Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission is comprised of the Regional Board Directors for the six electoral areas and municipalities of Stewart, Hazelton and New Hazelton. The Commission focuses on policy affecting economic development in the region and has some funds for economic development research and marketing. Recent priority funding areas have been tourism, mineral industry servicing and location filming. A copy of the current budget can be viewed on our financial plan.

Through the Regional District's Economic Development Commission, an annual contribution of $10,000 is provided to assist with operation of the Hazeltons Travel Infocentre and produce area tourism promotions. These funds are matched by the Village of Hazelton and District of New Hazelton. Tourism development along Highway 37 North has been a continuing priority. The Commission was an active participant in founding the Stewart Cassiar Tourism Council and continues to be its main financial supporter. The Commission also is a partner with Tourism Prince Rupert, Kermodei Tourism Society, the Kitimat Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Smithers in a regional marketing program entitled Travel Northwest.

Applications to the Regional District for Northern Development Initiative Trust Regional Development funds are made through the Economic Development Commission. The Commission is also first point of contact for provincial Community Tourism Program funds. CTP funds have been used for tourism strategy writing, recreation site improvements, tourism website construction, a wildlife viewing feasibility study and regional museums & historic sites brochure. The Community Tourism Program expires in early 2009.