Water Treatment is Key Issue for City Representatives at the Union of BC Municipalities Conference
PRINCE RUPERT, B.C., SEPTEMBER 23rd, 2025 – Senior staff and members of Prince Rupert City Council are actively engaging with Provincial ministries this week at the annual Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) conference, advocating for strategic investments and policy changes vital to the future of the North Coast region.
“We’re here to ensure that the voices of northern communities are heard loud and clear,” said Mayor Herb Pond. “Prince Rupert has immense potential, but we need the Province to partner with us in unlocking it—starting with clean water, reliable health care, and infrastructure that supports sustainable growth.”
The City’s delegation is presenting a united front on a range of pressing issues, including:
- Water Treatment Infrastructure: To underscore the urgency of upgrading Prince Rupert’s water system, the delegation brought physical samples of municipal water collected in August, along with five years of data highlighting the frequency of water quality notices. These materials illustrate the need for immediate provincial support in funding a modern treatment facility.
- Health Care Recruitment and Investment: With ongoing challenges in attracting and retaining medical professionals, the City is urging the Province to prioritize health care recruitment strategies and targeted investments that reflect the unique needs of remote communities.
- Port Property Tax Caps: The City is calling for an equitable resolution to the Provincial Ports Property Tax Act, which has long constrained municipal revenues and impacted Prince Rupert’s ability to fund essential services.
- Highway 16 Corridor Upgrades: Improvements to the 2nd Avenue segment of Highway 16 are a key priority, with the City seeking funding commitments to enhance safety, accessibility, and long-term resilience of this critical transportation corridor.
- Power Transmission for Low-Carbon Economy: In alignment with Provincial climate goals, Prince Rupert is advocating for upgrades to regional power transmission infrastructure to support the development of a low-carbon fuel economy and attract clean energy industries to the North Coast.
Senior Staff are also engaging in dialogue on other regional concerns with Ministry staff, including housing, emergency preparedness, and cruise industry impacts. These meetings reflect the City’s commitment to proactive leadership and collaborative problem-solving with senior levels of government.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Veronika Stewart, Manager of Communications, Engagement and Social Development
Office: (250) 627 0976
Cell: (778) 884 6285
Email: veronika.stewart@princerupert.ca