myPG Launched in Prince George

Prince George, British Columbia, October 26, 2009 – A host of community partners are joining forces to develop the first community sustainability plan for Prince George. myPG will bring together citizens, community groups, businesses, institutions and government to create and carry out a shared vision for the community.

The project will provide a forum to discuss issues such as energy usage; water and land; transportation networks; waste management; services for the elderly; and recreational opportunities.

“Long-term planning is essential to the continued growth and prosperity of our community,” said the Honourable Jay Hill, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Member of Parliament for Prince George-Peace River. “I wish Prince George success with their study, and look forward to hearing the results of the myPG studies and community discussions.”

"People who live in our community have very strong views about what they value and the priorities they see as important for Prince George," said Prince George-Valemount MLA Shirley Bond. "I am hopeful that myPG will encourage people to share their ideas about how to ensure that we have a more livable community today and in the years ahead."

“The launch of myPG is about connecting residents with each other in looking forward to the future,” said Prince George-Mackenzie MLA Pat Bell. “Everyone is always suggesting to me their great ideas for Prince George and now they can share those ideas with the whole community.”

Community engagement activities will start immediately – a series of forums will give the opportunity for community group meetings and citizen gatherings to discuss relevant issues. The first phase of outreach runs until December 16, 2009.

“It is important for us to work hard on the challenges we are facing today while providing the type of leadership that has an eye on the future. myPG is going to help us define that future together as a community," said Mayor Dan Rogers. “myPG will break new ground in engaging the community and gathering input from groups and individuals. A range of issues, challenges and opportunities will be explored. All voices are invited to participate in shaping Prince George.”

This initiative is made possible through $120,000 in funding provided through the federal Gas Tax Fund. The Gas Tax Fund is an agreement between Canada, British Columbia and the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) that delivers funding to local governments primarily for capital projects leading to cleaner air, cleaner water or reduced greenhouse gas emissions. UBCM administers the Gas Tax Fund in B.C. in collaboration with Canada and British Columbia.

“Prince George is to be congratulated as it begins this ambitious program to imagine a new future for the community,” said UBCM President Harry Nyce. “UBCM is very appreciative of the support provided by the federal and provincial governments for projects of this scope.”

For more information:

Office of the Honourable Jay Hill
Member of Parliament for Prince George-Peace River
250-561-7922

Public Affairs Bureau
Ministry of Community and Rural Development
250-387-4089

Paul Taylor
Relationships and Communications Advisor
Union of BC Municipalities
250-356-2938

Mark Fercho
Integrated Community Sustainability Planning Leader
City of Prince George
250-561-7698

Infrastructure Canada
613-948-1148