This coverage is from the Northern Sentinel and the original article can be found here.
Quinn Bender
Residents across northwest B.C. can now track local infrastructure projects more easily through a new interactive map launched by the Northwest BC Resource Benefits Alliance (RBA) on June 24.
“We’re putting it toward a lot of projects. We’re very happy with the share of the RBA money,” said Kitimat Mayor Phil Germuth.
As of press time, Kitimat’s projects had not yet been uploaded to the site. However, the district said they would be added soon and provided a full list of local projects sharing $5,340,000 of RBA funding.
Infrastructure upgrades include $2.8 million for water treatment unit construction. Public safety and emergency services will receive $250,000 for the detailed design of a public safety building replacement and $200,000 for training props and natural gas infrastructure replacement at the firefighting training grounds. Another $150,000 has been allocated for operations related to First Nation outreach projects and initiatives, specifically covering wages and benefits for the Indigenous Relations Manager.
Recreation projects include $400,000 for fire damage repairs at the ice rink, $600,000 for pickleball court construction, $300,000 for racquetball court perimeter drain repairs and re-waterproofing, and $150,000 for spray park design. The pool arena condenser replacement is allocated $380,000, and LED lighting upgrades are budgeted at $110,000.
Kitimat is slated to receive $19,551,818 over the next five years through the agreement.
The interactive website highlights 53 infrastructure projects across RBA member governments funded through the province’s $250-million investment from the 2024 Northwest BC Regional Funding Agreement. The map shows projects that are planned, underway or completed, and includes images and statistics for each.
“With this landmark investment, the RBA local governments are empowered to shape the region’s future by driving economic growth, creating well-paying jobs, and building vibrant communities that will thrive for generations to come,” the RBA stated.
The alliance also emphasized its commitment to strengthening relationships with neighbouring First Nations through projects that support reconciliation and shared prosperity.
“As many long-overdue infrastructure projects now get underway, the RBA is continuing to work in close partnership with the province as proud collaborators in the economic development of our region,” the RBA stated. “Our goal is to ensure that the communities supporting B.C.’s industrial development receive equitable, long-term funding from these developments in order to meet the region’s infrastructure and service needs.”
Formed in 2014, the RBA includes 21 local governments—three regional districts and their 18 member municipalities—seeking a fair share of revenues from resource developments in the northwest. The alliance was established to address the challenge of small municipalities providing essential services to industries located outside their boundaries, with tax dollars often flowing elsewhere.
For more information or to explore the interactive map, visit nwresourcebenefits.ca.
