Lac La Ronge Indian Band has re-elected Chief Tammy Cook-Searson for an eighth term, with a record-breaking 2,089 votes out of 3,927 cast. This election saw the highest voter turnout in recent history. Other candidates included Jude Ratt with 926 votes, Larry Roberts with 533 votes, and Bruce Fredrick McKenzie with 379 votes.
A significant milestone in this election was achieving gender balance, with six women and six men elected to the 12-member council. Chief Cook-Searson, who initially planned to retire after 28 years in office, decided to run again following community requests, especially from elders. She expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support she received during the election.
The councilors elected alongside Chief Cook-Searson are Tracey Halkett, Keith Mirasty, Nora Charles, Joseph Ratt, Korrie Ratt, Jimmy B. Charles, Linda A. Charles, Cora Ballantyne Roberts, Ann R. Ratt, Dean Roberts, Sam H. Roberts, and Cheryline (Charlene) Venne.
Chief Cook-Searson outlined her priorities for the upcoming term, focusing on addressing social issues within the band’s communities. She emphasized the allocation of $40 million from agricultural benefits for community projects, with a particular emphasis on tackling challenges related to gangs, violence, and addictions. Additionally, she aims to advocate for treaty annuities and challenge the “one parent rule” approved by the Senate of Canada.
Chief Cook-Searson expressed her commitment to collaborating with councilors, elders, and community members to bring about positive changes and continue the progress in their communities.