Chief Judy Wilson remains chief of the Neskonlith Indian Band.
An election was held on Thursday, July 30, where Wilson garnered more votes than her two contenders.
Although a band election was held in January of this year, an adjudicator had ruled in June another election had to be held, following an appeal from a band member.
In the January election, Wilson was re-elected to her third term, along with incumbents Art Anthony, Karen R. August and Joan Manuel-Hooper, as well as newcomer Fay Ginther. Louis Thomas was acclaimed as councillor for Salmon Arm.
In last week’s election, Wilson was returned, as well as Ginther, Manuel-Hooper and Anthony. Newly elected was Duane Manuel. August was not returned to council this time.
Louis Thomas remains as councillor for Salmon Arm.
Swearing-in ceremonies were held on Friday, July 31.
“Membership made clear decisions in this election,” stated Chief Wilson in a news release. “Council challenges for the upcoming term are addressing administrative gaps in programs and services, communications, diversifying sustainable economic development opportunities and dealing with the highway development through Secwepemc territory and reserve lands.”
She said the Neskonlith Council plans to meet with membership directly to gain clarity on issues or concerns and, most importantly, input towards moving the community forward.
Electoral officer Bruce Mack told the Observer in June, when the new election was announced, that in the Neskonlith election code, a person is ineligible to run for band council if they have any outstanding debts to the band. However, for administrative reasons, Mack said, that was waived for the last election.
“There certainly wasn’t any inappropriate behaviour or action on the part of any candidate,” Mack explained.