Dease Lake Community Funds
MESSAGE FROM THE COMMUNITY FUNDS COMMITTEE
INTRODUCTION AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
On behalf of the Dease Lake Community Funds Committee, we are pleased to share this Summer 2026 Community Update.
With this newsletter, we are marking the beginning of a new chapter in how we communicate about this important work. For the first time, this update comes directly from the Committee members themselves. While information has previously been shared through broader Tahltan Central Government publications, regular communications in that format have not continued in recent years. This newsletter reflects our commitment to re-establishing a clear and consistent channel of communications focused specifically on the Dease Lake Community Funds.
The current Committee includes:
z Kimberley Marion, Vice President, Tahltan Central Government
z Maggie Asp, Tahltan Band Councillor
z Lorraine Callbreath, Tahltan Band Councillor
z Andrea Louie, Iskut Band Councillor
z Christina Callbreath, Dease Lake Community Funds Director
Together, we represent leadership from across Tahltan governance and the Dease Lake community. Each of us brings experience, perspective, and a shared commitment to strengthening Dease Lake for the families who live here today and for future generations.
At this moment, our work carries renewed importance. Through a unified leadership approach, we are focused on strengthening infrastructure, supporting coordinated programming, and building Dease Lake as a vibrant and vital hub for families, Elders, and youth. This requires alignment, clarity, and steady stewardship, and we are committed to moving forward together.
As a Committee, we are strengthening community application processes, advancing financial transparency and accountability, and creating clear, accessible pathways for engagement so this work continues to reflect the priorities of the people it serves.
We also wish to acknowledge the past leaders, committee members, staff, and community members who have contributed to this work over the years. Many people have sat at this table. Many conversations have shaped the direction of the Funds. The work we continue today builds on those collective efforts and the many voices in this community who care deeply about Dease Lake’s future.
To everyone who has contributed time, guidance, and care to this effort, we extend our sincere gratitude.
Mēduh
PURPOSE OF THIS UPDATE
As the scope and responsibility of the Funds have grown over time, so too has the need for stronger, more consistent communication and meaningful engagement with the community. This work is about building shared understanding, strengthening trust, and creating a clear foundation for dialogue as we move forward together.
Building awareness of the ongoing work of the Committee is essential to ensuring informed participation and collective decision-making.
This update is intended to:
1. Provide clarity about the mandate of the Dease Lake Community Funds.
2. Share a high-level overview of the Funds’ history and evolution.
3. Improve transparency by sharing historical financial information from the inception of the Funds.
4. Reflect current community engagement efforts.
5. Outline how we are approaching the next phase of planning.
6. Strengthen understanding and support informed community dialogue as priorities continue to evolve.
The sections that follow are designed to offer both context and direction. They speak to where the Funds began, how they have developed, and how community priorities are shaping the path ahead. They also highlight the goals of the Committee and the work currently underway to support infrastructure, programming, and coordinated planning.
Our intention is to create a communications approach that is steady, transparent, and ongoing, so that updates are shared regularly, and community members feel informed and connected to this work. Through this approach, we are laying the groundwork for continued engagement, accessible participation, and shared responsibility in shaping the future of Dease Lake together.
WHAT ARE THE DEASE LAKE COMMUNITY FUNDS?
OVERVIEW OF MANDATE AND PURPOSE
The Dease Lake Community Funds were established to support the long-term well-being, sustainability, and growth of the Dease Lake community. The Funds exist to ensure that economic activity within Tahltan Territory results in meaningful and lasting benefits for the people who live in Dease Lake.
These Funds were created following a formal agreement between the Tahltan Nation and the Province of British Columbia in 2015. This agreement established a framework for sharing a portion of provincial tax revenues generated from industrial activity within Tahltan Territory. As part of this framework, Dease Lake received a dedicated allocation intended to support community priorities and development.
While a significant portion of the Dease Lake Community Funds has historically been generated through provincial tax revenue allocations associated with industrial activity within Tahltan Territory, the Funds have also been strengthened over time through industry contributions, grants, partnerships, rental income, and other revenues aligned with the Committee’s mandate and community priorities.
