Peace River Town Council met on Monday, November 24, addressing several key matters ranging from social services and public safety to utility rates, economic development, and regional education.
One of the most significant discussions involved the Sagitawa Friendship Society’s request for Council to reconsider its previously defeated motion to provide a letter of support for the organization’s application for Temporary Emergency Responses Measures (TERM) funding. TERM funding would support the operation of a 24/7 shelter.
Council directed Administration to send a letter to Sagitawa confirming that its stance remains unchanged and the Town will not be providing a letter of support. Council noted its awareness that Sagitawa has separately received funding to run its out-of-the-cold shelter from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. through November to April. Council emphasized that the decision was not made lightly, pointing to the need to balance community concerns with recognition of the important work Sagitawa provides for vulnerable residents. Council expressed hope that concerns related to community safety will be addressed throughout the winter season.
Council also passed first reading of the 2026 Utility Rates Bylaw. The bylaw proposes rate increases intended to move the Town toward full cost recovery for water and sewer utilities by 2029. Achieving this goal requires average annual increases of 9.7% for water and 10.1% for sewer between 2025 and 2029. By passing first reading, Council will now open the issue for community feedback before making any final decision at a future meeting.
In economic development discussions, Council approved allocating $115,000 as matching funds should the Town’s grant application to the Northern Regional Economic Development Program be successful. The funding would support a tourism marketing campaign aligned with recommendations from the Roger Brooks Destination Development Study. The project’s estimated cost ranges from $170,000 to $230,000, with spending planned for 2026 and 2027 if the grant is awarded.
Lastly, Council directed Administration to issue a letter of support advocating for the Northwestern Polytechnic Fairview campus to remain open, following recent news of potential closure.
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