Saugeen First Nation and the Town of Saugeen Shores are joining in on a economic development initiative.
The two are participating in the national Community Economic Development Initiative (CEDI) program, which is delivered by the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers (Cando) and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM).
The initiative seeks to improve the economic prosperity of participating First Nations and municipalities through joint economic development and land use planning.
Saugeen First Nation and the Town of Saugeen Shores are one of eight partnerships in Canada as part of this three-year First Nation-municipal collaboration program between 2022 and 2025.
As part of the initial stages of the CEDI program, the participating partners will hold a council workshop of June 14 to look at potential areas of community economic development collaboration.
The town says those participating in the CEDI program gather for facilitated monthly working group meetings, bi-annual workshops, and wise practice activities and tools for relationship and capacity building.
Chief Lester Anoquot says he is pleased to participate in the initiative with Mayor Luke Charbonneau and the Town of Saugeen Shores.
“We look forward to working together to address our economic challenges, strengthen our relationship, and develop the regional economy,” says Anoquot.
The town says together with Saugeen First Nation, they recognize long-term partnerships are based in a solid foundation, and the CEDI program provides a way for both communities to create economic and social advantages for all residents.
Charbonneau says they are honoured to have been chosen as part of the three-year CEDI program to foster a stronger working relationship with Saugeen First Nation, and to work on joint economic development initiatives.
“Acceptance into the CEDI program is truly a historic moment for the Town of Saugeen Shores and we look forward to working together over the next three years of the program and beyond,” says Charbonneau.