For the first time, Snuneymuxw First Nation members living on reserve lands will be able to vote in Nanaimo’s municipal election after a historic boundary change received provincial approval. The province has approved a request from the City of Nanaimo and Snuneymuxw First Nation to expand Nanaimo’s municipal boundary to include Snuneymuxw reserve lands IRs 1, 2, 3 and 4. The change was finalized after an order was signed by the lieutenant governor on July 17, officially updating the boundaries of the City of Nanaimo and the Regional District of Nanaimo. The move means Snuneymuxw residents living on reserve lands will now be able to vote for Nanaimo’s mayor and council, including in this fall’s municipal election. Previously, residents living on those reserve lands voted for a Regional District of Nanaimo Electoral Area Director and school trustees but did not participate in Nanaimo’s municipal elections. Nanaimo voters approved the boundary expansion earlier this year, meeting a requirement under provincial legislation. “This boundary change is both a practical and symbolic milestone for our community. It removes a long-standing barrier to participation in local government and reinforces the City of Nanaimo’s commitment to working in partnership with Snuneymuxw First Nation. This important change allows for eligible Snuneymuxw residents living on reserve lands to help shape decisions that affect our community, reflecting our shared commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and building a stronger future together,” Leonard Krog mayor of Nanaimo said in a statement. Snuneymuxw First Nation also recognized the decision as a significant moment in the relationship between the nation and the city. “This boundary change is an important step toward equity, ensuring our members who live on reserve lands have the same opportunity to participate in municipal decision-making as their neighbours. For too long, arbitrary boundaries within our territory limited our voices. This decision recognizes the rightful role of our communities in helping shape the future of our shared city,” Michael Wyse Chief of Snuneymuxw First Nation said in a statement. The City of Nanaimo says the boundary change supports its ongoing work toward reconciliation and creates new opportunities for collaboration between the two communities.
