Central Island residents will now find it even easier to access government services with the official opening of a brand-new FrontCounter BC office in Port Alberni.
The office is located on Cherry Creek Road in the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations building.
FrontCounter BC is a single window service for clients of the natural resource sector. FrontCounter BC was created in 2005 with eight locations, a dedicated call centre and online applications.
This year, FrontCounter BC is expanding to more locations across B.C.
Wednesday’s opening in Port Alberni is a key part of the province’s new integrated approach to the natural resource sector, Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Steve Thomson said.
“FrontCounter BC embodies the vision of this ministry—it’s client-centred and regionally-based. By bringing government services into communities like Port Alberni we’re supporting economic development on the island,” he said.
Mayor Ken McRae said FrontCounter will help people looking for work in the resource industry.
“Resource development is a key part of Port Alberni’s economy,” McRae said.
“This
new FrontCounter BC office will help people get started on their applications and support our economic growth.”
FrontCounter BC offers more than 130 natural resource-related permits and authorizations at each location.