The mayors of Vanderhoof, Fort St. James, Prince George, Mackenzie, and Dawson Creek, as well as representatives from the Regional Districts of Fraser-Fort George, Cariboo and Bulkley-Nechako met with Premier John Horgan on Dec 8, 2017. Photo submitted

The mayors of Vanderhoof, Fort St. James, Prince George, Mackenzie, and Dawson Creek, as well as representatives from the Regional Districts of Fraser-Fort George, Cariboo and Bulkley-Nechako met with Premier John Horgan on Dec 8, 2017. Photo submitted

Mayors meet with B.C. Premier

Roundtable with John Horgan to discuss northern issues

A number of local mayors and regional district staff met with Premier John Horgan in Prince George last Friday to discuss issues important to our region and communities such as the summer wildfires, forestry (softwood lumber, timber supply, fir beetle infestations), bioenergy, trade, mining, oil and gas, seniors housing, watershed issues, transportation infrastructure, education, healthcare, hospitals, mental health resources, the opiod crisis and the pending legalization of marijuana.

“He came to hear our challenges, and was very engaged,” said Vanderhoof Mayor Gerry Thiessen.

The purpose of the meeting, organised by Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson and hosted by Prince George Mayor Lyn Hall, was to open up the lines of communication

between the provincial government and local governments.

Hall said the 90-minute meeting was productive and that going forward, continued discussions with the premier and his cabinet ministers as well as Liberal MLAs Shirley Bond and Mike Morris, will ensure the province is looking out for the best interests of in north central B.C.

“We just wanted to make sure we got our message out about what’s happening in this area,” said Hall.

Vanderhoof Omineca Express