Doig River First Nation and City sign Municipal Services Agreement

Building off the Memorandum of Understanding on Development and Services, signed in 2020, and the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation and Communication, signed in 2010, today, the Doig River First Nation and the City of Fort St. John signed a Municipal Services Agreement.

A Municipal Services Agreement covers various items; however, the main elements address fees for services and commitments to bylaws and development standards that are substantially the same as those provided to all Fort St John residents and businesses. In addition, this negotiated document recognizes that the Doig River First Nation is a unique developer in the City of Fort St. John, ensuring the Doig River First Nation’s land receives and pays for the same services received by other properties.

Together, the City of Fort St. John and Doig River First Nation’s are committed to supporting a prosperous local economy, providing an opportunity for cultural expression within a diverse community setting, maintaining a healthy environment, and ensuring a strong and safe social fabric.

“This is one major step in becoming a self-reliant nation, working with the City on a positive relationship for our future generations and advancing reconciliation in our region. What we do today will set the stage for a positive future and further investments in our community,” said Doig River First Nation Chief Trevor Makadahay.

“This agreement is the culmination of tremendous work done by our respective Councils and staff clearly showing that we are committed to continuing to build on our relationships with our First Nation neighbours.  We are eager to see these future developments enhancing our community and providing local economic opportunities.  We have learned that we come from an uneven past but together we can make tomorrow a better place for our grandchildren and their grandchildren,” stated Mayor Lori Ackerman.

The Municipal Services Agreement will come into effect when the Doig River First Nation’s land is transferred into reserve land through the federal Additions to Reserve process.

For additional information about Urban Reserves and Treaty Land Entitlement, visit www.fortstjohn.ca/EN/main/business/development/urban-reserves.html.

Attached: Municipal Services Agreement [PDF - 2 MB]

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Media Contact

Ryan Harvey Communications Coordinator City of Fort St. John 250-794-3313

Shona Nelson Dane-zaa ghaa adishtl’ish gha deh (Band Manager) Doig River First Nation 250-827-3776