September 27, 2024

Community

Yukon RCMP continue with 'recovery' efforts for missing man; wife says she's been kept in the dark (CBC)

Yukon RCMP are conducting a recovery operation for Knate Ostenso, an Arizona man missing since his vehicle went into the Yukon River on September 16. While his wife, Norine Mihajlovich, appreciates the community's support, she expresses frustration with the RCMP for their lack of communication and perceived inadequacies in the search efforts. Police continue to search the area using boats and helicopters, but Mihajlovich questions the initial focus on the submerged vehicle rather than a broader search.

RCMP provide an update to the media availability held August 30, 2024 (Royal Canadian Mounted Police)

On September 27, 2024, the RCMP provided an update on community policing in Whitehorse, addressing property crime statistics and community consultation efforts led by Acting Detachment Commander S/Sgt Jill McLaren. The top priorities identified by citizens include illicit drug use, property crime, and traffic enforcement. The RCMP acknowledges the complexity of property crime, often linked to social issues and repeat offenders, and emphasizes collaboration with community organizations. Plans to add more police officer positions and explore a Repeat Offender Management Program are also discussed to enhance policing effectiveness in response to Whitehorse's growth.

Culture

National Day For Truth And Reconciliation (City of Whitehorse)

September 30 is recognized as National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada, focusing on the historical treatment of Indigenous peoples and the ongoing work needed for reconciliation. The City of Whitehorse encourages residents to engage in local events that promote understanding and healing, while committing to collaborate with First Nations to acknowledge their role in the community.

Statement from Premier Pillai on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Government of Yukon)

Premier Ranj Pillai's statement for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation emphasizes honoring residential school Survivors and mourning lost children. He highlights the government's commitment to reconciliation, ongoing investigations into missing children, and collaboration with First Nations. Pillai encourages community engagement in local events, acknowledges the emotional weight of this day, and stresses the importance of support and healing within the community.

Education

Yukon Government pressured over teacher shortages and lead contamination in drinking water one month into school year (96.1 The Rush)

The Yukon Government faces criticism over teacher shortages and lead contamination in drinking water one month into the school year, with 62 educator vacancies reported. The opposition calls for updates on recruitment efforts and support for vulnerable students, while the Department of Education claims to have hired 205 Teachers on Call and is actively recruiting. Lead testing in schools is ongoing, with completion expected in December, and the department emphasizes student health and safety as a priority.

2 softball fields pitched out by new Whitehorse Elementary School: report (Yukon News)

The Yukon government has selected a site for the new École Whitehorse Elementary School, which will be located on existing softball fields in Takhini. The decision, influenced by factors such as minimal impact on Takhini Elementary School and improved sports facilities, will result in the loss of two softball fields, although one will be retained. A multi-sport field is planned, and further discussions with Softball Yukon are anticipated. The project has an estimated construction budget of $45 to $55 million, and the government is committed to ongoing engagement with stakeholders regarding future needs and impacts.

New policy allows Yukon First Nations to offer high school credits for cultural learning (Government of Yukon)

The Government of Yukon has introduced a new policy allowing Yukon First Nations to offer high school credits for cultural, language, and traditional knowledge learning activities. Students can earn up to 12 elective credits toward graduation through programs led by community Elders and Knowledge Keepers. This initiative supports truth and reconciliation efforts and enhances First Nations' control over education, aligning with local and provincial graduation requirements.

Statement from Minister of Education Jeanie McLean on a new downtown Whitehorse school (Government of Yukon)

Minister of Education Jeanie McLean announced that the government is exploring options to build a new school in downtown Whitehorse, engaging with the community to assess future needs and potential locations. The initiative aims to modernize school infrastructure and respond to the demand from residents for educational facilities, reflecting the importance of schools in fostering vibrant communities.

