News Releases
Gitxaała Enterprises
October 6, 2026
Gitxaała Enterprises Acquires Carbonzero, Establishing 100% First Nations-Owned Climate Solutions Provider
Canadian climate solutions provider enters a dynamic new era of growth and carbon market leadership under 100% First Nations ownership.
LAX KLAN, BC – October 6, 2026 – Carbonzero, a leading Canadian provider of greenhouse gas accounting and carbon offsetting solutions, today announced that it has been acquired by Gitxaała Enterprises Corporation (GECO), the economic development arm of Gitxaała Nation.
The acquisition marks an important milestone in Carbonzero’s evolution and an exciting new chapter for the company as a 100% First Nations-owned Canadian climate solutions provider. Carbonzero will continue to operate under its established brand, with its services, client relationships, and commitment to delivering trusted climate solutions remaining unchanged.
“After more than 20 years of building Carbonzero, I’m incredibly proud of what our team has created and the trust our clients and partners have placed in us,” said Dan Fraleigh, outgoing Chief Executive Officer of Carbonzero. “Finding the right home for the company was extremely important to us. In Gitxaala Enterprises, we found an owner with a long-term perspective and a strong commitment to environmental stewardship.”
As part of the transition, Carbonzero welcomes Jeff Calvert as Chief Executive Officer. Jeff has worked with Gitxaała Enterprises as a consultant over the past several years and brings extensive experience in carbon markets, climate solutions, and executive leadership.
The acquisition brings together Carbonzero’s climate and carbon-market expertise with GECO’s mandate to create sustainable, long-term economic opportunities for Gitxaała Nation.
“As Gitxaała People, our Ayaawx (traditional laws) have always taught us that we have a responsibility to care for our lands and waters while creating a strong future for our people. This acquisition gives us another opportunity to build for our future, create opportunities for our People, and ensure Gitxaała has a stronger voice and role in the work happening around climate and carbon,” said Luugagwelks, Elected Chief Councillor Linda Innes, Gitxaała Nation.
“Carbonzero is a strong strategic fit for Gitxaała Enterprises and positions us to participate more meaningfully in a rapidly evolving sector. The company brings deep expertise, an established reputation, and more than 20 years of experience that we can build on as we expand GECO’s capacity in climate and carbon markets and create new long-term opportunities for Gitxaała Nation,” said Michael Uehara, CEO of Gitxaała Enterprises Corporation.
The new ownership also creates opportunities for Carbonzero to expand its participation in Canada’s compliance carbon markets. Through Gitxaała Nation’s ownership of carbon credits from the Great Bear Rainforest, Carbonzero will expand its activities in British Columbia’s Output-Based Pricing System (OBPS) compliance market, complementing its established work in voluntary carbon markets and corporate climate strategy. For Carbonzero’s existing clients and partners, continuity remains a priority. Current projects, contracts, services, and primary points of contact will remain unchanged.
Looking ahead, Carbonzero and GECO see opportunities to expand the company’s reach, strengthen First Nations participation in climate and carbon-market initiatives, develop new partnerships, and support organizations navigating the transition to a lower-carbon economy.
The acquisition positions Carbonzero to build on more than two decades of climate leadership while entering its next chapter as a 100% First Nations-owned Canadian climate solutions provider.
About Carbonzero
Carbonzero has been helping businesses and organizations measure, manage, and mitigate their climate impacts for over 20 years. Trusted by more than one hundred corporate clients, our team of greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting and carbon offsetting experts has the experience to support organizations with their climate change strategies.
About Gitxaała Enterprises Corporation
Gitxaała Enterprises Corporation (GECO) is the economic development arm of Gitxaała Nation. GECO owns and operates a growing group of businesses and pursues strategic investments and partnerships that create long-term economic opportunities, employment, and sustainable growth for Gitxaała Nation and its citizens.
Contact:
September 23, 2026
Gitxaała Enterprises Welcomes Maylin Rivas as Human Resources Manager
Prince Rupert, BC, September 23, 2026 – Gitxaała Enterprises Corporation (GECO) is pleased to welcome Maylin Rivas as the newest addition to the team. Maylin officially joined GECO as Human Resources Manager on August 31, 2026, supporting employees and management across GECO and its businesses.
