Saskatoon group in talks to make future arena land an urban reserve

A Saskatoon group is optimistic about a potential deal to make the site of the future downtown arena designated an urban reserve. Laura Woodward has more.

A Saskatoon business group is optimistic about a potential partnership that could see the land for the downtown arena become an urban reserve, as the City of Saskatoon explores options with the Muskeg Lake Cree Nation.

An urban reserve is land purchased by a First Nation that’s granted reserve status by the federal government.

The city’s website says once designated the First Nation assumes jurisdiction over the land and city bylaws no longer apply. The city comes to an agreement with the First Nation to outline the fee for services, communications and bylaw compatibility.

City administration is suggesting Saskatoon explore a partnership with Muskeg Lake Cree Nation as an opportunity to advance the downtown event and entertainment district.

“Muskeg Lake approached us, and they asked if they could partner with us,” said Mayor Cynthia Block.

The mayor says city council is not being asked to approve an urban reserve, but rather to allow negotiations to see what might be possible.

“This is the next step and it could be a mighty one,” added Block.

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The Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce is optimistic about the possibility of the potential partnership. It comes after the city rejected a deal with an American-based venue operator, leaving a major funding gap for the project.

“I think sometimes there’s a perhaps a greater certainty and comfort dealing with local partners, versus those from away, only because those local partners are already very invested here,” said Jason Aebig, CEO of Saskatoon’s Chamber of Commerce.

Muskeg Lake Cree Nation is no stranger to urban reserves in Saskatoon, creating Canada’s first commercial urban reserve in 1988 - and has several properties in the city.

In a statement, Muskeg Lake Cree Nation says this is just the beginning, and nothing is final - but the conversation is worth having.