'It changed my life that day': Enterprise still divided after devastating fire

Almost two years have passed since a wildfire tore through the hamlet of Enterprise, N.W.T., in August 2023, destroying homes and scattering residents.

Once a tight-knit hamlet of around 100 people, residents say the community is torn and still a long way from recovery, both physically and emotionally.

"It was a nice community," said Charlie Sutherland, who has lived in Enterprise for 15 years. "You used to go out Sunday morning, walk your dog, talk to your neighbours."

Sutherland and his wife lost everything in the fire. Like many others, they fled with only a few changes of clothes and essential documents, thinking they'd return in a few days. 

"I never had anything hit me so hard in my life. It just changes a person's attitude on life," he said. "I know it changed my life that day — our life."

The couple was fortunate enough to have insurance and some savings. By November 2023, they were living in a new trailer where their house once stood. But many others haven't been so lucky. 

Sutherland's home is still surrounded by several cleared-out lots. He pointed to a few new homes that have popped up, but said most uninsured residents have given up.

He said the community feels divided. Some of the tension comes from the divide between insured and non-insured residents, but the hamlet has also struggled with political tension.

Last week, the territorial government placed the hamlet under administration, dismissing the mayor and council due to "governance, financial and operational challenges." Some residents said they hope it will be a "reset" for the community. 

Sutherland is hopeful, but he isn't sure he'll see it in his lifetime.

"People just lost faith," he said over the loss of connection. "To make a community, everybody's got to work together."

Still, Sutherland said they are not going anywhere. "It's your home, it's your work, your friends and family," he said. "It's hard to just pick up and walk away."

Kathy Beaupré understands loss. A year before the fire, she lost her home, most of her sled dog team, and reptiles in a devastating flood at the Fox Farm, just outside of Enterprise. She and her roommate had to be rescued from their rooftop.

Hamlet officials later offered them a place to live in Enterprise. That house was spared by the wildfire, and Beaupré said she's grateful to still be in the community. Although there is tension, she feels optimistic.