News and event information for Williams Lake, BC - as it happens.

Chemo RV and Heritage Committee Collaborate on 150 Mile Development

Cariboo Regional District Directors, Heritage Steering Committee, and staff have been working diligently for the past three years on a proposal from Jack and Jason Bell to establish a new location for Chemo RV in the 150 Mile House area.

In 2007,  Jack Bell owner of Chemo RV purchased a property at 150 Mile House as a new location for his RV sales and service dealership. The property was also placed on the CRD heritage register in order to obtain provincial funding to undertake a heritage investigation. At the time of purchase, the property spanned both sides of Borland Creek and included a building, which the BC Provincial Archives revealed was the constable’s residence, jail and courthouse built in 1913.

In 2010, a public hearing was held on the rezoning application, with Jack Bell pledging to retain part of the old smaller barn for use in his business and expressing support for heritage by providing assistance with dedication and limited storage for two of the heritage buildings on his property. Mr. Bell has also agreed to preserve as much of the building materials from the old buildings as possible.

"I would like to welcome Jack and Jason Bell and Chemo RV to the 150 Mile House Community," stated CRD Area F Director, Duncan Barnett. "I would also like to thank Jack for working so closely with the 150 Mile Greenbelt and Trails Society to preserve the historic buildings on his property."

The 150 Mile House Greenbelt and Trails Society will be hosting a meeting on March 23rd at the 150 Mile Community Hall to discuss next steps.

"Our most important asset in life, community and business is our people," says Jack Bell. "This project has been a great example of people working together for the betterment of our communities where we live, work, and play – you just can’t beat it! If anyone in the community wants to come out and lend a hand, please feel free to stop by the site."

"The Chemo development in 150 Mile House is a perfect example of business and the community working together to achieve common goals," says Heritage committee Chair, Joan Sorley. "There are many historical treasures throughout the Cariboo, and we are excited about the opportunity to work with property owners and other stakeholders to assist with heritage conservation."

In 2005, the Cariboo Regional District established a region-wide Heritage Service and Registry. This was an important step in heritage conservation as it provides recognition for historic places and sites which, in turn, aids in planning processes and facilitates access to funding opportunities. During the March 5, 2010 Board meeting, the Board also received the official Statement of Significance for the 150 Mile Court House. This is the first step to listing on the provincial and federal heritage registries.

We are looking for your help in nominating sites of historical significance to the Registry. Completed applications are sent to the Heritage Steering Committee for review and subsequent recommendation to the Board for inclusion on the Registry.

For more information on the Heritage program or for Heritage Nomination Application forms, visit us online at www.cariboord.bc.ca or call the CRD’s Planning department at 250-392- 3351 or toll-free 1-800 665-1636.

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