As shared in previous issues of our Quarterly Update to Squamish Nation Members, in January 2023 Nexwsxwníw̓ntm ta Úxwumixw (Council) approved a 14-month moratorium on unsolicited development proposals and directed Nch’ḵay̓, the Squamish Nation and Hiy̓ám̓ Housing staff to create Land Development Strategies for five sites: the Marine Dr portion of Xwmélch’stn Capilano I.R. No. 5, Ch’ich’élx̱wí7ḵw Seymour I.R. No. 2, Stá7mes I.R. No. 24, Ch’ḵw’elhp I.R. No. 26; and a 5th site in the Squamish Valley.
This investment in the Nation’s future will identify how to maximize the use of its lands to serve current and future Member needs along with the creation of multigenerational economic growth. This work is occurring in collaboration with three other Nation land planning initiatives including:
Following a publicly competitive procurement process, two consultant teams were selected early in Summer 2023 and work started on this important initiative. The Nation, Nch’ḵay̓ and Hiy̓ám̓ are proud to share that both consultant teams include Sḵwx̱wú7mesh design professionals ensuring the integration of Sḵwx̱wú7mesh values and culture as a foundation and at the start of this initiative.
A Community Working Group was created at this same time through a community call-out. Since August 2023, nine Sḵwx̱wú7mesh members who form the Community Working Group have been meeting with the Land Development Strategies Project Team on a monthly basis to review work progress and provide feedback into the process.
The complete list of consultants and Community Working Group Members can be found in the Fall 2023 Issue of our Quarterly Update to Members.
Throughout fall 2023, the Project Team held a series of engagement events with Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Membership:
In total, we received feedback and input from over 500 members between July 2023 and January 2024!
Through this work, the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw will transform the future of the region. The redevelopment of the above 234-acres will change regional housing, transportation, infrastructure and environmental restoration decisions. New developments aim to centre Skwxwú7mesh culture and values.
To better understand the role these important lands have played in Skwxwú7mesh’s culture and history, knowledge holders and community members have been engaged and the Project Team has spent time walking the lands with them.
Learnings of the lands to date were captured on a series of “Story of Place“ boards and shared at the November Open Houses. You can also view them here:
The proposed land uses for all four sites presented below were shared at the November Open Houses. Please note that concepts are still under development to reflect Member feedback received.
Nch’ḵay̓, the Squamish Nation, and Hiy̓ám̓ Housing staff are working to finalize development options for each site and create supportive business plans. Council will review the progress and provide further direction in Spring 2024.
The project team welcomes hearing from you. They can be reached at developmentstrategy@nchkay.com or 604-209-1827.
Interested in joining the Squamish Business Registry as a member Call us today: 604-290-5184 or email us: communications@nchkay.com
Our mandate is to develop, manage and own the active businesses of the Nation. Nch’ḵay̓ was created to allow for the separation of business and governance within the Squamish Nation.
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