Background

In 2018, the Village of Pemberton entered into a limited partnership agreement between Líl̓wat Nation and Speĺkúmtn Community Forest Corporation (SCF). Under this agreement, the Village may receive annual funding allocations depending on profits from the partnership.

In 2023, Council began developing a policy to guide how these funds should be used. Over the past year, Council has refined this policy to ensure the funds are managed responsibly, align with community values, and are allocated in a fair and transparent way.

This work has resulted in the Speĺkúmtn Community Forest Legacy Fund Policy, which will help guide how we identify, prioritize, and fund projects in the community.

What's Happening Now

As part of this process, Council identified three potential projects during the 2025 budget discussions. Before moving forward, Council would like to hear from residents on which project should be prioritized for funding.

The three projects are:

  • One Mile Lake Park Boardwalk Replacement

    The One Mile Lake Park Boardwalk is a popular walking and biking route in Pemberton’s largest park. After years of wear and weather impacts, it now requires major upgrades to remain safe and accessible.

    The project will widen the boardwalk to meet the Accessible British Columbia Act (2021), improve safety, and reduce future maintenance.

    Estimated capital cost: $569K - $823K

  • Fraser Connector Trail

    This project explores enhancing trail connections through Lot 8, linking Harrow Road to Fraser Road and river access trail on Lot 20 (District Lot 165 – Lillooet District Plan 883).

    While Lot 20 would remain undeveloped to protect wetland habitat, Lot 8 provides the opportunity to support a community garden and a multi-use, horse-friendly trail.

    Estimated capital cost: $115K

  • Downtown Community Barn Ice Rink

    The Village is exploring the possibility of installing a seasonal outdoor skating rink at the Downtown Community Barn. To support this, staff are considering upgrades to the barn’s surface, including concrete resurfacing of the entire barn area that would make the space suitable for a portable rink.

    Estimated capital cost: $560K

    Estimated operational cost (yearly): $211K