Prince George Chamber of Commerce and Lheidli T’enneh sign historic agreement

It’s a new era for the Prince George Chamber of Commerce and Lheidli T’enneh First Nation.The Lheidli T’enneh First Nation and the Chamber signed a partnership agreement at the TrueNorth Business Development Forum.“It is a huge significance and it let’s us know they recognise Lheidli T’enneh and they recognize they are on the territory, but it also lets us know they recognize we need to work together as a community,” said Lheidli T’enneh Chief Dolleen Logan.The agreement includes commitments for the LTFN Chief and Council and the PGCC Board of Directors to meet at least twice yearly to discuss issues of mutual interest, commitments to ensure inclusion in major events and a commitment to consider joint advocacy on issues of importance to Prince George and the surrounding area.

She said this may seem like a small gesture to some, but it is significant to the Nation because it sends a positive signal that the Chamber wants to develop a good working relationship and work collaboratively.

“We have enjoyed long standing partnerships with the City of Prince George and the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George but this is our first partnership with a group that represents the interests of business and industry.”

The two groups met formally for the first-time last year after the PGCC board voted to grant the LTFN a lifetime membership.“On behalf of the board of the chamber of commerce I can say without hesitation that this isa historic ay for us,” said PGCC President Ray Noonan.

“We thought why not offer our Host Nation a lifetime membership in our organization and as a sign of respect and recognition and an indication we want to develop a sincere and meaningful relationship. Here we are today to sign the partnership agreement which means there is no turning back.”

PGCC CEO Todd Corrigall said next steps include discussing other partnership opportunities including building documentation around how to do business in Prince George so those looking to establish their business interests in the community understand the relationship with Lheidli T’enneh and why it’s important to engage early and often.“This is a very big an important piece for us and Chief Logan has showcased her leadership on behalf of the Lheidli Tenneh and the business savvy they and I think it is incumbent of us to partner with any organization that shows that kind of leadership and that level of commitment to growth and opportunity in here Prince George and the surrounding regions,” added Corrigall.