News Release
Umo Digital Fare Payments available on the Sunshine Coast
January 10, 2024
BC Transit’s Umo (pronounced “you-mo”) electronic fare system is now live in the Sunshine Coast Transit System. Umo introduces contactless payment methods and new fare products that improve the transit experience by allowing riders to pick the best options for their lifestyle and travel habits.
New payment methods include the Umo Mobility app and a reloadable Umo card. The Umo Mobility app is free in the Apple App and Google Play stores. Once downloaded, riders create an account to purchase and manage their fare products. When ready to travel, riders open their app to display a dynamic QR code that serves as their fare product. As riders board the bus, they present their app’s QR code to a new onboard validator. The Umo app also provides riders with additional tools to help them plan their trip including real-time information and maps.
Riders alternatively have the choice of using a reloadable Umo card. A Umo card can be picked up for free from a BC Transit Umo vendor. The card is designed for continued use and can be continually topped up with fare products through a vendor, online at ca.umopass.com, or through Umo’s customer service call centre at 877-380-8181. When boarding, riders tap their card at the new onboard validator. Riders are recommended to register their card by creating a Umo account online or through the Umo customer service call centre using the unique number on the back of their card. Registering a Umo card will safeguard fare products in the event a card is misplaced. BC Transit Umo fare vendors on the Sunshine Coast include the Regional District Administration Office, Sechelt Aquatic Centre, Gibson Public Library, and the Gibson and Area Community Centre.
Umo’s arrival introduces changes and improvements to some of the fare products riders use with the introduction of the 30-Day Pass and Cash Balance fare products. The 30-Day Pass, replacing the existing Monthly Pass as of February 1, can be activated at any time and provides riders with unlimited trips during a continuous 30-day period. Cash Balance, an alternative to cash and tickets, is a pre-paid dollar amount loaded to the Umo app or reloadable card, which riders draw from as trips are taken. While it is expected most riders will find one of Umo’s new payment methods a more convenient option, cash will continue to be accepted for those who prefer to use it. Riders interested in continuing to use tickets can continue to purchase them via the vendor network at the new price of $20.00.
The Sunshine Coast’s onboard DayPASS fare product is improved with Umo’s arrival by increasing the number of ways riders can access it and by lowering a rider’s commitment to purchasing it. Riders paying with a Cash Balance fare product will have their fare capped and automatically converted to a DayPASS after payment on their second trip of the day. This means regardless of a rider’s chosen Umo payment method, a rider will never pay more than two times the value of a cash fare for unlimited daily travel in the Sunshine Coast transit system. A rider will know a DayPASS has been applied to their payment method by referencing a confirmation message on the onboard validator’s digital screen.
BC Transit’s Umo customer service call centre is live for support. Riders can call 877-380-8181 toll-free from 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Monday – Friday and 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday to have their questions answered or receive support. For more information on Umo, including video tutorials and frequently asked questions visit bctransit.com/umo.
At a future date, BC Transit plans to provincially enable onboard payments with debit and credit cards.
Dakota Ridge Season Kicks Off on January 11
January 9, 2024
Armed with fresh snow and groomed trails, the Dakota Ridge winter recreational area is scheduled to open for another busy season on Thursday, January 11.
Dakota Ridge is a pristine winter recreational area on a 1,532-acre plateau that features 20 kilometres of world class cross-country ski trails (classic and skate), 4 kilometres of groomed snowshoe trails, 3 kilometres of wilderness snowshoe trails, and a sledding area.
All terrain vehicles, snowmobiles and snow bikes are not permitted in Dakota Ridge. There is, however, an access trail that can be used by these types of recreational vehicles to get to terrain beyond the Dakota Ridge winter recreational area.
In past years, trails which are impeccably maintained by dedicated volunteers have been destroyed by off-road vehicles which in turn creates hazardous conditions for skiers. It is extremely important for motorized recreational vehicle users to be responsible and respectful of the non-motorized winter recreation area.
In addition to the above, SCRD staff would like to remind visitors to Dakota Ridge that the road servicing the area is a logging road and that, although it is plowed on a regular basis, winter conditions should be expected. Please use caution, adjust your driving to the conditions, and be prepared to stop or pull over if you meet a truck on the road. Access is restricted to four-wheel drive vehicles with winter tires and chains
Regular updates on road conditions are available on the Dakota Ridge webpage at www.scrd.ca/dakota-ridge
2024 Budget Update
December 18, 2023
The first round of budget discussions have wrapped up at the Sunshine Coast Regional District with 42 new projects moving forward.
This year, the SCRD’s budget process involves two public meetings.
