The Peak - March 5, 2026

ANNUAL AWARDS

Business community gathers at Dwight Hall PAGE 12

SKILL BUILDING

Students compete in skills competition PAGE 17

Active Living Guide registration set to open

City of Powell River’s parks, recreation and culture department is launching its digital Spring Living Guide, offering a full slate of programs for residents across the qathet region. Registration opens online, by phone and in person at 8 am on Monday, March 9. From swim lessons to lifeguard training, the pool deck will be busy this spring.

“Dive into spring with confidence,” says Tami Wood, aquatic programs supervisor. “There’s something for everyone this season.” Wood highlights adult lessons for beginners and intermediate swimmers, offered on Monday mornings and Tuesday evenings. Youth programming includes options for children’s swim lessons seven days a week, including Sunday evenings from 4 to 5 pm. For those interested in lifesaving and first aid certification, Bronze Cross, the assistant lifeguard course, runs Wednesdays from 5:15 to 7:45 pm. Emergency first aid is scheduled for April 18, while standard first aid, a required course for lifeguard training, takes place April 18 and 19. The national lifeguard pool option course runs from June 29 to July 9, with no classes on weekends or July 1. The range of offerings is designed to support swimmers at every stage, whether they are just getting comfortable in the water or working toward professional certification.

Familiar favourites and new experiences are also on the calendar.

“Spring is just around the corner, and community recreation is ready with a full lineup,” says Alex Craig, sport and recreation program coordinator.

Returning programs include home alone and babysitters training, along with professional day, day camps and creative craft, and cooking programs for children and youth.

Adults can also take part in hands-on outdoor learning opportunities such as oyster picking and clam digging adventures, and fishing 101.

Craig says the department is also introducing new programs.

“Build confidence on two wheels with our expanding series of Bicycle Workshops.”

The workshops cover bike fitting, flat tire repair, shifting adjustments, wheel main-

Parsley, interim health and fitness program coordinator.

New programs include pedal.sweat.stretch, which combines spin and recovery stretching, and Himalayan kriya yoga, an integrated practice blending movement, breathwork and meditation. Participants can register for the Trail Running Series (beginner and intermediate levels), as well as an exercise technique workshop series

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“We’re especially proud to offer specialized wellness programming, including fit for fibromyalgia,” adds Parsley. “It’s a supportive exercise class led by a practicing kinesiologist designed to help participants build strength, manage energy levels and improve functional movement in a safe and understanding environment.”

tenance and bottom brackets, offering options.

“Whether you’re registering your child, trying a new hobby or building practical skills, there’s something for everyone this spring,” explains Craig.

Fitness enthusiasts will find established classes and new offerings at the recreation complex.

“Popular drop-in classes such as Sunrise Sweat, Pilates Mix, Zumba, Seniors Wellness, spin classes and gentle mobility and yoga will continue through the season,” says Melissa

Yoga practitioners can explore restorative, therapeutic and mindfulness-based classes, as well as a special yin and yang yoga workshop offered on Mother’s Day.

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Parsley also points to the return of community events.

“Join us for our second annual mini tri-it triathlon as part of Move for Health Day on May 9.”

The city will host its third annual Community Wide Garage Sale on May 30 from 9 to 11 am on the arena’s dry floor. Residents can register for a table by May 22. For more information, go to powellriverprc.ca, call 604.485.2891 or register in person. Up-to-date programs and schedules are available through the department’s social media channels.

City proposes 2026 tax rate

At special city council meeting, councillors vote for 8.21 per cent tax increase for taxpayers

PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

City of Powell River councillors are recommending an 8.21 per cent tax increase in 2026 for city taxpayers.

At a special city council meeting on February 26, interim chief financial officer Ken Bjorgaard outlined taxation scenarios in detail as outlined in draft two of the 2026 to 2030 five-year financial plan.

“The goal now is for us to have a final council-approved five-year financial plan, which includes approval of the 2026 taxation,” said Bjorgaard. “After that, we would bring forward a financial plan bylaw that reflects those decisions for council’s readings and adoption.

“That’s where we’d like to end up at the end of this meeting with a decision so that staff can move forward to the financial plan bylaw.”

Bjorgaard said the city has a sizable operating budget of approximately $53.5 million. He said that is funded mostly by property taxes, so it is important for the city to review its fees and charges on an ongoing basis because fees and charges make up a substantial portion of revenue as well.

“They need to keep up with the cost of doing business,” said Bjorgaard.

He said in terms of expenses, protective services, transportation, parks and recreation, and general government operations make up big pieces of the pie. The city’s debt payments comprise about 3.5 per cent of the pie and that includes the majority of debt servicing for the new wastewater treatment plan, Bjorgaard added.

The city originally started out with about $370,000 of new construction revenue for the 2026 budget and the city is now at $471,000, which is “very positive.”

In terms of the former Catalyst Paper Tis’kwat mill, this has been

a major impact being felt in 2026, said Bjorgaard. He said the latest estimate is a loss of revenue of $2.9 million for the mill. He said the mill is coming out of the major industry classification but there is some offset to the utility class, and to the business class, which is making up some of the lost revenue from major industry. The mill is now being assessed in the business class.

“If we compare the draft one plan to the draft two plan, originally, we anticipated there would be a loss of revenue of $3.8 million, and now we’re down to the new assessment of $2.9 million,” said Bjorgaard. “That means the actual tax increase over the three years to pay for this loss of revenue has been reduced. As a result of that, we are taking money out of the tax stabilization reserve for $1.9 million for 2026, and $345,000 in 2027.”

The other major impact in the financial plan that came to light in the last month is the change in cost sharing for the RCMP contract, said Bjorgaard, which is expected to go from a 70 per cent cost to a 90 per cent cost if the population of the city exceeds 15,000 in the federal 2026 census. Bjorgaard said if this occurs, starting April 1, 2027, the cost of policing will go up more than $1 million.

“We have to have a strategy to deal with this as well,” said Bjorgaard. “We are building up the RCMP reserve and we want to phase in a tax increase of $1 million over three years from 2027 to 2029 to offset the impact. We want to use the RCMP reserve fund in 2027 and 2028 to allow for the phase-in.”

Bjorgaard said since draft one of the five-year financial plan, council has asked staff to add two professional firefighters, which is a 1.35 per cent taxation impact. He said additional funds for the auxiliary firefighters is a 0.3 per cent increase in taxation.

“When we add the RCMP impact, starting in 2027, that has an impact of 1.31 per cent until we allow for the phased-in tax increase,” said Bjorgaard. “In 2027, the total impact of all those items is 2.25 per cent. In 2028 it is 1.39 per cent and in 2029 it is 1.67 per cent.

“We have these two major budget pressures and we have to deal with

BC adopts permanent daylight saving time

The province of British Columbia is adopting permanent year-round daylight saving time (DST) after clocks shift forward an hour on Sunday, March 8, 2026.

According to a March 2 media release, BC’s transition to one year-round time zone will begin after the province “springs forward” on Sunday, March 8, 2026, when clocks move ahead by one hour. This will be the final time change in BC. People and businesses will have eight months to prepare for the elimination of the next time change, previously scheduled for Nov. 1, 2026. At that point, the transition to Pacific time, the name of BC’s new time zone, will be complete, stated the release.

PAUL GALINSKI PHOTO

them. We are trying to deal with them with a phased-in approach. This tries to reduce the tax impact and spread it out.”

Bjorgaard said in the capital plan, there is an adjustment for a new website for the city. He said it was increased from $60,000 to $150,000, once staff started to review other local governments that had similar upgrades to websites.

