FORT ST. JOHN, BC -- Prophet River First Nation has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Fort St. John.

The memorandum relates to Prophet River’s plans to buy land around the city to create an urban reserve. The Nation and the City have now formally agreed to work together on the development.

A statement by the city says the memorandum “recognizes the strong government-to-government relationship between Prophet River First Nation and the City of Fort St. John.” They say the goal of the signing is to recognize that “together both parties can support a prosperous local economy, provide an opportunity for cultural expression within a diverse community setting, maintain a healthy environment, and ensure a strong and safe social fabric.”

Prophet River First Nation Chief Valerie Askoty said, “This is an exciting step for our Nation and our members. Fort St. John has always been home for us, and this Memorandum of Understanding means we will always be able to call Fort St. John home.”