The issue of leg-hold traps has caused a massive public outcry, but in order for the Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) to implement a ban, the process is proving challenging.
After a discussion at the June 16 community services committee meeting, SCRD staff said provincial law restricts the SCRD's ability to ban not only leg-hold, but also Conibear and snare traps.
Angie Legault, manager of legislative services, said that in consultation with Environment Ministry staff and legal counsel, it was confirmed that regional districts do not have the authority to regulate trapping.
Sechelt director Coun. Keith Thirkell stressed the importance of the matter and referred to the April incident of a Sechelt resident whose dog was caught in a leg-hold trap.
"I'm not sure of the last time the ministry had a serious look at the interface zone and the effect, because our populations are growing. I think something has to be done, because it's not going to get any better. If it was a child who was in that trap instead of a dog, there would be huge issues," Thirkell said.
After examining options given by staff, committee members passed a recommendation to request the province review the impact of growth on the Sunshine Coast and implement a no trapping area within urban interface areas, providing greater protection for outdoor enthusiasts.
The committee also passed a recommendation to lobby the Union of B.C. Municipalities (UBCM) requesting the province develop educational programs on alternatives to trapping problem wildlife.
Transportation study
The long awaited integrated transportation study (ITS) is nearing completion after SCRD staff asked the committee to receive and endorse the final report.
Mark McMullen, manager of planning and development, encouraged the report to be used as a guiding policy document for integrating local government and region level transportation planning. Additionally, the report suggested that local governments work collaboratively with one voice when communicating with senior government agencies on future improvements to Highway 101 and other transport issues.
Included in the report was a list of possible changes to the draft ITS discussed at the May 6 special planning and development committee meeting. The board endorsed the proposed changes at its regular meeting on May 26.
A final endorsement on the plan was scheduled for board approval Thursday night (June 23).
Vandalism
After recent vandalism saw the sign from the Flume Road entrance to Roberts Creek Provincial Park destroyed, Roberts Creek director Donna Shugar shared her concerns over not only the act, but the site's overall maintenance.
In addition to the vandalism, Shugar said the park has deteriorated over the years due to what she feels is lack of maintenance on the part of BC Parks.
Shugar asked the committee to endorse a letter, which they did, to BC Parks asking for better maintenance and how the community can be of assistance.
