City approves new King Hill project in principle

The teepee could be from 50 feet to 120 feet high so it can be seen from afar, depending on the estimated cost, and potentially could be lighted as well.

The city also hopes to install a commemorative plaque at the site.

“We are actively seeking a funder to place a monument in honour of the prominent chiefs present during the Treaty’s signing,” Patrick said of the Treaty 6 history. “The entire project will be the city’s first park with an Indigenous cultural theme. Administration believes that it will become a gathering point for our entire community to enjoy.”

Patrick mentioned the project is also an excellent reconciliation initiative.

“I think it will make a difference in our community,” he said.

The city plans to issue a Request for Proposals for the teepee design and construction at the site.

Council will need to approve the cost and design before it can go ahead.

It was noted a group of Elders will first look at the proposed teepee design and all steps in the process to make sure they are satisfied with it.

It was mentioned the city’s water tower is just over 100 feet tall, in comparison, so if the teepee were to be anywhere as high as that it would be an impressive landmark for the city.

The city received a grant from donors for the teepee project to help with the cost. It also was gifted a $25,000 grant from the RCMP as a contribution for the new playground.

“The City is assisting with some funding for the playground structure, which has been identified in the budget; however, the bulk of the project will not use City funding,” Patrick said.

He also noted that as the initiative develops, the project committee will invite local First Nations to contribute to the cost also if they wish, so it’s not just a city project, but a regional one, with area First Nations also taking ownership.

Mayor David Gillan is excited about the proposed project. He noted if the teepee were about 100 feet tall, that would be about eight or 10 storeys high.

“It’s a large undertaking,” he said. “We’re very happy though. We want to celebrate our rich Indigenous culture here. In 2021, we signed on to the Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities , and this is part of doing real work in our community to make our community more inclusive.”

Gillan noted the storyboard or plaque outlining the history of Treaty 6 will also be an important addition to the project, and provide an educational component as well.

“We want to make sure the young people understand our rich culture and the history of the Battlefords,” he said.

Coun. Bill Ironstand was also impressed with the proposal.

“It’s a really good step for reconciliation,” he said. “Visitors to our community or people just passing through on Highway 16 will undoubtably understand we have an Indigenous population, and we work well together, by doing this and showcasing Indigenous culture… One day, hopefully my grandsons will say: ‘My mushum had a part in getting that up there on the hill.'”

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angela.brown@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @battlefordsNOW

by Angela Brown

City approves new King Hill project in principle

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