A new agreement between the City of Brantford and Six Nations of the Grand River sets out a framework for collaboration on future development within Brantford’s Boundary Lands. Officials from both parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) relating to the roughly 7,500 acres of land. The parcel was transferred from the County of Brant to the City of Brantford in 2016 and was designated to accommodate residential, employment and economic growth. Future development of the land is expected to affect surrounding communities, and the MOU outlines a commitment from the city and Six Nations to work together as plans progress. A key component of the agreement is the creation of a Six Nations Community Prosperity Fund, which is intended to provide a mechanism for Six Nations to share the economic benefits generated by development within the Boundary Lands. “This agreement reflects the importance of continuing to build strong, respectful, and beneficial relationships between Six Nations and municipalities, together,” Six Nations Chief Sherri-Lyn Hill said in a release. The MOU also outlines a commitment to collaborate on matters of mutual importance while supporting economic opportunity and community prosperity. “This is about creating opportunities for prosperity while respecting the history, rights and interests of Six Nations,” Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis said in the same release.