“We are very pleased to welcome Maylin to Gitxaała Enterprises. As GECO and our businesses continue to grow, having strong human resources leadership is increasingly important to supporting our employees and management teams. Maylin brings valuable HR experience, a strong understanding of Prince Rupert, and familiarity with GECO through her previous work with one of our business partners. We look forward to the knowledge and leadership she will bring to our organization,” said Michael Uehara, CEO of Gitxaała Enterprises Corporation.
“I’m excited to join Gitxaała Enterprises and have the opportunity to support the people who are at the heart of the organization. GECO has grown significantly in Prince Rupert, and I look forward to working with employees and management across its businesses to continue building a positive and supportive workplace. Prince Rupert is home for my family, so I’m especially happy to be taking on this role and contributing to an organization that is so connected to our community,” said Maylin Rivas, Human Resources Manager, Gitxaała Enterprises Corporation.
About Maylin Rivas
Maylin is an experienced human resources professional, most recently serving as Human Resources Manager at CityWest in Prince Rupert. In that role, she was responsible for a broad range of human resources functions, including the full employee lifecycle, performance management, employee relations, workplace compliance, and organizational support. She also served as Chair of the Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee.
Maylin also brings extensive experience in hospitality and operations leadership. Prior to her work with CityWest, she served as Food & Beverage Manager at Chances Prince Rupert and as Front of House Manager with Cambie Malone’s Group.
Maylin holds a Master’s Degree in Human Resources Administration, an MBA in Executive Management, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism Business Administration. She also holds a Certificate in Business Communication Management and Hospitality and is currently working toward her Chartered Professional in Human Resources designation.
Maylin has called Prince Rupert home since 2019. Since moving to the community, she met her husband and married into a long-time Prince Rupert family. Together, they are raising their daughter here and have built strong connections to the community they call home.
In her new role with GECO, Maylin will support human resources across the organization and its businesses, with a focus on employee relations, recruitment, workplace policies, performance management, and supporting GECO’s continued growth.
As part of her onboarding, Maylin will also work closely with Gitxaała Directors and leadership to build her understanding of Gitxaała culture, values, and priorities, and how these are reflected in GECO’s approach to supporting employees and its businesses.
Gitxaała Enterprises is pleased to welcome Maylin to the team and looks forward to the experience, knowledge, and leadership she will bring to the organization.
Contact:
September 2, 2026
Notice to Gitxaała Citizens Re: Alpha River – Blasting and Safety Plan
Gitxaała Forestry will begin road construction at Alpha River on or around September 9. This work will include regular drilling and controlled blasting.
For everyone’s safety, please review the following information and guidelines if you are in the area.
Work Schedule
- Lemare Construction will be working daily from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM
Blasting Activities
- Due to heavy rock conditions, controlled blasting will take place 4–5 times per day
- Blasting will occur at random times between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM
- Controlled blasting uses small, carefully measured charges to break rock safely for removal
Safety Area
- A 600-metre safety zone will be in place around the blasting area
- Please refer to the Alpha River Blasting Map for the exact location
- During work hours, avoid traveling by boat or aircraft within this area
Safety Procedures Before Blasting
- Crews will use a barge and boat to check and clear the area
- Once the area is clear:
- A warning will be broadcast on:
- Air band radio (123.200)
- Marine Channel 6
- You will hear twelve short (1-second) whistles
- After a 2-minute wait, the blast will occur
- A 5-second long whistle will sound after the blast to confirm the area is safe
- A warning will be broadcast on:
Duration of Work
- These safety procedures will be in place for approximately 2–3 months, or until the road has progressed further up the valley and the safety area can be reduced.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please reach out.
T’oyaxsut nüün,
Contact:
July 14, 2026
Gitxaała Nation and Gitxaała Enterprises Corporation (GECO) Announces Historic First Nations Equity Option Agreement with LNG Canada
Gitxaała Nation becomes one of five First Nations to have one of the largest First Nations Ownership Stakes in Energy Infrastructure
LAX KLAN, DOLPHIN ISLAND, B.C. – July 14, 2026 – The Gitxaała Nation, alongside Gitga’at First Nation, Haisla Nation, Kitselas First Nation and Kitsumkalum, in a limited partnerships of the economic development organizations of the Nations, MNT Investments LP, have entered a landmark equity agreement with LNG Canada.
