Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter
More delays are being experienced by the Town of Peace River in its agreement to obtain ownership of the federal portion of the North End boat launch.
“The previous council had been offered the boat launch land for a nominal sum but also agreed to take over the land if the dock and other items were renovated prior to the transfer by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO),” explains Mayor Elaine Manzer, noting that this included the reconstruction of the boat launch ramp.
“After the town notified DFO that the town was interested in the transfer in 2021, DFO indicated that funds had not been budgeted for the reconstruction of the ramp and it would be deferred for another year. For the two years following this, the Town inquired about this and was told the response was delayed to another budget cycle.”
At its regular meeting Aug. 12, administration informed council that they were told the process would likely take another 18 months.
“Also, the group Small Craft Harbours Branch (SCH) that would have the authority to divest the government of the property has indicated that they are now waiting for approval to be able to do the divesture of the property to the town for the nominal rate,” she explains. “Basically, SCH, nominal authorities from the Treasury Board Secretariate had expired and until they are reinstated, SCH does not have the funds to divest property at nominal rates.”
Manzer says this launch would help to provide a boat launch on the east side of the river and then the town would have two accessible boat launches.
“SCH indicates that since so much time has passed since the initial divesture conversations, that SCH would have to do engagements that would take time, should SCH be given the authority to proceed,” she explains.
“We continue to look for tourism opportunities and boat launches do lend themselves to the possibilities.”