First Nation-Municipal C2C Forum on Haida Gwaii

We developed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that articulates the principles, goals, general direction and next steps for the jointly owned Greater Masset Development Corporation (GMDC) and its assets as agreed to during the Community-to-Community (C2C) Forum session between representatives of Old Massett and the Village of Masset, neighbouring communities at the north end of Haida Gwaii.

We designed and facilitated a collaborative, outcome-oriented workshop aimed at achieving these objectives that formed the core elements of the MOU:

1. Agreement on the general direction for the future of the GMDC
2. An agreed upon prioritized list of potential uses for each GMDC land asset
3. Agreed upon next steps for moving forward with the direction set for GMDC – the organization and its land and cash assets

Before diving into the above objectives, participants were guided through a process to establish a strong foundation for the subsequent conversations. Guiding Principles for their partnership and C2C process and shared goals for the use of the assets were first established.

Guiding Principles for the Partnership and Process

• Friendly and respectful – We understand the long-term importance of the relationships between our communities, and will therefore treat each other well through the process to ensure we can work together into the future.
• Fair and equitable – We will seek out a resolution that is reasonable and just for both communities, and that both communities can agree to.
• Mutual benefits – We will seek to achieve mutual benefit as much as possible.
• Objective – We will use a ‘fact-based’ approach to the process, relying on data and independent input whenever possible rather than speculation and personal opinion.
• Transparency – We will openly share relevant information with each other and with the community through the process.
• Action-oriented – We are committed to moving the process forward, resulting in real progress and concrete action that occurs in a timely manner.

Shared Goals

• Create gathering spaces for community members to connect.
• Maintain as much green space as possible
• Increase recreation opportunities that help to improve health and wellbeing.
• Enhance learning opportunities
• Maintain and encourage the enhancement of commercial spaces
• Maintain and enhance community safety