In reviewing property tax rates for the city, Bjorgaard said the current tax increase stands at 8.21 per cent, including the two new firefighters, and additional money for auxiliary firefighters. He said as an option, council could reduce that increase.

“For every $239,000 that you reduce reserve transfers, you reduce the overall tax increase by one per cent,” said Bjorgaard. He said by not contributing $239,000 in discretionary tax reserves in 2026, the tax increase could be reduced to 7.21 per cent.

Bjorgaard said when adding in additional fees such as the purchase of new recycling carts, the total increase turns out to be 8.7 per cent.

Councillors considered extensive recommendations regarding draft two of the five-year financial

plan. The first motion was that the 2026 to 2030 financial plan bylaw include the financial strategies laid out in the draft two financial plan for addressing the loss of the mill property tax revenue and the impending increase in the RCMP contract costs, including the respective phased-in tax increases. The motion carried unanimously.

Councillors then discussed the addition of two professional firefighters, funds for auxiliary firefighters, and increases for transit on-demand services, with BC Transit buses being used to take the place of the now disbanded Zunga Bus program. Councillors voted to include in draft two of the five-year financial plan the addition of these three items.

Council then discussed the proposed tax increase in draft two of the five-year financial plan. Bjorgaard said if council wanted to reduce the 8.21 per cent in draft two, they could reduce reserve transfers so the tax increase would go down. Councillor George Doubt, however, made a motion for the 8.21 per cent tax increase in property taxes for city taxpayers in 2026. Councillor Cindy Elliot spoke against the motion, but it passed, with Elliott opposed.

In summer 2019, the province conducted a public engagement on time observance that saw participation from a record 223,000 people, with 93 per cent supporting adopting yearround DST. Similarly, across all industry groups and nearly all occupational groups, support for year-round DST observance was higher than 90 per cent.

“We have heard the overwhelming majority of people in BC who want to end the back-and-forth of seasonal time changes,” said attorney general Niki Sharma, “This shift offers more stability, supports public well-being and reduces twiceyearly, unnecessary disruptions to the routines of parents, shift workers, small businesses, pet owners and so many more. I look forward to all of us enjoying an extra hour of sunlight after work and school for many winters to come.”

Quick Facts about permanent DST”

BC’s new time zone, Pacific time, will be aligned with the Yukon year round; From November until March annually, Pacific time will match Alberta and other regions observing mountain standard time; From March until November every year, Pacific time will align with California, Washington, Oregon and other Pacific daylight time jurisdictions.

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Budget public engagement outlined

City councillors receive report on taxpayers’ thoughts regarding fiveyear financial plan

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PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

Public engagement regarding the 2026 to 2030 City of Powell River financial plan has been outlined to city council, with numbers up for the online budget survey and down for the in-person open house.

At the February 19 council meeting, manager of partnerships, intergovernmental and public relations Susan Auchterlonie summarized the public engagement related to draft one of the five-year financial plan. Residents were offered the opportunity to complete an online budget survey and/or attend a public open house, said Auchterlonie.

The budget survey was open from December 15, 2025, to January 31.

Auchterlonie said for the survey, there were 1,659 page views and 164 submissions. She said the inperson open house was held on January 29, with eight people attending. About 60 people attended in 2025.

Regarding the budget simulation survey results, with respect to revenues, responses reported a desired decrease in property and parcel taxes, while supporting an increase in other revenues and fees, said Auchterlonie. Aggregated responses supported expenses being decreased in almost all categories except in recreation, parks and cul-

ture, she added.

“We asked the question as to the satisfaction of the quality of services received from the city and it was almost a 50-50 split,” said Auchterlonie. “A total of 160 respondents answered this question, with 78 saying they were satisfied or very satisfied, and 82 indicating they were dissatisfied or very dissatisfied.

“We also asked a question regarding preference for service levels, with 59 indicating they wanted service levels reduced, and 95 wished to see service levels maintained. Zero wished to see service levels increased.”

Auchterlonie said the budget survey and the open house provided an opportunity for Powell River residents to express their thoughts and opinions. Overall, the city received 326 comments. She said the city undertook a highlevel schematic analysis of the comments, resulting in a number of overarching themes.

“The first was the need to tighten spending and to think long-term,” said Auchterlonie. “The second was an over-reliance on property taxation to increase revenues. Property tax increases have become a hardship and burden that respondents were no longer able to afford.

“The third was an emphasis on core services and the fourth was a changing community. Respondents spoke to the increased cost of living and affordability pressures.”

Auchterlonie said homelessness in the community and the impact of addictions and mental health, and the resulting disruptive behaviours on resident safety and crime rates, was also a theme.

While it is difficult to draw conclusions because the survey and responses did not receive 200 respondents, which is the minimum amount to be considered statistically significant, the comments and suggestions were very useful for staff

and council to consider, said Auchterlonie.

Councillor George Doubt said he attended the open house, and he read through the survey and the comments, and he agreed that when there are less than 200 people from the entire city replying, it is not significant data-wise. He said, however, it gives an idea of what is important and the priorities of the different services, such as the aquatic centre being right up there.

“It would be nice to see more people filling out that survey,” said Doubt. “If we could get 500 or 600 people filling it out, it would be more significant.”

Doubt said he believes everybody on council attended the open house and lots of staff members were there, too. He believes city representatives outnumbered taxpayers by a two-to-one margin.

“I would really like to see more people coming out,” said Doubt. “I don’t know how we encourage more people to do it.”

Electric buses will join fleet

Two

new vehicles will replace pair of diesel units later this year

PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

City of Powell River Council has given approval for two battery electric buses to serve the city’s bus routes.

At the February 19 council meeting, director of infrastructure services Mark Rowlands said there is a province-wide effort by BC Transit to electrify the fleet of buses. He said the purpose of his presentation before council was to seek authorization for this extra element to the fleet, as Powell River Transit retires two older diesel buses and replaces them with two brand new electric ones.

“What is being delivered is two heavy-duty battery electric buses,” said Rowlands. “There will be

two charging points at our public works site and infrastructure will be owned by BC Transit. It will be put on a skid that provides the energy into those two charging stations. This will all be delivered through the provincial electrification program.”

Rowlands said the battery electric bus conversion speaks to the city’s environmental resiliency, with a reduction in greenhouse gases. He said it will improve regional transit reliability and will assist in modernization.

In terms of the financial overview, Rowlands said the majority of capital funds are provided by federal and provincial grants, which makes it easier for the city. He said there will be expected net operating savings, with lower energy and maintenance costs.

“The design is nearing completion,” said Rowlands. “The skid fabrication is underway, which will power the two charging stations. We expect a mid-June mobilization of the equipment and ar-

rival of those buses by the end of summer.

“There will be an overlap with the existing buses. If the electric buses aren’t fully capable, the existing buses will be in place until the electric buses have proven themselves.”

Rowlands said BC Transit will be onsite for the startup.

“They are not going to say ‘here are the buses and bye-bye,’” said Rowlands. “They will come with a crew, training our drivers and maintenance people.”

Rob Ringma, BC Transit’s senior manager, government relations, said the buses are about double the cost of a diesel bus, charging infrastructure is required and some capital costs need to be incurred by the city, but when all is said and done, between maintenance savings and fuel-to-electricity savings, there will be reductions in costs.

“We are happy to get federal, provincial and some carbon credit funding that gets the local share of

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costs down to around 10 per cent, which is even lower than what our traditional cost-share ratio is,” said Ringma.

