September 26, 2024
Business
Municipal Services Building Set For Demolition (City of Whitehorse)
The City of Whitehorse has awarded a $1.7 million contract to Arctic Backhoe Services for the demolition of the Municipal Services Building, which is at the end of its useful life. Demolition will begin this month and is expected to be completed by the end of the year, with the site prepared for future residential development in 2025. City Council has approved a rezoning to allow for taller buildings and increased residential use on the site.
Community
Whitehorse RCMP make arrests relating to a break, enter and theft of firearms (Royal Canadian Mounted Police)
On September 23, 2024, Whitehorse RCMP arrested two men, Christopher Munch and Robert Suffesick, in connection with a break and enter at a pawn shop where firearms were stolen. The incident involved a deliberate vehicle collision to facilitate the theft. Both individuals face multiple charges, and the stolen firearms were recovered. The investigation is ongoing, and the public is encouraged to provide any information related to the crime.
Two men arrested after guns stolen from Porter Creek pawn shop (96.1 The Rush)
Two men, Christopher Darryl Munch and Robert Martin Suffesick, were arrested following a police operation after firearms were stolen from G & R Pawnbrokers in Whitehorse. The theft involved a vehicle collision into the pawn shop, and both men face multiple charges, including possession of stolen property and firearms offenses. Munch has additional charges for failing to comply with a release order and had outstanding warrants at the time of his arrest.
RCMP make 2 arrests after guns stolen from pawn shop (Yukon News)
The RCMP arrested two men in Whitehorse after a robbery at a pawn shop where firearms were stolen. The incident involved a deliberate vehicle collision to facilitate the break-in. Both men face multiple charges, including possession of stolen property and firearms-related offenses. One man remains in custody while the other was released, and the investigation is ongoing.
Government of Yukon provides update on work underway to enhance public safety in Whitehorse (Government of Yukon)
The Government of Yukon is enhancing public safety in Whitehorse by increasing funding for the RCMP and SCAN Unit, launching a Crime Prevention Grant Program, and collaborating with local organizations for community safety initiatives. Additional measures include reopening a warming center, renovating housing facilities, and providing support for victims of gender-based violence. The updated Downtown Whitehorse Safety Response Action Plan addresses recent crime increases and aims to create a safer environment through community collaboration and targeted funding.
Yukon premier decries 'ridiculous' uptick in Whitehorse crime, announces new money for RCMP, other measures (CBC)
The Yukon government is addressing rising property crime rates in Whitehorse by announcing new measures, including a crime prevention grant program for local businesses, harm-reduction initiatives, and additional funding for the RCMP. Premier Ranj Pillai emphasized the need for accountability in crime while also acknowledging the complexities of substance use and poverty. Critics, like Kate Mechan from the Safe at Home Society, caution against punitive measures that may further marginalize vulnerable communities. The issue of crime and safety will be a key focus in the upcoming Yukon legislature session.
‘Completely frustrated’: Premier Pillai speaks for RCMP on downtown safety (Yukon News)
Premier Ranj Pillai expressed frustration on behalf of the RCMP regarding downtown safety in Whitehorse, highlighting the need for additional police resources and systemic support to address community concerns. The Yukon government plans to fund two new RCMP members and a SCAN investigator to tackle issues related to substance abuse and crime. Pillai and Justice Minister McPhee emphasized the importance of bail reform and community safety initiatives, while also addressing the broader impacts of substance use on society. A new supportive housing program and a grant for businesses to improve security are also in the works.
Culture
Survey finds members are only at the halfway point on advancing their Reconciliation training (Canadian Press)
A survey by CPHR BC & Yukon reveals that HR professionals in BC rate their organizations' reconciliation training efforts at only 5 out of 10, indicating significant work remains. Key actions taken include land acknowledgements and training on Indigenous history. Barriers to implementation include time, cost, and lack of leadership support. Respondents expressed a need for guidance on best practices and more resources for reconciliation training. Additionally, organizations emphasize building partnerships with Indigenous groups and recognizing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Education
Porter Creek Secondary School grade 10 students release orange shirt day designs and limited-edition t-shirts (CHON-FM)
Grade 10 students at Porter Creek Secondary School have created limited-edition t-shirts for Orange Shirt Day, featuring designs by First Nation students that highlight cultural significance, such as the life cycle of salmon. The project aims to raise funds for the Community on Abuse in Residential Schools Society, with increasing demand for the shirts each year.
Whitehorse fashion students design and sell orange T-shirts for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (CBC)
Students from Whitehorse's Porter Creek Secondary School designed and sold orange T-shirts to raise funds for the Yukon-based Committee on Abuse in Residential Schools, in honor of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The project, guided by teacher Kyla Greve, aimed to connect students with the community and the fashion industry. Indigenous student Harlan Koisan created a design reflecting the cultural significance of salmon, while other students learned about First Nations culture and the importance of reconciliation through their involvement in the project.
