Despite approval, Hudson’s Hope continues negotiations with BC Hydro

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – The District of Hudson’s Hope has approved a slew of motions following the conclusion of the loan authorization bylaw for a new permanent water treatment plant.

During the October 7th general council meeting, Mayor Travous Quibell and councillors spoke about the results of the Water Treatment Plant Loan Authorization Bylaw assent vote, which would authorize the district to borrow almost $5 million for the construction of a new water treatment plant. 

Voting was completed on October 5th, with 134 votes cast in favor and 107 votes against the bylaw, which, according to district staff, was a 45 per cent voter turnout. 

Residents of the district have previously voiced their disagreement with the district having to shoulder the cost of the plant at an open house held by the district, a roadside gathering intended to intercept two visiting BC Hydro executives, and during an interview with CBC on September 16th. 

A communication from BC Hydro was received and released by the district the day before voting, with the utility offering both logistical and financial support for the project. 

BC Hydro offered to cover the monthly cost of the rental clarifier, approximately $30,000 a month, and transfer ownership of the raw water intake to the district. 

The utility also offered to fully fund the construction and completion of the surface water treatment system and provide logistical support with project management, lead procurement, and construction. 

When discussing the vote results, Councillor Tashana Winnicky assured residents that despite their approval to borrow funds, BC Hydro’s offer remains on the table.

“The offer that’s on the table from BC Hydro, although substantial, is not cemented at this point. And until we have solidified language that ensures that we can complete a permanent water treatment plant, we will be following forward with the assent vote to ensure that no matter what, we can get to a clean drinking water status,” Councillor Tashana Winnicky said. 

Mayor Quibell also highlighted the ‘tight and strict’ timeline surrounding the borrowing bylaw.

“If we don’t continue down the path, we won’t make the timeline for the next round of borrowing with [the Municipal Finance Authority of B.C],” Quibell said. 

Quibell explained that the agreement has not been completely fleshed out, nor has it been signed by either party. 

The council unanimously voted to adopt the Bylaw, continue negotiating with BC Hydro regarding their offer, and complete the application with the finance authority for their next round of borrowing. 

To read the full staff report included in the October 7th council agenda, view page 27 in the package linked below.