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Read All Latest NewsCity of Langford, Tsartlip First Nation, And Tseycum First Nation Sign Memorandum of Understanding
(Langford, B.C.): On September 22, 2026, the City of Langford, W̱JOȽEȽP (Tsartlip First Nation), and W̱SIḴEM (Tseycum First Nation), through the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council (WLC), came together to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), formalizing a shared commitment to strengthen relationships, foster collaboration, and advance priorities that benefit current and future generations.
The MOU establishes a framework for collaboration based on mutual respect, understanding, and a shared commitment to building strong and lasting government-to-government relationships. Through this partnership, the three governments will work together on areas of common interest, including economic development, arts and culture, tourism, environmental stewardship, and advocacy. The agreement reflects a shared recognition that meaningful relationships are built through trust, dialogue, and action. It also acknowledges the importance of working together to address opportunities and challenges that affect their communities.
“Langford, Bear Mountain, and Goldstream are important places to the W̱SÁNEĆ people, and we have witnessed significant change across these areas over the past couple of decades. This agreement is an important step forward. By working together, we can build a new relationship and create positive change for our communities today and for the generations that will follow. We appreciate governments that are willing to work with us in a good way and look forward to meeting with Langford in the coming months.” said Chief Curtis Olsen, Tsartlip First Nation.
“Today we took an important first step forward together. We know that meaningful relationships are built through listening, learning, trust, and action,” said City of Langford Mayor Scott Goodmanson. “We are grateful to Tsartlip First Nation and Tseycum First Nation for their partnership and guidance as we work together to support our communities and future generations. Reconciliation is an ongoing responsibility, and we are committed to continuing this work with humility, respect, and a genuine willingness to learn from and support one another.”
The MOU establishes a process for ongoing collaboration, including annual government-to-government meetings between elected leaders, quarterly staff-level meetings, and the development of a shared work plan to guide joint initiatives and measure progress on agreed-upon priorities. Additional meetings and working groups may be established as needed to advance specific projects, address emerging opportunities, and strengthen communication between the parties.
The City of Langford recognizes that Indigenous Peoples have stewarded these lands since time immemorial and continue to hold knowledge, teachings, and perspectives that contribute to the wellbeing of communities and the sustainable management of shared resources. The MOU creates opportunities to strengthen relationships, share knowledge, and build greater understanding through ongoing dialogue and collaboration.
By working together in a spirit of partnership, the City of Langford, Tsartlip First Nation, and Tseycum First Nation are laying the foundation for a respectful and enduring government-to-government relationship grounded in trust, cooperation, and shared responsibility. Together, they are committed to creating meaningful opportunities for collaboration and building a stronger future for generations to come.
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MEDIA CONTACTS
W̱JOȽEȽP (Tsartlip) First Nation
Chief Curtis Olsen
City of Langford
Harriet D’Costa
Media Relations Advisor
250-661-9346