Every community is unique, with different needs and priorities for the families that live there. Tailoring government resources to fit those needs is exactly what's happening under a Communities First Agreement signed between the District of Port Hardy and the Province.

The agreement lays out a new approach to economic development. It gives Port Hardy the chance to collaborate directly with the Province on local priorities to help the district build a stronger and more diverse local economy. Specifically, Port Hardy has identified downtown revitalization, investment attraction, a business retention and expansion initiative, partnership development initiatives with local First Nations, and a review of the local marine infrastructure as priorities in its agreement.

For its part, the Province will be providing a primary contact to meet with community representatives, provide information and resources, and work with the district to identify available funding sources and other resources that may assist Port Hardy in reaching these goals.

Communities First Agreements signal a new approach to how the Province works with communities. Through these agreements, communities strategically prioritize their economic development needs and the RuralBC Secretariat helps to identify ways to assist them in meeting their goals.

Quick Facts:

• With the Port Hardy agreement, the Province has signed eight Communities First Agreements, in company with Port Alberni, Prince Rupert, Clinton, Chetwynd, Vanderhoof, Cranbrook and Grand Forks.
• With almost 4,000 residents, Port Hardy is the largest community on the North Island.

Learn More:

To learn more about Communities First Agreements go to www.ruralbc.gov.bc.ca

To learn more about the District of Port Hardy go to www.porthardy.ca

Contact:

Marisa Adair
Communications Director
Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation
250 920-8500