The Committee recognizes the importance of clear, transparent, and accessible financial reporting. This newsletter includes historical financial information to provide additional context regarding the Funds and their evolution over time. Building on this foundation, the Committee is committed to continuing to strengthen financial reporting and maintaining regular, accessible communication with the community as a standard practice moving forward, in alignment with Tahltan Central Government’s broader commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance.
A STRUCTURE UNIQUE TO DEASE LAKE
Unlike Telegraph Creek and Iskut, which receive community allocations through their respective Band Councils, Dease Lake does not have a Band government responsible for administering community funds. As an unincorporated and blended community, Dease Lake required a distinct governance model to ensure that its share of revenue could be directed toward local priorities.
In response, Tahltan leadership established the Dease Lake Community Funds Committee as a community-based structure to guide investment and decision-making. This approach ensured that Dease Lake residents would benefit equitably from resource development within Tahltan Territory, while maintaining appropriate oversight and accountability.
As reflected in past communications from Tahltan Central Government leadership, the intent was to ensure that all Tahltan communities shared in the benefits of economic development. This structure was created to provide Dease Lake with a dedicated and representative mechanism to steward its allocation and support community initiatives.
Over time, Committee membership has evolved to reflect changes in leadership and community representation. While individuals have changed, the mandate of the Funds has remained consistent: to steward resources responsibly and ensure that Dease Lake benefits from economic development within Tahltan Territory.
RELATIONSHIP TO TAHLTAN GOVERNANCE
The Dease Lake Community Funds operate within the broader Tahltan governance framework through a representative committee that includes leadership from Tahltan Central Government, Tahltan Band, and Iskut Band.
This collaborative governance model reflects a shared commitment to stewardship, accountability, and transparency. It brings together leadership from across Tahltan Nation to support thoughtful decision-making while stewarding funds dedicated to supporting the Dease Lake community.
Over time, the Committee’s work has reflected the evolving needs and priorities of the community, supporting infrastructure, recreation, culture, wellness, community capacity, and other initiatives that contribute to a strong and vibrant Dease Lake.
The Committee remains committed to responsible stewardship, transparent decision-making, and investing in initiatives that strengthen Dease Lake today while helping build a solid foundation for future generations.
COMMUNITY-BASED FUNDING AND PARTNERSHIPS
An important feature of the Dease Lake Community Funds is the ability for community members, organizations, and service providers to apply for support for projects that demonstrate clear community benefit. This application-based approach ensures that investments remain aligned with community priorities while encouraging local leadership and collaboration.
Through this model, the Funds have supported a range of initiatives delivered in partnership with local organizations, service providers, and community groups. These partnerships have strengthened collaboration and helped ensure that resources are directed toward projects that reflect the needs and aspirations of the Dease Lake community. This approach reinforces a shared responsibility model, where communityled ideas are supported through structured review, coordinated implementation, and clear reporting back to the Committee and community.
The Dease Lake Community Funds have also supported community coordination and operational capacity over time through positions that help deliver programming, oversee community facilities, coordinate projects, and strengthen local partnerships. These roles have evolved over the years in response to community priorities and operational needs.
The Funds currently support a full-time Dease Lake Community Director position. This role is responsible for coordinating
community programming, supporting the application process, strengthening partnerships with local organizations, and assisting in the implementation of initiatives approved by the Committee where needed.
Applications for community-based projects are accepted on an ongoing basis. Community members, organizations, and program partners interested in applying are encouraged to contact the Dease Lake Community Funds Director, Christina Callbreath, at deaselakedirector@tahltan.org to request application materials and discuss project eligibility.
Applications are reviewed by the Dease Lake Community Funds Committee to ensure alignment with the mandate, community priorities, and available resources. Applicants are asked to outline the purpose of the project, anticipated community benefit, proposed budget, and any partnership or in-kind contributions. Approved projects are subject to a reporting-back requirement so that outcomes, expenditures, and community impact can be shared and documented.
As part of strengthening governance and reporting practices, the Committee continues to formalize and refine application and reporting processes to ensure clarity, accessibility, and accountability moving forward. Establishing consistent standards for review and documentation supports a more structured and transparent approach to stewarding the Dease Lake Community Funds.
