Council spends $30K+ on conference, events and travel expenses so far in 2026

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The city council has spent more than $30,000 on conferences, events and travel expenses so far in 2026. 

The city staff presented the second quarter report on the council’s spending at the July 13 regular council meeting. 

According to the report, the year-to-date funds spent are $38,573.73, and the total funds remaining for Q3 and Q4 are $43,926.27. 

The highest spender to date is Mayor Lilia Hansen, whose expenses totalled $16,130.10. 

These expenses include airfare, vehicle expenses, car rentals, accommodation, general expenses and miscellaneous expenses.  

This is followed by Councillor Tony Zabinsky, who spent $11,177.70; Councillor Gord Klassen, who spent $10,810.93; Councillor Sarah MacDougall, who spent $290; Councillor Trevor Bolin, who spent $125; and Councillor Jim Lequiere, who spent $40. 

The report said Councillor Byron Stewart had no expenses to date. 

These expenses cover events attended between April and June, including the COFI Convention, Creating Energy Conference, FSJ Firefighter’s Charity Ball, BCEDA Economic Summit, NCLGA AGM and Convention, FSJ and District Chamber AGM, BC Chamber of Commerce AGM and Conference, the BCAC Agricultural Forum and travel to meetings and events at neighbouring First Nations communities. 

The report said all expenses are allocated to the Council Memberships and Professional Development account, which covers the council and spouse attendance at local events. 

To read the full report, see below.