PRRD seeks community input on future of Jackfish Community Hall

CHETWYND, B.C. — The Peace River Regional District (PRRD) is asking residents for feedback on the future of the Jackfish Community Hall.

In a press release, the PRRD said the facility, located outside Chetwynd at 1515 Old Jackfish Road, requires significant work following a 2021 assessment and additional damage caused by a heating failure in January 2024. 

Improvements are needed for fire safety, accessibility and overall maintenance, but the PRRD determined in a report last year the hall currently lacks sustainable funding and relies on grants and fundraising.

The PRRD is hosting a community meeting on September 9th at 6:30 p.m. in the Tamarack Room at the Chetwynd and District Recreation Centre. 

Residents can also provide input through an online survey, available until September 15th at 4:30 p.m.

Paper surveys will be available at the meeting, as well as at PRRD offices in Dawson Creek and Fort St. John. Printed copies can also be requested by emailing communications@prrd.bc.ca. 

The PRRD regional board will use feedback from the community meeting and surveys to decide whether to repair, repurpose or potentially close the facility.

They may also determine if a dedicated funding plan, possibly through taxation, is supported by the community.