LEVERAGING EXTERNAL FUNDING AND PARTNERSHIPS
In addition to core allocations, the Dease Lake Community Funds have actively leveraged external grants and partnerships to strengthen local capacity and expand opportunity.
Through collaboration with organizations such as First Nations Health Authority, Northern Health, First Peoples’ Cultural Council, I·SPARC, BC Parks, and Government of Canada programs, additional funding has supported initiatives aligned with community priorities.
This collaborative approach has enabled the Committee to maximize available resources, expand community programming, and pursue opportunities that may not have been achievable through core funding alone.
The Committee remains committed to continuing to build partnerships that align with community priorities and contribute to the long-term wellbeing of Dease Lake. By working collaboratively with governments, funding agencies, industry partners, local organizations, and community members, the Committee will continue seeking opportunities that strengthen long-term community benefit.
BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE
Since their establishment, the Dease Lake Community Funds have laid the foundation for infrastructure development, community planning, and the strengthening of shared spaces in Dease Lake.
Over time, investments have focused on improving and stewarding facilities and gathering areas that support community life.
These efforts have strengthened local capacity and reinforced the importance of developing multi-use spaces that serve families, Elders, youth, and community organizations.
Establishing and stewarding shared community spaces is an important step in building long-term stability. This work requires structure, alignment, and careful planning to ensure these spaces continue to meet evolving community needs.
The Funds have also supported the acquisition of equipment and practical assets that enhance the usability of these spaces. Investments in recreation equipment, cultural and sewing materials, food preservation tools, gathering space improvements, and technology have created durable foundations for ongoing community use.
The Dease Lake Community Funds continue to support the strengthening and stewardship of community assets that serve Dease Lake today and into the future.
“The notion of buying and controlling key infrastructure in our Nation was once a dream, but now, through the power of economic development, we are turning that dream into reality. Tahltans will continue to invest in the growth of the Nation to benefit our communities now and into the future.”
— Calvin Carlick, Former Executive Director, Tahltan Central Government Tahltan Central Government Annual Report, 2021
HISTORICAL FUNDING, INVESTMENTS AND FINANCIAL REPORTING
The Dease Lake Community Funds were established to support long-term community priorities, recreation, infrastructure, wellness initiatives, cultural programming, and local opportunities that benefit Dease Lake residents.
The Funds and related community assets are held in trust by Tahltan Central Government on behalf of the Dease Lake community.
Historically, public reporting primarily focused on annual provincial tax revenue allocations through Annual Reports and related financial reporting. As part of the Committee’s ongoing commitment to transparency, this newsletter expands upon that information by providing a broader historical overview of the Funds, including revenue sources, major community investments, Finance-prepared annual financial summaries, and audited financial statement excerpts from 2016 to 2025.
Together, these materials provide additional context regarding how the Funds have evolved over time while supporting continued transparency and informed community understanding.
PROVINCIAL TAX REVENUE ALLOCATIONS
Provincial tax revenue allocations associated with industrial activity within Tahltan Territory have historically represented a significant source of funding for the Dease Lake Community Funds.
ADDITIONAL COMMUNITY REVENUE SOURCES
In addition to provincial tax revenue allocations, the Dease Lake Community Funds have also supported and leveraged additional revenue sources and partnerships over time, including:
z Rental income associated with community-owned assets and facilities
z Grant funding supporting recreation, infrastructure, and community initiatives
z Donations and partnership contributions
z Program and community-generated revenues
These additional revenue sources have helped support long-term sustainability, infrastructure improvements, recreation enhancements, and community initiatives benefiting Dease Lake residents.
MAJOR COMMUNITY INVESTMENTS AND INFRASTRUCTURE
The Dease Lake Community Funds have contributed toward a range of long-term community investments and initiatives, including:
z Dease Lake Government Building acquisition
z Recreation Centre upgrades and improvements
z Arena ice plant installation and renovations
z Recreation, wellness, youth, and community initiatives
z Community events and local programming
z Facility operations and infrastructure improvements
Significant investments have been made over time to support community infrastructure, recreation facilities, and long-term assets intended to benefit the Dease Lake community now and into the future.
