Resource Development Review Committee

The Resource Development Review Committee (RDRC) of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo was established to examine socio-economic and environmental impacts of Petroleum and/or Hydrocarbon projects proposed to be located in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. The RDRC makes recommendations to Council regarding major projects i.e. projects generating employment above 40 Full Time Equivalency rates and/or local expenditure above $20 million. The Committee also ensures that proponents of major projects address local issues, residents’ quality of life and the mitigation of any negative long term impacts of development.

The committee is composed of six individuals representing the Municipality of Wood Buffalo, a regional business, a native business, health, education and environment sectors. The Mayor sits on the RDRC as an Ex-officio member.

The current chair of the RDRC is Councillor Jim Carbery.

AEUB Intervention

On June 13, 2006, the Regional Council of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo unanimously passed a resolution to intervene in upcoming EUB hearings for proposed oilsands projects. This decision was made once the Municipality acknowledged that it is unable to cope with accelerated growth based on cumulative impacts of oilsands development in the region.

• The first intervention for the Suncor/Voyageur Project began hearings on July 5th, 2006 in Fort McMurray, AB.
• The second intervention for the Albian Sands Energy Inc. Muskeg River Mine Expansion Project began hearings on September 5th, 2006 in Fort McMurray, AB.
• The third intervention for Imperial Oil Ventures Resources Ltd, Kearl Oilsands Project began EUB hearings on November 6, 2006 in Fort McMurray, AB.