Regional District Highlights for May 2026

PRRD launches 2026 FireSmart™ campaign with community events and support for rural residents

The Peace River Regional District’s (PRRD) 2026 FireSmart™ campaign is in full swing, with its first Block Party successfully held on May 3. More opportunities for rural residents to learn simple, practical steps to reduce wildfire risk and protect their homes are planned throughout 2026.

Now in its sixth year, the program continues to grow in reach and impact. Since launching in 2021, PRRD FireSmart has completed 529 home assessments, hosted 38 community events, delivered 135 senior and mobility support services and completed 67 critical infrastructure and community asset mitigation projects across the region.

“Since 2021, the PRRD FireSmart program has completed over 500 home assessments and supported dozens of communities,” says PRRD Board Chair Brad Sperling. “It continues to go strong, with hands-on support for seniors and residents with limited mobility.”

This year’s campaign continues with more family-friendly events where residents can enjoy a meal, connect with local experts and learn easy ways to reduce wildfire risk at home.

Community event schedule

• Swan Lake Provincial Park: May 22 | 5–7pm
• Charlie Lake Fire Hall: May 23 | 12–2pm
• Spencer Tuck Regional Park: May 24 | 12–2pm

Residents can also book a Home Ignition Zone Assessment or access support through the program’s Senior and Mobility Service all at no cost to PRRD residents.

Learn more or book an assessment.

Project update: Future of the Jackfish Community Hall

The final round of public engagement for the Jackfish Community Hall Next Steps project is now complete. The Regional District has been consulting with residents to determine if there is community support for repairing the hall.

Recent activities

• Community meeting: Held May 12, 2026, at the Chetwynd Recreation Centre
• Public survey: Open May 1 to May 15, 2026
• Focus: Participants reviewed the building’s condition, estimated repair costs and the potential impact on taxes

Background

The hall has been closed since 2022 due to safety concerns and significant water damage following a heating failure. While a 2021 assessment showed the building was reaching the end of its lifespan, the current project was launched after residents raised concerns about whether the cost of repairs would be a worthwhile investment.

The project team is now consolidating all community feedback. These findings will be presented to the Regional Board to guide their decision on proceeding with a referendum on October 17, 2026.

Level up your grant writing skills this June!

Boost your funding success this June with free grant writing training for local non-profits and community groups! The PRRD is offering online info sessions and a comprehensive three-hour workshop, led by Clear Course Consulting Ltd., to teach you how to craft winning proposals. 

Registration is required to secure your spot. Sign up today!

Next PRRD Board Meetings

• May 28, 2026 | 10am, Chetwynd
• June 25, 2026 | 10am, Dawson Creek

Board meetings are streamed live on Facebook @OfficialPRRD

View all meeting information and agendas.