The Mayor of Metchosin says a landmark deal involving the Beecher Bay First Nation and Langford is key to keeping rural status for his community.
A referendum is being held on Saturday for residents to vote on a complicated land swap.
Jon Ranns says they needed Langford's involvement to meet the needs of the First Nations.
“This solution will save us as a rural community. If we have urban development in our community then we aren’t going to be able to continue the way we are.”
If passed, the deal would change the boundary between Mechosin and Langford.
The boundary adjustment would place some of Metchosin's land within Langford which would allow for sewer services not available within Metchosin.
It would also see Beecher Bay transfer Crown Land to Metchosin-- which would be protected as green space.
Ranns says around 500 people have already taken part in the advance polls which was more than expected.