Well, you [should] toughen up,’” she said.

Thisisn’t something that wouldneed to go to human resources or get someone fired, but it is a teachable moment, where there can be a positive discussion about the myths around mental health and why the comment was offside, according to Lyubykh.

Employers may worry that if they are supportive and open about mental health issues, employees will take advantage, but Lyubykh said the opposite is true.

She pointed to companies that have an unlimited number of sick days that can be used and research that has been done on their work culture.

“What we found was that people who had higher perceptions of their organization

What we found wasthat people who hadhigher perceptionsoftheir organization being supportiveof mental health concerns missedfewer days of work.

ZHANNA LYUBYKH

being supportive of mental health concerns missed fewer days of work,” she said.

Lyubykh believes there is a simple explanation for this.

“Whena person wakes up in the morning and they don’t feel well, and they contemplate whether they go or don’t go to work, if they think that if they go into work, and they will have a supportive environment—they will have their peers and leaders who are going to see or maybe talk to them, they’re more likely to actually go to work than miss a day,” she said

“People who want to take advantage, they will take advantage regardless I think it’s a process of reciprocity. So when an organization cares about employee well-being, employees start caring as well It can

actually create a very positive cycle where people will be more likely to do something for the organization. They will have higher levels of performance. They will help. They will talk positively about the organization versus the mentality of,okay, we’re going to squeeze the very last dropof this employee’s life out of them.”

As a takeaway from the study, she hopes organizations use workplace surveys to ask specific questions about how comfortable their employees feel talking about mental health concerns in the workplace.

HELP IN THE SEA TO SKY CORRIDOR

A spokesperson for Open Door Group, which operates multiple WorkBC Employment and Training Services centers, including in Squamish, told The Squamish Chief it recognizes that mental health is essential to gaining and maintaining employment.

Open Door connects with up to 200 employers annually—from those offering direct placements and wage subsidies to those participating in hiring fairs and community attachments.

“Employers who prioritize mental health not only help reduce stigma but also benefit from stronger retention, increased employee engagement, and healthier workplace cultures We’re proud to serve as a connector between job seekers and inclusive employers, building stronger communities one opportunity at a time,” the spokesperson said.

HELP FOR JOB SEEKERS

Open Door, a non-profit, offers support, including wellness-focused services, one-on-one coaching, and inclusive career planning, for individuals navigating mental health challenges.

“For individuals not yet ready for employment, we can help co-ordinate access to clinical counselling to support employment readiness,” the spokesperson said.

Open Door staff can also make referrals to services through Vancouver Coastal Health mental health services and other resource agencies.

“A significant part of our work involves customized wage subsidies, which create pathways to employment for individuals with complex or multiple barriers,” the spokesperson said, adding that in recent months, they have helped individuals with autism, ADHD, and those living with mental health and substance use challenges, find meaningful roles.

“We also work closely with employers across the Sea to Sky Corridor to promote psychologically safe and inclusive workplaces. Through ongoing outreach, training, and practical support—such as flexible scheduling, regular check-ins, and education on mental health—we equip employers withthe tools they need to support staff well-being.”

Find the Squamish WorkBC office at 302 - 37989 Cleveland Ave.

Next, Lyubykh’s research will be looking into what can be done about workplace aggression, incivility and harassment Find out more about the study discussed in this story on SFU’s website.

Weeklyorganics

collectionhas resumed.

squamish.ca/organics

Development Review

• 1001 Condor Place –ShortTermRental Temporary UsePermit

• CheekeyeDevelopment(CD-82 Amendments) –Rezoning

• 38779 &38795Britannia Avenue –Subdivision

• 39660 GovernmentRoad– Subdivision

• Lot15Aspen Road –Rezoning

• 37780 &37794 SecondAvenue –DevelopmentPermit

• Upper Finch -2027 Solar Way –Rezoning squamish.ca/review

This weekis Public WorksWeek,atime to recognizethevital rolepublic works plays inourdailylives.

WHAT’S HAPPENINGIN RECREATION AND CULTURE

Business Opportunities

Requestsfor Quotations

•SkylineDriveCulvertReplacement

•Annual Paving Program

squamish.ca/doing-business-with-the-district

Stage 1Outdoor WaterUse Restrictionsarenow

ineffect.

squamish.ca/water

Field Allocation

Allocations forSeptember1–February28,2026. RequestDeadline: Friday, June27,2025.

Field Closures: Allfields except Artificial Turf Field: December15 –January15(weather dependent).

Field Allocation Meeting Wednesday, July16,2025

Please contactRecreation Services at 604-898-3604 withanyquestions.

Poolschedule: squamish.ca/rec/ poolschedule

Arenaschedule: squamish.ca/rec/ arenaschedule

Hearing Loop Launch Event

May28,12–2 pm in Council Chambers at MunicipalHall

Callingallhearing aidusers,helpus celebrateournewhearing loop! Dropin at anytime.

An audiologistwillbeonsitetohelp you learnhow to use ahearingloop. Refreshmentswillbeprovided.

PleaseRSVP to [email protected]

InfrastructureUpgrades

Installation work continueson awatermainbetween Bill’s Placeand Highlands WaySouth. squamish.ca/building-our-future

Kids’Clothing, Toy, and Book Swap

quafit

atBrennan ParkRecreation Centre Wednesdays,2:30–3:15 pm

DEEP WATER RUNNING

JoininstructorCindy Palmerassheguides you through adeep-water, low-impact workout. Increasingintensitythrough formats, intervals,pyramids, andtabata.

Spaceslimited,booknow!

Lastchances to skate!

atBrennan ParkRecreation Centre Fridays, 7:15–9 pm

Getontheicebeforethe rink closes over summer! Last public skatewill be Friday, May30. Comeandmeetupwithfriends andsocialize whileskatingin thisfunenvironment. Skate patrolareontheicetosupervise andsupportskaters.

squamish.ca/rec

May24, 10 am–3 pm

Brennan Park

Recreation Centre

Isittimetoswapoutsomepre-loved toys,clothesorbooks?

Come alongandhelp keepuseditems incirculation andout of thelandfill.

Interestedinvolunteering at thisevent?Email: [email protected]

LOCAL PARENTS LAUNCH PETITION OVER CHANGES TO $10-A-DAY CHILD CARE FUNDING

Parents of children at Discovery Kids, a $10-a-day child care centre, have shared their concerns over funding changes and what it means for their future

INDIGO LEMAY-CONWAY

[email protected]

Parents in Squamish know one thing to be true—child care is scarce, and a $10-a-day child care program is even more so

Afterhearing that the funding for the affordable child care program, launched by the provincial government in 2018, could soon change, parents at Discovery Kids have banded together behind a petition in the hopes they can keep it going.

Father of two, Will Prescott said the families heard about the possible changes to the program almost a month ago and were immediately devastated.

“I’ve been really lucky to have two kids at Discovery Kids My daughter technically graduated from there last year and has gone to kindergarten now, but my son is there,” Prescott said

“Because of the changes to the funding model, and the negative impact it’s going to have on the staff and the kids and the potential future of the $10-a-day program, the parents have come together to try to work on some advocacy, to hopefully make some changes and get some conversations going with some government officials to make the positive changes.”

Discovery Kids was one of 55 prototype centres that launched the $10-a-day program in 2018.

At the time, according to the Evaluation and Analysis of Childcare BC Universal Prototype Sites report, the funding model “essentially removes almost all financial risk to the operators.”

