Allan Levine: A model for urban First Nation economic development – National Post
March 16, 2015
The term “urban reserve” conjures up all sorts of negative images and stereotypes for the predominately white residents of Tuxedo and River Heights in Winnipeg’s south end (of which I am one). The threat of crime and gangs all come to mind in any discussion about the fate of the nearby former Kapyong Canadian Forces Barracks, a 64.7-hectare of prime development land that has been tied up in the courts for nearly a decade in a heated battle between the federal government and four First Nations.
“What happens to our property values if this thing goes bust? If this is going to be an Indian reserve, are there going to be building codes? Garbage service? Fire services?” one Tuxedo resident asked at a recent neighbourhood community discussion on the issue, according to a Winnipeg Free Press report.
