The town of Fort Frances has begun to reach out to Agency One First Nations following a court ruling that dismissed the town’s efforts to claim ownership of Point Park.
The town is not appealing.
Mayor Andrew Hallikas says it is time to move forward and rebuild some of the trust lost during the lengthy court battle.
“This brings to an end 27 years of litigation, that I believe, if I count backwards correctly, covered eight councils,” says Hallikas.
“It’s just gone on too long. It’s time to end it.”
Council was unanimous in their decision not to continue the litigation when the issue came up for discussion at Monday’s council meeting.
Hallikas sees it as a step toward reconciliation.
He notes one-third of the population of Fort Frances identifies as Indigenous.
“We really see this decision as an opportunity, and we see it as a new beginning, a time for healing. There’s some healing that has to be done, and it’s a time to move forward and rebuild some trust.”
“We look forward to a renewed relationship with Agency One based on mutual respect and a shared history and dialogue.
Hallikas says that relationship-building has already started.
The town reached out to the Agency One First Nations to see what it could do to help with the transfer of the park and the infrastructure put in place by the town.
Hallikas called the initial conversations very cooperative, which will be followed up with further talks in the future.
