The committee Members found that there was great value in being able to undertake practical research and discuss issues with community leaders. The work of the committee is one of a few ways that the smaller communities can have a voice that is constructive and potentially effective at resolving common concerns for a majority of the NWT communities. Committee Members know that they cannot make decisions for the next Legislative Assembly. They will recommend, however, that the Members of the next Legislative Assembly establish a Standing Committee on Small Communities and that the present government reflect this recommendation in the transition plan to the next Legislative Assembly. Therefore, the Special Joint Committee on Non-Tax-Based Community Affairs recommends that the 15th Legislative Assembly establish a Standing Committee on Small Communities to represent the interests of, and improve the quality of life in, the non-tax-based municipalities in the Northwest Territories.

This report already identifies some of the work that could be undertaken by that committee. The committee could accomplish significant work in order to challenge Northerners to understand and appreciate the needs of the smaller communities and perhaps even assist the government to take new steps and build better tomorrows.