The Mayor's Economic Update and Dinner on Thursday night, March 12, 2026, brought together local leaders and business owners. The event was hosted by the Chetwynd Chamber of Commerce. Allen Courtoreille addressed the audience directly with local issues. Thirty-six companies were represented.
Mayor Allen discussed the main initiatives the municipality is pursuing. These included community services, public safety, infrastructure, and economic development.
One topic was infrastructure. The mayor gave the audience an update on the water and sewer systems. A $1.7 million award will be used to repair the water system. There was a building season for the Public Works department. The recreation center was repainted. The library was also demolished. Roads, parks, and buildings are still being upgraded by the town.
Additional improvements highlighted included safety upgrades to sidewalks, repainting along the south side access road near Duz Cho, and continued investment in community spaces such as the community centre and parks.
The Mayor also talked about how we need to be safe. The Fire Department had to go to 166 emergencies. This shows that we need volunteer firefighters to help keep our community safe. Especially, with all the wildfires we have been having. The Mayor wants people to think about volunteering to be a firefighter. He said that the staff and volunteers are very important when it comes to keeping us safe in an emergency. The Mayor wants people to volunteer to help the Fire Department and the community. The community needs people to help with safety and emergency response.
Recognition was also given to staff and volunteers for their hard work in delivering services and moving forward important projects. The Mayor said that without their help many projects wouldn't happen.
Other topics discussed were updates on the building improvement program. This program has helped 32 businesses over six years by giving them money to improve their building fronts. There were also talks, about housing, recreation and community development.
The session also covered opportunities and challenges. This included new industrial developments how transportation might be affected and long-term plans to make the local economy stronger. Staff and volunteers efforts are crucial.
They help with delivering services and advancing projects.
The importance of open communication and community engagement was emphasized as the evening came to a close with a question-and-answer period where attendees could voice concerns, ask questions, and share ideas directly with the mayor and municipal staff.
Watch the full video on our youtube channel: https://youtu.be/FRVnohW-KzM
More Pictures: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1NAWdnVcHA/
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