The Secwépemc First Nation is pursuing a declaration of Aboriginal Title over the City of Kamloops and its surrounding areas, including the Sun Peaks ski resort. This region, located in British Columbia, has a population of over 100,000 and an assessed value of at least $43 billion. The claim comes in the wake of a recent court ruling that has raised concerns about land titles across the province.

In August, a court ruling known as the Cowichan decision declared that fee simple titles and interests in the City of Richmond were "defective and invalid." This ruling has ignited widespread concern and confusion regarding land ownership in British Columbia. Premier David Eby and his New Democratic Party (NDP) government have appealed the Cowichan ruling, asserting that the court made an error. However, public confidence in the government's explanations remains low.

Critics point to a pattern of secrecy surrounding the agreements made between the NDP government and various First Nations. Many of these deals are not disclosed until after they are finalized, leading to public frustration. For instance, in August 2024, the NDP agreed to transfer six square kilometers of public land to the Shíshálh Nation, but this information was only made public in January 2025. Local MLA Randene Neill, who was elected in October 2024, was reportedly unaware of the deal until after the election.

In June 2025, the government announced consultations for land use planning in northwestern B.C., covering nearly a third of the province. This announcement was made with little public engagement, raising concerns about the speed and transparency of the process. On June 26, the government signed a new land use agreement with the Squamish Nation, updating a previous deal from 2007. This agreement includes areas that fall within municipal jurisdictions, such as parts of Vancouver, and allows for future discussions involving local governments.

Additionally, the Haida agreement recognized Haida title over the entire Haida Gwaii archipelago without public input. Premier Eby referred to this agreement as a "template" for future negotiations, which has led to further concerns about the lack of transparency in these processes.

The implications of the Cowichan ruling and the Secwépemc claim are significant. Property uncertainty in British Columbia is becoming a pressing issue, potentially affecting the province's real estate sector. The value of privately held land in Kamloops alone exceeds $43 billion, which is nearly half of the province's total operating budget. If Aboriginal title claims expand to include entire cities, the financial burden on the provincial government could be substantial.

Supporters of Aboriginal title claims argue that these issues are not directed at private property owners but rather at the Crown. However, the scale of these claims raises concerns about the potential financial impact on taxpayers in British Columbia. The total value of private land in the province exceeds $2.5 trillion, and the uncertainty surrounding land titles could deter investment and undermine public support for reconciliation efforts.

As the situation develops, the NDP government faces increasing pressure to address public concerns and provide clarity on land rights in British Columbia. Without transparency and effective communication, the potential for social unrest over property rights may grow, complicating the reconciliation process with Indigenous communities.