Around 300 people attended a discussion about putting an urban reserve on Kapyong Barracks.

The Canadian Mennonite University hosted a forum Thursday night to discuss the concept, proposed by several Manitoba First Nations.

While there’s no firm development plans, supporters say it would be a business-based venture that would create jobs for indigenous and non-indigenous people.

“We would realize jobs and opportunities as far as generating our own source revenues, but also working with the city and realizing its’ goals,” said Chief Glenn Hudson of Peguis First Nation.

Organizers said they want input from the nearby neighbourhood, so community members feel engaged in the development process.

“First Nations are saying they don’t want to impose their development plans on the residents. They’re saying, how can we work together?” said Jamie Wilson, Treaty Relations with the Commission of Manitoba.

The 159 acre plot of land off Kenaston Boulevard is at the centre of a dispute between several Manitoba First Nations and the Federal Government.

Both groups want to develop the land, but they disagree on who should get do to it.

“None of these plans are solidified because right now, unfortunately, the land is still bring disputed,” said Shelly Glover, Minister for Heritage and Culture.

The fate of Kapyong Barracks is still before the courts.

The latest action came last January, when the Federal Government appealed a decision that said it had a duty to consult First Nations about the future of the property.