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Tofino — In the spirit of reconciliation, Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation, the District of Tofino, Tourism Tofino, and the Tofino Chamber of Commerce have renewed their 2022 commitment by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that deepens collaboration, coordinated action, and shared stewardship efforts in Tla-o-qui-aht territory.

This agreement builds on the strength of each organization’s role in the community and their evolving relationship, grounded in mutual respect, partnership and cooperation. Together, the parties are committed to advocating for meaningful provincial support that reflects the responsibilities and realities of hosting hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world in Tla-o-qui-aht territory each year.

Highlights of the MOU

• MRDT Renewal & Local Investment: The parties support the 3% Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT) renewal for 2022–2027, with an allocation in years two through five of $400,000 annually to help service the debt of the District’s Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) and conveyance upgrades.
• Support for Tribal Parks Allies: All parties commit to actively encouraging all businesses to join and contribute to the Tribal Parks Allies (TPA) program, a stewardship initiative led by Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation.
• Pursuit of New Financial Tools: The parties will work together to advocate to the Province of British Columbia for a new financial instrument that would direct a portion of visitor spending toward community infrastructure, enhancing and potentially replacing the existing TPA model.

Looking Ahead

As part of the MOU’s implementation plan, the parties have:

• Invited Provincial Ministers to Tla-o-qui-aht territory to engage directly with the parties and discuss the MOU’s priorities.
• Meet regularly to ensure progress, alignment, and continued momentum.
• Jointly advocate for all local businesses to join the Tribal Parks Allies program.

 Learn More:

• Tribal Park Allies

 Quotes:

• “Tla-o-qui-aht has made great progress in creating relationships with the businesses, and local governments that are within the unceded lands of the Tla-o-qui-aht hawiih.  The renewal of our collaborative MOU creates a positive space for our efforts to incubate.  Our goal is to have a functional, reciprocal relationship to the economies that occur in the haahuulthii of the Tla-o-qui-aht hawiih.” — Saya Masso, Lands and Resources Director, Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation

 

• “This agreement reflects what is possible when governments, communities, and organizations come together with a shared purpose. We are proud to work alongside Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation in a partnership rooted in respect, stewardship, and collaboration. Their leadership and vision, particularly through the Tribal Parks Allies program, continue to inspire new approaches to local challenges. Together, we are working to ensure that a strong and growing economy benefits everyone, while protecting the lands and waters that sustain us all.” — Dan Law, Mayor, District of Tofino

 

• “Tourism Tofino is very proud to stand with Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation and other partners in recommitting to this MOU. We are excited to continue this meaningful work, which will lead to a stronger community for all who live and visit here.”  — Tiffany Olsen, Chair, Tourism Tofino

 

• “This renewed MOU advances our shared commitment to strengthening partnerships that support the business community, uphold local stewardship values, and recognize the responsibilities of operating within Tla-o-qui-aht territory. Together, we can continue Tofino’s spirit of leading with purpose and action.” — Myles Beeby, President, Tofino Chamber of Commerce