HISTORICAL FINANCIAL REPORTING
The following Finance-prepared annual financial summaries and audited financial statement excerpts provide additional detail regarding the historical revenues, expenditures, fund balances, and significant community investments of the Dease Lake Community Funds from 2016 through 2025. These documents are presented to support transparency and provide additional historical context for the community.
FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2016
FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2017
FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2018
FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2019
FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2020
THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2021
THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2022
FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2023
FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2024
Significant Tangible capital assets held in trust by Tahltan Central Government on behalf of the Dease Lake community:
Tangible capital assets purchased for the benefits of the Dease Lake community are held by Tahltan Central Government in trust.
These tangible capital assets are not included in Tahltan Central Government’s financial statements as part of its assets.
Additionally, small equipment such as computers, is not included in the above table.
FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2025
FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2025
CONTINUED
Significant Tangible capital assets held in trust by Tahltan Central Government on behalf of the Dease Lake community:
The Government, through the use of the Dease Lake Community Funds, has provided funding to renovate the Dease Lake Recreation Center (the “Rec Center”) by purchasing and renovating for the installation of a new ice plant for the arena, as well as upgrades to other parts of the Rec Center. The Rec Center is not an asset of the Government or the Dease Lake Community Fund, but is held by the Dease Lake Rec Center Society, a third party entity.
Tangible capital assets purchased for the benefits of the Dease Lake community are held by Tahltan Central Government in trust. These tangible capital assets are not included in Tahltan Central Government’s financial statements as part of its assets.
MOVING FORWARD
The Committee recognizes the importance of clear, consistent, and accessible financial communication with the community. Additional work is underway to continue strengthening annual reporting, historical continuity, and public transparency regarding the Dease Lake Community Funds and related community investments moving forward.
The Committee remains committed to ensuring the Dease Lake Community Funds continue to support meaningful long-term investments, recreation opportunities, infrastructure improvements, and community initiatives for the benefit of Dease Lake residents now and into the future.
INITIATIVES SNAPSHOT
KEY INITIATIVES SUPPORTED THROUGH THE DEASE LAKE COMMUNITY FUNDS
The following provides a snapshot of major investments, programming, and community initiatives supported through the Dease Lake Community Funds over time. Together, these efforts reflect the range of infrastructure, recreation, cultural, and community-focused work advanced to strengthen Dease Lake.
INFRASTRUCTURE & MAJOR INVESTMENTS
z Dease Lake Government Building acquisition
z Recreation Centre upgrades and improvements
z Arena Ice Plant installation and renovations
z Allan Lake Trail improvements
z Haven Minibus purchase
z Community facility renovations and improvements
z Recreation equipment and community facility improvements
z Technology and equipment supporting community spaces
RECREATION & YOUTH SUPPORTS
z Minor Hockey equipment support
z Youth recreation events and services delivered through community members
z T-ball development
z Fly fishing workshops
z Snowshoeing and sliding events
z Guitar lessons for youth
z Fencing instruction
z Floor hockey equipment for Dease Lake School
z Youth cooking and skills development activities
CULTURAL & COMMUNITY PROGRAMMING
z Regalia making and sewing programs
z Language nights
z Tahltan dance practice space
z Art strengthening workshops
z Elder trips
z Graduation gifts and recognition programs
z Seasonal community celebrations
z Community wellness and healing activities
z Community meals and gatherings
FOOD SOVEREIGNTY & LAND-BASED PROGRAMMING
z Canning and food preservation workshops
z Smokehouse development
z Meat processing and preparation
z Garden boxes and plant distribution
z Traditional medicine preparation
z Community gardening initiatives
COMMUNITY EQUIPMENT & FACILITY INVESTMENTS
Investments have also included equipment and materials to strengthen community capacity, such as:
z Furniture for gathering spaces
z Technology and electronics to support programming
z Recreation equipment
z Sewing machines and cultural materials
z Community kitchen equipment
z Garden infrastructure
z Seasonal and event supplies
z Food preservation equipment
WHERE FUNDS HAVE BEEN INVESTED
Since their establishment, the Dease Lake Community Funds have supported a range of initiatives that reflect community priorities and contribute to the long-term strength and sustainability of Dease Lake. Investments have focused on recreation, infrastructure, safety, and community programming that enhance quality of life and create lasting benefits for the Dease Lake community.
