Is The British Columbia Government stealing from taxpayers to subsidize the privatization of public Forrest Service Recreation Sites? Read the Liability paragraph.
Source: Powell River ON-Line

"Ministry of Forests - Rec. Sites and Trails & Liability
Thursday, March 20 2003 @ 03:11 AM PST

 

A letter from Doug Konkin, Assistant Deputy Minister, Operations Division and BC Timber Sales, with regard to the above subject.   Part of the letter reads as follows:

 

"As you are aware, the ministry is currently searching for partners such as community groups, outdoor recreation organizations, forest companies, First Nations, regional districts and other parties to take over the maintenance of Forrest Service recreation sites and trails.  These partners will manage recreation sites and trails under agreement with community organizations and forest companies and many other groups are also stepping forward.



A Request for Proposal to solicit interest from potential partners was posted on the BC Bid website at: http://www.bcbid.gov.bc.ca/data/itqs/50_REC-0001.htm in October 2002.  Forest Districts began advertising the Request for Proposals in local newspapers in late October/early November of last year.  Unfortunately, the deadline for submitting proposals has passed.  We are currently evaluating submitted proposals and will be negotiating partnerships agreements during the period of January to March 2003.  Service delivery is scheduled to begin April 2003.

 

Nevertheless, I encourage you to contact local Forest Service district offices directly to express your interest in managing any specific roads or trails within the districts.  I expect there will be opportunities for your organization to participate in this process.   Thank you for your letter."

 

LIABILITY:

 

"In cooperation with the Ministry of  Finance the Forest Service has developed an insurance program to address your concerns.  As indicated in our recently re-advertised request for proposals, the Ministry will arrange for Commercial General Liability insurance for successful proponents at no cost.  Your regional recreation officer should be able to provide information on this or you can contact Bill Marshall in Victoria at 250-387-8382.    

                                                                                                                      Doug Konkin, Asst. Deputy Minister"