All of this talk about protocol agreements with local Indian bands is rubbing off on the Town of Oliver.
Council is now considering a protocol agreement with the Osoyoos Indian Band in order to enhance their relationship.
“Council believes that we share a good working relationship with the OIB, but like other jurisdictions perhaps now is the time to define this relationship with a protocol agreement,” said Mayor Ron Hovanes.
This direction came from the recent “Community to Community” forum held at Spirit Ridge in Osoyoos, where local governments and First Nations discussed the status and completion of protocol agreements.
These agreements establish a process for working together in a respectful relationship through open communication and cooperation.
Last week Oliver council accepted a recommendation to review an agreement between the City of Penticton and the Penticton Indian Band to see if a similar one could be drafted between the Town of Oliver and the OIB.
The mayor said such an agreement could include a communications protocol, dispute resolution, an understanding of rights, and acknowledging shared values.
OIB Chief Clarence Louie said he didn’t know what such a protocol agreement would consist of, but noted that anything that improves communication is always good. “Anything that improves understanding and process is always good.” He added there are no outstanding issues between the band and the Town.
Municipal Manager Tom Szalay said there was strong disappointment by all bands at the forum about the failure of a 2008 draft protocol agreement between the RDOS and local First Nations. The agreement was distributed to member municipalities late in the discussion process and came as a surprise to many councillors, Szalay said.
“Many municipalities expressed concerns over some of the terms contained in the agreement and ultimately the agreement failed at the eleventh hour.”
The agreement is now being re-examined.
Szalay said the protocol agreement between the City of Penticton and the Penticton Indian Band has completely renewed their relationship – from one of confrontation to one of mutual respect and cooperation.
Councillor Linda Larson supported the concept, noting she would like to see a similar “good neighbour” agreement between Oliver and the OIB. Councillor Dave Mattes said Oliver probably has one of the best trust and respect arrangements going with a neighbouring band.