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Education and Child Care said that their approach to supporting $10a Day programs has “shifted over time.”

“As the ministry learns more about the operating expenses and revenue of individual providers, adjustments have been made to the funding model to ensure ineligible expenses were not burdening the taxpayer, to make sure funding is appropriately targeted,” the spokesperson told The Squamish Chief.

The Squamish Chief reached out to Discovery Kids for comment, but they said they were unable to comment on the issue.

PARENTAL CONCERN

Prescott said that there are approximately 47 families that area part of Discovery Kids and almost all have participated in setting up their change.org petition.

“We really wanted to stand up for the staff, but also Squamish, we’re such a fast-growing community. It’s a very young community, and I

know so many parents who don’t have the privilege to have daycare in this town, like they’re still on the waitlist or trying to get in,” he said.

“So weneed to keep finding ways to support the daycares that are already established and doing amazing stuff, but also to continue to expand the program and to find more $10-a-day spaces and more child care spaces

“It just seems crazy to me that Discovery Kids which was one of the first, if not the first, $10 day programs in town and we seem to be handcuffing them withthis new funding model, rather than supporting them and trying to expand the program so that more people can access high quality and affordable daycare.”

Fellowparent Tegan Bucholtz said that she was told the funding changes would reduce the number of staff Discovery Kids could employ

“What was made aware to me, that was really concerning, is that the funding is going to be cut for the program, and it’s going to be cut in such a way that it’s going to affect the quality of care that the kids are getting at the moment,” she said.

“Under thenew funding model, I believe they’re switching it to only [funding] one qualified early childhood educator to two

assistants.”

Currently, Discovery Kids employs five infant-toddler/special needs educators, two early childhood educators, and three early childhood educator assistants

“So when you have 25 kids and only three people watching them, especially when there are children who are maybe in need of a little more attention, it becomes kind of a really low quality of care situation,” Bucholtz said.

“I know in my son’s class specifically, there are two children with diagnoses that require additional support, and there’s actually several being monitored that potentially mayneed it. So in his class, it would be really detrimental to have those kinds of cuts made.”

Prescott said that the centre would take on children of all abilities and that thenew funding model would likely affect this aspect of their care.

“They’ll take any kid, no matter where they’re at, whether they’reneurodivergent, whether they have a specialneed, they’re willing to take them,” he said.

“But I think if future funding models or plans go into place, they would have to vastly reduce the staff, or it would just very much change the

outlook for the daycare, and so they wouldn’t be likely to be the inclusive place that they are.

“If they had to go ahead withthose cuts the way they are now, it sounds like the only choices they would have would be to either withdraw from the funding agreement and no longer be in the $10-a-day program, or if they stayed in the program, completely overhaul their operations It’d be pretty devastating, I think, for the parents and for the staff.”

MINISTRY COMMENTS

The spokesperson for the Ministry of Education and Child Care said testing for a new operating funding model began in 2023.

“This model is a significant step forward for the $10-a-day ChildCareBC program. By providing formula-based, stable, and equitable funding, it aims to support licensed child care providers while ensuring that child care remains affordable, high quality, equitable, and inclusive for families,” the spokesperson said.

Child care providers have known changes to the funding model were coming for two years,

KIDS: Continued on 17

BRITANNIA BEACH PLANT CAN ACCEPT TRUCKED WASTEWATER FROM OUTSIDE THE SERVICE AREA

The under-utilized Britannia Beach Wastewater Plant, which previously only accepted trucked regional wastewater, can now accept wastewater from outside service area following a recent SLRD bylaw amendment

significantly more.

INA PACE

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Britannia Beach Wastewater Plant can now receive trucked wastewater that is outside its sewage collection and treatment service area, in addition to trucked wastewater that is within its service area.

The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) board voted in favour of adopting the Britannia Beach Sewage Collection and Treatment Service Establishment Bylaw amendment at its meeting on April 23. SLRD staff explained in a board meeting on Dec. 12 last year that non-domestic wastewater was at that time only transported to Britannia Beach as an emergency measure.

The charge before the recent amendment was $9 per cubic metre for non-domestic waste.

Wastewater from, for example, the Woodfibre LNG collection site, was trucked to Metro Vancouver or Victoria, costing

“The Britannia Beach facility was [built] to a capacity far beyond what exists at the moment. It has the capacity to take all of the wastewater that will come from Britannia South,” Area D director Tony Rainbow said at a December board meeting, referencing an upcoming development.

“If we increase the amount of [trucked wastewater], it is better in terms of efficiency, and ends up saving us some money. We have an opportunity to charge some fees and build up reserves, so [it’s] a benefit to our community and not detrimental to anybody else.”

With the amendment passed, rates for accepting out-of-region waste would be negotiated in a contract between the SLRD and the company seeking the service.

Electoral Area C director Russell Mack shared Rainbow’s sentiments and elaborated on environmental benefits “[We will have] less trucks going up and down the highway burning diesel fuel, take advantage of the opportunity,” he said.

Director Jenna Stoner, who is also a Squamish councillor, also said in December’s

meeting, “I think [accepting out-of region wastewater is] an efficient use of our infrastructure. It’s important to make sure that if we have capacity, no matter what the project is, we are using our wastewater systems to their maximum extent More waste in a larger system makes it more efficient.”

Director and Squamish councillor Chris Pettingill opposed the amendment, having said at January’s meeting that he had concerns about increased waste production.

“What I’ve seen with water bylaws and so on is a real push to minimize water use and sewage use,”he said,“I understand there may be more residential development that requires the size, but for me, I’m uncomfortable doing things to facilitate greater water use and sewage, maybe we can deal with that by setting significantly high rates.”

Director and Squamish Mayor Armand Hurford argued that increasing wastewater loads would further the value of residents’ living costs.

“I think this is appropriate to monetize in a way that supports the residents’ pay to that cost centre,” he said, “[I] look forward to what actually ends up there.”

The bylaw’s amendment was promptly adopted by the SLRD at April’s meeting without further discussion

The staff report states that the annual cost of receiving out of region trucked wastewater shall be funded primarily by taxes and grants, approved by the Local Government Act.

Patricia Westerholm, directorof communications and engagement at the SLRD, told The Squamish Chief that if Woodfibre LNG, FortisBC or other companies have further discussions with staff on their liquid waste disposal needs, staff can bring reports to the board for the members to approve or reject. At this time, wastewater is not currently being accepted from anywhere outside of the Britannia Beach service area.

You can find more information about the SLRD’s operations for water and sewage systems on their website, as well as bylaw enforcement.

InaPace is The Squamish Chief’s Local Journalism Initiative (LJI) Reporter. This reporting beat is made possible by the LJI.

LOCAL PEST DETECTIVE ON THE CASE

The challenges,successes and hopes of a local from Rwanda who has launched his own pest control franchise

Vancouver location’s service technicians.

JENNIFER THUNCHER [email protected]

As many business owners know, one of the challenges of starting up a venture is hiring quality staff, especially in the corridor where staffing is competitive and housing is costly.

That is a lesson recently learned by O’neal Mutabazi,a young Squamish entrepreneur who is anew franchisee of North Vancouver-based Pest Detective, a pest control company.

Chris Frederick, who founded North Shore Pest Detective Ltd. and Pest Detective Corporate Canada, told The Squamish Chief that last year the company opened franchises in Calgary and Edmonton and has now added this one in the Sea to Sky.

The company prioritizes franchise owners and employees who live where they work.

