Effective at noon on Thursday, July 6, 2017, all open fires (including campfires) will be prohibited throughout the Coastal Fire Centre’s jurisdiction, with the exception of Haida Gwaii and the area known as the “Fog Zone”.

Local governments in Parksville-Qualicum are receiving federal-provincial investments in critical clean water and wastewater infrastructure, announced Parksville-Qualicum MLA Michelle Stilwell on behalf of Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Peter Fassbender.

Seniors and people with disabilities living on low-to moderate-incomes will soon have increased access to affordable housing in Parksville, with construction underway of Kingsley Manor.

The Province has committed $30,000 in project development funding to the Island Crisis Care Society (ICCS) for the creation of an affordable rental housing project, including a shelter.

Visitors will soon have more camping opportunities on Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast, with the completion of more than 100 new campsites in time for the upcoming camping season.

Students in the Qualicum School District are connecting with skills and technology training development thanks to a $17,500 grant to the district from the Province’s Shoulder Tappers Program.

Students, teachers and staff at three schools in the Qualicum school district will benefit from $202,300 in provincial School Enhancement Program funding.

Families in the Qualicum school district will no longer pay fees for students riding school buses within their schools’ catchment area thanks to $426,341 in funding under the new provincial Student Transportation Fund.

Effective at noon on Sept. 1, 2016, campfires and Category 3 open fires will once again be permitted throughout the Coastal Fire Centre’s jurisdiction.

Joan LeMoine, a well-known Parksville citizen and community ambassador, was presented with the province’s newest honour, the Medal of Good Citizenship.