Project: 5-Year Economic Development Plan

What was this Project?

Urban Systems worked with Chawathil First Nation to prepare a 5-year Economic Development Plan. The plan leveraged the outcomes of the Highest and Best Use Study and explored how identified economic development opportunities on both the Old Hope Station House and Telte-Yet campground sites could contribute to the social, cultural, and economic well-being of Chawathil First Nation members. It also supported and helped shape the implementation of the Fraser Valley Destination Development Strategy and the ongoing revitalization of Downtown Hope.

A critical theme in the 5-year Economic Development Plan was the optimization of community participation and communication on all aspects of Chawathil’s economic development potential. To inform this, a Chawathil Community Economic Development survey was designed and administered in December 2024 through early January 2025, with more than 160 community members weighing in on topics such as training and skills development, desirable job opportunities, the potential for an Economic Development Committee made up of community members, and support levels for high-potential development opportunities identified in the Highest and Best Use Study.

How was the Community Engaged?

Chief and Council Meeting (October 29, 2024)
Open House (November 5, 2024) – Over 80 attendees
Survey – 163 responses (November to December 2024)
Open House (February 4, 2025) – Over 110 attendees
Chief and Council Economic Development Planning Workshop (February 20, 2025)

What was the Project’s Timeline?

March 31, 2025 – Urban Systems provided the Final Draft Economic Development Plan to Chawathil for review
April 4, 2025 – Chawathil First Nation provided final feedback
April 11, 2025 – Urban Systems finalized the plan
April 15, 2025 – The Final Economic Development Plan was presented to the new Economic Development Board

Who Can I Contact for More Information?

Aaron Pete: aaron.pete@chawathil.org