A Message from the CEO

It’s shaping up to be a historic year for the Líl̓wat Business Group.

Tseqwtsúqum̓ (pronounced Chek-choo-koom), our mixed residential/commercial project in  Function Junction has been a consistent focus of my work this year. Among the benefits we have already realized from Tseqwtsúqum̓ is almost $8 million in subcontracts for Construction Enterprises.

Last month, RMOW council voted to approve an exemption to its employee housing policy to allow Líl̓wat members who work for the Nation or the Business Group to rent at Tseqwtsúqum̓. The project includes 72 units across three buildings: 24 one-bedroom, 40 two-bedroom, and 8 three-bedroom homes. Twenty-four of these units have been set aside for Lil̓wat7u̓l.

This significant change represents far more than providing additional housing. This change represents Whistler council's commitment to Líl̓wat Nation reestablishing its presence on our Traditional Territory. It also exemplifies a commitment to social and economic reconciliation. Our people who could never imagine living in Whistler will now have that opportunity.

To ensure cultural safety for our workers at Tseqwtsúqum̓, LBG is also introducing a new position: Cultural Safety Officer. This position will help ensure that our workers are respected from the moment they get on the bus to go to the worksite until they return home and that our ways and values are always considered.

Forestry Ventures has developed a 20-pack, Type 3, firefighting unit with its own medical transport vehicle. This substantially increases Forestry Ventures forest firefighting capabilities.

And Retail Operations’ businesses continue to outperform expectations. Líl̓wat Station has some new, highly efficient fuel pumps and the Hitching Post Motel recently achieved an 8 out of 10 on its reviews. Both businesses are well positioned to do well over the summer, with the increase in tourist traffic.

I am also excited that LBG is supporting the Kwáozán̓tsut Culture Camps for the Nation's children and youth. The July camps will be held at Klháka7min, the site of the former Outdoor School, on more than 80 hectares of land that was returned to Líl̓wat Nation in 2022. The camp will promote Lil̓wat7úl culture and spirituality and will be led by three of our Nation's pipe carriers and feature Knowledge Keepers and Elders.

Like many of you, I am looking forward to attending Fish Camp with family and friends. I know my arms will be aching after days of cleaning fish, but it will be well worth it. This year they are projecting a fish run higher than it has been in many years. I will have to make space in my freezer and get my canning jars together!

On a more somber note, in light of the recent paddleboarding tragedies in the
Sea to Sky Corridor, I would like to ask everyone to make sure they respect the
water this summer.

Have fun this summer and please stay safe,

Kúkwstum̓ckál̓ap,

Tsekonámus Rosemary Stager-Wallace, CEO

Is that Jesse? Or the LBG CEO?
The Líl̓wat Business Group was pleased to  sponsor the annual Líl̓wat Rodeo this past May long weekend. LBG's parade entry paid tribute to Toy Story, delighting children and adults alike.

The three-day event attracted thousands of spectators. The crowd enjoyed bull-riding, calf roping, barrel racing, food and merchandise vendors.

Líl̓wat Retail Operations Staff
Hit the Golf Course

Líl̓wat Station Manager Denise Leo and Hitching Post Motel Manager Melanie Montgomery keeping hydrated at Sunstone Golf Course.

The LRO managers spent June 18 on the greens  networking and representing LRO as part of the Pemberton Chamber Golf Tournament.

Rajeev "Raja"  Rajan is Chief Financial Officer at Líl̓wat Business Group, a role he assumed on an interim basis in February 2026. We are pleased to announce that he is now in the role of CFO on a permanent basis.

He  brings over 25 years of experience, including more than 15 years in leadership roles, to LBG. He is proud to be part of LBG and the work underway to build a strong and sustainable future for the Nation.

His focus is on strengthening each business, building internal capacity, and creating long-term value for the community. Raja works closely with the CEO and leadership team to strengthen financial discipline, enhance transparency, and support sustainable growth across all business lines.

He looks forward to continuing this work and contributing to the success of LBG’s partnerships

LCE is proud to share that the Function Junction project is now in full swing, marking a major step forward in both construction delivery and workforce development. In partnership with the Stone River Group, LCE successfully secured $7.5 million in project funding. This includes key work such as excavation, formwork, and concrete placing and finishing. Additional opportunities for the business group's construction company are  anticipated as Tseqwtsúqum̓ progresses.

This success reflects the strong efforts of Senior Project Manager Zain Ashiq and Operations Manager Kyle Applejohn, who played key roles in securing the contracted work for LCE. The project is already creating meaningful employment opportunities for Nation members, including roles such as Project Coordinator, Construction Safety Officer, Junior Labour and equipment operators. Several team members are also actively training toward future leadership positions, including site-level supervisory roles through partnerships such as Jensen Forming.

Building Capacity, Safety, and Services

LCE continues to grow its workforce and operational capacity, now employing more than 35 staff. A key milestone this quarter is the successful implementation of our COR-certified safety program, developed with the support of safety consultant Travis Robertson. This strengthens our commitment to safety, compliance, and best practices across all projects.

The Pemberton Transfer Station remains active, now supporting additional deliveries from the Devine Transfer Station, alongside ongoing recycling coordination within the Nation. 

LCE also continues to manage LCALP properties and has been working with the Nation to prepare for the Outdoor School for upcoming summer programming. Leasing activity has expanded, including agreements for the former Spirit Circle shelter and multiple agreements in place at the Pemberton Highway Yard.

Community Infrastructure & Partnerships

LCE supported upgrades to the Rodeo Grounds, completing the installation of an additional 450 bleacher seats under a tight timeline.

