Huntsville waives fees for Indigenous burial site

The request was "in the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation"

Huntsville Council agrees to waive over $3,500 in lot severance fees for an Indigenous burial site, in the April 28, 2025, meeting.

Resident Amanda Dale-St. Pierre, wrote a letter to the Town requesting that Council waive the fees for the severance of a lot at 2251 Aspdin Road “in spirit of Truth and Reconciliation.”

The goal is to protect a small portion of land used for hunting, fishing, and trapping as an Indigenous burial site in line with her family protocols for her recently deceased husband and future generations.

She said, “There are several protocols to planting (burials) and land-based engagement that must be adhered to as an Onkwehonwe family.”

She added, “This is not something Canadians would have to do because they have cemeteries that exist and that are already legislated into protection with the process Canadians have in place.”

“When my family attempts to live out their ways and practices we often come up against colonized systems that force us to delay and take additional steps to ensure that our protocols and practices are respected,” she said.

Council supported the request in support of the land severance, however, had concerns about the potential occurrence of future development that could impact the Town.

Councillor, Scott Morrison, indicated that future development is unlikely because the intention is not to build on the lot but rather have a place “to deliver people back to land.” He said, “I think it makes all the sense in the world so long as Planning staff is okay with it.”

However, other members felt it important to put it in writing to protect the Town.

Councillor, Dan Armour, inquired about whether restrictions were in place should the landowners want to sell the lot in the future.

Staff advised that they could include limitations for use so that fees would be applicable if it changes in the future.

Councillor, Bob Stone, expressed the importance of the protocol should future generations “have a different ideal” for use of the land.

Council agreed to waive the fees and set conditions for future development of the land, such as for residential use, which would require payment of applicable fees if initiated.