- Round one budget meetings. At this meeting new budget proposals were brought forward to the SCRD Board. The SCRD Board also contemplated projects that are yet to be completed from prior years (known as carry forward projects) so that they can factor workload on staff into their decision making. The SCRD Board also received presentations from community partners for service supported by the SCRD. During this meeting, budget proposals are either deferred to another year, denied or moved ahead to round two budget discussions. These meetings took place last week. You can watch the meetings here on the SCRD’s YouTube channel and download the full agenda package for the meetings here.
- Round two budget meetings. Budget proposals that were not fully approved at round one are brought forward and a final decision is made as to whether or not they are to be incorporated into the financial plan for the upcoming year. Projected implications for taxation are again presented to the Board. This meeting will take place on February 5.
- Adoption of financial plan. Following budget meetings, the financial plan – incorporating all projects and initiatives that have been moved through and discussed at the budget meetings is adopted by the SCRD Board. The budget adoption is due to take place on February 22, 2024.
Some new projects coming forward in this year’s budget include;
Solid Waste – SCRD staff have identified an opportunity to increase the lifespan of the Sechelt Landfill by relocating the contact water pond, which manages storm water that comes into contact with solid waste. An options analysis and conceptual design were completed in 2023, with detailed design and regulatory approvals in progress. This project is expected to extend landfill life by approximately four years until mid to late 2030 at less than half the cost of exporting waste.
Recreation – In 2024, a thorough needs assessment will be conducted for recreation in the Region. This process will include community engagement to help inform the future of recreation services on the Sunshine Coast.
Parks – To ensure the long-term health and resilience of Cliff Gilker sports field turf, in 2024, staff will engage professionals to connect a field irrigation system to an onsite well. This will ensure that irrigation is available for the field and that potable water is utilized for the community.
Fire Departments –Investments in fire departments including additional personnel, vehicles and equipment are coming forward for consideration in Round 2 budget discussions.
Water – Several water projects have been included for discussion in Round 2. These projects focus on increasing supply, and ongoing maintenance of the aging water system. Projects include the development of a well field in Langdale, continued work on a raw water reservoir, rehabilitation of watermains and maintenance of the Chapman Water Treatment Plant.
Staffing – Requests for staffing are being considered as part of Round 2 Budget Discussions. These requests were not discussed during Round 1 as an organizational review is being undertaken at the SCRD. Results and a report from the organizational review will be provided to the SCRD Board in advance of Round 2 discussions.
Information Sessions
SCRD staff and directors will take part in virtual information sessions for the budget. These sessions will include further information such as potential taxation implications and more details on projects for 2024. Times and dates for these sessions are below. Links to join the meetings will be provided in mid-January.
- Monday, January 22 at 6:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, January 24 at 6:00 p.m.
Learn more and ask questions at any time about the budget at letstalk.scrd.ca/budget
SCRD Board Strategic Plan Focused on Water and Solid Waste
December 14, 2023
The Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) Board has adopted the 2023-2027 Strategic Plan to guide decision making for the Region for the next four years and beyond.
“The process for developing this plan began in June and included several meetings with a wide range of employees from across the SCRD to take an ‘environmental scan’ and learn about our organization’s challenges,” says SCRD Board Chair, Leonard Lee.
Following these meetings and through a number of workshops, the Board identified two service delivery focus areas for 2023-2027 — water stewardship and solid waste solutions.
“We need to continue to secure reliable and diverse water sources across the Sunshine Coast and support efficient water use while fostering responsible stewardship of this critical resource,” says Chair Lee. “These are mission-critical challenges that the Board and staff felt needed to be urgently prioritized for the health and safety of the community.”
In addition to the two focus areas, the Board identified four lenses that provide a framework for how the SCRD will approach all services, initiatives, and projects, to meet the economic, social, and environmental challenges of the day.
The lenses are:
- Service Delivery Excellence
- Climate Resilience & Environment
- Social Equity & Reconciliation
- Governance Excellence
“We will monitor and measure the implementation of this plan through regular updates to the Board as well as ongoing dialogue to capture successes and work through challenges,” says Chief Administrative Officer, Dean McKinley.
The plan supports and encourages collaboration among SCRD partners and community stakeholders in the pursuit of regional goals and aspirations.
“Working in partnership with staff and the community, your elected board is committed to making the best decisions we can for all residents of the Sunshine Coast, including future generations,” says Lee.
The 2023-2027 Strategic Plan is available to view at www.scrd.ca/strategic-plan.
shishalh Nation and SCRD Make Commitment on Water
December 7, 2023
The shishalh Nation and the Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) have entered a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on water in the Region.
