On January 16, 2024, paaʔčiidʔatx̣ (Pacheedaht First Nation) and the Capital Regional District (CRD) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) outlining commitments related to their government-to-government relationship.
The MOU is designed to increase collaboration between paaʔčiidʔatx̣ and the CRD in the Juan de Fuca Electoral Area, home to Port Renfrew and paaʔčiidʔatx̣’s community. It will incorporate Indigenous leadership and knowledge into CRD initiatives and strategies. It outlines priority operational commitments including water supply, sewage treatment infrastructure, waste management, community planning, and parks.
“paaʔčiidʔatx̣ have always been stewards of our lands, waters, and resources,” Chief Jeff Jones explains. “This is an important step forward in the strong government-to-government relationship we have been building with the Capital Regional District.”
The CRD notes that the MOU is the first of its kind for the district. The agreement outlines the CRD’s commitment to paaʔčiidʔatx̣ and puts the district’s “principles of reconciliation into action.” CRD Board Chair Colin Plant adds that CRD officials are “excited about the possibilities that this collaboration offers and look forward to a brighter, more inclusive future where we prosper together.”
Mandell Pinder is pleased to have assisted paaʔčiidʔatx̣ reach this historic agreement with the CRD.
Chief Jeff Jones (center) with representatives from paaʔčiidʔatx̣, the CRD, and Mandell Pinder’s Kelsey McDermott
Photo credit: Pam Jones
For more information:
- CRD Press Release, “CRD and the Pacheedaht First Nation sign Memorandum of Understanding,” January 30, 2024
- Sidney Coles, “CRD-Pacheedaht MOU highlights mutual service and development opportunities,” Chek News, February 4, 2024
- Kevin Laird, “CRD, Pacheedaht forge historic government partnership,” Victoria News, January 30, 2024