RECREATION AND FACILITY UPGRADES
Investments have supported recreation infrastructure, facility improvements, and the activation of shared community space. A significant milestone occurred in 2021 with the purchase of the Dease Lake Government Building, made possible through the Dease Lake Community Funds. This acquisition marked a transition toward long-term infrastructure stewardship and created opportunities for expanded community programming, wellness initiatives, and improved coordination.
The activation of the Tatl’ah Fitness Gym within the building has provided residents with access to health and wellness facilities, while additional space has supported youth and Elder programming, learning initiatives, and community services.
Upgrades to the Dease Lake Recreation Centre, including the installation of an ice plant, have strengthened local recreation infrastructure and supported family and community programming. These improvements have enhanced access to year-round activities and reinforced the Recreation Centre as a vital gathering place for the community.
Additional investments have also supported ongoing facility improvements and community infrastructure to help ensure these spaces remain safe, functional, and accessible for community use.
EXPANDED RECREATION AND LAND-BASED PROGRAMMING
In addition to facility upgrades, the Dease Lake Community Funds have continued to support recreational and landbased activities that reflect community feedback and youth priorities. Community members have expressed the importance of balancing indoor programming with outdoor and land-based events that bring families together throughout the seasons.
Recent activation of shared spaces, including the Recreation Centre, fireplace gathering area, sliding hill, and surrounding outdoor spaces reflects this commitment. These efforts respond directly to earlier survey feedback calling for increased youth-focused and recreational programming that extends beyond classroom or workshopbased activities.
The Committee remains focused on ensuring recreation investments support both structured programming and informal community gathering opportunities that strengthen connection to land, culture, and one another.
ELDERS SUPPORTS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES
The Dease Lake Community Funds have supported initiatives benefiting Elders through programming, facility improvements, community partnerships, and accessible gathering spaces.
Investments have included wellness initiatives, seasonal gatherings, and programs designed to support health, connection, and intergenerational exchange.
The acquisition and activation of space within the Dease Lake Government Building has created dedicated areas for gatherings, meetings, and community programming.
These spaces provide accessible locations for Elders to gather, participate in programming, and continue sharing knowledge, leadership, and cultural guidance within the community.
Programming supported through the Funds has also contributed to consistent opportunities for Elders to connect with families and youth, reinforcing the importance of intergenerational relationships in strengthening Dease Lake.
Together, these efforts reflect a coordinated approach to supporting Elders and community well-being through infrastructure, programming, and sustained stewardship.
TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS AND SAFETY ENHANCEMENTS
Early investments from the Dease Lake Community Funds supported improvements to community trail systems, including upgrades to the Allan Lake trail following a request submitted by the Haven. These enhancements increased accessibility for families, Elders, and visitors while strengthening recreational infrastructure and supporting outdoor activity within the community.
The Funds also supported the installation of emergency beacons at the Dease Lake Airport in response to a formal application from the Airport Society. This investment strengthened community safety and emergency response capacity, reflecting the Committee’s role in responding to clearly identified local needs through the application process.
COMMUNITY EVENTS AND INITIATIVES
The Dease Lake Community Funds have supported a wide range of seasonal events, workshops, and community-led initiatives that bring residents together throughout the year.
Activities have included cultural arts and regalia-making workshops, language nights, food sovereignty initiatives such as canning, smokehouse development, and traditional food preparation, as well as wellness and healing sessions. Youth and family-focused programming has included recreation events, skills development opportunities, and activities delivered in partnership with local organizations.
Community gatherings such as seasonal celebrations, Elder gatherings, plant distribution initiatives, graduation recognition, and cultural observances have strengthened connection across generations and encouraged consistent participation in community life.
Together, these initiatives contribute to an active and engaged community environment, where shared spaces are used regularly and programming reflects the interests and strengths of Dease Lake residents.
YOUTH PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES
Youth initiatives supported through the Dease Lake Community Funds have included recreation events, cultural programming, workshops, and skill-building opportunities that strengthen confidence, connection, and leadership.
