Rick Gamble. (submitted photo/ Rick Gamble)

By Nigel Maxwell

Campaign

Gamble seeks new term at Beardy’s

Mar 23, 2020 | 3:32 PM

Members of Beardy’s Okemasis Cree Nation head to the polls this Friday, and long time Chief Rick Gamble is once again running, seeking a fresh new term.

Gamble, who did not run in the last election, told paNOW his priorities include economic development. Gamble has his eye on a number of projects including the purchase of a gas bar in Saskatoon, a unique hemp-to-housing initiative and the use of Aeroponic technology to expand local agricultural opportunities.

“They grow vegetables in a controlled environment and they are producing a lot of vegetables and creating employment,” he said.

Gamble applauded the recent work by council surrounding the band constitution, moving to separate administration from politics. But he added in order for the band to move forward, members need to be involved in the governance process.

“As far as self government goes, based on what we have right now, we are somewhere between not yet and not ever,” he said, adding chief and council need to slow down and get the people to buy in to decisions before moving forward.

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With two major settlements being finalized, totalling upwards of $100 million, Gamble said it has become even more critical for band members to get involved, and help discuss ways to spend the money, specifically what to prioritize.

“To make sure we do it right and maybe live off the interest of the money we get instead of using it all up,” Gamble said.

One way Gamble proposes improving accountability is through the creation of an oversight committee or tribunal. Their job would be to provide an avenue for band members who have a grievance.

“Because right now if you complain, you are complaining literally to chief and council and if they don’t want to move, you’re dead in the water,” he said.

Friday’s election comes in the middle of increasing concerns over COVID-19. Despite assurances from the electoral officer regarding precautionary measures, some band members have been vocal on social media denouncing the election, saying it should be postponed. Gamble said he was in favour of the election, and said the ball was already in motion before the crisis hit. Failure to have an election would essentially leave the band with no government in place.

“If you don’t want to vote, you don’t have to vote but if you don’t vote, you can’t bitch,” he said.

The polls open Friday at 9 a.m.There will be one polling station on reserve at the Veterans’ Hall, and the other is at the Quality Inn in Saskatoon on Idylwyld Drive North.

Edwin Ananas and Incumbent Roy Petit are also running for chief. paNOW reached out to both men for comment. Six councillor positions are also on the ballot.

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nigel.maxwell@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell