The Village of Lytton was nearly completely destroyed in the 2021 Lytton Creek Fire, and residents are still struggling to rebuild. The high cost and slow pace of archaeological work required before rebuilding can begin is prohibitive to the village’s recovery. Individual quotes for archaeological work range from $26,000 to $48,000, with at least one as high as $86,000. The costs, not covered by insurance, are causing some to choose not to rebuild.
Lytton has asked the Province for help to streamline the work and cover these costs, but have had no response.
“We respect the importance of archaeological preservation, but the pace of work and the additional expenses should not burden or fall on the shoulders of our residents who have lost so much,” said Lytton Mayor Denise O’Connor.
In a press conference at UBCM’s 2024 Convention, Lytton’s Mayor Denise O’Connor went public with the Village’s frustration at the lack of response from the Province. O’Connor has twice requested a meeting with Premier David Eby, and has not received so much as a confirmation of receipt. “Just crickets,” she said.
O’Connor and the rest of council are asking the Province to step in to streamline the archaeological work, and financially support residents faced with prohibitively high bills.
"The people of Lytton have been patient for far too long. While we appreciate the overall support from the Province to help rebuild Lytton, the costs and process delays related to the archeological work are major barriers to getting people back into their homes.”
"The B.C. government needs to step up, show its support to our village, expediate this process, and cover these costs so that residents can move forward with rebuilding and healing.”