Urban Reserve status under the circle of the moon nikole

Urban Reserve status under the circle of the moon

FIRST NATION CASINO PROPERTY RECEIVES URBAN RESERVE STATUS

North Battleford, SASK (January 31, 2002) - Commercial property belonging to the Mosquito, Grizzly Bear's Head, Lean Man First Nation received reserve status today, becoming the twentieth urban reserve in Saskatchewan.

"This urban reserve is a positive step forward for members of the First Nation," said Clarence Stone, Chief of the Mosquito, Grizzly Bear's Head, Lean Man First Nation. "Purchasing commercial property in an urban centre like North Battleford is a good idea because it provides economic and employment opportunities for First Nation members."

This newest urban reserve, located in the City of North Battleford, is home to the Gold Eagle Casino. The land is situated within the city limits and is owned by the Mosquito, Grizzly Bear's Head, Lean Man First Nation. The casino building is the property of the Battleford Tribal Council and is leased to the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority which operates the casino.

The Gold Eagle Casino has been in operation since March 1996 and has become a prime tourist attraction over the past six years.

"This is a win-win situation for the citizens of the city and the First Nation," said Wayne Ray, Mayor of North Battleford. "The City of North Battleford has everything to gain from this mutually beneficial relationship. City council looks forward to the job creation and economic opportunities that will be generated by this venture. The citizens of both communities should take great pride in working in partnership."

"Since the first urban reserve creation in Prince Albert nearly 20 years ago, First Nations in Saskatchewan have continued to develop mutual understanding and good working relationships with urban municipalities," said Blair Carlson, Acting Regional Director General, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, Saskatchewan Region. "Urban reserves play an important role in offering First Nations economic, educational and social opportunities generally not available in rural areas."

This marks Saskatchewan's 20th urban reserve, the first having been created in Prince Albert. Other urban reserves have been established in Yorkton, Saskatoon, Meadow Lake, Fort Qu'Appelle and other smaller communities. Urban reserves are parcels of land within an urban municipality that have been set aside for the use and benefit of a First Nation. First Nations and urban municipalities must negotiate fee arrangements for municipal services, levies or grants in lieu, and other issues of mutual concern prior to reserve creation.

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