From the Bear Pit Council Newsletter: April 14, 2025

From the Bear Pit

Council News

Publication Date: April 22, 2025

Special Regional Council April 9, 2025

Discussion with Enbridge

Enbridge opened the discussion with Regional Council to explore the flow of gas north to Fort Nelson, highlighting both the technical feasibility and regulatory progress underway. The conversation included updates on several key pipeline projects—such as the Aspen Point and Sunrise Expansion—that aim to enhance capacity and improve access to international markets. There was also discussion around the deactivated Pointed Mountain section of pipeline between Nahanni Butte and Fort Liard, with plans to begin removal and clean-up work this June following approvals and engagement with local First Nations. Enbridge emphasized its commitment to working with local and Indigenous contractors and acknowledged past successful collaborations. The discussion also covered temporary gas service solutions during recent supply disruptions and the engineering assessments planned for 2025–2026 to evaluate long-term viability.

Video Recording

Regional Council April 14, 2025

NRRM Water Week Proclaimed May 4-10, 2025

Clean and safe drinking water is essential for our health. To keep it that way, we need strong environmental protection, good treatment systems, and well-maintained pipes and infrastructure. Everyone has a role to play in protecting our water—from using it wisely to keeping it clean and learning about local water issues. Governments and organizations at all levels support efforts to protect water and manage wastewater responsibly.

To help raise awareness about the importance of drinking water, the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality declares May 4–10, 2025, as “NRRM Water Week."

Proclamation | Video Recording

First Quarter of Staff Service Awards

The NRRM is proud to acknowledge two dedicated members of the Northern Rockies Fire Rescue team for their outstanding service. Firefighter Gregory Buck was recognized for 10 years of full-time service, while Todd Brodie was celebrated for 15 years of part-time service.

Video Recording

FoodCycler Expansion Program Update April 2025

Sales have been slower in this round, with 17 units sold so far. To encourage more participation, Council supported reducing the order to 40 large units and offering them at a lower price of $50 each. This option increases accessibility and avoids units sitting unused.

If delivery timelines allow, units will be available for demo and sale at the upcoming tradeshow. A webinar may also be offered by FoodCycler to help with promotion. The reduced cost will be supported through available Local Government Climate Action Program (LGCAP) grant funding.

Admin Report #20/25 | Video Recording

Rural Community Immigration Project Staff Report

The NRRM will enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Community Futures Peace Liard to support the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP).

Regional Development staff will help review and approve local employers who want to join the program. The Fort Nelson Chamber of Commerce has also been involved and will continue to support.

So far, 18 local businesses are interested, representing 17 job categories allowed in the program, and that could increase depending on the roles employees take on.

The time commitment for NRRM staff is estimated at 60–70 hours, including training and backup.

This program is seen as a positive step for local economic development and helping businesses maintain the staff they need in positions they already fill in our community.

Admin Report #21/25 | Memorandum of Understanding | Video Recording

Development Variance Permit Application - 4501 55th Street

The owner of 4501 55th Street requested a variance to use chip seal instead of asphalt to meet the paving requirements of parking areas on the property within Zoning Bylaw No. 119, 2016.

Council had previously proposed a possible maintenance agreement with the applicant, but the applicant opted to advance the application to a decision without considering an agreement. Without that agreement, staff recommended denial to avoid setting a precedent.

Council voted in favour of the recommendation — 3 supported the denial, while 2 were opposed. Some members suggested revisiting paving standards in the future, but agreed that consistency with the current bylaw is important for now.

Admin Report #22/25 | Site Photos | Video Recording

Parker Lake Recreation Site Projects 2025

Originally scheduled to be presented on May 13, 2024, but delayed due to community evacuation, an update was shared on upcoming improvements to the Parker Lake Recreation Site.

Following public feedback collected through a 2023 survey, Recreation Sites & Trails BC (RSTBC) has confirmed that work will begin in summer 2025. Planned upgrades include:

Expanding and clearly defining the parking and recreation areas
Adding and upgrading picnic tables
Improving and extending the dock
Enhancing the fire pit area
Installing a new information kiosk

Additional future projects may be considered based on public use and respectful maintenance of the area, including along the east lake access road. NRRM will continue working with Rec, Sites and Trails BC to keep the public informed as work progresses.

Admin Report #23/25 | Video Recording

North Central Local Government Association Appointment

Following Councillor Gerwing’s retirement from the NCLGA board, Councillor Enax has been appointed as the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality’s representative. Councillor Enax looks forward to participating in upcoming meetings and events with the organization and will attend the upcoming AGM in Prince Rupert, BC this May.

Video Recording

Correspondence

For Information

Letter from Flora Clark, Chair, Fort Nelson Public Library Board

Support for Continued Funding of Non-Profit Organizations