The Coalition will adhere to the following principles:


Ownership and Management

  • Maintain land ownership by the Municipality or a non-profit development corporation in perpetuity;
  • Provide no individual ownership of land, but allow for leases for buildings and lands;
  • Use an equitable application and lottery system for tenure;
  • Permit no chain outlets;


Ecological Integrity

  • Support irreplaceable Beaver Valley watershed ecosystems and natural wildlife corridors;
  • Maintain unique physical landform features;
  • Protect biodiversity and species at risk;
  • Restore landscapes where appropriate;
  • Address short- and long-term impact of changes (100 years/seven generations);

Inclusion and Accessibility

  • Seek input and guidance from local Indigenous peoples and First Nations;
  • Seek to enhance the lives of all members of the community;
  • Expand social returns and community benefit through coalition member activities;
  • Support diverse, local businesses who share our principles;
  • Require tenant and partner businesses to pay workers a ‘living wage’
  • Prohibit exploitation of land, wildlife or people for personal or corporate wealth;

Buildings and Infrastructure

  • Integrate any new building into the Niagara Escarpment and Beaver River landscapes;
  • Use contemporary best practices in sustainable building, including energy use and wildlife safety;
  • Maintain harmony with the environment in design and materials.