Gladiator Metals says it's open to feedback on drilling program inside Whitehorse city limits

Gladiator Metals says it's taking resident concerns about its copper exploration project near Whitehorse seriously.

The company's president, Marcus Harden, addressed city council Monday. He said Gladiator recognizes it has "a lot more work to do" on community engagement. 

Eight delegates appeared before council last month to speak against the project. They cited concerns about the environmental impact of mining and the potential impact of drilling on domestic well water sources. They also accused Gladiator of one-sided engagement that didn't leave space for residents to give feedback.

Gladiator resumed drilling in the Whitehorse copper belt in 2024. An application to expand exploration to a class 3 permit is going through the assessment process. If approved, Gladiator would expand drilling throughout the whole 35-kilometre Copper Belt project, most of which is within city limits.

Harden told council that Gladiator is in regular discussion with First Nations governments and holds open houses for the community every few months

"We're always grateful for any advice or suggestions on how our engagement can be improved," Harden said.

He said they're trying to keep an "open door policy" in response to community concerns, but did not elaborate on what concerns the company has heard. Gladiator is also trying to keep disturbances to a minimum for nearby residents, he said.

"We take all concerns raised seriously and have followed up with relevant government departments and regulatory bodies to ensure we understand and mitigate these concerns where possible," he said.