The people of Kátł’odeeche First Nation have spoken, electing Elaine Auger as chief on Thursday.
And Auger promises to let the people speak out on issues to drive decisions by a transparent and accountable leadership group.
The final tally in Thursday’s election, pending any appeals, was 129 votes cast for Auger, and 80 for Ken Norn.
KFN Chief April Martel, left, and Chief-elect Elaine Auger on election night. (Photo courtesy of Elaine Auger via Facebook)
Auger’s strong background in finance and administration should help guide the first Nation through some busy times ahead, especially as recovery continues from the floods and fires of past few years.
She intends to engage members of the First Nation she was born and raised on in decision-making processes and to introduce a strategic plan to align with the community’s goals.
“As you know, it’s been a tough couple of years, and my goal is to make sure the financials are up to date, submitted and sent to the membership for transparency,” she told CKLB.
“I want the first nation to have the ability to be self sufficient, the ability to develop more economic development, more private business. It’s not going to be based on what leadership thinks that they want.
“For me, it’s about bringing the community together and collaborating and just working together to make our community a better and safer place for our people to live in.”
Safety? At the Dene National Assembly last summer in Dettah, KFN Chief Martel shocked many when she said the illegal drug epidemic in NWT communities is claiming lives and even causing dealers to torture and disfigure addicts behind in debt payments.
New public housing units delivered to KFN in October. (Photo courtesy of Housing NWT)
Martel decided not to seek a third term in office after winning two tight races and facing unprecedented natural disasters — flooding in 2022 and wildfires in 2023.
“I am so happy to have served the Nation for two terms. I had dreams for our Nation, but the dream fell apart with Covid-19, floods, two fires and many evacuations, but we all survived,” Martel wrote on social media.
Auger finished second to Martel in the 2022 election, 109 to 113 votes.
Appeals to the 2024 election must be filed within five business days.
Meanwhile, KFN voters also recently accepted the Treaty Annuity Ammunition & Twine Settlement Agreement, which was signed this week.
Stated Chief Martel: “We are delighted to announce a historical signing. We, as Kátł’odeeche 1st Nation, can say no more $5 on Treaty Day. The Inflation settlement brings more benefits for our future generation. Congratulations to Kátł’odeeche First Nation members on a successful acceptance of the $32.8 million agreement for the people of Kátł’odeeche.”
Member payments are anticipated to commence early next year, pending Canada’s release and allocation of funds to Kátł’odeeche for distribution among KFN members.
KFN Chief April Martel signs new Treaty Annuity Settlement Agreement this week. (Photo courtesy of April Martel via Facebook.)