City councillor George Doubt said he appreciated that taxpayers would be paying that 10 per cent of the actual cost of putting the battery electric buses into service.

“There is a value to the environmental benefits,” added Doubt. “I’m assuming the design of the infrastructure for the charging is expandable, so if we go to a full fleet, the cost of adding those additional charging bays would be cheaper than the initial cost.”

Ringma said Powell River is one of eight communities in BC getting battery electric buses in the first phase of the program.

“We are being cautious,” said Ringma. “We are making sure that when we bring these buses in, we go through a commissioning period, and we make sure the buses do all the things we want them to do before we remove any of the diesel buses on your site.

“When it comes to expanding the program, what we are planning for is overnight charging. You are getting two buses and you are getting two charger ports. The long-term thought process is how do we have inline charging down the road, so buses are going through the communities and charging at exchanges or bus stops where they have layover?”

Ringma said in the start-up phase, it will be one charger per bus.

Councillor Rob Southcott asked about the lifespan of battery electric buses. Ringma said there is a 15-year lifespan anticipated, which is similar to the diesel buses in service.

Council unanimously voted to approve the terms and conditions of the licence of occupation and project term sheet agreements, and that staff be directed to include the city’s share of the battery electric bus-related lease and infrastructure costs within the city’s 2026 to 2030 financial plan bylaw.

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Government to consider energy decision

Powell River Energy Inc.’s application to export to United States rests with federal cabinet

Canada Energy Regulator (CER) is awaiting a federal government decision on how it can proceed with an application from Powell River Energy Inc (PREI) to export electricity to the United States for a 30-year term.

According to correspondence from CER communications officer Erin Dottor, regarding next steps in the process, CER is awaiting the governorin-council’s (GIC) decision on whether to designate the application for a licensing process. According to Dottor, the governor-in-council is the federal cabinet. She stated in an email that it is not minister of energy and natu-

ral resources minister Tim Hodgson’s decision.

“If the GIC designates the application for a licensing procedure, then the [CER] commission will need to determine next steps, which could include a public hearing, though one is not required,” stated Dottor. “The commission often sets out next steps via procedural updates, which can include things like details on process steps, participation, timing, et cetera.”

According to the CER website, under the CER Act, when someone applies for authorization to export electricity, the commission must either issue an electricity export permit without holding a public hearing, or recommend that the application be designated for a licensing process. The commission has chosen to request a licensing process from the GIC.

Any procedural updates issued will be publicly available on the CER website

here: CER – Powell River Energy Inc. - Application for a 30-year ContractSpecific Electricity Export Permit, and in the project folder posted here: Canada Energy Regulator - REGDOCS - 2025-08-15 - Application to export electricity for a period of 30 years. Dottor stated that if the GIC decides not to designate, then the commission must issue a permit and may consider what conditions to impose on the permit.

Dottor stated that with respect to the most recent filings, on January 1, 2026, PREI submitted a request that the contract list, contract summary and downstream sales transaction contracts be filed on a confidential basis. The filing is available here: Canada Energy Regulator - REGDOCS - C37831 Powell River Energy Inc. - Confidential Filing. A CER commission decision on PREI’s request has not been made at this time, stated Dottor.

Register for the Community Notification System

The Community Notification System can rapidly circulate critical safety information to help our community stay up-to-date in the event of an emergency. The system allows the Regional Emergency Operations Centre to send voice messages to phones as well as text messages and emails. The service is free of charge, however, residents must register for the system in order to receive emergency notifications. Even if people have previously enrolled, a new registration is required.

To register for the Community Notification System, visit qathet.ca/emergency-preparedness , and click the “Enroll in the Community Notification System Here” button. You will be directed to fill out a registration form online.

The Coast Salish name qathet, pronounced ‘KAW-thet’, means working together.

Powell River Airport operational again

Pacific Coastal Airlines flight leaves runway at low speed, no injuries reported

PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

Powell River Airport has reopened following an inci dent with a Pacific Coastal Airlines aircraft on the runway.

According to a Pacific Coastal Airlines website post at 10:19 am, March 3, dur ing the evening of March 2, the aircraft involved in the incident was removed from the Powell River Airport runway.

The runway has since reopened, and all Pacific Coastal Airlines flights be tween the Vancouver South Terminal and Powell River on March 3 are expected to operate as scheduled, the website stated.

The aircraft that operated flight 8P207 on March 02 will undergo a comprehensive maintenance inspection be fore being released to operate any further flights, according to Pacific Coastal Airlines.

“Pacific Coastal Airlines extends its gratitude to the emergency services who re sponded quickly and profes sionally to this event,” the website stated.

In a March 2 website post, according to the Pacific Coastal Airlines website, at 1:05 pm, Pacific Coastal Airlines flight 8P207, a Saab 340B aircraft carrying 19 passengers and three crew members, landed at the Powell River Airport.

Upon landing, the aircraft exited the runway threshold at low speed and came to a stop in the grass adjacent to the runway, the website post stated.

All 19 passengers and three crew members had been accounted for and con firmed safe, according to Pacific Coastal Airlines.

Susan Auchterlonie, City of Powell River manager of partnerships, intergovern mental and public relations, in an interview at 5 pm on Monday, March 2, said the Pacific Coastal Airlines air craft was disabled. She said it is not on the runway but was on the active airstrip.

“Because of its location, the city was forced to close the runway,” said Auchterlonie.

“We will be working with

the owner of the aircraft to remove it once they have received permission from Transport Canada.

“In terms of timing, as we are awaiting permission from Transport Canada, we really don’t have an idea as to when we will be able to reopen the runway, but as soon as we receive that per mission, we will do so. It’s closed until further notice.”

According to a post from Pacific Coastal Airlines at 4:19 pm on March 2, op erational and maintenance teams were deployed to Powell River Airport to sup port response efforts related to flight 8P207. Work was underway to move the air craft from the runway, ac cording to the airline.

“Pacific Coastal Airlines staff have been assisting customers affected by the subsequent cancellations of flights 8P208, 8P216, and 8P217 on March 02,” the website post stated. “No additional flight changes or cancellations across our network are anticipated for March 03, however, we en courage customers to con tinue monitoring the status of their flights on our web site for the most up‑to‑date information.”

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Community forest grants distributed

A total of 15 community projects received money from dividends generated from forestry operations

PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

City of Powell River handed out fall 2025 community forest grants at its February 19 council meeting. Community forest president Greg Hemphill said it was impressive that there was such a strong showing of grant recipients in attendance at the council meeting.

“On behalf of Powell River Community Forest board of directors, I want to say thanks to all of

council for approving the fall 2025 grants,” said Hemphill. “It’s always great to see grant recipients and so many great community organizations. It kind of warms the heart when we hear about the organizations and what they are doing with their projects.”

Recipients of fall 2025 grants include: Powell River Youth and Family Services Foundry qathet project, $250,000; Friends of qathet, clothing and food supports for vulnerable youth, $10,000; Timberlane Fine Arts Association, building repairs and renovation, $54,271; Powell River Lawn Bowling Club, structural and accessibility upgrades, $40,000; Powell River Brain Injury Society, accessibility and building improvements, $15,000; qathet Regional District, Gillies Bay tennis courts upgrade, $40,000; qathet School District,

Brooks Berm Busters mountain bike team trailer, $12,500; Powell River Salmon Society, upgrades to Duck Lake hatchery, $28,512; qathet Regional Cycling Association, Duck Lake trails improvement project, $37,500; Powell River Gymnastics Society, contribution to equipment upgrades, $25,000; Powell River Kiwanis Housing Society, kitchen and technology upgrades, $26,400; Powell River Curling Club, contribution to backup generator, $75,000; West Coast Wind Swim Club, contribution to competitive swim equipment, $14,160; Powell River Health-Care Auxiliary, contribution to Economy Shop building HVAC installation; Kelly Creek Community Church, community pavilion project phase two, $34,550.

