Local elected officials from the city, the province, the federal government and Lheidli T'enneh First Nation have signed an agreement aimed at addressing regional priorities together.
A key focus will be the need for improved mental health and addiction treatment options in the area.
The MOU was signed by MP Bob Zimmer, MP Todd Doherty, MLA Shirley Bond, MLA Mike Morris, Chief Dolleen Logan of the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation, Prince George Mayor Simon Yu, and Regional District of Fraser-Fort George Chair Lara Beckett.
It reads: "We, the undersigned, recognize the challenges our region faces as compounding crises in healthcare, mental health, addictions and natural disasters continue to impact Canada, British Columbia and our region. We recognize that these issues overlap with all levels of jurisdiction and need joint leadership. We commit to working together as representatives from five orders of government to address these issues. Taking a regional approach, we commit our efforts to establishing the necessary regional services for the area to flourish.
The MOU outlines the following regional priorities:
- Expanding addiction treatment options, with a focus on establishing a regional treatment centre;
- Enhancing regional healthcare services, particularly in staffing;
- Ensuring timely public safety responses that address both immediate needs and root causes; and
- Promoting economic development opportunities, including tools to address local infrastructure.
At its July 22 meeting, city council resolved to organize discussions with local representatives from all orders of government to develop a memorandum of understanding on these issues.
“It is crucial for all levels of government to work together in unison for the community, rather than operating in silos,” said Yu.
