Lheidli T’enneh has officially sworn in a new chief and council.
At just 36-years-old, Chief Clay Pountney was officially sworn in as Chief during a ceremony held at the Uda Dune Baiyoh, House of Ancestors on Tuesday evening (May 1).
The ceremony featured a welcoming prayer by Elder Darlene McIntosh and opening song “Water Carries Us” by the Khastan Drummers.
As well as Chief Pountney, councillors Helen Buzas, Clarence John, and Joshua Seymour were sworn in, followed by Lands Authority members Elissa Gagnon, Melody Buzas, and Phyllis Seymour.
The Khastan Drummers provide the welcome song for the swearing in ceremony tonight #cityofpg #pgmatters @PGMatters pic.twitter.com/IjN2jc9GWw
— Jess Fedigan (@jj_fedigan) May 2, 2019
Chief Poutney also thanked long-time former Chief Dominic Frederick who lost the April 10 election by 15 votes.
Federick, also known as Domo, was first elected in 2004.
“His leadership resulted in many positive legacies for us. Our role in helping to host the 2015 winter games, re-establishing our presence in downtown Prince George, and positive relationships we enjoy with the City of Prince George and the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George are just a few things that Domo was a big part of,” said Pountney.
“He taught me a lot about leadership on my two years on council and I will carry these lessons forward as Chief.”
Pountney also spoke about his and the council’s priorities going forward.
Clayton Pountney gives his first opening remarks as chief of Lheidli T’enneh First Nation #cityofpg #pgmatters @PGMatters pic.twitter.com/9PfHSrOqdQ
— Jess Fedigan (@jj_fedigan) May 2, 2019
“Our principal focus is always on members and their needs. What I can assure you is that if you stick with us, work with us, partner with us, the rewards will be immeasurable and we will all be better for it,” said Pountney.
“Thank you again for attending this meeting. It means a lot to our community that our neighbours on traditional lands support us, want to partner with us, see us succeed, and provide for our elders, youth, and community members.”
The ceremony closed with more songs performed by the Khastan Drummers.
