Extending Lease Terms from 15 to 99 Years on 7ha/19-Acre Parcel Communication Information for Cheam First Nation Members
SUMMARY
Cheam First Nation has a strategic opportunity to unlock the full economic potential of 7 hectares (19 acres) of commercial/industrial lands by extending lease terms from 15 years to 99 years.
This change will:
✔ Increase land value – Long-term leases make the land more attractive to investors, businesses, and developers.
✔ Improve financing options – Banks and investors require longer lease terms for major projects.
✔ Reduce administrative pressure – Avoid frequent community votes for leases over 15 years.
✔ Enhance negotiation power – Secure better partnerships with businesses and developers.
✔ Support future flexibility – Whether for the Cheam Travel Centre or other developments, longer leases give the Band more options for building meaningful & revenue-generating opportunities
This process is about securing long-term economic benefits while maintaining Cheam’s authority over how the land is used.
WHY EXTEND TO 99 YEARS?
Currently, leases beyond 15 years require a community ratification, which can limit economic opportunities. A 99-year lease term provides:
Economic Advantages
- Higher land value – Long-term leases increase marketability and leasing revenue.
- Available financing – Developers and lenders need long-term security for large investments.
- Stronger partnerships – More leverage when negotiating with businesses.
Operational Benefits
- Future flexibility – Allows the Band to deliver on multiple or pivot between projects (e.g., Travel Centre, retail, industrial, or mixed-use).
Community Control Remains
- The land stays under Cheam ownership.
- The Band retains authority over land use and development.
- Future projects still require community and leadership approval.
POTENTIAL USES FOR THE 7ha/19-ACRE PARCEL
While the Cheam Travel Centre (1.2ha) is one proposed anchor project, the extended lease terms would also support:
- Industrial & logistics hubs
- Retail & commercial spaces
- Mixed-use developments
- Future community-driven projects
This change does not lock Cheam into one project—it simply provides flexibility for economic growth.
DOCUMENTS FOR REVIEW
NEXT STEPS & MEMBER ENGAGEMENT
- June 20th – Packages sent off to voting members this week
- Member Feedback via email to [email protected]
- July 2nd – Townhall Meeting (Presentation & Q/A).
- Sept. 8th – Ratification Vote in conjunction with Land Use Plan Vote
Add Comment