PRINCE RUPERT, B.C. – For a leader tasked with navigating Prince Rupert through an unprecedented economic boom, Mayor Herb Pond draws on a deep reservoir of local history—his own. Having first arrived in the city in 1988, his journey from community volunteer to a third-term mayor gives him a unique perspective on the monumental changes reshaping the North Coast.
Pond is at the helm of a city in the midst of a $3 billion industrial expansion. Yet, his focus remains squarely on the community he has been a part of for over 35 years. Before ever entering politics, he was known for his hands-on involvement, owning small businesses and championing local causes from seniors’ housing at Cedar Village to student bursaries.
That community-first approach defined his initial tenure as mayor from 2002 to 2008. It was during this period that his administration laid the groundwork for today’s prosperity. They were instrumental in securing the Fairview Container Terminal, the economic engine of the modern port, and developing the Northland Cruise Terminal, which for years was a vital pillar of the tourism economy. Just as critically, his council cleared the way for crucial social projects, including the Acropolis Manor seniors’ care home and the Ravens Keep Transition House, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to the well-being of residents.
After a 14-year hiatus where he gained senior executive experience in the private resource sector, Pond returned to the mayor’s chair in 2022. He came back to a city with incredible opportunities but also facing critical challenges.
Since his return, his administration’s list of accomplishments is substantial. They have:
- Spearheaded the city’s massive, multi-million-dollar water and sewer infrastructure replacement, successfully securing over $125 million in federal and provincial grants to tackle the century-old problem without overwhelming local taxpayers.
- Played a key leadership role in the Northwest BC Resource Benefits Alliance (NWBCRBA), which culminated in a historic agreement to deliver $250 million in shared resource revenues to 21 northern communities. Pond has called this a “game-changer” for regional infrastructure.
- Overseen new housing developments and critical infrastructure upgrades, like the 3rd Avenue roundabout, to manage the impacts of a growing population.
Known for his collaborative style, Mayor Pond consistently credits these successes to strong partnerships with the Ts’msyen Nation, industry, and senior levels of government. His leadership today is a direct reflection of his long journey—from an engaged citizen in the 1980s to the experienced helmsman of the 21st century, guiding his long-time home toward a prosperous and resilient future.