Established in 2006, the community forest is a forestry company fully owned by City of Powell River

as its sole shareholder. Its board has nine directors.

From its forestry operations, PRCF generates significant funds supporting city projects as well as nonprofit organizations.

Since its inception, PRCF has produced total dividends of $31 million, with $12 million having been granted to local non-profit organizations, and $19 million has been spent, committed or saved by the city for projects that benefit the entire community.

Council restructures harbour committee

PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

City of Powell River Council has voted to restructure the harbour users advisory committee and turn it into a working group.

At the February 19 council meeting, corporate officer Peter DeJong said the recommendation before council was to collapse the current harbour users advisory committee and reconstitute it as a harbour users working group.

“The current structure of the committee is problematic in that the intent is for the members of the harbour users to work with staff on operational improvements

and ideas, which are all operational-type issues,” said DeJong. “The current structure requires recommendations to come to city council, which is problematic, because council deals with governance and policy. They have delegated the operational matters to staff.

“The idea is to restructure the group so that it is a less formal working group, working closely with staff on the ideas that they have for improving all different kinds of things around the harbours. After a lot of discussions with those members, we have arrived at draft terms of reference for the new working group.”

DeJong said the new structure

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will better align with the way operational matters around the harbour work.

Councillor Cindy Elliott said her understanding is that many of the users that are on the committee are wanting to fix operational issues, and the committee structure was not the best for doing that because issues come back to council and the matters are operational in nature.

“The proposal is to change it to a working group that works with operational and managerial staff to sort out operational issues rather than having it report to council,” said Elliott. She asked if that was correct.

DeJong said that was a good summary of the intent.

Councillor George Doubt said one of the major changes is that councillor Jim Palm is on the committee and that would cease to participate in the working group.

Doubt asked about the reaction of the committee to that change, and whether the committee thinks it is a good idea.

“We’re hearing staff reporting on what went on but I would like to know if there is any input from the committee,” said Doubt.

DeJong said his recollection was that there were concerns expressed by committee members.

“They appreciated having coun-

cillor Palm’s input in the past and he expressed his pleasure with helping the committee along, but recognized that it came to a spot where it needed to evolve to a more operational type of group,” said DeJong. “With his blessing, things have moved in this direction.”

Council unanimously carried a motion that council endorse the revised terms of reference for the proposal community harbour users working group, that outstanding items be referred from the harbour users advisory committee to the community harbour users working group, and that the harbour users advisory committee be dissolved.

Policing statistics show positive trends

Regional district directors receive third quarter overview from RCMP detachment commander

PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

Powell River RCMP statistics indicate drops in several categories, qathet Regional District directors were told.

At the February 25 committee of the whole meeting, Powell River RCMP detachment commander staff sergeant Lee Dyson provided extensive statistics recorded during the third quarter of the year for regional directors, and he also outlined year-to-date statistics.

Dyson said with total calls for service, there was a bit of a change in the electoral areas, with a 22 per cent decrease when comparing the third quarter of 2025, with 269 calls in 2025, compared to 347 calls in 2024. Year-to-date, there has been an 11 per cent decrease in total calls, from 1,192 in the third quarter of 2024 to 1,058 in the third quarter of 2025.

Check well-being calls have also dropped, going from 27 in 2024, to 15 in 2025. Year-to -date, they have dropped from 115 in 2024, to 82 in 2025, according to Dyson.

Mental health act calls are static, which is a good thing, said Dyson, in that they are not going up. There were 13 calls in the third quarter of 2024 and 2025, and 39 year-to-date in both years.

There has been a drop in missing person calls in the third quarter, but an overall increase year-to-date, going from nine in 2024 to 14 in 2025.

Dyson said impaired driving calls are relatively static, with 14 in both 2024 and 2025 year-to-date. He said one of the detachment’s constables was just given an award for his work in this category last year. Dyson said the constable is a drug recognition expert who is trained to assist in finding drugimpaired drivers and he is the highest producing drug-recognition expert in Canada.

“It’s very good to have him here,” said Dyson.

Overall persons crimes decreased from 24 in the third quarter of 2024

to 21 in 2025. Year-to-date statistics, according to Dyson, went from 108 in 2024 to 97 in 2025. There has also been a slight decrease in assaults, he added.

While there was one sex offence in the third quarter of 2025 and none in 2024, year-to-date, there has been a decrease from nine in 2024 to five in 2025, Dyson said.

“Thankfully, they are almost down by half, year-to-date,” said Dyson.

In the overall property crime category, in the third quarter, there was a decrease from 63 in 2024 to 40 in 2025, and year-to-date, the drop was from 172 in 2024 to 140 in 2025.

For fraud, there was a decrease from nine in 2024 to six in 2025 in the third quarter, but there has been a year-todate increase from 18 in 2024 to 24 in 2025. Dyson said fraud is an ongoing problem and online and crypto frauds are up. He said the detachment is working with people to prevent it happening again and there is lots of data to try and help. Offences are getting more advanced, and it is hard to keep up with them, said Dyson.

In terms of drug offences, there have been slight increases for the third quarter and year-to-date, and Dyson indicated that year-to-date, total drug investigations have increased by 50 per cent. There was a slight increase in drug trafficking, with investigations having increased, according to Dyson.

He then outlined calls per area, with the north having decreased 63 per cent, Tla’amin decreasing 44 per cent, south

was down 6.8 per cent, Savary Island was down 80 per cent, and Texada Island was down 26 per cent.

Dyson said the five-year file counts for the regional district indicate a drop from 1,532 in 2024 to 1,377 in 2025. The high was 1,624 in 2021. For the detachment as a whole, there were 6,333 in 2025, compared to 6,700 in the prior year.

Drug decriminalization has been a hot topic, said Dyson. He said at the end of the drug decriminalization pilot project, all controlled substances are once again prohibited. He said that section 10 of the Drug and Substances Act indicates problematic substances should be treated primarily as health and social issues. Interventions should be founded on evidence-based best practices and should aim to protect the health, dignity and human rights of individuals, he said.

Criminal sanctions imposed with respect to the possession of drugs for personal use can increase the stigma associated with drug use and are not consistent with established public health evidence, according to Dyson. Interventions should address the root causes of problematic substance use, including by encouraging measures such as education, treatment, aftercare, rehabilitation and social reintegration, he said.

“Judicial resources are more appropriately used in relation to offences that pose a risk to public safety,” said Dyson. “The primary focus is to get people the help that they need.”

CROSSWORD

Gymnasts excel at competition

Athletes return from Langley Grand Invitational with medals

A team of 10 Powell River Gymnasts Club members delivered an outstanding performance at the recent Langley Grand Invitational competition, with every athlete returning home with a minimum of two medals or placement ribbons—an achievement that speaks to their hard work and dedication.

The athletes showcased confidence, skill and sportsmanship across all events, earning multiple podium and ribbon placements. This event is one of the biggest attended in BC before the BC provincial championships.

Head coach Trystinna Bailey praised the athletes for their focus, teamwork and positive attitude, as demonstrated by Bree Randle winning the Sportsmanship Award.

“We are incredibly proud of each and every athlete,” stated Bailey. “Their results are well deserved, and it was wonderful to see their hard work pay off.”

