Sep 23, 2016

Town Of Ladysmith and Stz’uminus First Nation Form Unique Partnership for Waterfront Future

LADYSMITH, September 22, 2016 –  The Town of Ladysmith and the Stz’uminus First Nation have formed a unique partnership to develop a joint vision for the Ladysmith waterfront by working together in the spirit of reconciliation to update Ladysmith’s Waterfront Area Plan.   

The Waterfront Area Plan RFP selection committee appointed by Council, with members of the Town and Stz’uminus First Nation, have selected DIALOG Design to guide the planning and public engagement process. The Waterfront Area Plan is expected to be completed in 2017.  

DIALOG has a longstanding investment in waterfront planning up and down the coast.   “Our team is thrilled to be joining this collaborative conversation about the future of this unique gem in Ladysmith,” said Jennifer Fix, Project Manager and Engagement Specialist. 

Developing the waterfront and restoring the health of Ladysmith Harbour are priorities for the Councils of both communities, as stated in their joint Community Accord and Memorandum of Understanding. The 2012 Naut’sa Mawt Community Accord updates the original Accord the two Councils signed in 2007. Naut’sa Mawt means “Working Together” in the Hul'qumi'num language and embodies the spirit that guides both communities as they work together on initiatives of mutual benefit and concern.

For more than 20 years, successive Ladysmith Councils have grappled with how best to further develop the waterfront lands to maximize both recreational and economic opportunities.  The area is not without its challenges, mainly due to the legacy of 100 years of industrial use.  The Waterfront Area Plan was first created in 1997. The current project will involve updating  the 1997 vision with community stakeholders taking into account Ladysmith’s 2009 Community Vision, new environmental and geotechnical information for the Town and Crown lands and water lots, market potential and other growth areas within or near the Town.  Ladysmith and Stz’uminus community members, property owners and other interested parties will be engaged at every step of the process. 

For more information:

Mayor Aaron Stone
250.741.7552
astone@ladysmith.ca  

News Release