Winnipeg should welcome urban reserves, says Saskatoon mayor

The mayor of Saskatoon is coming to Winnipeg to try and dispel fears of urban reserves.

Saskatoon has had an urban reserve for decades and Mayor Don Atchison says the key is trust between the city and the Muskeg Lake Cree Nation.

There have also been economic spinoffs that have benefitted both sides, he said.

"Here in Saskatoon people have jobs, they have good homes to live in, and so overall I think it's been a very positive situation for all of us," he said.

Atchison will speak on the issue on Wednesday from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at University of Winnnipeg's Convocation Hall. He will be joined by Harry Lafond, a band councillor with the Muskeg Lake Cree Nation. 

The prospect of an urban reserve for Winnipeg has been raised recently in connection with the future of the former Kapyong Barracks site along Kenaston Boulevard.

Some people who live near the area have expressed worries about falling property values if an urban reserve is set up.