NWTAC Gather in Yellowknife

2 days ago

Welcome to Municipal Affairs

This past week, municipal leaders from every corner of the NWT came together in Yellowknife for the 59th Annual Northwest Territories Association of Communities Convention. It was an opportunity for local governments to collaborate, share ideas, and work together to strengthen our communities."

The NWTAC has come a long way since its founding in 1966, when leaders from Yellowknife, Fort Smith, Hay River, and Inuvik joined forces to create a unified voice for community governments. Today, all 33 of the NWT’s incorporated communities and designated authorities are members—ensuring that municipal concerns are heard loud and clear at all levels of government.

Over the weekend, leaders debated important issues, exchanged best practices, and worked on solutions to challenges facing our communities. And on the final day, we had the chance to speak with NWTAC President Rebecca Alty to discuss the key takeaways from this year’s convention.

One of the highlights of the convention was Premier RJ Simpson in attendance, who spoke to delegates about the territory’s challenges and opportunities. And of course, no NWTAC convention would be complete without the infamous Bear Pit session—where leaders had the chance to directly question government officials. Following that lively discussion, we spoke with Premier Simpson to talk about the pressing issues facing the NWT and what steps the government is taking to support communities.

Also in attendance was Michael McLeod, the Liberal MP for the NWT, who addressed delegates in what will likely be his final appearance at the NWTAC Convention as a sitting MP. After announcing his retirement in 2024, McLeod reflected on his time in office, the progress made for NWT communities, and the challenges still ahead. We spoke with him about his legacy and the advice he has for the municipal leaders advocating for municipal issues both territorially and federally.

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