Blueberry River First Nations releases election results

BUICK, B.C. — The election in Blueberry River First Nations (BRFN) for chief and council went ahead earlier this week, and the results are out.

There were 149 votes cast on January 12th out of 398 electors for a voter turnout of around 37 per cent.

As required by its election code, each of the five major families in the BRFN community selects a councillor to represent them, with nominations for chief being separate. The chief was appointed by council on January 13th and 14th.

Nominees for chief included former councillors Sherry Dominic and Shelley Gauthier in a field of eight candidates. Both Dominic and Gauthier were in the previous administration, which was shrouded in turmoil after the removal of former chief Judy Desjarlais.

Dominic is the new chief, defeating Gauthier in a vote among council by a total of 3-2. 

Gauthier said her experience in council was “deeply rewarding” in conceding defeat, while recognizing there was “still work to be done” in a post on Facebook.

“My experience serving the community has been deeply rewarding. I appreciate the knowledge gained and the support of community members during my eight-year tenure on council,” wrote Gauthier. “One key lesson I have learned is leadership is only as effective as the people it serves. I encourage community members to become the change they wish to see.”

The new council consists of Simone Chipesia, Dan Crossley, Jared Davis, who were elected to represent the families of the late Daniel Apsassin, the late Edward Apsassin and the late Pete Davis respectively.

They will be joined by incumbent councillor Troy Wolf, who oversees the family of the late Jack Wolf, and Georgina Yahey, who will represent the families of the late Charlie Yahey and Jack Appaw.

Both Wolf and Yahey ran uncontested, securing their posts by acclamation. 

BRFN Elders Joe and Clarence Apsassin partly won a judicial review case against the previous council late last year. 

Council said at the time it would “review the court’s decision and ensure the council complies with the Blueberry River First Nations bylaws going forward.”

The full results can be found below: