The City of Terrace wants to keep a closer eye on BC Hydro’s proposed North Coast transmission line, as questions remain about how much input local governments are actually having.
The issue came up during a report from the Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine at Monday’s council meeting, where Mayor Sean Bujtas asked staff whether the city has been involved in discussions about the project.
Development Services Director David Block said the city has had limited contact so far.
“We’ve had a bit of interaction, some of it coming from consultants working on the project,” he said. “One recently reached out to our roads foreman asking some questions.”
Block added that the city has also been included in early conversations around potential work camp locations.
“Our economic development manager was involved with BC Hydro when they were looking at work camp locations, and the KDC lands are one of the sites being considered,” he said. “But we haven’t heard anything more.”
Bujtas said the project should remain on the city’s radar moving forward.
“I just think we need to flag this and monitor this project,” he said.
Councillor James Cordeiro also raised concerns about whether BC Hydro is meaningfully incorporating feedback from communities.
“BC Hydro mentioned they are hearing from local governments, but they didn’t really have strong answers on whether they’re actually listening to local governments,” he said.
Cordeiro questioned whether concerns raised by municipalities are leading to any real changes.
“Are they making any changes or accommodations, or are they just listening to your concerns, but moving full steam ahead with what they’ve already pre-decided to do anyway?”
Council did not make any formal decisions on the matter, but indicated it plans to continue monitoring the project as more information becomes available.
