Muskeg Lake Cree Nation is aware that the City of Saskatoon is bringing forward a report related to potential discussions with Muskeg Lake on the Downtown Event and Entertainment District.

This is a positive opportunity to explore, but we want to be clear with our citizens: this is not a final agreement. No financial, land, governance, or legal decisions have been made by Muskeg Lake Cree Nation.

At this stage, it is the beginning of a conversation about what a respectful partnership could look like.

Muskeg Lake Cree Nation has always had a relationship with the City of Saskatoon. That relationship is part of our history, including the creation of Canada’s first commercial urban reserve in 1988, and it continues today through dialogue, partnership, and shared opportunity.

From Muskeg Lake Cree Nation’s perspective, these discussions are worth looking at carefully. They may create opportunities for our citizens, strengthen our Nation’s presence in Saskatoon, and contribute to the future of the city for the benefit of Muskeg Lake citizens and the citizens of Saskatoon.

At the same time, our responsibility is to be careful and accountable. Any future steps must protect the interests of Muskeg Lake Cree Nation, respect our own governance and approval processes.

If City Council approves moving forward with discussions, Muskeg Lake Cree Nation will continue reviewing the opportunity with care and will share more information with citizens as it becomes available.