“We know how important it is now more than ever to have employees living and working in their community. Canadian company, elbows up, anda goal to sponsor more local events and charities,” Frederick said.

Initially, the Whistler and Squamish area was usually serviced from the company’s North

“We only had temporary success with hiring [and] maintaininga technician who lives and works in Squamish It has been a real challenge.

With a technician living in the community, the public noticed us more and called on us more,” he added.

Then, late last year, Mutabazi, who lives in Squamish, became a franchisee.

“Right away, the search began to hire and train [a technician] from Squamish It has taken almost four months, but it has finally happened,” Frederick said.

The company now hasa locally based technician, Peter Lucke.

Mutabazi is originally from Rwanda, but was previously in the U.S. on a college basketball scholarship (his Utah team made state).

He originally had dreams of making the NBA after college, but says growing up, his father instilled in him that it is essential to have more than one plan for life.

“You know, it’s nice to play, it’s nice to do that, but what’s your Plan B? My dad always told me that,” Mutabazi said.

After his stellar college career ended, he moved up to Squamish in 2022.

Before becoming a business owner, he worked in customer service for Pest Detective.

“I knew I wanted to run something of my own eventually, and when I started researching business opportunities, this one just made sense. It aligned with my values and hada clear path for growth,” he said.

“I’ve always believed in building something meaningful.I saw a gap in the market—people needed high-quality, reliable pest control that’s local, someone they could trust.”

Hiring was tough, he said, because the resumeshe received were not from locals.

Beyond being invested in the community, a local understands the people and the issues they face,he added.

He hopes to hire even more local techs and admin support.

“And as we grow, there’ll be more opportunities. My goal is to create steady, well-trained jobs that offer career paths, not just short-term gigs,” he said.

He has already learned a lot as a new entrepreneur

“Like anynew venture, there’s a learning curve—permits, logistics, hiring, and getting the word out. But the response from the community has beenencouraging,”he said.

He hopes residents know that he is here for the long haul.

“This isn’t some distant corporation—it’s a

local business, run by someone who liveshere, workshere, and wants to build something lasting. I’m here to help, to serve, and to grow alongside this incredible region.”

One possible misconception he would like to clear up is that the company doesn’t just focus on extermination, but rather, prevention.

“I get it—seeinga pest control truck might feel worrying,” he said.“But actually, it’s a sign of a responsible homeowner Regular pest control is like regular home maintenance—it keeps problems small, prevents infestations, and ensures homes stay clean andhealthy. It’s not about crisis, it’s about care.”

Find out more on the Pest Detective website or call 604-932-3300.

Brought to you by Community Futures Howe Sound, The Sea to Sky’s resource for financing and free business support to help local businesses and entrepreneurs in the area. Connect withthem directly and learn more at cfhowesound.com or email Kieran at [email protected].

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REPORTER

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SALESMANAGER

CATHIE GREENLEES cgreenlees@ squamishchief.com

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PUBLISHER SARAHSTROTHER [email protected]

TheSquamishChief is amemberof theNationalNewsmedia Council, whichisanindependentorganization establishedtodealwithacceptable journalistic practicesand ethical behaviour. If youhaveconcerns abouteditorial content, please contactEditorJenniferThuncherat [email protected]. If you are notsatisfied withtheresponse andwishtofilea formal complaint, visitthe websiteatmediacouncil.ca or call toll-free1-844-877-1163for additional information.

Reproduction of anymaterial containedinthispublicationis expresslyforbiddenwithouttheprior writtenconsent of thepublisher.

EDITORIAL

NAVIGATING TRAGEDY

There is adilemma journalistsfacewhenever thereisatragedy involvingsomeone doinga so-calledextreme sport.

We have to coverdeath as part of ourjobsto inform andeducate thepublic, butwe don’twantto exploitor sensationalize thedeath or make somethingrareseemmorecommonthanitis.

Anotheraspectofcoveringtragedies,likethe death of the22-year-old womanwho died while highlininginCheakamus Canyon,isthat, often becausethe sportismoreniche,itisavery tight-knit communitythathasn’ttypically opened uptothe public throughthe mediaorbyother means.

Thisis certainlyanissue with sports like BASE jumping,for example.

This createsasituation wherea fatality occurs within auniquesport unfamiliar to much of the generalpublic.

Once thestory is public,inevitably, keyboard warriorspound outcommentsabout thesport the persondieddoing being“crazy” or foolhardy.

This pullsthe community, whichisalready grieving,further within itself.

So,asmedia,wedoand should trytoinform readersabout tragedies, whilealsogrounding our languageinreality.

Accordingto theInternational Slackline Association(ISA),among apopulationof about 10,000 athletes,highlininghas seen nine deaths over15years.

Basedonavailable records, therehadn’tbeena highlineathlete deathin NorthAmerica before the one in Squamish on Friday.

Thereisn’t an official report yetonwhat happenedtothe youngwoman,but therewillbe.

TheISO andthe slacklinecommunity in general are very safety consciousand logall incidents, includingnearmisses, so that others canlearn from them.

We encouragereaders to consider theimpacton families andcommunities affected by such tragediesbeforeposting comments.

Previously, when we wrotestories on Squamish slacklining andhighlining, thesense ofa communitywas what wasmentioned most by thoseinvolved. It is afamilyofpeoplewho support, care,mentorand love oneanother.They will need each othermorenow.

Aspokespersonfor theBCSlackline &Highline Association told TheSquamishChief it didnot wanttocomment on therecentdeath outofrespect for thevictim’sfamily, butdid pass alonganod to thosewho went to thewoman’s aid.

“Thankyou to allfirst respondersand members ofthe communitywho dideverythingtheycould to attend to ourfriend.”

Weshare this sentimentand send alongour condolences to allthose sufferingoverthe rare and shockinglossofone of theirown.

WHAT’S KEEPINGYOU UP AT NIGHT?

NATIONAL VIEWS

HealthCanadaguidelinesrecommend seven toninehoursofsleep each nightfor adult Canadians. Ourlatestsurveyshows that only 35 %ofCanadians arereachingthisthreshold ona typicalnight’s sleeponaweekday or workday (unchangedsince November 2022), and43% are achievingitonatypical night’ssleep on aweekend ornon-workday.

MostCanadiansare sleeping fewerthanseven hoursonatypical weekdayorworkday (63%)and half (50%)onatypical weekendornon-workday. Seven in 10 Canadiansare “verywell” or “moderatelywell” rested on weekdays,while three in four expressthe same feelings on weekends. Just underone in four Canadians(23 %) saythey neverfindithardtofallasleepatnight during the course of an averageweek. Men(27 %) and Canadiansaged55and over (33%)are more likely to report no issues.The regional numberstella differentstory.While more than aquarter of Quebecers(28 %),British Columbians (27%)and AtlanticCanadians (also27%)never havea problemfalling asleep at night, theproportions dropto20%inOntario,19%inSaskatchewanand Manitoba andaneye-catchingnine%inAlberta.

Almost half of Canadians(47 %) sayworrying aboutmoney made it harder forthemtofallasleep at nightoverthe past month. Womenare more likely to agonizeoverfinancial mattersthanmen (50%to 44 %).

Majorities of Canadiansaged35to 54 (53%)and aged 18 to 34 (51%)say they were unable to fall asleep quicklybecause of concerns aboutmoney. Theproportionislower amongCanadians aged 55 andover(39 %).

