SKEENA REGION – The community of the Skeena region has spoken with a united voice, and now, the responsibility to act rests on the shoulders of the mayors who have the most direct power to influence change, those who preside over our regional airports and economic hubs.
While the #FairFaresSkeena petition has received over 600 signatures, the community’s frustration is now being directed with a laser-like focus at the leadership of the cities and towns with the greatest leverage.
For many residents, that focus has turned to Prince Rupert Mayor Herb Pond. Praised by many for his leadership, he is seen by some as a mayor with the power to make a difference because of the Prince Rupert municipality’s 100% ownership of CityWest, a major telecommunications company that provides services throughout the region. This fact, which gives the City a unique position as both a municipal government and a key economic player, has led many to believe that Mayor Pond has the influence to lead a charge against the airlines.
The call for leadership extends to Kitimat as well. With an unprecedented industry boom and massive investment in the community, Mayor Phil Germuth is being urged to join the cause. His leadership, backed by the economic weight of a thriving community, would be a vital addition to a united front.
The demand is clear: a collective voice must be raised by the mayors of Terrace (Sean Bujtas), Prince Rupert (Herb Pond), Smithers (Gladys Atrill), and Kitimat (Phil Germuth). This issue is a defining challenge for their leadership. The community is not asking for empty promises but for a commitment to work together, to put aside political differences, and to lobby the federal government with a powerful, singular voice.
The petition outlines specific, actionable demands, including the reform of competition rules and a review of federal fees at rural airports. The community has done its part by making its voice heard. Now, it is up to these mayors to prove that they are leaders who will not be grounded by the politics of the past, but who will unite to build a better future for the entire Skeena region.