Testing process for lead levels in Yukon school drinking water more complex than thought (Ground Water Canada)
A testing project for lead levels in Yukon school drinking water, initiated after students discovered elevated levels, is more complex than expected. The Yukon Education Department plans to test and replace non-compliant fixtures, with completion now expected by the end of the year due to the revised schedule.
Environment
Yukon government and receiver say berm and monitoring work at Victoria Gold site continue (Yukon News)
The Yukon government and receiver PricewaterhouseCoopers are overseeing cleanup efforts at Victoria Gold's Eagle Gold Mine following a landslide. Key actions include constructing a safety berm for groundwater monitoring, installing eighteen monitoring wells, and addressing safety concerns for workers. Progress has been made, but challenges remain, including the need for water treatment capacity. The focus is on emergency remediation before winter, with long-term planning underway. There are criticisms regarding the government's oversight compared to previous management by Victoria Gold.
Government
Governments of Canada and Yukon announce the renewal of the Canada Community-Building Fund for the next ten years (Government of Canada)
The governments of Canada and Yukon have renewed the Canada Community-Building Fund for the next ten years, providing over $200 million to support local infrastructure projects. The agreement will enable First Nations, municipalities, and unincorporated communities to plan and improve critical infrastructure, with Yukon receiving $94.5 million in the first five years. The fund aims to enhance housing supply and address local priorities, contributing to sustainable community development across Canada.
Canada, U.S. to negotiate Beaufort Sea boundary dispute (CBC)
Canada and the U.S. have established a task force to negotiate a boundary dispute in the Beaufort Sea, stemming from a treaty from 1825. Negotiations will begin this fall to resolve overlapping claims, particularly following a U.S. continental shelf claim with the UN. The task force aims for a final agreement that emphasizes sustainable resource use and includes engagement with state, territorial, and Indigenous partners.
Government of Yukon and Liard First Nation sign political protocol to renew government-to-government relationship (Government of Yukon)
The Government of Yukon and Liard First Nation signed a Political Protocol to renew their government-to-government relationship, focusing on self-determination, resource management, and economic development. This agreement formalizes collaboration and aims to improve services for citizens while promoting reconciliation. Leadership will meet annually to discuss shared priorities and enhance partnership efforts.
Official Election Candidates (City of Whitehorse)
The nomination period for the 2024 Whitehorse Municipal Election has closed, with Election Day set for October 17, 2024. Official candidates for Mayor include Kirk Cameron, Dino Rudniski, Dan Bushnell, Stephen Kwok, and Jack Bogaard. Councillor candidates include Ken Schick, Tony Lundgaard, Gary Smith, and others. To vote, one must be a Canadian citizen, at least 18 years old on Election Day, and a resident of Whitehorse for at least one year. Voter registration details can be found at whitehorse.ca/election.
Yukon Party prefers current voting system despite citizens’ assembly’s ranked ballot pitch (Yukon News)
The Yukon Party prefers the current first-past-the-post voting system despite the Citizens' Assembly's recommendation for a ranked ballot. The party argues that the current system ensures direct accountability and transparency, and insists any change should be decided by a referendum. Concerns were raised about the assembly's legitimacy and the costs involved, while some members of the assembly and political leaders express support for exploring ranked ballots. The discussion highlights the complexities of electoral reform and the need for public understanding in any potential plebiscite.
Health
Hiring nurses is preventing health centre closures, Yukon department says (Yukon News)
The Yukon health department reports that hiring nurses has prevented full closures of rural health centres in 2024, with a significant reduction in vacancy rates from 47% in 2022 to 15% this summer. Although some health centres experienced temporary service reductions due to unexpected staff absences, overall closures were avoided. The success is attributed to the Health Human Resources Strategy, which focuses on partnerships, marketing, salary increases, and recruitment efforts.
Q+A | Yukon's chief medical officer on the rise in whooping cough cases (CBC)
Dr. Sudit Ranade, Yukon's Chief Medical Officer, reports a rise in whooping cough cases, with seven confirmed this year, signaling a significant increase given the territory's population. The surge is attributed to both natural infection waves and declining vaccination rates. While most cases have been mild, young children and vulnerable populations are at higher risk. It's crucial for individuals to maintain vaccination and seek medical attention if symptoms arise, as pertussis can be treated with antibiotics to reduce infectiousness.
Infrastructure
New Transfer Tickets More Convenient And Secure (City of Whitehorse)
Whitehorse Transit has updated its transfer ticket system, allowing tickets to be valid for up to an hour for any transit route, enhancing rider flexibility. New tickets feature an anti-forgery foil for increased security against ticket fraud. These changes aim to improve convenience and align with the Token Transit app, streamlining the boarding process for passengers.
Justice
Yukon government won't appeal decision ruling SCAN evictions unconstitutional (Yukon News)
The Yukon government will not appeal a court ruling that deemed the eviction powers in the SCAN Act unconstitutional. The Yukon Supreme Court found that the act's provision allowing evictions with minimal notice violated rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The government acknowledged that this provision was rarely used and emphasized that landlords can still evict tenants for illegal activities under other housing laws. The review of the SCAN Act will continue in light of the court's decision.
