Fort Smith, N.W.T., mayor says town meeting on Monday will determine possible return date

The mayor of Fort Smith, N.W.T., says the town will meet on Sept. 11 to discuss a possible return plan, but it will depend on fire activity over the weekend.

Fred Daniels said the town council will look over recommendations from the fire crews on the ground based on the weekend's fire activity, which is expected to be high. 

Adam McNab, Fort Smith's director of protective services, said although the threat to Fort Smith has decreased, areas around it remain threatened. Fire activity is expected to be high over the next several days.

Daniels said that once the evacuation order is lifted, more essential workers must return before the general population can. 

This development comes just a few days after Fort Smith welcomed back critical workers, including RCMP, staff from the power corporation, grocers and health care workers.

Daniels said he's had discussions with the N.W.T. government, Wood Buffalo National Park officials, and the Alberta government about the return process. 

Daniels said the earliest return flights would be organized for Tuesday, adding he wanted to start the return process a week ago but had to wait until the situation was more secure. 

"Perhaps I'm a little pushy or whatever," he said. 

"I realize there's certain stuff we got to do before we get to that point… But I'm a mayor that doesn't have good patience."   

Daniels thanked those on the ground who have ensured the community remains safe. 

"You've done a wonderful job, and we owe you a lot," he said.

In an update posted to Facebook around noon on Saturday, Wood Buffalo National Park said there is a "reduced threat to Fort Smith because of firefighters' hard work," but it still wasn't safe for people to return. 

"Until essential services are re-established, the community can not support re-entry."

The post said Highway 5, the only road in and out of Fort Smith, was closed on Friday due to safety concerns and limited visibility. According to the N.W.T. Highways map, the road remained closed as of Saturday evening.