Saugeen Shores and Saugeen First Nation Celebrate Continued Partnership with New Water Service Agreement

The Town of Saugeen Shores and Saugeen First Nation (SFN) are celebrating another step forward in their shared commitment to collaboration. On Monday, April 27, Saugeen Shores Council authorized a new Water Service Agreement with Saugeen First Nation, ensuring the continued provision of municipal water to the Nation. 

The agreement continues a long-standing relationship between the two communities and replaces a Memorandum of Agreement from 2006, which is set to expire on May 30, 2026. The new Water Service Agreement reflects updated standards, modern processes, and a shared focus on long‑term planning and cooperation. 

“We are pleased to renew this important agreement with our friends, the Saugeen First Nation,” said Mayor Luke Charbonneau, Town of Saugeen Shores. “It builds on our strong relationship and reflects our shared commitment to respectful cooperation for the benefit of both Saugeen Shores and Saugeen First Nation.”  

The new 20‑year agreement includes regular five-year reviews, and aligns rates and billing practices with the Town’s current systems. It also establishes a Maximum Daily Flow, provides a framework for addressing exceedances, and outlines mutual reporting, insurance, and standard indemnification provisions with the intention of ensuring clarity and accountability for both parties. The new agreement will take effect upon expiration of the 2006 Memorandum of Agreement. 

“This agreement supports dependable water service for our community while reflecting today’s standards and expectations,” said Chief Conrad Ritchie, Saugeen First Nation. “It also demonstrates the strength of our ongoing partnership with the Town of Saugeen Shores and the value of working collaboratively toward shared goals.” 

The Water Service Agreement is a Major Initiative in the Town of Saugeen Shores 2026 Business Plan (pg. 82) and supports Pillar 3: Building Complete Communities of the Friendship Accord between Saugeen Shores and Saugeen First Nation.