Alberta—whoseresidents have themosttrouble fallingasleep—is clearlyahead when it comesto moneywoesaffecting rest,with64%ofthe province’s residentssayingfinancial concerns made it harder to fall asleep,comparedto 50% in Ontario and45%inB.C.

More than half of Canadianswho votedfor the NDPinlastmonth’s federalelectionlostsleep on accountoffinancial concerns,comparedto49%of thosewho backed theConservativeParty and47% of thosewho supportedthe LiberalParty. We tested five otherconcerns, andnot onemade more than threein10Canadians lose sleep. Health is adistant second at 29 %, followed by relationships andfamily (28%)and work (24%).

Thereare some interestingnuances on some of these problems.Morethanathird of Canadians aged 18 to 34 (37%)havelostsleep over relationshipsand family,comparedtojust20% among thoseaged55and over.Workleads to insomnia for

VIEWS: Continuedon13

Ha7lh skwálwen cht kwis emút cht iy sts’its’áp’ cht iy kw’shétsut cht na7tkwa temíxw tl’a Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw

(We have good feelings that we live, we work and we play on the lands of the Squamish Nation)

SQUAMISH: Have a recent local photo to share? Do like Darryl Schwanke and send it in to news@squamishchief. com.

VIEWS: Continued from 12

more Canadians aged 35 to 54 (34 %) than those aged 18 to 34 (28 %) or aged 55 and over (12 %).

Lastly, one in five Canadians say they have lost sleep over Canadian politics and issues (22 %, up 12 points since November 2022) and international politics and issues (20 %, up 12 points). While this may not seem like much when compared to the higher numbers

LETTERS POLICY

for financial matters, the proportionof respondents who are having a tough time falling asleep because of politics has doubled in three anda half years.

Sleeplessness over Canadian politics went from 10 % to 19 % among men, and from 10 % to 24 % among women. We will have to wait to see if the sleeplessness experienced by one in four women wasa blip directly related to the Canadian federal electionor thenew status quo.

Mario Canseco is president of Research Co.

Results are based on an online survey conducted from May 4-6, 2025, among 1,001 adults in Canada The data has been statistically weighted according to census figures for age, gender and region in Canada. The margin of error, which measures sample variability, is plus or minus 3.1 percentage points, 19 timesout of 20.

The Squamish Chief welcomes letters to the editor of up to 400 words. Letters should be exclusive to this publication and are meant to respond to a local story in The Squamish Chief or raise an issue happening in town Please include your name, neighbourhood and daytime phone number The deadline is 5 p.m. Monday to be considered for Thursday’s edition. Full names and neighbourhood will be published withthe letter The publisher reserves the right to refuse and edit letters for length and clarity or to address legal concerns. Email letters to: [email protected].

JOIN US ONLINE

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

How much risk are you comfortable with in your sport?

Have your say at squamishchief.com

What do you think is the ideal population size for Squamish? (Top 3)

MOST READ STORY

22-year-old woman dies in highlining fall near Squamish

SUBMITTED PHOTO

KEEP SWIMMING: Katie Coombs collected some hardware over the weekend at the 2025 Speedo Canadian Masters Championships in Saskatoon. She took home gold in 800 metre freestyle and is the national champion for the 35 to 39 age group. She also earned silver in 1,500m freestyle and bronze in 200 m backstroke

Noticeof Public Hearing

Tuesday, May27,2025, at 6p.m. |Brennan Park Recreation Centre

DistrictofSquamish Official Community PlanBylawNo. 2500,2017,Amendment Bylaw (Garibaldi EstatesNeighbourhood Plan)No.3135,2024

NOTICEisherebygiventhataPUBLICHEARING willbeheldsothatCouncilmayhearand receive representationsfrompersonswhobelievethattheir interestinproperty isaffectedbythe following proposedamendments to theDistrictofSquamish Official CommunityPlan Bylaw.

AffectedLands: GaribaldiEstatesNeighbourhood Proposed Amendments

DistrictofSquamish Official CommunityPlanBylaw No.2500,2017, AmendmentBylaw(GaribaldiEstates NeighbourhoodPlan)No.3135,2024:

•The GaribaldiEstatesNeighbourhood Planoutlines avisionfor thefuture of theneighbourhood.

•The Planpromotes acompletecommunity through anincreaseddiversityoflanduse.Employment andservicesaresupportedinmulti-storey buildingswithintheGaribaldiVillagealong Highway99andthroughouttheneighbourhood asaccessorycommercialunits.Mixed-use retail-residentialbuildingsareenvisionedas partofanewpedestrian-orientedhighstreet alongDiamondHead Road.Expanded ground oriented residentialusessuchasmultiplexesand townhousesaresupportedbetween Mamquam RoadandDiamond Road,andmultiplexes alignedwiththe ProvinceofBritish Columbia’s Small-Scale Multi-Unithousinginitiativesare supportedonmostresidentialproperties.

•Publicopenspacesaresupportedthroughplan policies,includingthedevelopmentofagreenway along Mamquam Road,and anewneighbourhood parkonalargedevelopmentproperty inthe southeastareaoftheneighbourhood.Theplan highlightstransportationand connectivity opportunitiesthroughproposedimprovements to activetransportationnetworksandthe establishmentofmid-block connectionsthrough residentialareas.

Ways to Participate

Persons who believethat theirinterestsare affected by the proposedamendmentswill have an opportunitytobeheardin-personand to provide writtensubmissions.

1. In-Person Attendance. Youmay participate in personduringthepublichearing at Brennan ParkRecreation Centre,1009 Centennial Way, Squamish, B.C.

A SpeakersList will beestablished.Youmay register to speakinadvanceofthepublichearing by emailing [email protected] or by calling604-892-5217. Youcanalso register inpersononthedayofthehearing,starting at 5:30 p.m. at Brennan ParkRecreation Centre. Everyone willbeprovidedanopportunityto speak.ThosenotontheSpeakersListwho wish to provide comments at the hearing will be providedanopportunitytospeakaftereveryone ontheSpeakersListhasaddressed Council. Speakersareprovided 3minutes to make comments to Council regardingthe bylaws being considered.

2. In Writing. If youare unable to attendthe public hearing,ordonotwish to speak at the hearing, youcanstillparticipate by submitting your written comments to [email protected],or by droppingthem off at MunicipalHall before 3p.m.on May27,2025 to the attentionofthe CorporateOfficer.

Writtensubmissions will beacceptedup to and duringthehearingand willformpart of the public record. Any submissions receivedafter thecloseofthehearing cannotbe considered by Council.

Councilwill notconsidersubmissions receivedafter thecloseofthe PublicHearing. All submissionswill form partofthepublicrecord.

*Pleasenotethatdue totechnicalcapacity considerations at this venueandinorder to ensure afair and undisruptedhearing,electronicand phone-in participation willnotbe available.

Watchthemeetingwithoutspeaking: If youdonot wish to participate but would like to watchthepublic hearing,youcandoso by watchingthemeeting at squamish.ca/live-meetings.

Howtoviewtheproposed bylaws

A copy of theproposed bylaws canbeinspected onlineor at MunicipalHall (37955 Second Avenue) fromMay 15 to May27,2025,betweenthehours of8:30a.m.and4:30 p.m., Mondaythrough Friday, excludingstatutoryholidays.

If youhaveany questions regardingtheproposed bylawamendmentsorhowto participate inthe hearing, please call theDistrictat 604-892-5217

Thisisthesecondof twonotices, datedthis22dayof May,2025, at Squamish, British Columbia.