The athletes were not the only ones celebrated at the competition. Bailey brought home the Coaches Sportsmanship Award. Bailey said being recognized for her dedication to teamwork was a pure and pleasant surprise.

RESULTS:

Sloan Fuglewicz (CCP1) placed gold in three events and silver in one event for a Gold All Around.

Isabelle Hill (CCP3) placed 10th in vault and 8th on uneven bars.

Lux Formosa (Xcel Bronze) placed 6th in vault, 5th on uneven bars, 4th on beam, bronze medal/third on floor for a Bronze All Around.

Eloise Dumaekkel (Xcel Bronze) placed 6th vault, bronze/third on uneven bars and won a gold medal on floor for 8th place All Around.

Bree Randle (Xcel Bronze) placed 6th on uneven bars, 9th on beam and 6th on floor for 10th All Around, plus the Sportsmanship Award.

Hazel Joslin (Xcel Bronze) placed 4th on vault, 6th on

uneven bars and 8th floor.

Kim La-Yim (Xcel Silver) placed bronze/third on vault, Silver/second on uneven bars and 4th on beam for 10th All Around.

Sophie Cisakowski (Xcel Silver) placed 10th on vault, bronze/third on uneven bars, 9th on beam and 7th on floor for 9th place All Around.

Sophie Thomas (Xcel Silver) placed silver/second on beam and gold/first on floor.

Isabella Coatta (Xcel Gold) placed 4th on vault, 8th on uneven bars and 9th on floor for a 7th place All Around.

Chamber of commerce hands out awards

Business community gathers at Dwight Hall to recognize recipients for 2025

1. Townsite Brewingwas recognized for Business Excellence

2. Don Simmonetta from Kal Tire was chosen as Employee of the Year, with Dogworx Pet Ranch’s Jacob Bristow receiving runner-up honours

3. Gear Attic qathet for New Business; Eldr Supplements, runner-up

4. A&W Restaurant was chosen as Employer of the Year, while FreshCo was named runner-up in the same category

5. Convenient Chef (Steve MacLeod) for Entrepreneur of the Year; Designer Signs (Craig McCahon), runner-up

6. Peggalish Designs for Home Based Business; Forest & Fog, runner-up

7. Miklat Recovery Program Not-For-Profit; Powell River Salmon Society, runner-up 8. The Peak - Discover

Powell River

qathet

Tla’amin received the Tourism Award; Powell River Farmers Market, runner-up 9. Post and Purlin Forest Products for Forestry Sector; Lois Lumber, runner-up 10. Tla’amin Convenience Store for Aboriginal Business; Select Sand & Gravel, runner-up

11. Powell River Outdoors won the Small Business of the Year award; Big O Tires was the runner-up.

12. FreshCo for Customer Service Retail; Armitage Mens Wear, runner-up 13. Elemental Millwork received the Sustainability Award; Blueberry Commons Farm Cooperative, runner-up

Springtime Garden Centre for Agriculture; Terra Nostra Farm, runner-up

pictured]

SUDOKU

CULTURE »

Accordion fundraiser takes place in March

musicians and festival line-up will be announced

TANYA HILL community@prpeak.com

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once. Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: you must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column or 3x3 box.

work hard to serve your community Let us help you reach it— one reader at a time.

The Peak • 604.485.5313 publisher@prpeak.com Unit-F 4493 Marine Avenue

The spring season is almost here, and music festival season is on the horizon.

Local musicians Karina Inkstar, Terry Martyniuk and Walter Martella are busy preparing for Accordion Extravaganza, an afternoon performance that takes place at qathet Academy of Music and Arts, James Hall on Sunday, March 8, at 2 pm.

The event is by donation to raise funds for the fifth annual qathet Accordion Fest in May.

"Just an hour; a little matinee concert, but what we're doing differently this year, though, is we're holding a silent auction," said Inkster. "Teresa Harwood-Lynn is an artist who’s donating to our silent auction; an incredible

basket woven from piano wire."

For the afternoon concert Martyniuk will be on percussion, Martella on accordion and piano, and Inkster will play accordion, piano, didgeridoo, and clavietta.

Inkster explained that the clavietta is a vintage instrument that was made in Italy in the 1950s until the 1970s, and that she was given one as a birthday gift last year.

"The clavietta is similar in sound to the accordion," said Inkster. "[The musician] Richard Galliano uses it [clavietta] in some of his compositions."

At the afternoon performance the group will announce more details about the festival line-up of musical guests, workshops and visiting artists.

"We have nine performing artists and two guest groups," said Inkster. "One of the groups is an Argentinian tango trio, which is super cool, and we'll announce [more information] at the concert."

Inkstar, Martyniuk and Martella will be playing orig-

inal compositions by one of their favourite accordion players [Richard] Galliano.

"He's one of the artists whose music we play quite frequently," said Inkster. "He's an amazing jazz accordionist, and so a lot of our music is either composed by him, or has been performed by him."

The trio will also play jazz, tango and film scores.

"Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy unique music and support a local tradition," said Inkster. "All proceeds support the qathet Accordion Fest, coming in May.

COMMUNITY »

Students showcase skills

Automotive,

cabinetmaking, carpentry and culinary arts on display at North Island College

TANYA HILL community@prpeak.com

qathet School District (qSD) students from Brooks Secondary School, as well as grade seven students from James Thomson and Westview elementary schools recently showcased their skills at the North Island Skills Canada Regionals 2026, hosted by Skills Canada BC, at North Island College in Campbell River on February 20.

According to qSD, "grade seven and grade eight students competed in junior events, featuring gravity car and spaghetti bridge building, while the senior Brooks [Secondary School] group,

qathet

including Vancouver Island University (VIU) dual-credit students, demonstrated their talents in automotive, cabinetmaking, carpentry and culinary arts."

Brooks/Vancouver Island University dual-credit students Finn Gow-Hignall placed first in the culinary arts; Dustin Wesley and Aidan Crawford placed first and second in carpentry;

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Ross Infanti placed second and Marshall Jepson placed fourth in automotive; AJ Cassar placed fourth for cabinetry; and grade seven student Hallie Thom placed fifth in the gravity car competition.

Wesley and Gow-Hignall will advance to the Skills Canada 2026 provincials, taking place in Abbotsford on April 15.

Photographer surprised by sighting

TANYA HILL

thill@prpeak.com

Cranberry resident and local photographer

Robert Colasanto and his son Saverio didn't waste any time getting started on this year's backyard bird count beginning on Friday, February 13.

"My son and I were three minutes into our [2026] Great Backyard Bird Count when he spied this not so common 'bird-on-a-wire' northern pygmy-owl," Colasanto stated in a message on the Powell River Wildlife social media page. "At first we were looking at the two black patches on the back of its neck, then it turned around revealing its bright yellow eyes."

According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, northern pygmy-owls have a pair of spots on the back of their necks

that look a little like eyes. Scientists think these markings may help trick attackers into thinking the owl is watching them.

Colasanto told the Peak he uses a Sony a7R V camera to take photos.

"The second [photo taken] reminds me of the owl from Winnie the Pooh with its ear tufts showing," said Colasanto.

The tiny owl is not much larger than a house sparrow, but can catch prey up to three times its own size.

Although northern pygmy-owls are small, they are active during the day, so birders might have a good chance of spotting one. But according to the Cornell Lab, the best way to find them is by listening for their high, evenly spaced tooting calls.

To listen, go to allaboutbirds.org/guide/ Northern_Pygmy-Owl/sounds.

