"This is an historic day that both communities can be proud of," said Mayor Greg Gardner. "This Accord brings the two communities closer together by sharing resources and working in harmony toward the common goal of creating a higher quality of life for all Squamish residents," said Mayor Greg Gardner.

"The signing of this Accord signifies a mutual desire to create a new future based on a clear understanding of our joint and individual objectives. As we move forward together through the Intergovernmental Cooperation Accord the DOS and the Squamish Nation will participate in the future growth and sustainability of the region together," said Chief Gibby Jacob.

“This historic Cooperation Accord represents the culmination of many years of work to find a path for the mutual benefit of residents of the District of Squamish and the Squamish Nation, in the heart of their territory. Going forward, this Accord will guide their working relationship on how together they envisage land use and the provision of services in the Squamish region. It shows great leadership from both parties, and I personally thank Chief Gibby Jacob and Mayor Greg Gardner, and their respective teams, for their integrity and commitment to finding a masterful way to satisfy their interests,” said West Vancouver – Sea to Sky MLA Joan McIntyre.

The background to the event includes recent steps taken by the Province of BC and Squamish Nation toward closing the socio- economic gaps between Aboriginal people and other British Columbians. The efforts made by the District of Squamish and the Squamish Nation towards a collaborative working relationship have been instrumental in creating this opportunity.

The District of Squamish is working to ensure the future financial stability of the community. Both Squamish Nation and the District of Squamish have recognized that it is critical for the two governments to work in harmony. The Accord will resolve many outstanding issues and confirm a foundation of cooperation for many years into the future.

Highlights of the Accord:

The District will provide services to Squamish Nation Reserve Lands equal to the services provided and subject to the same limitations as other lands in the District of Squamish.

Work together to create a joint Community Forest

Any Squamish Nation application for rezoning of 200 acres of Cheekeye Fan lands will be on agreed terms including the dedication of 50 acres for a public park, 25 per cent of the profit from this development offered to the District. The Cheekeye Fan will not be added to a Reserve of the Squamish Nation and the area will be developed and serviced according to the District’s Official Community Plan.

Squamish Nation supports the SODC Development and when necessary will provide a written letter of consent approving the development of oceanfront lands to the approving agencies to ensure the timely and continued development of the Lands.

Parties will work together to apply to BCR Properties and the Province of British Columbia to acquire Economic Development lands from BCR Properties and develop a joint venture partnership.

About Squamish
Squamish is a vibrant seaside community located in the Coast Mountain Range of British Columbia, at the head of Howe Sound. Home to more than 17,181 people, Squamish is a young, energetic town with 60% of the population under the age of 40. Squamish offers a high quality lifestyle, entrepreneurial opportunities, two universities and a community that prides itself as the “Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada.”

About Squamish Nation
The Squamish Nation comprises descendants of the Coast Salish Aboriginal peoples who lived in the present day Greater Vancouver area; Gibson’s Landing and Squamish River watershed. The Squamish Nation have occupied and governed their territory since beyond recorded history. The total area of Squamish Nation Traditional Territory is 6,732 sq. km. (673,540 hectares).

The Intergovernmental Cooperation Accord can be viewed by clicking here. 
A summary of the Accord can viewed by clicking here.