NoticeofBylawReadings

Tuesday, June3,2025 at 6p.m. in CouncilChambers at MunicipalHall,37955 Second Avenue,Squamish, B.C.

DistrictofSquamish ZoningBylawNo. 2200,2011, Amendment

Bylaw(Upper Finch)No.3174,2025

Noticeisherebygiveninaccordancewith Section467ofthe Local Government Act,thatDistrictofSquamish Councilwillbe consideringfirst,secondandthird readingofDistrictofSquamishZoningBylaw No.2200,2011,AmendmentBylaw (Upper Finch)No.3174,2025

AffectedLands: 2027,2025 FinchDrive, Squamish, British Columbia.

ProposedBylaw

Amendment: Thepurposeofthe proposedBylawistoincreasethenumberof permittedapartmentdwellingunitsinthe CD-101 zonefrom208 to 224.

No PublicHearing

DistrictofSquamish ZoningBylawNo. 2200,2011, Amendment Bylaw(CD-82 RentalHousing Amendments)No.3141,2025

Noticeishereby giveninaccordancewith Section467ofthe Local Government Act, thatDistrictofSquamish Councilwillbe considering first,secondandthird readingofDistrictofSquamish Zoning BylawNo. 2200,2011, AmendmentBylaw (CD-82RentalHousingAmendments)No.3141,2025.

AffectedLands: Lot1,Sections22and23 Township50 PlanEPP62151

PID:029-924-049

Proposed Bylaw

Amendment: Thepurposeoftheproposed bylawamendmentistoincrease theallowable floor area ratio forParcelENorthfrom1.0 to 2.5 to facilitate the developmentof180market rentalunitsandapproximately1,400squaremetres ofcommercialspace. This rezoning,ifapproved,wouldincreasethemaximum allowable numberofhousingunitsintheCheekeyeDevelopmentfrom1,215 to 1,395units.

In accordancewith Provincialhousinglegislation,Section464(3)ofthe LocalGovernment Act,localgovernmentsarenow prohibitedfromholdingpublichearings relatedtorezoningapplications fordevelopmentsthat areprimarily residentialandareconsistentwiththe local government’sOfficial CommunityPlan (OCP). These proposalsmeetthose requirements.

Howtoviewtheproposed bylaws

Acopyoftheproposed bylaws andrelated informationthathasbeenormaybeconsidered by Councilmaybeinspectedonlineor at MunicipalHall. Online at: squamish.ca/showcase MunicipalHall at 37955 Second Avenue,Squamish,British Columbia,from May22,2025, to June3,2025,between8:30a.m.and4:30 p.m.,Mondaythrough Friday. Enquiries regardingthe proposedamendmentbylawmay bemade to the Planning Departmentat 604-815-5002 or by email to [email protected] Thisisthefirstof twonotices,datedthis22dayofMay 2025 at Squamish,British Columbia.

COUNCILLORSNOT WILLING TO SUPPORT ‘BOLD’ PARKING VARIANCE FOR UNIVERSITY HIGHLANDS DEVELOPMENT

District of Squamish councillors provide feedback notsupporting the mixed-use development’s large parking variance request unless there are more transit options provided

INDIGO LEMAY-CONWAY

[email protected]

While District of Squamish councillors are typically in favour of parking variances, anew development for the University Highlands might have found their reduction limits.

At a committee of the whole meeting on May 13, councillors were presented a development permit (DP) fora mixed-use project by Andrews Development Management Corp. at 3295 Mamquam Road, which included a “bold” parking variance.

Committee of the whole meetings are less formal than regular council meetings. They are used for discussions prior to official decisions being made.

Thus, in this meeting, members of council were expressing their opinions on the variance, not their final decision.

The proposed permit application presented would see 340 apartment dwelling units built in five buildings, along with 84 multiplex units.

RENDERING BY GAUTHIER + ASSOCIATES LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS INC.EXPAND

Concept drawings of the proposed development at the University Highlands.

Commercial space is also proposed fronting Helfland Way in Building 1, which would also contain 127 residential rental units—32 of which

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would be affordable rental housing.

Buildings2 to 5 would contain 297 of the units, which are all proposed to be for sale strata units.

The application requests a variance to the required parking stalls for the development from 723 spaces to 439 spaces

District community development planner Bryan Daly told council that the 32 affordable units did not require off-street parking or visitor parking and were not included in the parking calculation.

“The applicants have advised that reducing the required parking spaces improves the financial viability of the project, given the cost associated with constructing parkades, particularly on steep slopes,” Daly said.

“The applicants are proposing time-based shared use of the commercial parking stalls in Building 1. These spaces would be allocated as residential stalls overnight and reserved for commercial use during peak commercial hours.”

While the developers are hoping for an almost 40% reduction in parking, the DP application shows they are almost doubling the number of bike parking stalls provided.

The report to council shows that 23 commercial and 422 residential bike parking stalls are required, but 28 commercial and 873 residential bike stalls are proposed.

“To further encourage the use of public transit, the applicants have agreed to fund the construction of two BC Transit bus shelters in the neighbourhood, given that this infrastructure does not currently exist,” Daly said.

“Staff support the parking variance request given that a reduced parking requirement will help support transit in theneighbourhood, encourage use of alternative forms of transportation, and increase the viability of a project proposing both affordable and market rental

residential units.”

Daly said that District staff were seeking council feedback on the parking variance request, “given that meeting the parking requirements of the zoning bylaw would require a significant redesign of the project and likely not include affordable housing units.”

COUNCIL COMMENTS

Most councillors said they would be in favour of a parking reduction if the developer provided more transportation options, given the location of the development.

“I am usually a very avid proponent of letting the market determine how much parking is necessary andI am the first to be a little bit sad about the fact that we might be turning down 32 affordable units, but this feels like it’s too far of a parking reduction for the location that we’re talking about,” Coun. Jenna Stoner said.

“I’m open to other suggestions, but we don’t have car share up here, we don’t have bike share up here If the proponent were to come forward with presenting those as part of the strata then I would be more open to it.”

She said that even if a grocery store, coffee shop and other neighbourhood commercial businesses were included in the development, people would still be “vehicle dependent in some way, shape or form” due to being at the top of a hill

“It goes too far for even my comfort zone, and I usually feel like I’m pretty lenient on these pieces.”

Coun. Andrew Hamilton said that for him to support the parking variance, thereneeded to be a much more substantial contribution to the District’s active transportation and public transportation network to accommodate it. He noted that if the development wereto be built downtown and requesteda commercial parking variance, it would cost the developers $30,000 for every car space reduction.

The parking variance for this project asks for a reduction of 81 commercial parking spaces, which Hamilton said would be a “$2.4 million cash in lieu equivalent if this were a downtown development.”

“To put in two bus shelters in exchange for 280-ish parking stalls does not seem like a well-matched exchange,” Hamilton said.

Both councillors Eric Andersen and Lauren Greenlaw said they were not in support of reducing the parking, given that theneighbourhood is already experiencing parking discomfort.

“There is little room for absorption if insufficient parking is planned for this neighbourhood,” Greenlaw said.

“Given the lack of access for biking, walking, and even transit to this neighbourhood,I don’t think it’s prudent to allowa reduction of over 30% of parking.”

PARKING: Continued on 17

PARKING: Continued from 16

Coun. Chris Pettingill, who hasa reputation for voting in favour of parking reductions, was also not convinced the variance would be appropriate for the development.