Public Notice

Invitation to comment on Jervis Inlet and Agamemnon Channel Power Line Replacement Project

Transport Canada’s Navigation Protection Program administers the Canadian Navigable Waters Act.

In accordance with requirements of the Canadian Navigable Waters Act, British Columbia Hydro and Power Authority (BC Hydro) hereby gives notice that an application (NPP File Number 1999-501169) has been submitted to the Minister of Transport for the following works.

Project Description:

Aerial cable. The 138 kV transmission power line crossing over Agamemnon Channel between Earls Cove and Nelson Island, is comprised of three conductors. The Jervis Inlet and Agamemnon Channel Power Line Replacement Project will remove this power line crossing and the associated aerial marker balls as they are in poor condition and at high risk of failure. Removal of the crossing will take place from Monday, April 13 to Monday, April 20, 2026. Contingency dates are from Tuesday, April 21 to Monday, April 27, 2026.

Worksite location:

Agamemnon Channel, 49° 42’ 0 N, 124° 4’ 0 W. The marine closure area will be located directly under the Agamemnon Channel 138 kV crossing and will extend 1.1 km from the center conductor in each direction (2.2 km wide in total). The approximate mid-point of the marine closure area is 49°44’50.11”N, 124° 2’5.98”W.

How to send comments:

Comments about the potential effect of this work must be received within 30 days of this posting.

We invite you to submit comments online through the Common Project Search site at common-project-search.canada.ca/. To do so, enter registry number 14317, and follow the instructions. Alternatively, comments can be mailed or emailed to:

Navigation Protection Program – Transport Canada 820-800 Burrard Street Vancouver BC V6Z 2J8

NPP File number: 1999-501169 NPPPAC-PPNPAC@tc.gc.ca

Note:

Comments will only be considered if they are in writing (electronic or mail) and received by the deadline. Transport Canada’s Navigation Protection Program may communicate with you to obtain additional information on your comments.

Transport Canada does not publish comments submitted through the Common Project Search site or mailed to the Navigation Protection Program. However, comments submitted online or by mail are considered public record. As such, they are subject to the Privacy Act and the Access to Information Act and are accessible through access to information and privacy (ATIP) requests. This means the information you provide should not contain confidential or sensitive information since it could be disclosed.

Posted at Powell River, British Columbia on March 5, 2026.

At Fleming Law, I have the privilege of combining expertise, dedication, and leadership to make a meaningful impact for our clients and our community.

Every case, every client, and every decision is an opportunity to lead with integrity, confidence, and purpose.

Thank you for supporting women in law and celebrating the achievements of women who make a difference every day.

Nearly 75% of educators in British Columbia are women.

As teachers, support staff, administrators, and leaders, women and gender-diverse people nurture learning, encourage confidence, and help students discover their voice, their strengths, and their place in the world.

This International Women’s Day, qathet School District honours their contributions and recognizes the ongoing work toward equity, dignity, and belonging for all.

Celebrating Internation Women’s Day

As I reflect on how much the workplace has evolved over the past several decades, one of the most inspiring changes has been the rise of women as leaders, innovators and business owners. Women are no longer simply participating in the workforce. They are launching companies, leading organizations, expanding family enterprises, and shaping the direction of our local economy in meaningful and lasting ways.

What advice do you have for aspiring women entrepreneurs or professionals?

Believe in yourself and your abilities. Too often women don’t think big enough, falsely believing that big goals are too “pie in the sky”. You’d be amazed what can happen when you set your sights high enough.

What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry?

In my mid 20s I was looking for a job when I heard of one as a client trainer for Konica Minolta, one of the copier brands I now sell. I never dreamed of one day owning my own dealership (see point 1 above!). It wasn’t until my late father, a copier technician for many years, moved to Powell River that I saw the opportunity for our own family-run business, which we built together. Sometimes opportunities that seem small (like just finding a job) can lead to big things in life, so never close any doors.

How has your journey shaped your approach to business?

While still employed as a trainer, I learned what makes customers happy and stick with you, and what makes them want to change things up. I brought this invaluable knowledge to my business. Having great, reliable equipment is important, but the most important thing is the personal relationship with the customer. Taking care of their needs quickly does much more to cement long-term business relationships than great equipment.

Here in our region, I have the privilege of working alongside many incredible women who bring determination, creativity and resilience to everything they do. They are employers, mentors, community builders and decision makers who continue to open doors for others while building strong, sustainable businesses of their own.

In the pages that follow, you will meet some of our community’s very own women in business. Each story reflects the passion, courage, and entrepreneurial spirit that continues to move our region forward, and I am proud to help share and celebrate their achievements.

Kelly Keil, publisher and owner, The Peak

Traditions around the world

Every year on March 8, people around the world celebrate International Women’s Day in different ways. In addition to conferences, rallies and awareness campaigns, many countries observe their own traditions.

• Italy. People exchange bouquets of yellow mimosas to honour women’s strength and solidarity. The flowers are edible, so they’re often added to recipes.

• China. Many companies give their female employees a half-day off.

• Romania. The event is similar to Mother’s Day. Families give mothers and grandmothers flowers and greeting cards.

Furthermore, in several countries, March 8 is a public holiday. This is the case in Russia, Ukraine, Vietnam, Armenia, Cambodia, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Georgia and Cuba.

Who knows, maybe one day Canada will also declare March 8 an official holiday.

I am proud to be listed among the many talented and professional businesswomen in Powell River. In the past few years of opening the store I have loved getting involved in community events and helping to promote local business. I have always loved surrounding myself with beauty and bringing style to all parts of my life.

I love helping people find the right thing. That one thing can bring a smile and confidence, setting you up for success in daily life. I love that this small town has embraced my business and in turn I want to bring beautiful and quality products to Powell River for my clients.

On International Women’s Day Tla’amin is honoured to introduce members of our senior leadership team. The Nation is grateful for the foresight, judgement, compassion, and guiding hands of these leaders each and every day. ?imot.

Losa Luaifoa is the Director of Community Services, a portfolio including recreation, child and family services, justice, public safety, social development, food and citizenship services. She brings over 20 years of senior-level administrative and leadership experience. Losa is deeply committed to serving and strengthening her community.

Carmen Galligos is Tla’amin Nation’s Director of Public Works & Capital Infrastructure and a proud Tla’amin citizen, born and raised in the community. Trained in Civil Engineering Technology, she spent several years working in the engineering sector on First Nations infrastructure projects before bringing that experience home. For the past five years, Carmen has led Tla’amin’s capital projects with a strong commitment to building a resilient, healthy community for future generations.

Tabatha Berggren is the Director of Legislative Services and Governmental Relations, with over a decade of leadership experience in Indigenous governments and non-profits. Her work advances equity, accessibility, and effective governance through intersectional public administration. She holds a BA in French from SFU and is pursuing an MA in Community Development at UVic. Tabatha also teaches Indigenous/ Xwulmuxw Studies at VIU, supporting critical engagement with Indigenous knowledge and governance through reflective practice.

Sophie Call serves Tla’amin Nation as Director of Education. As a settler and ally, she is humbled and grateful to be part of such a dynamic team. She brings to the role 25 years of experience in education, mostly in leadership and administration. Sophie holds three master’s degreesfrom Harvard University, St. Francis Xavier University, and UBC.

hayhišɛwəm (building a bridge) Marlane Paul is the Director of Health for Tla’amin Nation and Chair of the Tla’amin Management Services Operating Board. She is a proud member of the Nation with 30 years’ experience in health and economic development, including 15 years in the private sector. She holds a Master of Leadership Health and Undergrad in Indigenous Corporate Relations from Royal Roads University.

qʷayəmtomoɬ (speaks for her people) Denise Smith is the Director for Lands and Resources for Tla’amin Nation. She is a Tla’amin citizen born and raised in t?išos?m and was the first woman Chief Councillor of the Nation. Denise has worked for the Nation for over 40 years and was instrumental in negotiating Tla’amin self-government and treaty. She is accomplished in textile arts and a ?i?uy to 3 beautiful grandkids.