“As People of the Saltwater (Git Lax M’oon), Gitxaała has always stewarded this territory’s lands, waters and resources, and this historic agreement shows how First Nations leadership can help shape a new model for responsible resource development in Canada,” said Luugagwelks (Linda Innes) Elected Chief Councillor and Board Chair of Gitxaała Enterprises Corporation (GECO)
“This agreement creates a historic pathway for Indigenous partnerships in Canada’s energy future. This partnership with LNG Canada aligns with Gitxaała’s values and together with our neighbouring Nations, we are showing what is possible when First Nations leadership, industry and governments work together with a shared vision grounded in consent, respect and partnership,” said Txa’gyet (Clarence Innis), Joint Committee Co-Chair, Lu Sa Hax Hoyaxgm Wil’nat’aał (LSHH).
LNG Canada is working towards growing Canada’s first large-scale LNG export facility in their proposed Phase 2 expansion and through this partnership, Gitxaała Nation ensured our communities, land, water and resources will continue to be protected according to Gitxaała’s adaawx (histories), ayaawx, (laws) amd Gugwilx’ya’ansk (practices and inherited responsibilities) while creating opportunities for economic development and investing in future generations. By working together with neighbouring Nations on this agreement, it shows First Nations equity and ownership is integral to building strong relationships where our voices are heard, understood and respected.
“This agreement marks a new chapter for economic development in Gitxaała territory and nationally where First Nations are equity owners and true partners. We will always have a seat at the table on decisions affecting our lands, waters and future. We hope this agreement sets a new standard for how Indigenous Nations, industry and governments can work together to create lasting benefits for everyone,” Linda Innes said.
Gitxaała Nation looks forward to working with LNG Canada developing a shared vision of the future for Canada to be a leader in providing the world with secure and reliable energy.
July 3, 2026
GITXAAŁA NATION Response to the Canada-BC Agreement.
Gitxaała Nation fully supports the North Coast Tanker Ban
LAX KLAN, DOLPHIN ISLAND, B.C. – July 3rd 2026 — The Gitxaała Nation fully supports the continuation of the North Coast oil tanker Ban announced by Prime Minster Mark Carney and Premier David Eby on July 2nd. We commend both governments for upholding their commitments to First Nations on BC’s Central and North Coast and Haida Gwaii that will see continued investment in the management, protection, and sustainable development of our Territory.
Our Nation continues to lead by showing that economic opportunity and environmental stewardship are not competing priorities, but complementary foundations for a strong and resilient future. The Gitxaała Nation remains strongly committed to its focus on building the wealth of its people through the values inherent in our Ayaawx.
Contact:
May 25, 2026
GECO – Newsletter, Spring / Summer 2026
Gitxaała Enterprises Corporation’s (GECO) Spring / Summer 2026 Newsletter is here to provide community members insights and updates on what is happening at GECO.
Contact:
May 19, 2026
Gitxaała Enterprises Welcomes Sean Martin as General Manager of the Crest Hotel
Prince Rupert, BC, May 19, 2026 — Gitxaała Enterprises Corporation (GECO), the owners of the Crest Hotel, are pleased to welcome Sean Martin as the newest addition to the team. Sean officially joined the Crest as General Manager on May 4, 2026, supporting the continued growth and operations of the property.
“We are excited to welcome Sean to the Crest Hotel. His hospitality experience, education, and professional track record make him a valuable addition to our team. With his prior experience in Northern BC, along with family connections to Prince Rupert, we look forward to the long-term stability that he will bring to the Crest Hotel,”
– Michael Uehara, CEO of Gitxaała Enterprises.
“It is a genuine honour to join the Gitxaała Enterprises team and lead the historic Crest Hotel into its next chapter of modernization and excellence. My family and I are excited for our new life in Prince Rupert, and I look forward to ensuring the Crest continues to set the gold standard for hospitality on the North Coast.”
