Valemount, B.C. – The mayor of Valemount has joined the call for regional representation in the Prince George School District.

In a letter dated October 13, 2016, and addressed to the district, Mayor Jeannette Townsend said while residents in the Robson Valley “appreciate the good will and interest shown by the present School Board” along with “the resources provided to our educators and students,” she’d still like to see a change to the current ‘at-large’ electoral system the district employs.

“The Robson Valley, along with other areas within School District #57, is unique and challenging,” she added. `

“Distance, weather, and transportation routes often separate the Valley from the rest of the School District. Having a trustee specifically representing this area, along with the same model used by the Regional District, would ensure a voice for the Robson Valley on the School Board.”

Townsend’s request follows a similar effort by the District of Mackenzie for a trustee in their area (see previous story here). It would require a so-called ‘ward’ electoral system used in which one trustee would be elected in Mackenzie, another in the Robson Valley and the remaining five in Prince George.

In response to Townsend’s letter, the school district notified her that any change would require a variation order by B.C.’s Minister of Education Mike Bernier. In order to assist them, the district also enclosed a copy of the Trustee Variation Guidelines provided by the ministry.

Both Townsend and the District of Mackenzie are hoping to have the change in effect in time for the next local elections scheduled for 2019.