Investments in infrastructure and coordinated programming are helping to create consistent and accessible spaces where youth can gather, develop skills, build relationships, and strengthen connections to culture and community. This work is ongoing and continues to evolve as priorities are refined and opportunities expand.
The Committee’s intention is to help lay strong foundations that empower the next generation to participate, be mentored, and grow into leadership roles within the community. By supporting recreation, cultural engagement, education, and training opportunities, we can contribute to building capacity, encouraging confidence, and creating pathways for youth to shape the future of Dease Lake.
This is sustained work that requires partnership, planning, and continued investment, and it remains a central focus moving forward.
GRANT FUNDING AND LEVERAGED INVESTMENTS
During the 2025 to 2026 period, grant-supported initiatives contributed to cultural programming, food systems development, youth recreation, wellness activities, facility improvements, and seasonal community gatherings.
By aligning external funding with locally identified priorities, the Dease Lake Community Funds have expanded the reach of community initiatives while preserving core allocations for strategic priorities.
This coordinated approach strengthens collaboration with regional funders and community partners and ensures that additional resources are directed where they are most needed.
FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS AND COLLABORATIVE INFRASTRUCTURE UPGRADES
Recent improvements at the Tahltan Building and Recreation Centre include roof repairs, door and lighting upgrades, electrical improvements, and interior maintenance such as replacement of drop ceiling tiles. These upgrades were undertaken in collaboration with local service providers to ensure facilities remain safe, functional, and accessible for community use.
This work reflects a coordinated, partnership-based approach between the Dease Lake Community Funds and community organizations to ensure infrastructure investments are aligned, practical, and responsive to identified needs.
Looking ahead, the Committee remains focused on strengthening shared facilities through thoughtful planning, phased improvements, and continued collaboration to ensure these spaces remain sustainable and well-supported over time.
SURVEY RESULTS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT:
WHAT WE’VE HEARD
Earlier this year, the Dease Lake Community Funds Committee launched a community-wide survey to gather input on priorities, investments, and future planning. The survey was open for three weeks and invited participation from all residents of Dease Lake and Tahltan members with ties to the community.
The response reflected strong engagement and thoughtful contributions from across the community. Participation included Elders, youth, families, and community partners, ensuring a broad and representative perspective.
The results provide clear direction for future investments and reaffirm the importance of community-led decision-making. Across all responses, a consistent message emerged: the community supports a balanced and sustainable approach that invests in both infrastructure and programming while strengthening coordination, accessibility, and longterm planning.
The findings reaffirm long-standing community values while offering renewed insight into current needs and aspirations. The voices shared through this process will guide the next phase of planning and ensure that the Dease Lake Community Funds continue to reflect the priorities of the community they serve.
KEY THEMES IDENTIFIED
Balanced Investment Approach
A strong majority of respondents expressed strong support for a balanced investment model that prioritizes both long-term infrastructure and ongoing community programming and services. 75% of respondents indicated support for investing in both areas, recognizing that sustainable growth requires thoughtful sequencing, responsible stewardship, and investments that serve multiple generations.
This balanced approach reflects a shared vision for a resilient, self-sustaining Dease Lake where community infrastructure and local programming work together to enhance quality of life.
Infrastructure Priorities
Infrastructure emerged as a central theme throughout the survey. Key areas of focus include:
z Recreation Centre repairs and upgrades – 47.8%
z A dedicated gathering place for cultural and community activities – 47.8%
z Continued trail improvements and maintenance – 41.3%
z Development of a skate park and/or bike park – 34.8%
z Ice plant maintenance and upgrades – 21.7%
z Enhancements to the baseball diamond – 19.6%
These priorities reflect the community’s desire for accessible, safe, and inclusive spaces that bring families together and support year-round recreation and cultural activities.
The previously approved skate park initiative, identified in 2023/2024 as a major community infrastructure priority following the arena ice plant installation, remains part of long-term planning discussions. In addition, planning conversations have begun regarding a potential community multi-use modular building to support cultural programming, recreation, and shared gathering space needs. Ongoing partnership development and site considerations continue as the Committee works to ensure that future development aligns with safety, accessibility, operational sustainability, and long-term community benefit.
The Committee also acknowledges site limitations at the baseball diamond due to Crown land constraints, which may limit future expansion. These considerations are being reviewed as part of broader infrastructure sequencing and land use planning discussions.
