Brantford and Six Nations Sign Boundary Land Development MOU

Mayor Kevin Davis of Brantford and Elected Chief Sherri-Lyn Hill of the Six Nations of the Grand River signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on August 18 at the Association of Municipalities of Ontario Conference in Ottawa. The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration regarding the development of 3,060 hectares of boundary lands transferred from the County of Brant to Brantford in 2016.

A central component of the MOU is the creation of the Community Prosperity Fund, which allows Six Nations to share in the economic benefits of future residential and employment growth. This fund will be financed through development charges paid by developers. Both parties committed to ongoing engagement through land-use planning to manage the impact of growth on surrounding communities.

Following the announcement, the Six Nations of the Grand River issued a clarifying statement on August 20 to address community concerns. The council asserted that the MOU is a starting point and does not sell, surrender, or transfer any lands, rights, or interests. The council further noted that current Ontario legislation prevents First Nations from benefiting from development on ancestral lands, making the MOU a tool for advocating for legislative changes. The council confirmed that community consultation will occur before any formal agreement is signed.