Harbour Quay Clock Tower Poised to Receive a Facelift

On August 13, 2018, City of Port Alberni Council will consider a motion to enter into an agreement with the Tseshaht First Nation. This agreement would see the two governments pursue a partnership in the development of a Tseshaht art piece and interpretive signage for the Harbour Quay Clock Tower.

This collaboration would recognize the historic Tseshaht winter village of Tlukwatku-is (Wolf Ritual Beach) near Harbour Quay, honour the wolf as the fundamental holder for the Tseshaht Law of Harmony and celebrate Alberni Valley’s rich local history and culture.

“For the City this is groundbreaking. It is the first such partnership between the City and Tseshaht Frist Nation and is a reflection of recent reconciliation efforts and residents’ desires to create an inclusive community that celebrates diversity and local history,” said Mike Ruttan, City of Port Alberni Mayor.

Funding for the Clock Tower refurbishment was set aside in the City’s 2017 – 2021 Five-Year Financial Plan with an assigned budget of $100,000.

“With this project, the Tseshaht First Nation and the City of Port Alberni will continue to move forward together in the spirit of reconciliation, building a partnership that fosters true collaboration,” said Cynthia Dick, Tseshaht First Nation Elected Chief Councillor.

The Harbour Quay Clock Tower has been a prominent landmark in Port Alberni for over 30 years. Constructed in 1983/84, the Clock Tower commemorates the contribution from the estate of Fred Duncan, the long-time owner-publisher of the Alberni Valley Times. Out of respect for the Duncan family, the City reached out to relatives of Fred Duncan asking for their blessing to change the aesthetic look of the tower. The Duncan’s expressed gratitude that the Clock Tower was to be refurbished, and saw this collaboration as a positive step for the Alberni Valley.

If the project proceeds, Clock Tower ownership and public access would not change.