Fort Simpson (Apr 28/06) - Leaders in Fort Simpson are hopeful that a decision on the village's share of the Community Capacity Building Fund can be made within the next month.

Coun. Candy Brown, right, listens while Coun. Tom Wilson explains how Fort Simpson could benefit from a soccer field and a track during a meeting to discuss the Community Capacity Building Fund.

During a public meeting on April 20 to get more input on how to spend the $1 million, Mayor Duncan Canvin said he would like to see a decision made before the end of May.

"I think we are pretty much ready to move forward with this," said Liidlii Kue First Nation Chief Keyna Norwegian of the Liidlii Kue First Nation.

Norwegian said the important thing is to show other communities that Fort Simpson can work together.

Although it's hard to get enough community input on anything, Norwegian said she didn't hear any new suggestions for the money.

At the meeting the Fort Simpson Metis Nation was represented by director Barb Villeneuve.

The list of projects consistently brought forward by the public include a swimming pool, concrete in the arena, a skate park and emergency services equipment, including an expansion to the fire hall.

Ensuring that Fort Simpson has all the necessary emergency equipment was high on the priority list for many of the 21 people at the meeting.

"It is essential," said Rita Cli.

Nola Benwell agreed.

"I think the safety thing is first," said Benwell.

Volunteer fire chief Pat Rowe made a presentation at the meeting about the fire department's needs. The fire hall expansion is the first concern, said Rowe.

Rowe said the fire department is only asking for a portion of the money to help with the expansion. He added that any money given from the fund would mean less taken from the village for the project.

Five skateboard and BMX enthusiasts also attended the meeting to ask for support for their skateboard park project.

This is the first group the skateboarders have approached to ask for funding.

Brendan Tsetso, one of the delegates, said there seemed to be a lot of support from the people at the meeting, but they want the project to be well organized first.

Raymond Michaud said if the youth received money, there should be "sweat equity" involved to ensure they have a sense of ownership over the project.

Stephanie de Pelham voiced support for the park, but noted there is a dire need for improved emergency services.

Mayor Duncan Canvin said overall, the meeting was beneficial. A good cross-section of the community came out to confirm the project suggestions that have already been raised, said Canvin.