Treaty negotiations facilitated a mutually-beneficial land swap between Scia’new First Nation [part of Te’mexw Treaty Association], the District of Metchosin, and the City of Langford.
The land swap was enacted through a Reconciliation Agreement, signed on February 10, 2017, between the three governments. This is the first tripartite agreement of its kind between a First Nation, an urban municipality, and a rural district involving land and municipal boundary adjustments. The agreement and land swaps provide for long-term preservation of parks and economic growth for the entire region.
Through this land swap the Metchosin municipal boundary will contract to secure 405 acres of land for protected greenspace.
Beecher Bay transferred 250 of the 405 acres of lands — which had been otherwise designated for treaty settlement lands — to Metchosin, with the remaining 155 acres from private lands. The Langford municipal boundary will expand by 354 acres to accommodate the creation of the South Langford Business Park and additional residential lots. Beecher Bay has secured one-third ownership in the business park, while ensuring lands with high environmental and cultural value are protected. In addition, the three neighbours will share in the tax revenues from the business park.
This partnership was inspired by a shared vision for regional prosperity, economic growth, and environmental stewardship.
The Reconciliation Agreement will create 3,000 to 4,000 permanent new jobs, and provide previously unavailable sewer and water services.
“This is proof that governments can work together to advance a common goal. The result has been the preservation of Metchosin’s rural direction, jobs for the region and economic independence for Beecher Bay.” — Metchosin Mayor John Ranns