NIPIGON – The Red Rock Indian Band and the Township of Nipigon have signed a Memorandum of Understanding. This MOU provides a positive example of cooperation between communities in the interest of developing a more diverse economic base.
Nipigon has agreed to support the Red Rock Indian Band in the Addition to Reserve Process (ATR) they are currently engaged in, and in return, the Band will compensate the township for lost revenues, such as taxes, that may occur as a result of lost lands in the municipality. “Signing of this MOU establishes a framework for how we will work together for the mutual best interest of our communities,” said Richard Harvey, Mayor of Nipigon, “it establishes the basis for future decision making.”
”I congratulate the Township of Nipigon and the Red Rock Indian Band on signing this important agreement. This is a concrete example of the importance of working together as partners to strengthen economic development and create jobs,” said the Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs.
Pierre Pelletier, Chief of the Red Rock Indian Band, says, “This MOU will help us realize the potential of the Chalet Lodge, which can mean more tourist dollars in our communities, and more jobs for local people.” The signing took place at the historic Chalet Lodge, which has recently been acquired by the Red Rock Indian Band for development into a significant tourism asset. The lodge and guest cabins are situated on the banks of Lake Helen, which is part of the Nipigon River system, and the main tributary to Lake Superior.