Ten Year Settlement Agreement Provides Certainty for All Parties
PRINCE RUPERT, JUNE 16th, 2026 – The City of Prince Rupert, the District of Port Edward, and the Prince Rupert Port Authority (PRPA) have reached a landmark 10-year agreement that establishes a stable, predictable, and collaborative framework for Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) on undeveloped port lands. This unprecedented agreement provides long-term certainty for all parties and reinforces the strong partnership between the Port and its municipal neighbours as they work together to support continued economic growth in the region.
Mayor Herb Pond and Mayor Knut Bjorndal both welcome the agreement, noting its importance for supporting greater budgeting confidence moving ahead.
“This resolution brings certainty for everyone involved and allows us to move forward together,” said Mayor Herb Pond. “Stability is what we need to keep our laser focus on infrastructure renewal and being an attractive host community.”
“We’re happy to be part of this resolution,” said Mayor Knut Bjorndal. “As our region grows, this extra budget security lets us put our mind to the role that Port Edward can play.”
The resolution also provides greater financial certainty to the Port Authority and allows all three community partners to focus on growing the trade gateway together.
"It's an exciting time for our region,” said Kurt Slocombe, President & CEO, PRPA. “With the City, District and Port now aligned on this topic, we are even better positioned to grow opportunities in northwest BC.”
The City and District look forward to continued partnership with PRPA as work continues to support economic growth and community well‑being.
BACKGROUND:
Payments in Lieu of Taxes are payments made using local property tax rates by the Port Authority and other Federal entities on undeveloped Federally-held properties within municipal taxation boundaries. Once a property is developed and leased, it becomes taxable and no longer subject to the PILT Act.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Veronika Stewart, Manager of Communications, Engagement and Social Development
City of Prince Rupert
Office: (250) 627 0976
Cell: (778) 884 6285
Email: veronika.stewart@princerupert.ca
Monika Cote, Director of Public Affairs and Communications
Prince Rupert Port Authority
Office: (250) 627 2550
Email: mcote@rupertport.com
Mark Brown, Chief Administrative Officer,
District of Port Edward
Office: (250) 628 3667
Email: CAO@portedward.ca