The MOU details the framework to research the potential for a water reservoir on the shishalh Nation gravel lands and shows a joint commitment to address water supply in the Region.
For the first time, the MOU also sets out shared values and a vision for sustainable water supply on the Sunshine Coast. Among the shared values is the need for collaboration as we grow sustainably and through reconciliation, working together to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
“The shishalh Nation is proud to be carrying on the tradition of our ancestors as protectors of water and stewards of the land. We are excited to work alongside the SCRD on a joint goal of safe and sustainable water for everyone in the Nation’s swiya,” says lhe hiwus Lenora Joe, Chief of the shishalh Nation.
“The first shared value identified in this agreement is one of collaboration, and through the water summit meetings held in 2023 we have agreed that we are stronger and can work faster together,” says SCRD Chair Leonard Lee. “We must strive to foster a sustainable future where water is used responsibly for the benefit of both present and future generations.”
The MOU can be found linked here.
Further information on the reservoir project was provided to the SCRD Board at the November 30, 2023, Special Board Meeting. You can read the agenda here
Media contacts
Julia Cook
Communications Manager, shishalh Nation
jcook@shishalh.com
604 399 9512
Aidan Buckley
Manager, Communications and Engagement, SCRD
aidan.buckley@scrd.ca
604 885 8052
End of Season for WildSafeBC
November 30, 2023
The bears are almost all denned up for the winter, as is the WildSafeBC Program for the Sunshine Coast.
The program’s goal is to prevent conflict with wildlife through education, collaboration, and community solutions.
This season, we achieved this goal by sharing information about attractant management. Ensuring that attractants such as garbage, compost, and fruit are secured and inaccessible to wildlife is essential in keeping both our community, and wildlife safe.
WildSafeBC’s local coordinator, Julie McNeil, has worked with the community to prevent negative outcomes for wildlife and for people by providing wildlife information and conflict-reduction strategies to residents, visitors, and the business community.
Education outreach has included community events, bin tagging, door-to-door canvassing, wildlife awareness and safety presentations, bear spray workshops, and WildSafe Ranger presentations in schools. To learn more about what we were able to accomplish this year, please view our year-end report, scheduled to be released in December at https://wildsafebc.com/resources/community-reports/
While the bears may be soon in their dens, there are many other animals that do not hibernate such as cougar, elk, coyotes, and deer. We encourage everyone to become more familiar with the wildlife that may be passing through our communities. Please report sightings of bears, wolves or cougars in urban/residential areas, or wildlife in conflict, to the Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277. Please visit wildsafebc.com and follow their Facebook page for updates, tips, and other information to assist you in keeping wildlife wild and your community safe!
WildSafeBC Sunshine Coast is grateful for the generous support the program receives from its funders including the Sunshine Coast Regional District, the British Columbia Conservation Foundation, and the Province of BC.
About British Columbia Conservation Foundation:
The British Columbia Conservation Foundation (BCCF) is a not-for-profit organization. BCCF’s mission is to promote and assist in the conservation of the fish and wildlife resources of the Province of British Columbia through the protection, acquisition or enhancement of fish and wildlife habitat.
SCRD Board and Unifor Local 466 Ratify Four Year Collective Agreement
November 28, 2023
The Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) Board and Unifor Local 466 Negotiating Committee are pleased to announce that an agreement has been ratified between the SCRD and Unifor Local 466.
The four-year agreement is effective from January 1, 2024.
“To have an agreement ratified before the current one expires is virtually unprecedented and is a sign of true collaboration,” says SCRD Board Chair Leonard Lee. “On behalf of the SCRD Board, I would like to express my appreciation to everyone involved in the negotiations and I am confident that this agreement shows staff how valued they are to our organization.”
Wage rate increases for all wage bands as follows:
Effective Date
January 1, 2024 – 6%
January 1, 2025 – Consumer Price Index or 4%. Whichever is higher
January 1, 2026 – Consumer Price Index or 2.75%. Whichever is higher
January 1, 2027 – Consumer Price Index
Some highlights from the agreement include:
- Focus on recruitment and retention of staff.
- Consideration of public sector service for vacation and benefits upon hire into a regular job.
- Bundled approach to health benefits selection.
- New scheduling language for the Transit service.
Media contacts:
Bryce Viitanen,
Chief Spokesperson, Unifor Local 466
brycev@unifor466.ca
604-740-2448
Gerry Parker,
Senior Manager, Human Resources, and the Chief Spokesperson for the SCRD
gerry.parker@scrd.ca
Reminder – Water Rates Information Sessions
November 23, 2023
Utility rates for 2024 are being presented to the Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) Board for final adoption on December 14. Prior to this taking place, the SCRD is hosting two virtual information sessions, focused on water rates for 2024.