Jennifer Biddlecombe is the Director of Human Resources. Jenn brings over 30 years of Human Resources leadership experience and holds a Chartered Professional HR (CPHR) designation. Jenn has worked across both private and public sector organizations, including the opportunity to provide HR services to more than 70 First Nation communities and Indigenous organizations throughout her consulting career.

Clockwise from top left Losa Luaifoa, Carmen Galligos, Tabatha Berggren, Sophie Call, Marlane Paul and Denise Smith. (Missing Jennifer Biddlecombe)

When you share, you receive

March 8 is International Women’s Day. For 2026, the International Women’s Day (IWD) movement is launching the campaign “Give to Gain.”

GENEROSITY PAYS OFF

The 2026 International Women’s Day global campaign encourages individuals and organizations to contribute to gender equality through concrete acts of generosity.

The theme is based on a simple but powerful idea: giving creates opportunities that uplift others. This approach, which values solidarity, also highlights the fact that progress in women’s rights strengthens entire communities.

In other words, giving isn’t a subtraction; it’s intentional multiplication! By supporting women’s rights, you help promote a more equitable, inclusive and prosperous world.

TAKE ACTION

The “Give to Gain” campaign sends a clear message to the public: women will ultimately achieve equality through many small, consistent actions. Join the movement and show your generosity in different ways. For example, you could:

• Make a monetary donation to an organi-

zation dedicated to women’s rights issues

• Give a lecture or mentor another person to share your knowledge

• Organize an awareness activity in your community or workplace

• Sponsor an event associated with International Women’s Day

• Share posts from feminist organizations on your social media accounts to raise awareness

On March 8 and throughout the year, open your heart and reach out in the name of equality.

What advice do you have for aspiring women entrepreneurs or professionals?

Stacey - Don’t give up on your dreams. It took me 13 years to finish 7 years of school. A lot of times I questioned the time, costs and the sacrifice, but in the end, it was worth it.

Katya - Trust your training and have confidence in your ideas; entering a male dominated field is challenging but also empowering, as a woman, you offer an important perspective to the legal profession.

What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry?

Stacey - My original goal was politics which I thought would be better advanced by a law degree, but that got sidetracked when I started to practice law. I genuinely like to argue. Not the “ruin family dinner” kind of argue, but defending points, thinking of clever solutions to things, getting people to slowly see your point even if they don’t agree.

Katya - Seeing that legal knowledge empowers individuals and getting to advocate for others while communicating ideas clearly on their behalf can be a real power play resulting in long lasting positive impacts.

How has your journey shaped your approach to business?

Stacey – Because I took a long, winding road to get to my goal my motto became: Be practical. Be patient. Be kind. Everyone has more going on than appears on the surface.

Katya - With a background in social work, I have a strong understanding of people, systems and real-world consequences, clients and issues don’t exist in isolation, they are intertwined with bio-psycho-social factors and a balanced approach focusing on legal precision and compassion helps ensure my client’s goals are my goals.

SCENE

AROUNDTOWN

Cultural celebration

Black History Month was celebrated at Dwight Hall on February 21. The third annual celebration of black culture featured a display of fashion, food and dance music from a wide representation of African nationalities, and a band from the Caribbean performing for attendees.

ANDREW BRADLEY PHOTOS

Looking for something fun after school or on the weekend?

High Tide Games

and

TO BOOK YOUR AD »

Dorothy Bryant Adams

The family of Dorothy Bryant Adams is sad to announce that she passed away recently at Evergreen Extended Care.

Dorothy was born in Tyne Valley, PEI, in 1938, to William Bryant and Mary McKie, and grew up nearby in North Enmore. As a young girl she loved playing with her brothers Alvin and Ralph, and her younger sister Retta. Always a lover of reading, her parents used to find her curled up with a book behind the wood stove.

When she was only 16, she was a teacher for a year in the little one room schoolhouse in Port Hill, PEI. In 1955, she married Glenn Adams and they drove across the country in 1957 with their daughter Barbara and Glenn’s parents, looking for work.

After settling in Powell River, they had three sons, Bill, Brian and Barry. Dorothy found time to have a number of careers while raising the four kids. She worked at the Bank of Montreal, was a letter carrier and inside worker at Canada Post, a pulp tester at the mill, and finally clerked at BC Tel until she retired from her working life. She came out of retirement to become a marriage commissioner and performed three weddings, as well as volunteered for the Legion and the hospital auxiliary. As a result of her jobs, she impressively knew everyone in town’s name, phone number and address off the top of her head.

Her favourite job in the world was becoming a grandma and great-grandma to Jordan, Wesley, Janis, Melissa, Storm, Cooper, Jaxon, Ava, Seve, Austin and Wyatt. She was a very nurturing and fun presence around the children; she spoiled them and said, “Don’t tell Grampa Glenn.”

She loved to garden, ski, travel and, of course, socialize with friends and family, especially at the Legion. She was always optimistic with a glass-half-full attitude.

Dorothy is survived by her daughter Barbara Behan, sons Bill (Joanne) and Barry, as well as her best friend and sister Miretta Clickner, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her son Brian in 1987, and more recently she lost her husband Glenn and “the world’s best son-in-law” PJ Behan.

The family would like to thank the staff at Evergreen for their wonderful care and compassion during her final years. Special thanks to Patti Anderson and Donna, Laura, Bernadette, and Glenda Behan for comforting her during her final moments.

A service honouring her life will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 1 pm at the church of St. David and St. Paul. A reception will immediately follow at the Legion Lower Hall.

Margaret Csuk

June 10, 1935February 21, 2026

We are sad to announce the passing of our mother Margaret Csuk at the age of 90 on February 21, 2026.

Margaret and our father Joe (predeceased 2014) escaped from Hungary in 1956 following the Hungarian Revolution and began building a new life as Canadians. Joe found work in the mill and Margaret stayed at home to raise Judy (David) and David (Sonia). They found friends, connected with coworkers, planted flower gardens, celebrated birthdays and Christmas holidays, anniversaries and graduations. Over the years they spoke very little about their harsh years in Hungary, but always appreciated the freedoms and opportunities in Canada. Only recently did we discover their participation in the Hungarian revolt by freeing friends wrongly imprisoned. Margaret stayed in their family home until declining health and mobility required her to move to Evergreen long-term care in 2024. Many thanks to the nurses, care aids and doctors who oversaw her care over the years. Special thanks to Sasha for her kindness and consideration for Margaret and our family in these last few months, and Gauli, for her friendly visits with Mom.

Margaret leaves behind three grandchildren: Robert, Krista (Tanner) and Curtis (Sydney), and one great-grandchild, Wesley.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, Parkinson Society or any medical charity of choice.

A family celebration of life is planned for a future date.

BUDGET MEETINGS

The qathet Regional District will meet to consider the proposed 2026 budget and 2026-2030 Financial Plan at the Finance Committee meetings in February and March, 2026.

The qathet Regional Hospital District will meet to consider the proposed 2026 budget at the Regional Hospital District meetings in February and March, 2026. Meeting dates and times can be viewed on the qathet Regional District website at qathet.ca.

