Embrace change

If Lakefield College School were applying for rezoning in Alberton to establish a private boarding school, would the council of Alberton be hesitant to act on the application?
If the University of Guelph were considering establishing an agriculture college in Alberton, would the community be upset with a change in the use of property?
If Seven Generations were to acquire property in Alberton, to establish a larger university campus, with residences, would the municipality be upset?
What makes the application of Weechi-it-te-win different?
They are looking to establish an educational boarding facility primarily for native youth who are deemed “in need of protection.” Weechi-it-te-win has a proven track record in the district looking after native youth. The current facility in Watten is a model for Ontario, as was noted by MPP Howard Hampton.
Another facility, Young Star House at Off Lake, north of Emo, has been in operation for years working with youth at risk.
Hampton, attending the Alberton council meeting last Wednesday evening, provided many compelling reasons why the municipal council should approve the rezoning application. Other municipalities and communities across his riding have established similar facilities.
It is encouraging to see First Nations investing in the Rainy River District, building facilities, creating jobs, and providing services to the area that previously were not available.
Seven Generations Educational facilities offer degree programs for students in the Rainy River District. As it grows, it has the potential to become a much larger campus, attracting students not only from the immediate area, but from across Canada.
As a growing population, the First Nations of the Rainy River District will play a bigger role in the economy of every municipality.
It is time to embrace this change and create more interaction between First Nations and district municipal governments.
Co-operating in joint ventures will pay huge dividends in the future.