– Sean Martin, General Manager, The Crest Hotel
About Sean Martin
Sean is an experienced hospitality leader, having served most recently as the General Manager for the Pangea Pod Hotel in Whistler for the past eight years. Previously, he was the General Manager of the Stonebridge Hotel in Fort St. John and a Relief General Manager for the Sandman chain throughout British Columbia, including assignments in Williams Lake and the Okanagan, where he was deployed as a turnaround specialist.
Having served as the first and only General Manager for Pangea from pre-opening in 2018, Sean has deep operational expertise, having led the full build-out and launch of the property. Under his leadership, the hotel became an award-winning hospitality product and achieved a 4.8 out of 5 guest rating on TripAdvisor, demonstrating his commitment to providing a positive and memorable guest experience.
Sean holds a Master’s Degree in International Hotel Management and brings a wealth of relevant experience that will be of benefit to the Crest, including harnessing modern technological systems, managing workers housing, and a proven ability to build a cohesive team in an independent boutique hotel.
Sean also has a personal connection to Prince Rupert, having married a former Rupertite. His wife’s family is rooted in the region, and they are fully committed to building their long-term future in Prince Rupert.
Gitxaała Enterprises and the Crest Hotel are excited about the opportunities and growth that Sean Martin will bring to our organization and to our community.
Contact:
May 11, 2026
A Release from Gitxaała Enterprises Corporation and BC Lottery Corporation
Gitxaała Enterprises Announces Plan to Transform Chances Prince Rupert and the Crest Hotel into Northern BC’s Premier Resort Destination
Grand reopening marks over $2 million in first-year investments and introduces a long-term vision, supported by strategic land agreements, to establish Northern BC’s only fully integrated Indigenous-owned resort destination.
PRINCE RUPERT, BC, May 11, 2026 — Gitxaała Enterprises Corporation (GECO) will mark the grand reopening of Chances Prince Rupert on May 14, the only Indigenous-owned casino in Northern BC, alongside the Crest Convention Centre. The announcement will also introduce a long-term plan to unite the properties with the neighbouring Crest Hotel into a combined resort destination.
Situated along the coastline overlooking Prince Rupert Harbour, the properties are located in a place of deep historical and cultural significance to the Gitxaała People, where land, water, and identity are deeply interconnected. Known as Git Lax M’oon, the People of the Saltwater, Gitxaała have lived in relationship with these coastal environments since time immemorial. This setting, defined by expansive ocean views and the natural rhythm of the harbour, will play a central role in shaping the future resort experience.
In partnership with BC Lottery Corporation (BCLC) and in close collaboration with the City of Prince Rupert, Gitxaała Enterprises is advancing a new chapter not only for Chances Prince Rupert and the Crest Hotel, but for the Nation’s continued leadership in economic development grounded in place, culture, and community.
A Vision for Northern BC
Working in close partnership with the City of Prince Rupert, GECO has finalized two land agreements that form the foundation of its long-term plan to bring together Chances and the Crest Hotel into one cohesive resort. These agreements include the purchase of the laneway between the two properties, and the purchase of the casino parking lot, a portion of which was municipally owned.
These agreements reflect a shared commitment between Gitxaała Enterprises and the City to support long-term economic development in Prince Rupert and unlock the full potential of this waterfront location.
When complete, the combined development will bring together the Crest Hotel, including its restaurant, lounge, convention centre, and planned spa, with Chances casino and sports bar to create a united resort destination. This offering will deliver an elevated guest experience not currently available anywhere north of the Okanagan, establishing the property as one of Northern BC’s premier hospitality and event destinations. Positioned above the harbour with unmatched views of Prince Rupert’s waterfront, the property will be defined by its connection to place, thoughtful design, and the surrounding coastal landscape.
Together, the Crest Hotel and Chances Prince Rupert currently support approximately 150 employees, making the properties a significant local employer. As Gitxaała Enterprises continues to invest in the future resort destination, the long-term vision is expected to create additional employment opportunities in hospitality, food and beverage, gaming, events, wellness, and guest services, while strengthening Prince Rupert’s role as a destination for tourism, conferences, and major events.
