In a recent development, the City of Brantford and Six Nations of the Grand River have come to an agreement that could lead to economic benefits being shared by both parties from the development of lands on the outskirts of Brantford. The mayor of Brantford expressed that this agreement will not only foster collaboration but also help in rebuilding trust and respect between the two communities.
The memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed on August 18 by Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis and Sherri-Lyn Hill, the elected chief of Six Nations. This MOU pertains to the “boundary lands,” which consist of 3,060 hectares of land that were transferred from Brant County to the city back in 2016 to facilitate future residential, employment, and economic growth.
Under this agreement, Six Nations will have a significant role in the development of the land and will also receive a portion of the financial benefits obtained from a levy on projects like new housing developments. The specifics of this levy will be outlined in the final agreement between the two parties.
Mayor Davis highlighted that Six Nations has been waiting for over three decades for a lawsuit, filed against the province and federal government regarding land sovereignty in the area, to be heard in court. This trial is scheduled to commence in October after years of delays.
The MOU is designed to create a framework for collaboration and shared prosperity between the City of Brantford and Six Nations concerning the development of the boundary lands. This partnership aims to address the historical grievances and build a stronger relationship between the two communities.
Moving forward, the plan envisions the establishment of a new levy on developments to contribute to a Six Nations Community Prosperity Fund. It is important to note that the MOU does not involve the sale, surrender, or transfer of any Six Nations lands, rights, or interests. It serves as a starting point for ongoing discussions and does not represent a final agreement.
Community consultations will precede the formal signing of any agreement, ensuring that the voices of all stakeholders are heard. The MOU emphasizes that it does not diminish the Aboriginal, treaty, constitutional, or other rights of Six Nations. The Haudenosaunee Confederacy Chiefs Council has expressed concerns about the MOU and plans to release a detailed statement soon.