“In general, I am a proponent of not putting huge investments into parking, given the mode shift and everything we need to do Whether or not this is enough parking… is largely dependent on who moves there and what their expectations are,” he said

“I bike to a higher elevation frequently, and it is an obstacle, even with an e-bike. I would love to finda way to make this level of parking reduction work, butI don’t thinkI see the pieces in place.

“It doesn’t seem like a workable variance at this point, even for someone like me who is pretty aggressive on parking reductions generally.”

Both Mayor Armand Hurford and Coun. John French, however, was closer to being swayed in favour of the reduction.

Mayor Armand Hurford said that with some mechanisms to “better manage the expectations of thenew residents in this area” and further transit solutions, he could “generally see where this could go” as well as the benefits the development would offer to theneighbourhood.

Coun French, who is a former resident of the neighbourhood, said the “bold parking request” was “a little bit exciting”.

“I know all about the traffic issues going in and out of the university, andI am totally withthe mayor in his thinking around if there area whole lot more parking spots built up there, that’s just going to lead to a whole lot more cars,” he said.

“I’m not sure that’s what we’re looking for in that university culture that is being built in that particulararea And that’s really what thisis going to take for this kind of reduction to be successful, is a culture that is not centred around cars.”

He also said that the key to the project’s success was information and making sure that people “understand that’s the culture that we’re trying to achieve in this particular location.”

“So those who are buying or renting in this area are clear that they can’t have five cars and live in this neighbourhood,” he said.

DEVELOPER COMMENTS

Ryan Andrews of Andrews Development Management Corp told The Squamish Chief that they plan to address the community’s concerns at a public information meetingnext month.

“We completely understand the community’s concern around the potential development, whether that be the parking variance, or the stewardship of the environment, which is another concern that we’ve heard,” Andrews said.

“We plan to address these to the public on June 4 at our public information meeting, which we’ll be putting on at Capilano University, with a full presentation of all the various ways we plan to mitigate concerns aroundneighbourhood parking and traffic flow.”

Andrews saidhe hasheard from councillors that a cash contribution to their transit fund was a priority, as well as exploring car and bike share programs and ensuring that every unit has a

minimum ofone-to-one parking.

“The university will ultimately be growing to 1,200 students, that is the current capacity and beyond that, as they become more successful in running their programming. We feel like our development will be bringingneighbourhood commercial, which will actually be vital to the future operation of the university,” he said.

“[It will] alleviate a lot of pressure on the traffic down the hill, as people in theneighbourhood will have shopping options close to them A small grocer, a coffee shop, restaurant, daycare; these are some of the things that we were talking about as the tenants for our commercial space.

“So we feel that, rather than having 1,200 students go up and down that hill all day long, whether it be via buses or cars, bikes, whatever, they would be better served by a neighbourhood commercial and creating a local community up there.”

Andrews wanted to reassureresidents that the trailnetwork in the land they own behind the development would not be affected by the project.

“Initially, there was some concern around the trail system, so that’s staying, and we’ve offered to enhance the trail system in any way that the District will allow us,” he said.

As for the parking variance, Andrews said they have takena lot of “remedial measures” to try to combat the issues it may cause.

“We don’t feel that adding 300 more stalls to the project to comply withthe zoning actually solves the concerns of the community,” he said.

Addressing Daly’s comment on the community potentially losing the affordable housing element if they were forced to comply with more parking, Andrews said that would not be the case.

“I’ve been committed to affordable housing for over a decade It is actually a value that I hold anda priority of my business to continue to deliver affordable housing despite regulatory and market challenges,” he said.

“It was never an ultimatum that we said we need [the parking variance] or we’re taking this away. In fact, it was mentioned in the report that we offered it. It was not really a condition of a negotiation.

“If the parking variance isn’t approved in its current form, it will pose a significant redesign challenge to the entire project, so it may involve increasing the density.”

As for whohe envisions calling thenew development home, the answer is simple— people who don’t own multiple cars.

“We don’t expect that prospective buyers with a three-car family are going to buy that unit We expect that people who are looking for space for their vehicles will probably have to purchase somewhere else where they have that,” he said.

“The market that I’m hoping for is maybe a couple that shares a vehicle and has a kid in the daycare below. Maybe the wife is taking programs at the university, and the husband is working for some company in Squamish We want an authentic target market for the community.”

Councillors voted unanimously to provide and incorporate feedback on the requested parking variance in the development permit application.

To read more about upcoming developments, visit the District of Squamish website.

KIDS: Continued from9

according to the spokesperson.

“As with all 2018 $10-a-day sites brought in under the revenue replacement model, all the original sites have been invited to work collaboratively withthe ministry during the upcoming year througha continually improving, supportive and fully funded transition to thenew model,” they said.

“This is about making sure there is equity across providers to ensure taxpayer dollars are being used to create more affordable spaces for families throughout B.C.

“At the end of the day, the Province is committed to make dollars available for child careto make life more affordable for families and that is what we are doing.”

WILL THEY STAY OR GO?

But what happens if Discovery Kids pulls out of the $10-a-day program and has to charge families full tuition?

Both Prescott and Bucholtz said their kids would remain at the centre.

“We would [stay] just because my child would probably have another year, and he loves it there so much. We’re also lucky now that we only have one kid in daycare, but there are other families where that might be the decision of being able to go back to work ornot go back to work, which is a very stressful decision fora lot to make,” Prescott said.

And for Bucholtz, that is her exact situation.

“Personally, in our situation, we now have a

second child, andI was finally going to be able to go back to work this September. I have not worked in four years because I don’t work a job that is so high paying that it makes sense to have two kids in a fully-paid child care facility,” she said.

“So in my situation, I was very much looking forward to going back to work I was very much looking forward to contributing to my own family’s financialneeds, and if they have to withdraw,I am back to being a stay-at-home mom. Which is great, I love being with my children, but at the same time, I don’t get tore-enter the workforce, which is something that I was very much looking forward to doing.”

Bucholtz said she would keep her son at the centre at least part-time, but her six-month-old would remain at home with her.

But she noted an announcement from the provincial government on March 24 that said “between March1 and April 1, 2025, families will be benefiting from 770new $10-a-day spaces at 22 child care centres throughout BC, withthe total number of … spaces reaching approximately 16,000 spaces at 334 child care centres.”

“If they’re doing that by having to take away funding from the places that already have it, or reduce the funding from the places that already have it, they’re not doing any children anywhere, any favours,” she said.

In Squamish, there are five $10-a-day child care centres and three in Brackendale, providing 133 and 72 spaces respectively.

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ACROSS

1.Capture

4.Healthspots

8.Extinctbird

12.Unprocessedmetal

13.Salontreatment

14.Steamyappliance

15.Alumnaoralumnus

17.Overhang

18.Irritate

19.Weddingpaths

21. Weekelements

24.BeetleBailey’ssuperior

26.Build

28.Smallbeads

32.Snakyfish

33.Exceed

35.Humor

36. Picasso’s board

38.Musicaldrama

40.Hideouts

42. Computeroperator

43. Walkleisurely

46.Normal

48. Circle

49.Sundaeingredient: 2wds.

