Municipal boundary extension receives provincial approval

Snuneymuxw First Nation reserve lands now included within the municipal boundary

JOINT NEWS RELEASE - Distributed July 21, 2026 2:00 PM

A joint request from Snuneymuxw First Nation (SFN) and the City of Nanaimo (City) to expand Nanaimo's municipal boundary to include Snuneymuxw reserve lands has received final approval from the Province of British Columbia.

An Order in Council approving the boundary change was signed by the Lieutenant Governor on July 17, 2026. Updated Letters Patent have been issued for the City of Nanaimo and the Regional District of Nanaimo, formally reflecting the new municipal boundary.

The boundary change advances the City's commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and supports the direction outlined in City Plan, which encourages collaboration with SFN, the Province and the Regional District of Nanaimo to strengthen opportunities for Snuneymuxw members to participate in City elections. Earlier this year, Nanaimo electors approved the boundary change, as required under provincial legislation.

The updated boundary incorporates Snuneymuxw reserves IRs 1, 2, 3 and 4 within the City of Nanaimo. Previously, SFN members living on reserve voted for a Regional District of Nanaimo Electoral Area Director and school trustees, not for Mayor and Council of Nanaimo. By including SFN reserve lands within municipal boundaries, eligible SFN members living on these lands will be able to vote in City of Nanaimo municipal elections, including the General Local Election taking place this fall.

Quotes

"This boundary change is both a practical and symbolic milestone for our community. It removes a long-standing barrier to participation in local government and reinforces the City of Nanaimo's commitment to working in partnership with Snuneymuxw First Nation. This important change allows for eligible Snuneymuxw residents living on reserve lands to help shape decisions that affect our community, reflecting our shared commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and building a stronger future together."

Leonard Krog

Mayor

City of Nanaimo

"This boundary change is an important step toward equity, ensuring our members who live on reserve lands have the same opportunity to participate in municipal decision-making as their neighbours. For too long, arbitrary boundaries within our territory limited our voices. This decision recognizes the rightful role of our communities in helping shape the future of our shared city."

Michael Wyse

Chief

Snuneymuxw First Nation