PRRD moves forward with disaster risk reduction efforts

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – The Peace River Regional District (PRRD) board of directors has voted to support an application to the Union of British Columbia Municipalities Disaster Risk Reduction-Climate Adaptation Fund. 

During the December 6th board of directors meeting, directors reviewed, discussed, and approved an application grant to conduct regional risk mapping ‘up to a maximum’ of $1.65 million. 

The grant would support the district in developing regional risk mapping, risk and resilience assessments and planning for development of hazard, risk and vulnerability assessments for climate and natural hazards. 

Area E Director Dan Rose raised concerns about decreasing property values in accordance with risk mapping results, and whether the PRRD would be liable for such property value losses. 

Staff stated that the process would include a consultant conducting high-level hazard mapping, and that any zoning changes across the region would be completed in emergency situations and in response to substantial hazards.

Staff also stated that some municipalities, such as the City of Fort St. John and the District of Taylor, have decided to go a different route, conducting their own targeted hazard mapping but sharing information with the PRRD. 

As of the December 6th board meeting, the PRRD has received verbal and letters of support from Saulteau First Nation, Blueberry River First Nation, Doig River First Nation, Halfway River First Nation, the City of Dawson Creek, the District of Chetwynd, the District of Hudson’s Hope, the District of Tumbler Ridge and the Village of Pouce Coupe. 

The City of Fort St. John and the District of Taylor have confirmed to staff that they will send a letter of support due to the work’s importance to the region.