Image: Mike Vanden Bosch / Pattison Media / Pine Court Apartments at 5662 Vedder Road in Chilliwack.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Acquisition finalized

First Nations-linked corp. finalizes purchase of Chilliwack apartment complex, motel in Harrison

Mar 5, 2025 | 7:15 AM

SEABIRD ISLAND — Sqéwqel Development Corporation (SqDC), the economic arm of Sq’éwqel (Seabird Island) First Nation, says it is excited to announce the successful acquisition of a Chilliwack apartment complex and an 18-room motel in Harrison Hot Springs, roughly a month after it finalized the purchase of a marina in Harrison.

According to a statement from the corporation, SqDC has finalized the purchase of Pinecourt Apartments at 5662 Vedder Road in Chilliwack and Harrison Grand Motel at 280 Esplanade Avenue in HHS.

The Pinecourt Apartments, a 36-unit residential building in Chilliwack, was built in 1987 and is situated on a 0.92-acre lot in a well-connected, pedestrian-rich area of Sardis.

The Harrison Grand Motel, as the development corporation rightly pointed out, is located right by the beach and contains 18 rooms, of which eight units have kitchens. It also features space for small events, a restaurant, and an ice cream parlour, offering multiple ways to generate income and providing great experiences for visitors.

Image: Tourism Harrison

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The corporation believes the acquisitions enables them to expand their impact while building a strong economic future for Seabird Island and its community members.

“This is more than just the present, it’s about building a future where the children and grandchildren of Sq’éwqel (Seabird Island) members inherit lasting opportunities for success and self-sufficiency,” said Nigel Selvadurai, CEO of Sqéwqel Development Corporation. “These acquisitions are part of SqDC’s long-term strategy to strengthen our economic foundation and invest in projects that bring lasting benefits to Seabird Island. We are excited about the future and remain committed to building a strong and sustainable path forward for Seabird Island. We appreciate the ongoing support of our community, partners, and stakeholders as we pursue opportunities that align with our vision and values.”

In early February 2025, Sqéwqel Development Corporation (SqDC) finalized the purchase of the Harrison Hot Springs Marina at 102 Rockwell Drive.

According to a statement from the corporation, the acquisition signified an important step in its ongoing efforts to facilitate economic growth and create opportunities for the Seabird Island community. The corporation believes the Harrison Hot Springs Marina is a valued location for residents and visitors alike and is synonymous with scenic surroundings and recreational opportunities. By buying the marina, the development corporation strives to enhance marina operations while maintaining the area’s natural environment and cultural importance.

“Our acquisition of the Harrison Hot Springs Marina highlights our commitment to community-focused growth. The Seabird Island Band exists to promote a healthier, self-sufficient, self-governing, unified and educated community. As the development corporation, our goal is to continue to find opportunities to support this mandate,” said Nigel Selvadurai, CEO of Sqéwqel Development Corporation. “We look forward to working with Seabird Island Chief & Council, Seabird Island Band Office, the community of Seabird Island and local stakeholders to keep the marina a vital community resource and develop plans that align with shared goals.”

Financial details surrounding the acquisition were not released by the corporation, but the price is believed to be $5.2 million, according to a real estate posting about the property from RE/MAX Nyda Realty in Agassiz. The marina features 225 slips, a 4.3-hectare offshore lease, and a 1.87-acre deeded C4 (service commercial) property. A listing from RE/MAX Nyda Realty said the marina offered potential income ranging from $850,000 to over $1 million per year.

The Sqéwqel Development Corporation (SqDC) was established in 2014 to strentghen the Seabird Island Band’s economic self-sufficiency. SqDC leads business ventures and pursues new economic opportunities to create jobs and strengthen Seabird Island’s economy for the benefit of its members. The corporation says all initiatives are dedicated to honouring Stó:lō culture, traditions, and values.