Government

Elizabeth Bosely is first woman elected Chief of Teslin Tlingit Council (Yukon News)

Elizabeth Bosely has been elected as the first female Chief of the Teslin Tlingit Council, with Tod Smarch as her Deputy. Bosely, from the Dakl’awedi Eagle and Killer Whale Clan, succeeds Eric Morris and brings extensive experience in cultural programs and traditional crafts. Her election is seen as a significant milestone for the council, and the Government of Yukon anticipates further collaboration with her leadership.

Mail-in Special Ballots For Municipal Election (City of Whitehorse)

Mail-in Special Ballot applications for the 2024 Whitehorse Municipal Election on October 17, 2024, are now available. Eligible voters can request a Special Ballot if they are unable to vote in person due to various reasons, including health, work, or being out of town. Voter eligibility requires Canadian citizenship, being at least 18 years old on Election Day, and residing in Whitehorse for at least one year. Voters should ensure they are registered and can find more information online at whitehorse.ca/election.

Candidate list confirmed for upcoming Whitehorse Municipal Election (96.1 The Rush)

The nomination period for the 2024 Whitehorse Municipal Election has closed, with 5 candidates running for Mayor and 18 for Council seats. Voter eligibility requires Canadian citizenship, being at least 18 years old on Election Day, and residency in Whitehorse for at least one year prior to October 17th. Election Day is scheduled for October 17th.

Here's who's running in Yukon's rural community elections next month (CBC)

Municipal elections in Yukon are set for October 17, with nominations recently closed. Candidates include five for mayor and 18 for council in Whitehorse, along with various candidates in Dawson City, Faro, Haines Junction, Mayo, and Watson Lake. Notably, Dawson City has three mayoral candidates, while Faro has two. Several incumbents are seeking re-election across different communities.

5 people running for mayor in Whitehorse, 18 for council (CBC)

In the upcoming municipal election on October 17, Whitehorse will have five candidates running for mayor and eighteen candidates vying for six council seats, with only one current councillor seeking re-election. The current mayor, Laura Cabott, is not running for a second term. Voter registration is encouraged for Canadian citizens aged 18 or older who have lived in Whitehorse for at least one year.

Whitehorse city council candidates announced (Yukon News)

The candidates for the Whitehorse City Council election, scheduled for October 17, have been announced following the closure of nominations. The mayoral candidates include Kirk Cameron, Dino Rudniski, Dan Bushnell, Stephen Kwok, and Jack Bogaard. City council candidates include Ken Schick, Tony Lundgaard, Gary Smith, Daniel Schneider, and several others. The order of names on the ballot was determined by a random selection process.

Health

Ministers Boissonnault and Holland announce major investment to expand access to French-language health services in Yukon (Government of Canada)

Ministers Boissonnault and Holland announced a nearly $2.5 million investment to enhance access to French-language health services in Yukon over five years. The project aims to improve service delivery through data collection and digital solutions, ensuring that Francophone Yukoners can receive healthcare in their preferred language. This initiative is part of the Canada–Yukon French-Language Services Agreement and aligns with the broader Action Plan for Official Languages.

Infrastructure

Another season nearly over for Dawson City's aging George Black ferry (CBC)

The George Black ferry in Dawson City, operational since 1967, will conclude its season on October 15, 2024. This year saw few interruptions despite past mechanical and staffing issues. Officials are exploring alternative river crossing options for residents during freeze-up, especially after last winter's ice road challenges. Discussions regarding the ferry's future and recommendations for the river crossing are expected next year.

‘Very few’ telecom complaints filed from Yukon to national complaint body (Yukon News)

The national complaint body for telecommunications received only three complaints from Yukon residents between September 2023 and August 2024, despite ongoing issues with wireless service. Yukon Premier Ranj Pillai has called on Rogers and TELUS to compensate residents for poor service, but Rogers noted it does not operate in Yukon. Rogers is supporting local carriers to improve service, while TELUS is gathering customer feedback through a new website.

Governments of Canada and Yukon announce the renewal of the Canada Community-Building Fund for the next 10 years (Government of Yukon)

The governments of Canada and Yukon have renewed the Canada Community-Building Fund (CCBF) for 10 years, providing over $200 million to support local infrastructure projects. The Yukon will receive $94.5 million in the first five years, enabling First Nations, municipalities, and unincorporated communities to enhance critical infrastructure. This funding aims to address housing development and community needs, with a total of $26.7 billion allocated across Canada over the next decade.

