B.C.’s Squamish Nation elects its new council

New Squamish Nation chairperson Wilson Williams speaks during a news conference about a 2030 Olympic bid in Vancouver, then as elected councillor. (Courtesy: THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck)

The Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) will be coming to meetings with a new council this fall, double the size of its last.

Earlier this year, the nation voted to amend its Election and Referendum Law to increase the council from its existing eight, consisting of one chairperson and seven councillors. Squamish Nation members have this year elected 15 councillors, one chairperson and one band manager, to hold office for the next four years.

The results, announced Sept. 28, also saw the removal of dedicated seats for the North Shore, Squamish Valley and outside the region, as the nation shifts to electing general councillors. According to a statement released by the nation, the new 16 elected officials reflect the origins of the Squamish Nation, when 16 Squamish families decided they would “be stronger together” and amalgamated in 1923.

Sxwíxwtn (Wilson Williams) was the only person to run for the position of council chairperson, and will be taking on the role after four terms in office following previously held councillor positions. Williams will replace former council chairperson Khelsilem, who did not run in this year’s election.

Councillors Shayla Jacobs and Syexwaliya (Ann Whonnock) were re-elected and will join 13 new general councillors representing the nation’s members at council. They include Alroy (Bucky) Baker, Syexwaliya (Anthony Joseph), Sandy Lafontaine (Douglas), Amanda Williams, Jody Broomfield, Faye Halls, Kalkalilh (Deanna Lewis), Jonah Trevon Chase Gonzales, Yul Baker, Jonny Williams, Bertha Joseph, Matthew Houghton and Sxwchálten (Kevin Rivers.)

With two new councillors – Jonah Chase Gonzales and Johnny Williams – being under the age of 30, Williams noted it was “exciting” to see youth becoming engaged in the nation’s democratic process.

“We are demographically a young nation with a bright future ahead,” said Williams in the statement, adding that he was “extremely excited and energized” about the new term ahead.

“Thank you to all the candidates who ran in this election. I look forward to working with our new band manager and council as we collectively create new pathways and opportunities for our nation,” he said.

According to the nation, this year’s election marked the highest voter turnout on record, with an unofficial vote count showing 1,317 Squamish people, 41 per cent of eligible voters, had their say in who would make up their council.

Members were able to cast their ballots in person on Sunday, vote online or vote via mail-in ballots.