Lax Kw'alaams seeks membership input for proposed changes to Custom Election Code

Lax Kw'alaams is about to put the finishing touches to a project that they have been working on for a number of months, with the process towards change to the Custom Code now to be submitted to the community membership for further input.

A written notice regarding the changes was recently delivered out to the membership as of October 2nd, with residents advised that the latest draft of the Custom Code was the one that has received the unanimous approval of the Band Council.

The Lax Kw'alaams Government, describes the document, as one that is comprehensive and fair and seeks to protect all community stakeholders.

Two of the elements of interest to be addressed include recommended changes to the Custom Code

02 - CHANGES TO THE CUSTOM CODE The key changes we recommend include: • Using independent arbitrators for electoral and conduct disputes, • Implementing a progressive discipline process for all Council members, • Offering electronic voting, • Requiring criminal record checks • Changes in both quorum and the starting point for referendums.

and

03 – SIZE OF COUNCIL We heard that some of our members want a smaller Council. Currently there is 1 Mayor and 12 Councilors. How many Councilors would you like to see? 12, 10 or 8? There has been no consensus on this matter. We will decide this number based on the feedback we receive. All responses will be confidential.

A summary of some of the changes that are under consideration can be found here.

Those that have not received a copy can pick one up at both the Kax Kw'alaams Band office as well as at the office located in Prince Rupert.

Further background on the process ahead can be reviewed from the Lax Kw'alaams Band Facebook page here.

For more items of interest from Lax Kw'alaams see our archive page here.

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Cross posted from the North Coast Review.