Local News

Strong opinions abound when it comes to Snug Cove and the more than 120 islanders who attended the village design and ferry marshalling open houses didn't hold back.

I use this mayor's report to provide a short update to the community on several important initiatives currently underway by the municipality.

Bowen has an aging road system, aging docks, damaged culverts and the need for pedestrian and cycling lanes. Safety improvements such as guard rails, rock and slope stabilization and traffic calming are also necessary.

Last weekend, 16-year-old Bjorn Vik didn't have to worry about getting a ride home after work. He was able to catch the 10:30 p.m. night bus from Snug Cove to Bluewater. "It's really useful," he says.

The goal is to build a modest facility that will provide Bowen Island with a much needed community centre. And, according to a council resolution, the construction of the core facility is not to exceed $3 million.

It's like a box of building blocks that can be fitted together to make a castle, or a cottage, depending on the choice and ambition of the builder.

It was a long, difficult process that will disappoint some people - except perhaps for those whose top priority is holding the line on property taxes. On Monday, council approved a total of $129,000 in community grants.

The annual tradition of Run for the Ferry has attracted runners from Bowen as well across the Lower Mainland since 1995. This year, the event will change its name and take on a slightly different look and feel.

Regional district officials say they haven't decided whether they'd consent to giving up Crippen Park because Parks Canada has yet to formally ask.

Len Gilday took this photo of a black bear when it came to visit his house below Valhalla ridge one morning at 7:30.