FORT WILLIAM FIRST NATION – Representatives from the City of Thunder Bay and Fort William First Nation participated in the Community Economic Development Initiative (CEDI) today, a national program delivered jointly by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers.
This is one of four partnerships in Canada to embark on a five-year First Nations-Municipal collaboration program. CEDI seeks to improve economic prosperity through joint community economic development and land use planning.
“We are thrilled to participate in this important initiative with Fort William First Nation,” said Mayor Keith Hobbs. “We have recognized for years that working together to address our economic challenges will strengthen our relationship and the regional economy, and move our communities forward.”
As Canada turns its focus on reconciliation, and recognizing that long-term relationships are anchored in a solid foundation, the CEDI experience opens the way for First Nations and neighbouring municipal communities to create economic and social advantages.
“We are confident that our common goals for local economic development will foster benefits that extend to many other aspects of community building, and will help us explore ways to strengthen our communities even more,” said Chief Peter Collins, Fort William First Nation.
The Initiative enables participating communities to benefit from workshops, study tours, and peer mentorship to help build strong partnerships and capacity for joint economic development planning, strong inter-community relationships, and improve the quality of life for all residents.
