City launches Let's Talk Community Foundation engagement

The City of Fort St. John is beginning public consultation over the establishment of a community foundation.

Earlier this year, Council directed staff to investigate how a community foundation could provide long-term support for community challenges. Community groups and individuals are invited to attend the following opportunities to discuss how a community foundation could best fit into Fort St John:

Fort St. John & District Chamber of Commerce Mega Mixer Tradeshow
Wednesday, October 23 | 4 - 7 pm | Drop-in
Pomeroy Hotel and Conference Centre, 11308 Alaska Road

Public Café
Thursday, October 24 | 5:30 - 8 pm | Drop-in
Whole Wheat and Honey Café, 10003 100 Street

"In many other communities, a community foundation assists with the provision of a variety of community needs and opportunities," says Mayor Lori Ackerman. "Council is asking you to explore how a community foundation in Fort St. John would promote giving and provide long-term support for various services and programs that improve the quality of life in our community.”

Council negotiated the Regional Legacy Benefits and the Community Measures Agreement arising from BC Hydro’s Site C dam project. These funds are potential sources of revenue for a community foundation. These agreements will provide approximately $58 million over 70 years. Council hopes to learn how a community foundation could, in addition to supporting local non-profits, help fund Grants-in-Aid and permissive tax exemptions that currently come from the City's operating budget.

Residents are encouraged to visit letstalk.fortstjohn.ca to keep up to date on the Let’s Talk Community Foundation project. An online survey will be available on October 23 for those unable to attend a public event.

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Media Contact:
Ryan Harvey
Communications Coordinator
250-787-8150