08/03/2026
I appreciate that people want mining to be held to a high environmental and regulatory standard. Those expectations are important, and I agree that companies should be accountable for meeting the conditions of their permits.
That being said, I think it's also important to talk about what this project has meant for Wells.
I can't speak for the rest of the province, but I can speak for my small business. Since the Cariboo Gold Project got its permits and started moving ahead, our sales at Jack O' Clubs General have increased by over 60%.
Before that, the store struggled for years. My other business, EA Works Construction, had to help keep it afloat. Now, instead of constantly worrying about paying the next bill, we're able to stand on our own. For that, we're incredibly thankful.
That growth has helped us keep important services open in Wells, including the Canada Post outlet, gas station, grocery store, pub, and restaurant. Those services are here for everyone—locals, tourists, and workers alike.
Tourism is a huge part of BC's economy, and I fully support protecting it. But here in Wells, I don't believe it's a choice between tourism or mining. I think we can have both. Mining brings good jobs and supports local businesses, and those businesses help make our community a better place for everyone who visits.
This is just my experience as a local business owner, but the Cariboo Gold Project has made a real difference to our business and our community, and I think that's an important part of the conversation.