The proposed rates for 2024 are below. All rates include user fee and parcel tax.
Regional Water Service (Chapman, Langdale, Egmont, Cove Cay, Eastbourne, Granthams and Soames)
Current Rate: $1,043.54
Proposed increase: $121.46
Proposed 2024 Rate: $1,165
North Pender Harbour
Current Rate: $1,303.45
Proposed increase: $101.55
Proposed 2024 Rate: $1,405
South Pender Harbour
Current Rate: $1,194.78
Proposed increase: $165.22
Proposed 2024 Rate: $1,360
Further information on the proposed rates can be found by clicking here in the agenda package for the November 10 Special Committee of the Whole.
During the information sessions, SCRD staff will provide an overview of the systems, ongoing challenges, and funding requirements for 2024. There will also be ample time for questions. Joining information for the sessions can be found below.
Water Rates Information Sessions
Focus on North and South Pender Water
Date and time: Monday, November 27, 6 p.m.
Join by clicking here
Focus on Regional Water System
Date and time: Wednesday, November 29, 6 p.m.
Join by clicking here
Wastewater
Community information spaces for all wastewater systems can be found at https://letstalk.scrd.ca/wastewater. Community members can ask questions directly to SCRD staff at any time on these pages.
Let’s Talk Budget
Round 1 budget for the SCRD will take place from December 4 to 6. The SCRD has developed a community information space for residents who want to learn more about the budget and to ask questions. This can be found at https://letstalk.scrd.ca/budget.
Board Chair Response to Alternate Director John Henderson’s Statement
November 17, 2023
As Board Chair of the Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD), I feel it necessary to respond to a public statement that was provided by Alternate Director John Henderson on November 16, 2023.
To begin, what we cannot lose sight of, is that Alternate Director Henderson’s comments, directed at an SCRD staff member and witnessed by staff members, fellow Directors and members of the public have had a very real and lasting effect. This issue was initiated by him, was directed at staff in front of witnesses who immediately documented what they heard, reported their concerns, and, as per SCRD Policy and the WorkSafeBC regulations on bullying and harassment, it had to be investigated and ultimately addressed. To be clear, it could not be ignored, swept under the carpet, or forgotten because he eventually expressed some regret. At the advice of legal counsel, an independent law firm conducted the investigation, arrived at their findings, and summarized those findings into a report that was presented to the SCRD Board.
As Board Chair, I will always stand up for our staff and we do not tolerate any comments or actions that create a toxic workplace. The actions taken by the SCRD Board were to ensure that staff could expect that the Board and SCRD management will take whatever action is necessary to promote a work environment that is free of bullying and harassment.
It should be noted that on numerous occasions, Alternate Director Henderson has been in the company of the numerous staff who were present at the meeting where he made his comments. He knows who they are, and he has had ample opportunity to apologize and/or directly express his remorse or regret. I know of no restriction that would prevent him from providing an apology to those staff, especially to the person to whom he directed his comments. He has had over six months to take such action and has not done so. An immediate apology might have gone a long way to addressing the concerns of the Board. Only he can advise why he has not apologized to the recipient of his comments and to those that were nearby.
For those that are not fully aware of the process, Alternate Director Henderson has not resigned from the SCRD Board. He has apparently, publicly, noted an intention to resign. For Alternate Director Henderson to be replaced on the SCRD Board, the District of Sechelt must first identify a replacement and notify the SCRD of the change. This has not yet happened.
I agree with Alternate Director Henderson that we should focus on important priorities. It is unfortunate that he did not show the restraint that should, in my opinion, be expected of his office and chose to contravene the Board’s Code of Conduct Policy and the SCRD’s Respectful Workplace Policy. His actions and his actions alone have resulted in expense to the SCRD and extra work for our staff.
We will continue to encourage and expect nothing but respectful dialogue at the SCRD Board table, and I am confident that the District of Sechelt will be well represented by the two outstanding individuals who currently sit on our Board.
I hope that, for the sake of the staff who bore the brunt of Alternate Director Henderson’s comments, they accept that this Board has taken the necessary and appropriate action and that we can now move forward and concentrate on the important work that we have been elected to do in our communities.
Leonard Lee
Board Chair, Sunshine Coast Regional District
Contact Us
Aidan Buckley
Manager, Communications and Engagement
Phone: 604-885-6800 Ext. 6123
Cellular: 604-885-8052
Email: aidan.buckley@scrd.ca