Tioweró:ton Strategic Planning results now available

Richard Tardif
The Eastern Door

A yearlong process involving the Lands Unit of the Mohawk Council of Kahnawake (MCK) to address issues surrounding Tioweró:ton and its use is now available to the community.
The report, approved by Chief and Council in November of 2011, addresses several key issues including governance in the form of policy amendments, road construction and building practices, as well as commercial ventures and small business operations.
“I am pleased to see the number of people that shared their concerns towards the future of our territory,” said Mohawk Council of Kahnawake Tioweró:ton portfolio chief Martin Leborgne.
Over the past year the Strategic Planning Process involved focus groups with individuals who hold an interest in the territory. Focus groups included community members, Peacekeepers, Conservation, Caretakers and committee members.
‘There was many problems, most of it related to different concerns that the community had, also from Kanesatake because they have a share,” said Leborgne.
“The planning was to try to make things better because policy was not being followed, with many saying that we should change it to law.
A survey also took place to collect feedback for the development of a three-year plan with a 20-year vision for the territory.
“I am not one to support making laws but we need to have more resect and take care of the land, and not leave behind a big footprint.”
How do we put everything in place now that there are recommendations?
“The work starts on how do we implement this policy, even strengthening it. If people do not like what is in the policy then they can have their say and people can contact the different committees.”
The report is available at the main reception desks of the Lands Unit (across from the Kahnawake Youth Center) and the main building. It can also be downloaded online at www.kahnawake.com.