(Renfrew, Ontario/Algonquin Territory) – Renfrew Town Council has signed off on a landmark Partnership Agreement and Commercial Lease with the Bonnechere Algonquin First Nation (BAFN) for approximately 9,967 square feet of space within the myFM Centre. The agreement, aimed at fostering cultural enrichment and collaboration, marks a significant milestone in Renfrew’s journey towards reconciliation. 

"We have been working with the BAFN Chief and Council since 2019 on this initiative, and it’s so great to see this space come to life,” says Mayor Tom Sindey. “As a municipality situated on the traditional territory of the Algonquin Peoples, we recognize the enormous benefit and significance of having the Community Cultural Centre right here in Renfrew.” 

In 2019, the Town of Renfrew and the BAFN jointly applied for a federal/provincial infrastructure grant under the Community, Culture, and Recreation Stream. This collaborative effort was pivotal in securing the grant, which helped fund the inclusive design of the myFM Centre to accommodate an Indigenous Cultural Centre featuring a Medicine Wheel.

Negotiations for the lease began in 2020 and concluded in 2024, with occupancy anticipated by July/August 2024. The 25-year term of the agreement, with provisions for extension, underscores the long-term commitment of both parties to this transformative initiative.

An official ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house for the Cultural Centre and Medicine Wheel will be scheduled for September. More details on this will be made available later in the summer. 

“We are so pleased to have this community facility located right at the myFM Centre – an important public place here in Renfrew for visitors and community members alike,” says Reeve Peter Emon. “We thank Chief Zohr and Council for their work on this, and we look forward to our ongoing community partnership.” 

For any media inquiries, please contact: 

Hannah MacMillan

Communications & Engagement Coordinator

Town of Renfrew

613-432-4848 ext. 117 

hmacmillan@renfrew.ca