Members of the Tahltan Nation begin voting Friday whether to accept agreements on the $404-million Northwest Transmission Line reached with B.C. Hydro and the B.C. Government.
"This is an exciting time for the Tahltan Nation. We are making a pivotal decision for current and future generations, and it's a decision we must make as a Nation. We need to come together and decide collectively whether to approve the agreements," says Annita McPhee, tribal chair of the Tahltan Central Council.
The vote comes on the heels of months of substantial community outreach with Tahltan members across the province, in Whitehorse and Alberta. More than 2,800 members have already registered to have their voices heard.
Agreements that accommodate First Nations' interest along the 335-kilometre power line are considered critical to getting the project off the ground.
The power line is touted as a catalyst to opening up northwest British Columbia to mining, as well as providing a connection for hydro-power projects.
The projects, if they get off the ground, are expected to have benefits for Prince George.
Several First Nations, including the Nisga,a, have already approved agreements.
Voting for the Tahltan ends April 15 and results of the vote will be announced on April 16 on the Tahltan Central Council website.
