Brian Skakun calls for less infighting, more action at city hall in council bid

One of the biggest challenges facing the next council will be the impending closure of the Northwood pulp mill and the impact it could have on the city’s tax base.

Skakun estimated the loss of the facility could represent approximately $6 million in tax revenue, or more than four per cent of the city’s overall tax base. With affordability already a major concern for residents, Skakun said replacing lost industrial tax revenue must be a top priority for the next council rather than simply passing costs on to taxpayers.

“We can’t just raise taxes because Northwood shuts down,” he said.

While efforts continue to seek solutions for the mill, Skakun pointed to ongoing economic development projects that could help diversify the city’s economy and offset some future losses. Among the opportunities Skakun highlighted was the development of the Boundary Road industrial area and the construction of a new FedEx cargo facility near the Prince George Airport.

He described the project as a significant investment that could increase air cargo activity and help attract additional business and industry to the city. Skakun said Prince George already offers a competitive advantage with fully serviced industrial lands, including existing road, water and sewer infrastructure.

“We have one of the biggest light industrial areas in the province,” he said.

He believes continued industrial development and targeted marketing efforts will help expand the tax base and create new economic opportunities over the coming years.

With questions looming over future tax increases, Skakun said he would support a comprehensive review of the city’s capital spending plans if re-elected. He noted the city deferred more than $20 million worth of capital projects during the current term, something he believes demonstrates the need to reassess priorities and determine which projects are truly necessary.

“I think we have to do a complete review of our capital program and invest wisely,” he said.

While acknowledging the city faces unavoidable cost increases through collective agreements and other operating expenses, Skakun argued council should look for savings and efficiencies before considering additional tax increases.

“I think there’s opportunity to look at the whole system and not pass those tax increases onto the taxpayers,” he said.

Reflecting on the current term, Skakun suggested one of council’s biggest challenges was its ability to work effectively as a team. He said disagreements and internal conflicts often made it difficult for council to reach consensus on important issues, leading to delays and lost opportunities.

“From my perspective, this council didn’t work good as a group,” Skakun said.

He believes the next council will need to focus on collaboration from the outset by identifying key priorities and committing to working together despite differing viewpoints.

“The folks in the community deserve better,” he said.

Skakun added that strong leadership and a willingness to put personal differences aside will be critical to ensuring council can effectively address the challenges ahead.

Asked what sets him apart from other candidates, Skakun pointed to nearly six decades of living in Prince George and more than two decades of municipal government experience. He described himself as a councillor willing to stand up for residents, work with administration when necessary and speak openly on issues affecting the community.

“I have a reputation for standing up for what I believe in,” Skakun said.

“I think I have a reputation of working hard, showing up and speaking my mind.”

Prince George voters will elect a mayor, eight councillors and school trustees when they head to the polls on Saturday, October 17.

This story is part of our continuing coverage of the 2026 Prince George municipal election campaign, featuring interviews with candidates seeking election to mayor and council.

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Email: Adam.Berls@pattisonmedia.com

by Adam Berls

Brian Skakun calls for less infighting, more action at city hall in council bid

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