As Mayor, I was in direct contact today with Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness Kelly Greene in response to the Minister’s outreach. I expressed our gratitude for the Provincial resources deployed and identified ongoing challenges we will be required to address.
You will have observed the Emergency Operations Centre EOC activity in both the Klatt Emergency building and in a ‘Remote Command’ in the Brunswick area. Our CAO, Ross Blackwell is tasked as the Director of Emergency Operations with the support of the Province, Metro Vancouver Protective Services & Emergency Management staff. Further support continues from multiple agencies and specialists including Lions Bay Fire Rescue, Lions Bay Search & Rescue, the RCMP, Miller Capilano, Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, and Ministry of Transportation and Transit.
The State of Local Emergency declared Sunday evening will continue until further notice to ensure ongoing access to needed resources and expertise. The assistance of geotechnical and structural engineers onsite today allows the search to continue for the second resident lost. This search requires heavy machinery for safe recovery efforts.
The cause of the significant debris flow which originated in Battani Creek in Electoral Area A, at the most northerly border of Lions Bay on Saturday morning, is under investigation. The debris flow swept one residence off its foundation. Two homes above the debris flow located on Goldenrod remain evacuated as a precaution.
Six homes received an ‘evacuation alert’ Monday, September 16th, 2024 to prepare as needed should the Geotechnical Engineer require it.
We extend our deepest sympathies to the family and members of our Community. The family is receiving RCMP Victim Assistance Services. Names of the individuals involved will not be released here without the family’s consent.
We will provide further updates in the coming days as new information becomes available.
Sincerely,
Ken Berry, Mayor
Village of Lions Bay