On June 21, 2024, Fort Smith witnessed a historic milestone as four governments signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to strengthen collaboration and address shared challenges.

Leaders from the Salt River First Nation, Smith’s Landing First Nation, Fort Smith Métis Council, and the Town of Fort Smith formalized the agreement, joined by Jay Macdonald, MLA for Thebacha. This landmark MOA commits the parties to caring for shared land and water, preserving cultural heritage, and enhancing the social and economic well-being of the Fort Smith community.

The agreement is a key outcome of the Collaborative Leadership Initiative (CLI), facilitated by CIER. The CLI is led by a dedicated team with expertise in fostering collaboration, including Merrell-Ann Phare, CIER’s Executive Director; Colleen Sklar, CEO of Creative Resolutions; and Michael Miltenberger, CLI facilitator, Special Advisor at CIER, and a long-time resident of Fort Smith. Miltenberger, a former MLA and principal of North Raven, described the CLI as a governance turning point for the region.

Historically, Indigenous and municipal governments operated independently, but CLI Fort Smith emerged from a shared realization that “the status quo is not working.” The MOA establishes a framework for addressing common concerns like housing, health, economic development, tourism, and environmental protection—issues that transcend individual jurisdictions.

Achieving consensus on the need for collaboration posed some initial challenges. While past efforts often focused on specific projects, they lacked a sustained partnership. This MOA marks a new chapter, committing leaders to ongoing dialogue and unified action.

Community leaders celebrated the agreement’s potential. Salt River First Nation Chief Toni Heron highlighted the MOA as a guide for ensuring community well-being through collaboration. Fort Smith Métis Council President Allan Heron called the agreement “historic,” reflecting a shared commitment to prosperity. Chief Thaidene Paulette of Smith’s Landing First Nation emphasized the power of uniting diverse governance structures to tackle pressing challenges.

Following the signing, leaders reconvened on June 26 to prioritize immediate concerns and develop operational plans. Now united as the Thebacha Leaders Council, they are actively working to bring the MOA to life and achieve their shared vision.

This collaborative governance model aims not only to improve life in Fort Smith but also to serve as a blueprint for effective partnerships elsewhere. By fostering trust, respect, and shared responsibility, the MOA offers a hopeful step toward a more unified and sustainable future for Fort Smith and an inspiration to others through the successes of CLI Fort Smith.

Photo credit: Aaron Hemens