The Okanagan Indian Band’s desire for long-term planning has the backing of a neighbour.
Lake Country council will support the band’s application to a federal program for land use planning initiatives.
“It’s good to see them moving forward,” said Mayor James Baker.
The band’s Duck Lake reserve is immediately adjacent to the municipal boundaries and Baker says any development there could impact his community.
“We’d like to see them get some projects that provides them with revenue and we are pleased to provide them with services,” said Baker referring to water and planning assistance.
Sewer services would likely be available from the City of Kelowna which encompasses the reserve lands.
The band is seeking funds from the federal B.C. Capacity Initiative.
The program, which is funded by Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, helps bands prepare for consultation, negotiation and management of land and resources as part of current or future aboriginal title settlement agreements.
All B.C. First Nations with unresolved land claims are eligible to apply for funds.
-Vernon Morning Star