First Nation lawsuit claims private island worth a cool $54 million

A First Nation near Victoria is claiming ownership rights to the most valuable private island in British Columbia. 

The Tsawout First Nation filed a civil lawsuit in B.C. Supreme Court this month seeking title to James Island, a 400-acre property just off Island View Beach near Victoria.

James Island, which is owned by Seattle Billionaire Craig McCaw’s company, JI Properties, was assessed at a value of $54.4 million in 2017, according to the B.C. Assessment Authority. It features a main residence, about six guest homes, an