54. Eye

55. Region

56.Bikinipiece

57.LikeKojak

58.Make____meet

59.Small gardeningplot

DOWN

1.Seasonalbeverage

2.Botchthingsup

3.Steepedbeverage

4. Horse goad

5.Summits

6. Painting,e.g.

7. Smudged

8. Fuel type

9. Takenbymouth

10.“Lonesome____”

11. Walletitems

16.Phonograph record

20.Arcticstructure

21.Notshallow

22.Surfacemeasure

23.Scream

25. Moreprone

27.Demolish

29.Meadowmunchers

30.Car’s“shoe”

31. Top-billedplayer

34.Employ

37.Ranoff to wed

39.Catsigh

41.Beextravagant

43.Messy person

44. Roman garment

45.Dinnerbread

47.Experts

50.Swindle

51.Taperoff

52.“We____NotAlone”

53. Tickedoff

ARIES March21-April19

You’ll have alongshopping listtoget throughthis week, butthe goodnewsisthat you’lldiscovergreat deals. Negotiatebetterrepayment termsfor yourloans to save on interest.

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Getready foranactionpackedweek! You’lldive into projectsthat arecloseto yourheart.Inspirationisthe drivingforce behindaction. Make sure to prioritizeyour health;if anythingfeelsoff, don’thesitateto seea doctor.

GEMINI May21-June20

Youmight feel worndown due to work orhealthissues. It’s possiblethat someone closetoyou willneed your support. Be sure to carve outsometime to relaxand recharge.

CANCER June21-July22

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You’llexpand yoursocial network for yourpersonaland professionalinterests. You’ll taketheleadinorganizinga majorevent. Thankstoyour carefulplanning, it will bea resoundingsuccess.

SUDOKU

LASTWEEK’SANSWERS:

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Holy Communionand Morning Worship

Sundays at 10:00AM Rev. Cameron Gutjahr 1930Diamond Road 604-898-5100

www.squamishanglicanchurch.ca [email protected]

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You’ll have to juggle alotof responsibilities at work and in yourhomelifethis week. If you’reaparenttoyoung children, you’llactively participateintheirend-ofyearactivities,bringingthem greatjoy.

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You’ll stand outina groupor work environmentthis week. You’llfeel justifiably proud of yourcourageousactions, whichwill strengthen your reputationand solidify your position.

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Youmay spontaneously decide to relocate.Despite the sudden natureofthis change and ashortage of available accommodations,you’ll find somewheretolivethat’s better suited to yourfamily’sneeds.

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You’ll have many exciting stories to sharethis week. Imaginedeliveringaspeech that earns astandingovation. You’llalsoreceive professional supporttohelp you navigatea tricky financial situation.

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BRITANNIA MINE MUSEUM

CELEBRATING 50YEARS 1975-2025

FIVE MILESTONES FROM THE LAST 50 YEARS OF THE BRITANNIA MINE MUSEUM

The museum has been recognized as a unique, world-class attraction commemorating one of the largest copper mines in North America

WILL JOHNSON [email protected]

It opened the same year“Jaws” hit theatres.

The Britannia Mine Museum has endured and thrived through five decades of operation and has worked to commemorate both the bustling and lucrative copper mine as well as the people who toiled away deep in the mountainside

The museum currently has an exhibit highlighting the various milestones it’s hit over the years and is inviting information and submissions from locals.

Here are five of the most momentous occasions they’re celebrating.

Sharingour region’s mininghistory forgenerations.

Forhalf acentury,BritanniaMineMuseumhasbeen apillarofeducationandcommunityengagement, sharingtherichhistoryofmininginourregion. Congratulationson50incredibleyearsof providing invaluablelearningexperiences that connectgenerationstotheminingindustry!

THE LAST SHIFT

The last time the work whistle blew at the Britannia Mine was Nov. 1, 1974. The owners of the property had agreed to hand over a portion of the land to a local historical society.

“Over the winter of 1974 and into 1975, they were working on getting the site ready to open. It was very simple at first, with a couple of buildings down by the highway,” said Laura Minta Holland, curator of collections and engagement at the Britannia Mine Museum.

“They hada gift shop anda little gold panning station. They helda very special event where guests came in on the Canadian Pacific Royal Hudson

MILESTONES: CONTINUED ON4

BRITANNIA MINEMUSEUM

CELEBRATING 50YEARS 1975-2025

MILESTONES : CONTINUED FROM3

train, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony anda red carpet. There are wonderful pictures of people in their 70s finery, with red flowers in their buttonholes.”

The event also featured a band and Mounties in full regalia.

NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

Once the museum was up and running, the staff began to look further into the future In the 1980s, the decision was made to apply for a national historic site designation,a lengthy process that would give thema funding infusion so they could continue to evolve and grow.

“Marilyn Mullan was the director and curator at the time, and she wanted to make sure this site was preserved for as long as possible,” Minta Holland said.

“The application was hundreds of pages of documentation from the archives about the mine operation, explaining the state the site was in currently. It focused on the footprint of Mill Number 3.” They were ultimately successful.

In 1988, Britannia was designated as a National Historic Site.

A celebration was held as the plaque recognizing the new designation was unveiled.

“Doing that work in the 80s allowed the further restoration and rehabilitation to go on It brought attention to the museum, and that national attention opened it up to more people and more funders who hadn’t thought about supporting us,” Minta Holland said.

“Seeking that designation showed our commitment to preserving history for many future generations.”

GOING DIGITAL

As the year 2000 approached, the staff at Britannia Mine Museum made the choice to begin digitizing their collection of artifacts and their archives

In 1998, themuseum’s curator started digitizing the collection database.

“I’ve seen the newsletter they put out when they got their first computer It’s hard to imagine now that we all have

computers in our pockets, but they had one IBM computer they were going to use for help with payroll and keeping track of things in the gift shop,” Minta Holland said.

The collection was a bit haphazard and included the remaining items that hadn’t sold during an auction held at the closing of the mine, as well as mountains of paperwork.

“In the early stages, it just meant going around with a pencil and paper and writing out forms every time they found a piece of equipment. So, you find a drill, then you write down where you found it And that was how the collection was maintained in the 70s and 80s.”

One of the assistant curators, who held several different roles at the museum, was Sherry Elchuk She was the one tackling the epic task of transferring the information from slips of paper onto the computer, work that would benefit both future staff and all the attendees of the museum.

REBRANDING

The 2010 Olympic Winter Games were coming.

In the years leading up to the international sporting event in 2010, millions were invested in the museum, which was renamed from the BC Mining Museum to the Britannia Mine Museum.

“There was a thought at the time that as the Sea to Sky was being redeveloped up to Whistler, everyone wanted our mill on the side of the highway to look its best,” Minta Holland said.

“The torch stopped just outside Britannia, and we have great photos of itsjourney up the hill to the mill.”

The Squamish Chief story about the name change at the time said: “If visitors didn’t already link Britannia Beach with its mining history, they certainly will now as the BC Mining Museum formally changed its name to the Britannia Mine Museum this week.”

On its website, the museum credits its board and much support for the transformation of the museum, which was dubbed “The Britannia Project.”

MILESTONES: CONTINUED ON8

BRITANNIA MINEMUSEUM

BRITANNIA MINE MUSEUM MARKS 50 YEARS WITH A COMMEMORATIVE EXHIBIT

‘A Museum’s Journey’ is on now until Sept. 17

JENNIFER THUNCHER [email protected]

If you’ve spent any time in B.C.’s Sea to Sky Corridoror Lower Mainland, chances are you’ve visited the Britannia Mine Museum.

If you live in B.C., you have for sure driven past the Britannia Beach landmark, with its massive, white historic mill stealing views from the surrounding snowcapped mountains.

This year marks the 50th Anniversary of the museum, which is a National Historic Site anda non-profit organization.

