Frustrated by the failure of provincial and federal governments to resolve land claims that are hindering development, a local group is stepping forward with its own solutions.
The Haldimand Tract Good Neighbours Coalition -- formed by seven local developers -- is holding its first meeting Monday to present an idea for an "interim peace agreement."
"Political resolution just isn't there," said Steve Charest, of King and Benton, a spokesman for the coalition. "What you're seeing is the ability to plant some seeds of interest that have been absent in the political forum."
NO 'MAGIC FORMULA'
Other coalition members are Bawa Hotels Canada Ltd., Kingspan Insulated Panels Ltd., Multani Custom Homes Ltd., STM Construction Ltd., The Abor Group and Two Row Architect.
Charest said the group recognizes that it will be up to governments to come up with a long-term solution to the land claim issue. But some kind of immediate action is needed, because the slowdown in development is having a devastating effect on the local economy.
"We don't have any magic formula but we have a great opportunity to step up to the plate and come up with solutions that benefit everybody," he said.
Dalip Multani, of Multani Custom Homes, said the area is ripe for development, because of its location and proximity to the 403. But potential developers are being scared away by the land claims issue.
The coalition is inviting representatives from Six Nations, the city and the County of Brant to attend Monday's meeting, which will be held at the Woodland Cultural Centre on Mohawk Street at 10 a. m.
"We need to work together for sustainable growth," Multani said. "That's what good neighbours do."