The District of Kitimat and the Haisla Nation council have announced their participation in the Community Economic Development Initiative (CEDI). CEDI is a national program that is delivered by the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM).
CEDI’s aim is to improve economic prosperity of participating First Nations and municipalities through joint community economic development and land use planning. The program is funded by Indigenous Services Canada.
Haisla Nation Chief Councillor Crystal Smith says they are happy to be participating in this venture with the district.
“We recognize that working together to address our economic challenges will strengthen our relationship and the regional economy and move our communities forward,” she said.
Communities that are participating in the CEDI program will benefit from monthly workgroup meetings, bi-annual workshops and practice activities and tools for relationship and capacity building.
”I am incredibly happy to see the start of this program to build and enhance the critical relationship between the District of Kitimat and Haisla Nation,” says District of Kitimat Mayor Phil Germuth. “What we will accomplish over the next two years in this program will pave the way to a stronger community and economy.”
The Haisla Nation and the District of Kitimat are one of eight partnerships in Canada taking part in this two-year First Nation and municipal collaboration. The program will go on between 2022 and 2024.