Mining

Infrastructure funds for B.C. and Yukon, progress at McIlvenna Bay and a major zero-emission partnership (CIM Magazine)

Recent mining news includes a $60 million Canadian government funding for critical minerals infrastructure in B.C. and Yukon, Fortescue's $2.8 billion deal with Liebherr for zero-emission machines, and progress on the McIlvenna Bay project by Foran Mining. Additionally, Rio Tinto is offering early termination for Diavik mine employees, while Electra Battery Materials has produced high-purity lithium carbonate. Nouveau Monde Graphite is advancing its Matawinie mine with a new substation, and initiatives like Alberta Innovates' Bitumen Beyond Combustion program aim to diversify bitumen uses.

Sports

Mara Roldan to represent Canada at UCI Road World Championships in Zurich (Yukon News)

Mara Roldan, the first woman from Yukon to join a professional cycling team, will represent Canada at the UCI Road World Championships in Zurich. Competing on the under-23 elite team, she is the only territorial representative among 15 athletes. Roldan has had a successful 2023 season with multiple podium finishes and has signed with Cynisca Cycling for 2024. She will participate in the mixed relay time trial and the Women Elite Road Race during the championships.

Outstanding recreation leaders honoured at 24th Annual Recreation Gathering (Government of Yukon)

The 24th Annual Recreation Gathering in Whitehorse celebrated outstanding recreation leaders in Yukon, honoring Janice Cliff, Verna Nukon, and Courtney Terriah for their significant contributions to community recreation. The event, themed "Reimagining Outdoor Active Recreation," facilitated networking and professional development for recreation leaders, supported by the Government of Yukon, which provided $23,800 for the gathering. The event highlighted the importance of recreation in fostering healthy communities and featured various workshops and presentations.

Technology

Okanagan startup carves technology path at B.C./Yukon ski resorts (Summerland Review)

skiKrumb is a GPS tracking device designed for skiers, allowing parents to keep track of their children on ski hills. Developed by Keith MacIntyre after a personal experience of losing sight of his son while skiing, the device transmits location data via low-frequency radio, overcoming the limitations of traditional cell networks in ski environments. Launched last year, skiKrumb is currently used at several ski resorts and has received positive feedback, with plans for expansion to more resorts in Canada and the U.S. It was recognized as a top startup in the New Ventures BC Competition.

Tourism

Minister Dan Vandal announces an investment of over $800,000 supporting the growth of the tourism industry across the North (Government of Canada)

Minister Dan Vandal announced an investment of over $800,000 to enhance the tourism industry across Northern Canada, supporting seven businesses and organizations in upgrading infrastructure, promoting eco-tourism, and expanding services. This funding aims to create jobs, support local communities, and position the North as a premier travel destination, aligning with World Tourism Day's goals of fostering peace and cultural understanding.

CanNor investment of over $800,000 supports seven tourism projects across the North (Government of Canada)

The Government of Canada is investing over $800,000 through CanNor to support seven tourism projects across the North, aiming to enhance infrastructure, eco-tourism, and Indigenous cultural experiences. Key projects include upgrades for Arctic Bay Adventures, tourism infrastructure improvements in Tuktoyaktuk, expansion of Castaway Cottages, development of an online booking platform by Wintergreen Travel, summer tour expansion for Josie's Old Crow Adventures, glamping experiences by Friends of Mt. Sima Society, and new winter tourism offerings by Terre Boréale Inc.

Statement from Minister Streicker on World Tourism Day (Government of Yukon)

Minister John Streicker's statement on World Tourism Day emphasizes the significance of the tourism sector in the Yukon, contributing over five percent to the GDP and showcasing the region's unique history and culture. He highlights this year's theme, "Tourism and Peace," which promotes understanding through travel, and encourages support for inclusive and sustainable tourism initiatives.