Weather and Ship groundings make narrative of Port Edward's October update

The District of Port Edward has outlined its notes from September
for the Community, as well as what's on for tonight's District Council agenda
(photo from District of Port Edward)

The most recent bit of information sharing from District of Port Edward Mayor Knut Bjorndal took note of the volume of precipitation that fell in the region in September, as well as the main theme for September in the District of themes related to the grounding of two vessels which impacted on the community's boat launch on Porpoise Drive.

Noting of the challenges of climate change and extreme weather, the Mayor outlined the measures the District is taking and what residents can do to help out.

As we rebuild our streets in Port Edward we aim to design improve storm water management as we can expect more precipitation and more extreme weather over time. The long -term forecast for the Pacific Northwest shows above normal temperatures and above normal precipitation. 

It is imperative that in extreme weather events that residents inspect perimeter drainage on properties and please do report any clogged storm drains to the municipal office for follow up.

The update on the status of the two vessels, provided a look at what the District and Port have done to date to address the short term situation of the grounding, as well as to what the path forward may be.

The two vessels that broke loose on September the 8th at the former Tenerife site have been secured for the time being. The vessel “MV Fairwind” has been re-anchored and is still of concern as it contains oil and diesel fuel. The barge, Scotch Cap has been beached next to the boat launch. It is still an environmental hazard but cannot drift free. It is tethered to the beach. 

The Port of Prince Rupert is working on a solution to remove the barge. We should know in the very near future as to the Ports plans. The Coast Guard and PRPA have assured us that the area is now safe and the boat ramp is now reopened.

Mr. Bjorndal also provided residents with some notes on the recent UBCM sessions, and what the Port achieved through the Zoom sessions of September.

The District had three very positive meetings with the Minister Attorney General; Minister Forest, Lands, Natural Resources Operations & Rural Development; and Northern Health. 

The topics were regional housing crisis & housing in Port Edward, crown land maintenance, abandoned vessels on Porpoise Harbour, and medical care services.

The full October newsletter can be reviewed here.

Tonight marks the next session for the District Council, which hosts their meeting later this evening at 7PM with residents invited to participate by Zoom.

Noting of some technical issues related to the District website, the agenda for the session tonight has not been posted to its regular space; however a Social Media advisory outlines how residents can access the talking points for tonight.

Among the items of note list include:

Request for a Grant in Aid from Hallowe'een Fest Society

Request for a Grant in Aid from Prince Rupert Minor Basketball

Report from the CAO related to Repair and monitoring for Port Edward School

Report from Corporate Administration related to Shipping Containers

More notes on the District can be explored from our archive page.