In the first time since establishing itself in 1910, the City of Prince Rupert has taken the first step toward expanding its municipal boundaries.
“This is a historic event in that the City of Prince Rupert is 103 years old this month, and this is the first time in its history there’s been a boundary expansion proposed,” Mayor Jack Mussallem said.
The boundary expansion would take in three areas, the first being to the west consisting the Kinahan Islands and most of Digby Island, northwest of Prince Rupert across the harbour will be taken in including Salt Lake, to the west of Metlakatla and the approximate northern limit being Mount Morse. The final parcel will be to the east and will include the Prince Rupert’s water system water shed, meeting Port Edward’s boundaries to the south approximately half way between Prudhomme Lake and Kloya Bay and closing the loop at Galloway Rapids.
Not included in the proposed expansion is the District of Port Edward and Lelu Island, Dodge Cove or Crippin Cove.
The City wants to expand its jurisdiction so future development is orderly and conforms to municipal land use regulations. If successful, other benefits include potential tax revenue from new commercial and industrial developments, increased public access to waterfront property, including Prince Rupert’s watershed within boundaries and protection of view corridors surrounding Prince Rupert.
“The City’s not asserting ownership, its simply asserting rule regulations,” city planner Zeno Krekic said, with Councillor Anna Ashley echoing his thoughts.
“We all know there’s a lot of huge potential developments coming our way… This is making sure we have a say, that we can protect our quality of life and the things that are important to our community and our region. This gives us an opportunity to work with our neighbours,” Ashley said.
The next step of the process will be sending referrals to local governments, such as the Skeena-Queen Charlotte Regional District, the District of Port Edward, Gitxaala Nation, Kitselas First Nation, Kitsumkalum First Nation, Lax Kw’alaams Band, Metlakatla First Nation and the Honourable Steve Thomson. If these bodies have any concerns, they can express them and the City will attempt to resolve issues. All the information would be included in the submission.
“They should worry about managing the land they have before getting more,” Murray Kristoff, Port Edward councillor, said.
Additionally, property owners within the area will be notified. City staff said the only change for landowners in the area would be they would be paying taxes to the City of Prince Rupert instead of the Skeena-Queen Charlotte Regional District.
If the Ministry is satisfied with the submission the next step would be to seek the assent of the electors, either by alternative approval or by referendum.
Corporate administrator Rob Grodecki said it’s unlikely the process will be completed any time soon.
“We might be in for a longer haul,” he said at the meeting.
To keep the public informed on the process, the City has sent up a webpage on its site with information from the report. The City is also planning to host one open house, and two afternoons in a downtown store front. Additionally, staff will be available to make presentations to students and community organizations as requested.