Indigenous planning off-reserve: Navigating jurisdiction and collaboration for off-reserve housing in Metlakatla Territory

This report details my research on the housing value of the Metlakatla First Nation's Cumulative Effects Management Program. The program is designed to protect Metlakatla community values, such as housing, from the effects of industrial development and other activities in Metlakatla Territory (which includes the city of Prince Rupert, BC). Many Metlakatla renters in Prince Rupert are unable to meet their housing needs. My study investigated the potential for collaboration between the Metlakatla Nation and external stakeholders to address this housing problem. Through focus groups, semi-structured interviews, and a multi-stakeholder workshop, I developed recommendations to help the Metlakatla improve both off-reserve rental housing and collaboration with the City of Prince Rupert and other stakeholders. I found that building collaborative relationships and implementing housing actions are inter-related and should be pursued concurrently. In addition, there are non-collaborative actions through which the Metlakatla can advance their housing and planning goals off-reserve.