Underbudget paving projects in Dawson Creek, along with funding from the province’s Peace River Agreement, prompted city council to decide how to allocate more than $3 million in available capital funds.
Most of the additional funding from the Peace River Agreement is directed toward the city’s capital budget, although this year’s increase also influences council’s decisions on the operating budget as well.
Councillors have set a long-term goal of allocating 70 per cent of the funding to capital projects and 30 per cent to operating expenses by 2030. Staff told council this year’s budget remains on track to meet that target.
For the additional $500,000 received from the PRA, city councillor Charlie Parslow suggested allocating it towards the city’s ongoing cenotaph project. Dawson Creek’s monument was installed in 1959 and honours veterans from the First and Second World Wars, according to Veterans Affairs Canada.
Members of the Dawson Creek Cenotaph Revitalization Committee addressed the Peace River Regional District board last November, providing an update on the project. The committee has not finalized a redesign and remains in the public engagement phase.
Also on the agenda during second draft of capital budget talks was how to use surplus funds from previous paving projects.
Between 2022 and 2025, city council allocated funding for roadway and sidewalk paving projects. Those projects came in $3.7 million under budget. Of that amount, $875,000 has been earmarked for lighting upgrades at Kin Park, leaving the city with a remaining surplus of $2.8 million.
Staff presented councillors with a few options, and ultimately it was decided that the funds should be reallocated to other capital projects.
“The council approves a combination of paving and facilities project allocations with a total funded amount not to exceed $2.8 million,” read the motion that was passed.
Before this year’s budget is approved, residents are welcome to provide feedback.
On Monday, Feb. 9, residents are invited to attend council chambers st City Hall to speak with councillors and Mayor Darcy Dober.
Anyone looking for specific information is encouraged to contact the city with their questions in advance.
