Squamish District Council,

<p>I am writing to express my support for the proposed Woodfibre LNG floatel, which will house out-of-town workers during the construction of the approved Woodfibre LNG project. This innovative solution is essential for mitigating the potential negative impacts on the small community of Squamish while ensuring the successful completion of a project that holds significant national economic promise for the region. The $1.6 billion Woodfibre LNG project will contribute significantly to Canada’s economy and globally may displace higher-emitting energy such as coal.</p> <p>Since 2019, Woodfibre LNG has actively engaged with the Squamish community to address concerns about the influx of non-local workers, particularly the impact on rental housing, traffic, and community services. Responding to thousands of public comments and the District of Squamish’s consistent request to house workers outside the, Woodfibre LNG committed $100 million to develop a floatel.</p> <p>Despite approvals from provincial, federal, and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) governments, the District of Squamish Council has yet to grant the necessary zoning authorization through a temporary use permit (TUP). This delay is concerning, given the extensive measures Woodfibre LNG has taken to meet all regulatory requirements and community needs.</p> <p>The Woodfibre LNG project proactively engages Indigenous people and fosters real economic reconciliation:</p> <ul> <li>The Squamish Nation Environmental Assessment Agreement and Certificate, granted on October 14, 2015, identified 13 legally binding conditions that Woodfibre LNG is required to meet.</li> <li>Cash and contract benefits totalling $1.1 billion to Squamish Nation and Indigenous workers.</li> <li>Squamish Nation and member-owned businesses could be awarded up to about $872 million in contracts.</li> </ul> <p>I urge you to support the approval and implementation of the Woodfibre LNG floatel to safely house workers not from the region to construct the Woodfibre LNG project.</p>