Williams Lake city council hit on a number of items as they worked through a lengthy agenda at their July 16 council meeting.
Council committed to working with Thompson Rivers University - Williams Lake to explore the expansion of its nursing program to four years.
A motion was approved to explore ways the city might be able to support the implementation of a four-year program at the Williams Lake campus of the university, citing the high number of graduates who choose to remain in the community where they graduate.
Currently, the Williams Lake nursing program offers the first two years of a nursing degree, with students going to Kamloops or further to complete their training.
Council also approved a development variance permit for the Williams Lake Stampede Association to be able to construct a structure to house a historic stagecoach for display.
The structure will be built by TRU Williams Lake students and be visible from the entrance to the Stampede Grounds on Mackenzie Avenue, but council noted safety and obstruction of vision will not be an issue for motorists or pedestrians. Council also agreed to support the WLSA’s application to the Northern Development Initiative Trust Community Places Fund for matching funding toward the construction of a structure to display the historic stagecoach.
Council also voted to proclaim July 21 to 27 National Drowning Prevention Week in Williams Lake.
The Lifesaving Society - BC and Yukon and Branch requested the proclamation to help educate the public, along with events across the country on water safety and drowning prevention.
The council approved $5,000 grant-in-aid support for Wrestling in Williams Lake on January 2.
A late request came in to assist the Team Bhullar Foundation to hold a Wrestling in Williams Lake event on January 2, Wrestling Day in the city.
The event will take place at Thompson Rivers University Williams Lake campus gymnasium. It is being organized by former Canadian Olympic wrestler Arjan Bhullar, who aims to recognize the Wrestling Day tradition on January 2 while also promoting the sport of wrestling in the community, as well as the positive impacts of sport and togetherness.
Council approved the new city of Williams Lake community grants program, which streamlines how funds are awarded to organizations on an annual basis and allows for joint review with the Cariboo Regional District.The new policy will replace the existing grant-in-aid policy, as well as the event hosting grants policy. The policy changes will come into effect for the 2025 funding year.
