A public hearing on Monday evening regarding the potential expansion of mineral exploration in the Whitehorse copper belt ignited heated debates among attendees. Gladiator Metals is seeking amendments to the city’s land use policy to allow for an extended drilling program in currently designated green spaces.
This issue has been a source of contention, with Gladiator making its second attempt to modify the city’s official community plan. The recent decision by the city council to move the company’s application through the bylaw process has further fueled the debate.
During the hearing at the council chambers, it was evident that public opinion was divided, leading to the overflow of attendees into an additional room. Many individuals advocate for maintaining the current community plan, preserving the affected areas from development to safeguard the environment, water sources, and wildlife habitats from potential mining activities.
On the other hand, some view Gladiator’s proposal as a promising economic opportunity for the city, dismissing concerns about the environmental impact as exaggerated and lacking substantiated evidence.
Randy Clarkson, a former employee of the Whitehorse Copper Mine, emphasized the importance of exploration and mining in creating job opportunities and wealth for the community. He highlighted the significance of copper in the transition to greener technologies and the need to strike a balance in prioritizing economic development while addressing environmental concerns.
The central issue revolves around three identified green space tracts by Gladiator, which require rezoning to future planning areas to facilitate mineral exploration. This shift would necessitate the formulation of a new policy by the municipality.
Residents like Christine Aikens expressed concerns about the broader implications of the proposed changes, warning that it could set a precedent for future alterations in mineral-rich areas across Whitehorse.
Former Mayor Laura Cabott urged the council to maintain the official community plan, emphasizing its recent adoption and cautioning against hasty modifications. She stressed the importance of completing the mineral framework and awaiting the territory’s new minerals legislation before making any decisions.
Danièle Héon, a Mary Lake resident, defended the role of mining in the Yukon, criticizing certain city residents for obstructing development opportunities. She noted the efforts made by the proponent to address concerns and highlighted the necessity of embracing change and progress in the region.
The polarization surrounding the issue was underscored by Héon, who lamented the division within the community caused by the ongoing debate. City staff will compile a report based on the public hearing, with the final decision on the proposed bylaw amendment expected to be several months away.