Mr. Boris Rassin reports

ATCO SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES COMPLETES SECOND PROJECT FOR GEORGE GORDON FIRST NATION

Atco Ltd.'s Atco Sustainable Communities has completed a new retail store for George Gordon First Nation, located 120 kilometres north of Regina, Sask. This is the second project completed for the nation following the construction of a daycare centre for the nation in 2012.

The new 5,000-square-foot facility replaces the previous smaller retail centre, and brings grocery, deli and gas station services together under one roof. As outlined in the nation's comprehensive community plan, the larger retail centre allows for additional grocery items and an expanded fresh produce section, providing community members with a convenient alternative to travelling an hour to the closest city for healthy food options.

"Our relationship with George Gordon First Nation continues to grow and add sustainable infrastructure to their community," said Boris Rassin, president, Atco Sustainable Communities. "Pre-engineered buildings like this offer the perfect combination of durability and low maintenance, and by working closely with the nation, we were able to take this project from design to completion in just seven months."

The new retail centre will also generate nine full-time jobs as well as work experience for high-school students. Additional revenues from the expanded facility will be used to fund community projects.

"The Gordon Retail Centre project will not only benefit our community but the surrounding area as well," said Councillor Corey Blind. "This exciting project is an amazing success because of the working relationship and partnership we carry with Atco Sustainable Communities. Our nation looks forward to moving ahead together for many years to come."

Since its creation in 2012, Atco Sustainable Communities has completed nine infrastructure projects in first nations communities across Canada and currently has five more projects slated for completion this year.

George Gordon First Nation is one of 35 first nations belonging to Treaty 4 in Southern Saskatchewan. With more than 3,400 members, George Gordon First Nation spans 145 square kilometres, and is active in renewable energy development and mining.