Notice of Intent to Make a Determination

Shoal Lake Cree Nation Mini Mall Project - Public Comments invited

December 18, 2024 - Indigenous Services Canada must determine whether the proposed Shoal Lake Cree Nation Mini Mall Project, to be located on Shoal Lake Cree Nation, is likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects. To help inform this determination, Indigenous Services Canada is inviting comments from the public respecting that determination.

Written comments must be submitted by January 17, 2025 to:

Indigenous Services Canada
Alvin Hamilton Building, 1783 Hamilton Street
Regina, SK  S4P 2B6

Telephone: 306-581-3134
Email: isc-skenv@sac-isc.gc.ca

Proposed Project

The Shoal Lake Cree Nation is proposing a mini-mall development to provide a community-focused retail and service hub designed to offer essential goods and amenities directly on-reserve. By housing a grocery store, restaurant, sports/pro-shop, and eventually a gas bar, the mini-mall aims to reduce reliance on distant towns, retain local spending, and foster economic self-sufficiency. The development will be located on vacant land within SE 14-52-05 W2M within the Shoal Lake Cree Nation community.

The mini-mall will occupy approximately 4,200 sq ft. building, with a layout to accommodate retail and dining services. The project will also include the installation of aboveground fuel tanks and pumps for the gas bar.

The proposed construction phase will include building for the grocery store, restaurant, and sports/pro-shop. Exterior work involves paving parking areas, running electrical power lines and telecommunications connections for operations and customer use, and setting up a sewer system to handle wastewater safely and efficiently. The aboveground fuel tanks will include strict safety features (e.g., spill containment, leak detection) to manage hazardous risks. Gaseous emissions during operation will be relatively low and managed through efficient equipment use.

After construction is complete, trained staff will manage daily operations, including equipment maintenance. With regular maintenance and upgrades, the facility is planned for a longevity of at least 20–30 years, ensuring sustained benefits for future generations. In the long term, if the facility is decommissioned, demolition debris and any remaining hazardous materials will be handled by certified professionals to ensure safe, compliant disposal and site restoration.

Throughout all phases, adherence to environmental regulations, proper training, and ongoing monitoring will guide waste management efforts.