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Land added by Ch'iyáqtel a step to 'correcting injustices'

A strategic acquisition of 50 acres was announced by Ch'iyáqtel First Nation in Chilliwack
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Ch'iyáqtel (Tzeachten) Chief Derek Epp at the grand opening of the Tzeachten affordable housing project on Thursday, June 23, 2022. (Jenna Hauck/ Chilliwack Progress file)

A strategic land acquisition will be adding 50 acres (20.2 hectares) to the Ch'iyáqtel (Tzeachten First Nation) reserve in Chilliwack.

“This land is critical to our ability to plan for future generations,” Ch'iyáqtel Chief Derek Epp said in a release Jan. 15.

“It marks a significant milestone in reclaiming traditional territory and preparing for the future of Ch'iyáqtel people.”

The land purchase, on Ch'iyáqtel traditional territory, adjacent its existing reserve lands, addresses a long-standing conundrum the nation faces.

The effects of colonization and the historic appropriation of traditional lands meant that most of Ch'iyáqtel lands are privately owned by individual community members rather than the nation.

"This limits our ability to address community-wide needs," Epp said.

The process of this land re-acquisition is "a step toward correcting these injustices, securing sustainable growth, and planning for essential infrastructure, housing, and public spaces while honouring our history and traditions," he added.

Also with the property tax collected from leaseholders on Ch'iyáqtel land, a full 75 per cent goes to the City of Chilliwack to support public infrastructure and services.

"This highlights our role as a significant contributor to the region’s development."

In 2022, they opened a unique affordable housing project on reserve, with 21 townhouses, as one example of the collaborative and wide-ranging vision coming to fruition.

In the case of the 50 acres, the nation worked closely with federal officials to expedite an 'Additions to Reserve' process, the chief pointed out, ensuring the land could formally become part of the reserve lands.

It's fitting as the nation is embarking on a comprehensive planning process, to establish a long-term vision, he said, which will engage both members and the City of Chilliwack to create a master plan for the site.

"The nation has already begun collaborating with the city to address road connectivity and reduce traffic impacts, while also planning for future recreational and public infrastructure needs."

Chief Epp wanted to address some misconceptions circulation about residential development on reserve.

"While many recognize the positive impact that First Nations bring to local municipalities, misinformation and stigma still exists.

"Our focus will be on thoughtful, methodical planning for future generations.

"This includes infrastructure, road connectivity, and meeting housing needs for our members. High-density residential development is not our priority."

 



Jennifer Feinberg

About the Author: Jennifer Feinberg

I have been a Chilliwack Progress reporter for 20+ years, covering city hall, Indigenous, business, and climate change stories.
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