Village to allow sacred fires

The village of Chase made two bylaw amendments to allow for ceremonial and sacred fires without needing a permit.

At the Sept. 10 village council meeting, corporate officer Sean O’Flaherty, introduced the motion and explained why it was being considered.

“The reason these two bylaws are before us today is because the new landmark that is going to be installed at Chase Creek Falls,” he explained. “The landmark contains, basically, a firepit.”

The Stelteglxús Landmark installed at Chase Creek Falls is a steel sphere designed to be able to hold ceremonial fires, however the sculpture will be locked when not in use.

The landmark is part of the ongoing Secwépemc Landmarks Project, led by the Adams Lake Band, Neskonlith Band, Skwl?x te Secwepemcúlecw, and Splatsín te Secwépemc communities.

He explained that the landmark falls within the municipality of Chase so if it is going to be used for any sacred or ceremonial fires the bylaws would need to be changed.

Coun. Dan Stevens spoke up to say the changes would still align with BC Wildfire regulations and explained ceremonial fires are allowed even during fire bans.

Coun. Colin Connett was opposed to the burning permit amendments.

“I can understand it being on their land but this is Chase B.C., and if I have a fire, we can say it's ceremonial too, and I don't need to pay?,” he said. “It's not fair.”

The two motions necessary to allow for ceremonial fires passed despite Coun. Connett's objections.