“This work reflects our responsibility as Gitxaała people to create opportunities for our Nation while remaining grounded in who we are and where we come from. The investments we are making here are about building a strong future for our people, creating opportunities for our youth, and ensuring our presence and leadership are reflected throughout our territory.” — GECO Board Chair & Elected Chief Lou Ga Gwelks (Linda Innes), Gitxaała Nation
$2 Million in First-Year Improvements
Since acquiring Chances Prince Rupert in February 2025, GECO and BCLC have jointly invested in more than $2 million worth of improvements to the property.
Enhancements to the gaming floor include new slot machines and electronic tables, along with updated seating and finishes. The Crest Convention Centre has also been upgraded with a new commercial kitchen, polished concrete floors inspired by the surrounding cliffside landscape, and cedar columns and trim that reflect Gitxaała culture and connection to territory. Exterior siding and gutter repairs, along with a fresh coat of paint, complete the transformation.
“This grand re-opening is more than a one-day celebration, it’s a demonstration of Gitxaała Enterprises’ commitment to building the premier hospitality destination for Northern BC. The investment we are making in bringing together the Crest Hotel, convention centre, and casino will further position Prince Rupert as a hub for tourism, conferences, and major events.”
— Michael Uehara, CEO, Gitxaała Enterprises Corporation
“BCLC is proud to partner with GECO in continuing to improve the guest experience at Chances Prince Rupert and to support the delivery of critical gambling revenue for the city. Since 2007, almost $8 million in provincial gambling revenue has been shared with the City of Prince Rupert for hosting Chances Prince Rupert. Last year alone, the city used more than $500,000 of this funding to support local initiatives for arts and culture, recreation, community programs and infrastructure. We are pleased to see how these contributions help strengthen the community of Prince Rupert for residents and visitors alike.”
— Pat Davis, President and Chief Executive Officer, BC Lottery Corporation
“Gitxaała is breathing life into Prince Rupert through its many Indigenous-owned and operated enterprises. They invest locally. They hire locally. Profits are reinvested locally to the benefit of all. That’s worth celebrating!”
— Mayor Herb Pond, City of Prince Rupert
Contact:
April 9, 2026
Notice to Gitxaała Citizens Re: Alpha River – Blasting and Safety Plan
Gitxaała Forestry will begin road construction at Alpha River on or around April 12. This work will include regular drilling and controlled blasting. For everyone’s safety, please review the following information and guidelines if you are in the area.
Work Schedule
- Lemare Construction will be working daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Blasting Activities
- Due to heavy rock conditions, controlled blasting will take place 4–5 times per day
- Blasting will occur at random times between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM
- Controlled blasting uses small, carefully measured charges to break rock safely for removal
Safety Area
- A 600-metre safety zone will be in place around the blasting area
- Please refer to the Alpha River Blasting Map for the exact location
- During work hours, avoid traveling by boat or aircraft within this area
Safety Procedures Before Blasting
- Crews will use a barge and boat to check and clear the area
- Once the area is clear:
- A warning will be broadcast on:
- Air band radio (123.200)
- Marine Channel 6
- You will hear twelve short (1-second) whistles
- After a 2-minute wait, the blast will occur
- A 5-second long whistle will sound after the blast to confirm the area is safe
- A warning will be broadcast on:
Duration of Work
- These safety procedures will be in place for approximately 2–3 months, or until the road has progressed further up the valley and the safety area can be reduced
If you have any questions or would like more information, please reach out.
T’oyaxsut nüün,
Contact:
March 11, 2026
Notice: Lax Klan Community Members and Gitxaała Citizens
Re: Gitxaała Forestry Operations Update – Captain’s Cove Helicopter Logging
Gitxaała Forestry would like to provide a community update regarding the upcoming helicopter logging operations at Captain’s Cove.
We expect to begin setting up helicopter water drop zones next week, with helicopter logging scheduled to begin during the week of March 16, weather permitting. Two S61 helicopters will be used for the operation, with the second helicopter expected to start approximately one week to ten days after the first.
Community members are welcome to observe the helicopter logging activity. However, for safety reasons, please stay at least 400 metres away and well clear of all active drop zones and operational areas.
An attached map shows the locations of the helicopter drop zones.
Once operations begin, helicopter logging is expected to continue for approximately two months, depending on weather conditions and operational needs.
If you have any questions or would like additional information, please reach out.
T’oyaxsut nüün.