This work was made possible through strong collaboration with valued partners, including Kontour Geotechnical Consultants, TeraCanna, Sports Systems, Whistler Welding, and Sp’akw’us Civil Constructors. A big thank you to all who made this happen for the Nation.

What’s Next

Looking ahead, LCE will continue to build on current project momentum, expand training and employment pathways for Nation members, and strengthen service delivery across construction, property management, and environmental operations.

Thank you,

— Jason Andrew
Construction Services General Manager

A Busy Season For LFV

Líl̓wat Forestry Ventures (LFV) has undertaken major projects over the last three months, including carrying out major cultural burns throughout the territory in collaboration with the Líl̓wat Nation and with support from BC Wildfire Service to better protect and care for Líl̓wat forests and territory.

Additionally, staff have remained busy, working on BC Hydro work, preparing the greenhouse for our 2 Billion Tree program, and working on fuel thinning at Alta Lake for the Resort Municipality of Whistler. Over the last few months, LFV has made a big impact across the province, meeting with Pemberton Mayor Richman and hosting a field tour for MLA Jeremy Valeriote. 

Additionally, the team has been able to attend multiple events to share more about our work including Simon Fraser University's Wildfire and the Forest Industry Dialogue. Jordon Gabriel attended this event to collaboratively address critical challenges in scaling wildfire mitigation efforts across British Columbia.

By building these important relationships, we can continue to ensure that Líl̓wat Nation’s priorities and needs are heard and create new opportunities for growth.

LFV has been able to attend key learning opportunities this quarter, including the University of British Columbia Faculty of Forestry’s Combined Heat and Power Community and Bioenergy Academy training program and a cultural burning workshop at Esk’etemc First Nation in Alkali Lake.

LFV and master’s students from the University of British Columbia joined Xet̓ólacw Community School students for a Super Course on cultural burning and cultural plants.

Upcoming for LFV

For our coming quarter, we are looking forward to hosting a community event to share an update on the Old Growth Stewardship Data Collection Project to give the Nation a snapshot of the forest and further help promote wildfire management, wildlife habitats and the growth of traditional plants. We are also excited to share more information about the forest nursery currently under construction, and for our planting activities this fall.

As always, we strive to keep the community informed through our website and social media regarding our thinning and harvesting activities occurring regularly.

— Klay Tindall
Forestry Ventures General Manager

LRO Ready for Summer

As we prepare for the busy summer season, LRO continues to invest in our businesses, facilities, and community partnerships to enhance services for both community members and visitors.

An example of LRO's commitment to investing in community partnership was the annual Líl̓wat Rodeo in May. The event attracted an estimated 5,000 people, a far greater number than had been anticipated.

Tourism organizations are expecting that more BC residents will choose staycations and road trips within the province this year. At LRO we're ready for an influx of summer visitor traffic.

LRO Business
Improvements & Projects
 

New Fuel Pumps at Líl̓wat Station

Líl̓wat Station Chevron recently completed a major upgrade to its fuel pumps on March 6, ahead of schedule. This $200,000 investment introduces tap payment readers and larger digital display screens, enhancing customer convenience while supporting efficient operations and marketing. 
 

Hitching Post Motel Website Launch

A new Hitching Post Motel website is scheduled to launch at the end of June, providing an improved guest experience, streamlined online booking, and a stronger digital presence to attract visitors;
 

Summer Property Improvements

The Hitching Post Motel has undergone exterior improvements, including fresh paint and refreshed garden beds (picture right), helping create a welcoming environment for guests.

Broadband Service Expanded

Líl̓wat Broadband continues to provide reliable,
high-speed internet service that keeps telecommunications dollars within the community while supporting residents, businesses, and families.

Service is now available in Xet̓ólacw (New Site), providing more households with access to dependable local internet. Community members interested in connecting are encouraged to contact the Broadband team at 604-894-6145 to get connected today.

Enhanced Food Service at Líl̓wat Station

Planning is underway for new food service equipment and updated customer seating areas at Líl̓wat Station Chevron.

These improvements will support continued growth in prepared food offerings while enhancing customer comfort and service efficiency.

Sponsorship & Support

LRO remains committed to supporting local events, youth programs, and community initiatives.
Recent contributions have included:
 

Líl̓wat Nation Rodeo & Fun Day

LRO was proud to sponsor and participate in this important annual community event. Líl̓wat Station joined the Líl̓wat Business Group's Toy Story float and distributed more than 500 free Slushie vouchers to local families and children.

Pemberton 4x4 Rally

Sponsorship support provided to community members participating in the 2026 event.

Seabird Island Soccer Tournament

Support provided to Lil’wat youth attending and representing the community at the tournament.

Tsípun Community Programs

Tsípun Supermarket continues to support the Qwal̓ímak Nlep̓cálten Market Greens Program, local school lunch programs, and various other community initiatives that help improve food access and support families within the Nation.

Looking Forward 

As summer begins, our focus remains on delivering exceptional customer service, supporting community initiatives, and continuing to invest in the long-term success of our businesses.

We will be making substantial changes to Tsípun Supermarket over the summer and into the fall when Tsípun will be relaunching its Kitchen/Cafe.

Tsípun Supermarket
Kitchen/Café Relaunch

Tsípun Supermarket will be relaunching its Kitchen/Café in summer/fall 2026 with new leadership, an expanded menu, extended operating hours, and catering services. The relaunch will be supported through targeted marketing campaigns, in-store promotions, and a renewed focus on providing fresh, convenient food options for community members and visitors alike.

Through strategic improvements, community partnerships, and continued investment in local services, Líl̓wat Retail Operations remains committed to creating economic opportunities and lasting benefits for Líl̓wat Nation.

We are proud to serve the community.

— Graham Turner
LRO General Manager