Talks between Fort William First Nation and Ontario Power Generation (OPG) are continuing regarding the provincial utility’s proposed upgrade to its Kakabeka Falls hydroelectric station.
A Fort William First Nation spokeswoman didn’t provide details this week, but confirmed discussions between the community and OPG are “ongoing.”
On Jan. 23, OPG is to host its latest information session about its Kakabeka Falls project at the village’s legion.
The plan is to carry out a multimillion-dollar overhaul of the 118-year-old power station on the Kaministiquia River so that it can continue operating for another 90 years.
Construction could begin sometime this year.
In November, Fort William First Nation Chief Michele Solomon warned history was repeating itself in a negative way because development of the power-station project was proceeding without the community’s input.
“The existing hydroelectric facility was originally developed over 120 years ago without consultation with the Nation, and resulted in flooding, changes to waterways, and irreparable damages to Fort William First Nation’s cultural heritage and ways of life,” the community said in a news release at the time.
OPG responded with a brief statement, saying “we continue to engage respectfully (with Fort William First Nation) as we prepare to redevelop the Kakabeka Falls Generating Station.”
Next week’s open house at the Kakabeka Falls Legion is to take place from 6-9 p.m. The hall is located on the outskirts of the village on Highway 17.