For more information, please contact Linda Greenan, General Manager of Financial Administration –Chief Financial Officer at finance@qathet.ca or call 604-485-2260.

donate

For more information & to donate: prcommunity foundation.com

Thank you for supporting the good work of qathet’s local charities!

DEADLINE, March 31, 2026

Applications for financial assistance will be accepted until midnight on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

Application forms, eligibility and submission requirements can be found at qathet.ca. Submissions must be from applicants that meet the eligibility requirements and must include all documentation requested in the application form in order to be considered. For more information, please contact Celinde Lillies, Manager of Financial Services at finance@qathet.ca or call (604) 485-2260.

Edward (Ted) Daniel Moloughney

August 18, 1947 - February 13, 2026

With deep sadness, we share the passing of Ted – loved son, father, step-father, grandfather, brother, cousin, uncle, great uncle, brother-in-law, son-in-law, husband and friend.

Ted loved a challenge and maybe his greatest was his last return trip from Mexico. Ted broke so many bones in his 78 years but maintained, “They haven’t killt me yet.”

Ted loved a challenge and maybe his greatest was his last return trip from Mexico. Ted broke so many bones in his 78 years but maintained, “They haven’t killt me yet.” It is so difficult to sum up the life of a hard-working, loving, kind, and gentle man, but he was always a busy man who could fix, renovate, or build anything. A tool in his hand or his head under the hood of something was a common sight, yet he was always ready for a camping trip, a kitchen dance, or simply enjoying the backyard by the fire pit. He leaves behind his son Justin, granddaughter Lennon and her mom Katie; his son Cory, granddaughters Zoe and Charli and their mom Jayme; and daughter Jennifer (Catherine); stepson Terry; stepdaughter Erin; his wife and friend Sheri; his brothers Peter (Nicole) and David (Betty Anne) ; and sisters-in-law Barb, Sharon, and Sandy.

It is so difficult to sum up the life of a hard-working, loving, kind, and gentle man, but he was always a busy man who could fix, renovate, or build anything. A tool in his hand or his head under the hood of something was a common sight, yet he was always ready for a camping trip, a kitchen dance, or simply enjoying the backyard by the fire pit. He leaves behind his son Justin, granddaughter Lennon and her mom Katie; his son Cory, granddaughters Zoe and Charli and their mom Jayme; and daughter Jennifer (Catherine); stepson Terry; stepdaughter Erin; his wife and friend Sheri; his brothers Peter (Nicole) and David (Betty Anne) ; and sisters-in-law Barb, Sharon, and Sandy. Ted was predeceased by his mom Nancy, dad Harold, brother Bob (Jane), sister-in-law Gail, cousin Larry, mother-in-law Irene, brother-in-law Tommy, and fatherin-law Johnny.

Ted was predeceased by his mom Nancy, dad Harold, brother Bob (Jane), sister-in-law Gail, cousin Larry, mother-in-law Irene, brother-in-law Tommy, and fatherin-law Johnny.

Thank you to so many – his car pal Terry Walsh, school chum Nancy, longtime friend Violet and her daughter Jacquie, his cousin Dennis (Eileen) and great nephew Brandon. Ted loved his phone calls and visits. Thank you to my daughter Erin and her dad for holding down my fort, to my son Terry for the medical help and assistance in handling tickets home and hotel reservations, and to Justin, Cory and Jennifer for your continued emotional support. Your dad loved you very much. Thanks to Reese, our Mexico contact; Martha, Ted’s nurse in Mexico; Elda and her group in Mexico for their help and concern; Powell River Hospital staff; Martin Ostensen and Natalie; Cindy from Coccola; Val and her amazing Credit Union staff; Ted’s brother David for being with Ted at the hospital in Mexico, and other family members and friends who supported and continue to support. You were all part of the solution. I hope I haven’t missed anyone. It was truly a very large family effort.

Thank you to so many – his car pal Terry Walsh, school chum Nancy, longtime friend Violet and her daughter Jacquie, his cousin Dennis (Eileen) and great nephew Brandon. Ted loved his phone calls and visits. Thank you to my daughter Erin and her dad for holding down my fort, to my son Terry for the medical help and assistance in handling tickets home and hotel reservations, and to Justin, Cory and Jennifer for your continued emotional support. Your dad loved you very much. Thanks to Reese, our Mexico contact; Martha, Ted’s nurse in Mexico; Elda and her group in Mexico for their help and concern; Powell River Hospital staff; Martin Ostensen and Natalie; Cindy from Coccola; Val and her amazing Credit Union staff; Ted’s brother David for being with Ted at the hospital in Mexico, and other family members and friends who supported and continue to support. You were all part of the solution. I hope I haven’t missed anyone. It was truly a very large family effort.

>> CITY JOBS

Director of Human Resources

Manager of Planning Services

Manager of Engineering Services

Booking Clerk (full-time)

RCMP Administrative Floater (part-time)

All applications must be submitted online through the Employment Opportunities page at www.powellriver.ca

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

qathet Regional District is accepting applications for the following exempt, full-time position:

• General Manager of Planning Services

The 2026 salary range for this position is $113,931.68 –$147,441.00.

This posting will remain open until filled. To view the full posting and application requirements please visit qathet.ca/careers.

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR CASUAL BUS DRIVERS

Under the supervision of the Director of Operations, or designate, we welcome applications for on-call casual bus drivers to join our transportation team.

Requirements:

• Completion of Grade 12.

• Current BC Class 2 Driver’s Licence with Air Brake endorsement.

• Knowledge of rules and regulations pertaining to the operation of a school bus required under the BC Motor Vehicle Act.

• Skill in the safe and efficient operation and daily servicing of school buses.

• Level 1 First Aid Certificate.

• Bus Driving Experience.

These positions are part of CUPE L476 and offer an hourly wage of $30.41 per hour. For a complete job description, please visit our School District website at https://www.sd47.bc.ca/page/92/support-staffpostings.

Application closing date: Open until filled Interested qualified applicants should apply with a cover letter and resume. Please also include supporting certification documents.

Please submit applications to: Human Resources Department

Land Act: Notice of Intention to Apply for a Disposition of Crown Land

Take notice that I, Taylor Shellfish Canada ULC from Union Bay, BC have applied to the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship (WLRS), for an amendment to a licence of occupation for shellfish aquaculture situated on Provincial Crown land located in the vicinity of Allies Island , Waddington Channel. The Lands File Number that has been established for this application is 2401956. Comments may be submitted electronically via the provincial Applications, Comments & Reasons for Decision webpage at https://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca. Written comments concerning this application should be directed to: BC Aquaculture Authorizations, Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, at 1422080 Labieux Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9T 6J9. Comments will be received by WLRS up to date (60 days after the publication of the last notice). WLRS may not be able to consider comments received after this date. Please visit the website at https://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/ for more information. Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record. Access to these records requires the submission of a Freedom of Information (FOI) request. Visit, http:// www.gov.bc.ca/freedomofinformation to learn more about FOI submissions.

There will be a celebration of Ted‘s life on Saint Patrick’s Day, March 17, 2026 from 1 - 3 pm at Ted’s loved home in Powell River, by the fire pit, of course.

There will be a celebration of Ted‘s life on Saint Patrick’s Day, March 17, 2026 between 1 and 3 pm at the Otago Rugby Club, 6821 Church Street, in Cranberry.

~ the Moloughney family

There will be a celebration of Ted‘s life on Saint Patrick’s Day, March 17, 2026 from

qathet School District hr@sd47.bc.ca

We thank all applicants, however, only those under consideration will be contacted.