A Resident’s Guide to the Alternative Approval Process (AAP)
How to Oppose the 30M Loan | If you believe the City of Prince George should not borrow $30 million for the proposed 2026 capital projects without a full public vote, you must participate in the Alternative Approval Process (AAP).
1. The “Silence Equals Consent” Rule
Unlike a normal election where you vote “Yes” or “No,” an AAP assumes every eligible voter supports the borrowing. If you do nothing, your vote is counted as a “Yes.” To say “No,” you must manually submit a form.
2. How to Oppose the 30M Loan | The 10% Threshold
The City can only move forward with the $30M loan if fewer than 10% of eligible electors submit an opposition form.
- The Magic Number: In Prince George, that is 5,767 people.
- If 5,767 or more residents say “No,” the City must either cancel the borrowing or hold a formal Referendum (which costs approximately $115,000).
3. Key Dates for your Calendar
- April 28, 2026: The AAP officially opens. Forms become available.
- June 2, 2026 (5:00 PM): The deadline. All forms must be received by the City Clerk by this time.
4. How to Oppose the 30M Loan | How to Submit Your Opposition
- Get the Form: During the window (April 28–June 2), you can download the Elector Response Form from the City’s website or pick one up at City Hall (1st or 5th floor).
- One Form per Person: You can only sign one form per bylaw. (Note: There are 5 separate bylaws for this $30M—you can oppose one, some, or all of them).
- Delivery: Forms must be returned to City Hall. Original signatures are usually required; check if the City is accepting scanned/emailed copies this year.
5. Who Can Sign?
To be an eligible “No” vote, you must:
Have lived in Prince George for at least 30 days.
Be a Canadian Citizen.
Be 18 years of age or older.
Have lived in BC for at least 6 months.
“Stopping this loan is just the first step—I’m in this fight with you.”
I don’t just analyze these policies from the sidelines; I live them every day. For over 40 years, I’ve worked as a Red Seal journeyman in the security industry, and I’ve served as a citizen member of the Public Safety Committee because I believe in accountability.
But more importantly, I am a small business owner in the downtown core. Operating a service-based business in the heart of Prince George means I see the reality of our streets firsthand. I understand the frustration of rising costs, the lack of transparency in our budget, and the need for a Council that actually listens to the people who keep this city running.
We need common-sense leadership that protects our investments and our community.
