Regional District spending questioned

Oct 7, 2026 | 8:12 AM

Alberni – Clayoquot Regional District spending is being criticized after a series of workshops where managers and staff made drums, drumsticks, and paddled canoes during work hours.

On May 6th, 18 ACRD staff gathered for breakfast at the Tseshaht longhouse before paddling the Somass River at a cost of $2840.

On June 19th, 50 staff and managers spent the day making drums at a cost of $9645.

Beaufort-area director Fred Boyko said he agrees with reconciliation workshops for staff, but says the cost of taking staff and managers away from their desks was too much.

“When staff costs are included, the event cost taxpayers approximately $45,000 for the day,” he said. “Having professional development and reconciliation events are important but pulling the entire 50 person plus ACRD crew into an event that takes most of the day if not all the day is questionable.”

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Last year, the Canadian Federation of Business said the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District was one of the most inefficient regional governments in BC.

ACRD only revealed the costs after a Freedom of Information request was made by 93.3 The PEAK.

Photo: ACRD staff and managers participate in a drum-making workshop at the Sproat Lake Firehall on June 19, 2026. Photo Credit ACRD

by David Wiwchar

Regional District spending questioned

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