(Can you imagine all the changes the

museum has seen go by in that time?

When it opened, Buick Electras, Chevrolet Novas, Triumphs and VolkswagenKombis would have been the snazzy new vehicles driving by on the still rustic Sea to Sky Highway,

which had just recently extended to Pemberton and Mount Currie.)

And even if you have been to the museum dozens of times, it never gets old, due to its regularly changing exhibits.

To celebrate its five decades of teaching andentertaining, the museum is launchinga new exhibit.

BRITANNIA MINEMUSEUM

BRITANNIA MINEMUSEUM

BRITANNIA MINEMUSEUM

A Museum’s Journey commemorates the many years of effort, by many, many people, preserving and sharing the unique history of Britannia’s mining legacy.

The exhibit launched on Saturday, May 17 and runs until Sunday, Sept 21.

WHAT WILL YOU SEE?

Theidea behind the exhibit is that visitors can travel back in time to see how the museum has changed and developed since it first opened as a museum in 1975.

Guests will encounter interactive displays and never-before-seen archival photos and news clippings from the museum’s hearty collections, which have grown to include several historical buildings, more than 7,000 artifacts, over 11,000 photos, and3,000 archival documents.

“Our 50th anniversary exhibit is a celebration of five incredible decades of our museum, which started as a grassroots heritage site and evolved into an award-winning tourist destination that brings the rich history of

Britannia’s mining legacy to life,” said Laura Minta Holland, senior curator of the museum, in a news release.

“We want to capture the spirit of the Britannia community, pay tribute to the people whose stories fill our galleries and honour the deep connections between history, place, and community.”

Once one of the world’s largest copper mines, Britannia Mine, which began operations in 1904, closed on Nov. 1, 1974.

Each decade of the museum’s history is highlighted in the exhibit.

“From the grooving 70s, retro 80s and Y2K right up to modern-day 2025,” reads the release, which adds that the museum experienced its most profound changes in the 2000s.

From 2005 to 2007, with the help of the Provincial Government, the B.C. mining industry, and donors, the museum underwenta $5-million exterior restoration of its National Historic Site, the Mill No.3 building.

In 2010, the museum took on the $14.7-million transformation and rehabilitation of theentire site in time for the Olympics.

FUN

FACTS:

◆ The largest item in the museum’s collection is the 20-storey Mill No.3 building, which is a National Historical Site.

◆ The smallest item in the collection is a 2mm diamond.

In the summer of 1975, the Britannia Beach Historical Society opened the BC Museum of Mining, which was re-named Britannia Mine Museum in 2010.

◆ In 1975,a special delivery of two 7,790-pound Bridgestone tires arrived at the museum and remain on site.

MILESTONES: CONTINUED FROM4

in 2019.

“The mill is this amazing feat of engineering, like a cathedral of engineering,” she said.

“It was known as a concentrator, with ore coming in and going through a number of different processes until it gets to the bottom with a concentrate that has a high percentage of copper that would be shipped from Britannia to a smelter.”

“The 2010 Museum transformation wasaresult of an active board and thegenerous donations from industry, government andindividuals. The enhanced site features exciting new venues for fun family entertainment and engagement about mining, local arts and culture, restored heritagebuildings, historical research and preservation, and education exhibits.”

A CATHEDRAL OF ENGINEERING

Following the successful upgrading done around the Olympics, the staff began to brainstorm ways to attract new audiences. Their efforts were focused on the mill building, and the decision was made to create a multi-sensory show that would celebrate its many years in operation during the mine’s operating years.

They called it BOOM! And it opened

The show was a giant hit, ultimately winninga prestigious TEA Thea Award for Outstanding Achievement (Museum Experience, Limited Budget category)

The award was announced at the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Expo 2021 in Orlando, Florida.

“The [TEA awards] included massive global tourist attractions, including Disney and Universal, so to be in the same room as shows of that calibre and to win that award was absolutely huge It’s great to see people’s faces light up as the show goes on.”

BRITANNIA MINEMUSEUM

DISCOVER THE BRITANNIA MINE IMMERSIVE HISTORICAL EXPERIENCE!

VIA BRITANNIAMINEMUSEUM.CA

Britannia Mine Museum offers visitors plenty of things to see and do The highlight of your visit is a guided underground tour into an old haulage tunnel and the award-winning BOOM! show Tours last about 75 minutes. After your guided tourallow time to explore and discover the wide variety of exhibits and activities includinga site favourite gold panning!

EXPERIENCE BOOM! IN MILL NO.3

Our award-winning multi-sensory, live-action attraction.

BOOM! Introduces audiences to the story, sights and sounds behind the architectural marvel, Mill No 3**, with an immersive live-action experience -- fun for all ages!

This experience offers multiple screens, over thirty speakers, and leading-edge special effects— bringing all 20-storeys back to life!

Reawakened withthe magic of special effects, BOOM! Reveals the captivating story behind the Mill as a beacon of economic community prosperity

Visitors discover first-hand the historic Mill’s purpose, the giant machines that made it work, and the thunderous roar ofa working Mill

In 2021 BOOM! Won the prestigious TEA Thea Outstanding Achievement Award.

**Mill No 3, built in 1923, wasa gravity-fed mill that processed up to 7000 tonnes of ore daily. It was designated a National Historic Site of Canada.

THE UNDERGROUND TOUR

The Underground at Britannia Mine Museum offers a glimpse into life at one of British Columbia’s largest historical copper mines. Board the mine train, just like miners did in 1914, and travel into an early haulage tunnel Inside, interpreters demonstrate mining equipment and share insights about Britannia’s copper mining history.

GOLD PANNING

Make a point of panning for gold and gemstones You find it, you keep it! Gold-panning troughs are set at different heights. That way, both young and old, can dip in and try their luck. Thisis gold panning the fun and easy way.

BRITANNIA MINEMUSEUM

MINERALGALLERY

Minerals come in allcolours,shapes, and sizes. Gaze over ourentrancing displaysofgoldand fluorescent minerals includingazurite, selenite,volcanic

hydrothermal samplesand of course Canadian Gold!

GIANTHAULTRUCK

Don’t missagreat photoopportunity! Standing 20-feet tall andweighingover 800,000 lbs, this truckisBIG!You’ll know you’ve arrivedatthe Museum

when yousee this “Super”minetruck parked rightbeside theSea-to-Sky highway.

BEATYLUNDINVISITORSCENTRE

EverytriptoBritannia Mine Museum starts in theVisitor Centre.Touchscreen displays andinteractive exhibits will give youa newperspective of what mining meanstoour everyday lives. Be sure to visitour Mining Hall of Fame and gettoknowthe personalitiesbehind Canadian mining.

THEBRITANNIASTORY

Graspwhatlifewas like in Britannia Beachwithinthe wallsofa lovingly-restored heritage building full of amazingstories andarchivalphotos. Learnabout theannualCopperQueen pageantand take aseatonthe original throne fora greatphoto op.

HISTORICALBUILDINGS

Exploreseventeen original buildings, includingthe iconic industrial cathedral Mill no.3,a National Historic Site,across the spacious ten-acresofthisindustrial heritagearea.

UNIQUE ARTIFACTS

Themuseumisfilledwithhistorical artifacts, from archival images and personal effects, throughtoindustrial equipmentpreserved in itsoriginal state. Learnwhatlifewas like forthe menworking themine, andthe families of BritanniaBeach andMt. Sheer.