A recent report presented to the city council by Eric Depenau, the director of administrative services in Prince George, reveals that downtown fires have resulted in more than $38 million in damages over the past five years. The report, based on data from the Office of the Fire Commissioner spanning from 2022 to 2025, highlights the significant impact of fires in the downtown core. One notable incident mentioned in the report is the destruction of CrossRoads Brewing, located near city hall, due to a fire last year.
Eoin Foley, the head of the Downtown Prince George business association, expressed dismay over the continuous occurrences of deliberately set fires in downtown alleys and doorways. Foley emphasized the negative impact of these fires on businesses, customers, and the local economy, stating that obtaining insurance has become increasingly difficult for many establishments in the area.
According to the report, punitive measures against individuals lighting fires for warmth have proven ineffective due to their financial constraints. Instead, the city has been issuing warning tickets to monitor the situation and encourage individuals to seek shelter or drop-in centers.
Another report presented to the council discusses the success of a 32-day pilot program where bylaw officers patrolled the downtown area overnight to address open burning incidents. During the program, officers extinguished 52 small fires and issued warning tickets to the responsible parties, directing them to shelters. The program cost $22,400 for two officers working overnight, with a proposal to have continuous patrols in collaboration with the RCMP.
Foley, who operates two restaurants in downtown Prince George, remains optimistic about the community’s future despite the challenges. He hopes that proactive measures will address the underlying social issues and boost investment in the neighborhood. Foley emphasizes the importance of community resilience and perseverance in overcoming these challenges for a thriving Prince George.