Recreation Coordination
There was strong support for the establishment of a dedicated Recreation Coordinator. 85% of respondents indicated that coordinated leadership would strengthen program delivery, facility scheduling, and communication across the community.
This role was widely recognized as essential to sustaining recreation infrastructure and ensuring that investments continue to benefit the community.
Clear coordination between facility operations, program partners, and community events has been identified as essential to maximizing infrastructure investments and improving overall communication with residents.
Elders As A Top Priority
Elders’ feedback highlighted the importance of practical supports and accessible community spaces that promote wellness, dignity, and connection. Key priorities identified include:
z Practical in-home supports
z Firewood and meal assistance
z Access to a shared multi-use gathering space
These insights reflect a strong commitment to honouring and supporting Elders while ensuring they remain connected to community life and cultural traditions. Elders support consistently ranked among the highest priorities for all respondents.
Youth Development And Recreation
Youth and families emphasized the importance of recreation, cultural engagement, and opportunities that support personal growth and skill development. 68% of respondents identified youth recreation and cultural programming as priorities. Key themes include:
z Recreation facilities and safe spaces for youth
z Cultural activities and land-based learning opportunities
z Training and certification programs
z Transportation support to access programs and services
These priorities underscore the community’s commitment to investing in youth as the future of Dease Lake while strengthening connections to culture, community, and opportunity.
Structured Funding Processes
Survey respondents expressed strong support for a structured, application-based funding approach to guide future investments. 70% of respondents supported the development of an annual application-based budget to promote fairness, transparency, and accountability.
Support for structured funding reflects the community’s desire for clear processes, responsible stewardship, and equitable access to resources.
A Shared Vision for the Future
Taken together, the survey results provide a clear and unified direction for the next phase of the Dease Lake Community Funds. The findings affirm the importance of balancing infrastructure and programming, strengthening coordination, and investing in initiatives that support families, Elders, youth, and the broader community.
Most importantly, the survey reflects a strong sense of pride, connection, and shared responsibility among residents. The voices of the community continue to guide this work and will remain central to future planning and decision-making.
LOOKING AHEAD
The Dease Lake Community Funds have entered a new phase grounded in clarity, structure, and community direction.
The survey results and recent engagement sessions have provided meaningful guidance. They reaffirm the importance of balancing infrastructure stewardship with programming, strengthening coordination, and ensuring that investments reflect long-term sustainability.
In addition to survey priorities, the Committee is advancing several operational initiatives to strengthen coordination and transparency. This includes finalizing a formal agreement between the Community Funds and the Recreation Centre, clarifying shared responsibilities for programming and facility operations, and developing standardized reporting tools to better track event participation, costs, contributions, and outcomes. These steps are intended to improve communication, financial clarity, and long-term sustainability.
As we move forward, the Committee’s focus will include:
1. Thoughtful sequencing of infrastructure priorities, including maintenance, upgrades, and future development
2. Strengthening recreation coordination to support consistent and accessible programming
3. Clarifying and formalizing a structured annual funding approach
4. Improving communications and reporting so community members remain informed
5. Continuing direct engagement with Elders, youth, families, and service providers
6. Strengthening partnerships with The Haven and local service providers to support youth programming, facility operations, and shared infrastructure planning
7. Strengthening financial reporting practices to ensure clear, consistent, and ongoing public communication regarding the Dease Lake Community Funds.
Community engagement has not ended with the survey. It has been ongoing and will continue. Conversations with residents, leadership, and partners remain central to this work. The Committee is committed to listening, refining plans, and adjusting where needed to reflect community priorities.
Building a strong and sustainable Dease Lake requires steady effort, clear communication, and shared responsibility. The Dease Lake Community Funds are one part of that broader vision. Our commitment is to steward these Funds in a way that supports families today while laying a solid foundation for future generations.
STAY INVOLVED
Your voice matters.
If you would like to share feedback, ideas, or questions related to the Dease Lake Community Funds, please contact: communications@tahltan.org
Future engagement opportunities and updates will continue to be shared as this work progresses.
Mēduh for your continued involvement in strengthening the Dease Lake community!
