The town of Norman Wells, N.W.T., is undergoing significant changes following the recent closure of Imperial Oil’s operations last Friday. Mayor Frank Pope described the event as a small yet impactful moment, prompting the community of around 700 residents to consider the next steps.
Having been active in Norman Wells for over a century, Imperial Oil announced earlier this year its decision to cease operations due to declining production levels at the site. Consequently, the town had to adapt its operations, particularly in securing a new power source.
Previously reliant on gas generation provided by Imperial Oil, Norman Wells has now transitioned to diesel power from the Northwest Territories Power Corporation. Mayor Pope expressed concerns about the reliability of the new diesel system and highlighted the limited local expertise available to address any potential issues that may arise, emphasizing the need for trained staff to be stationed in the community.
The departure of Imperial Oil has necessitated a reassessment of the town’s budget, as tax revenue from the company accounted for 70% of Norman Wells’ financial resources. Mayor Pope mentioned ongoing negotiations with the company to establish new tax rates for the upcoming remediation project spanning approximately 20 years.
In addition to taxation concerns, the focus is also on preserving local employment opportunities. Mayor Pope expressed hope that local residents would have the chance to participate in the remediation efforts. Energy analyst Doug Matthews, part of a closure working group involving various stakeholders, emphasized the importance of training community members and ensuring their involvement in the restoration project.
Matthews advocated for utilizing local skilled labor and providing them with additional training for the remediation process. He commended a local company in the Sahtu region for collaborating with Imperial Oil on interim restoration activities. Matthews highlighted the potential for communities to revitalize themselves through innovative approaches, shifting from oil production to environmental cleanup, thus offering a new perspective on sustainable practices.
