The list of candidates vying to form the next council of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band has been released.
Three of the nine ward councillor positions have already been decided by acclamation with only one candidate nominated in three of the wards.
Returning to the council will be Calvin Francis in Gander Bay and Frank Skeard in Glenwood, while newcomer Ivan White will be the ward councillor for Flat Bay.
Related stories:
Qalipu First Nations founding members no longer with status protest in Corner Brook
Burgeo Band of Indians Chief Greg Janes upset military service has cost him his Qalipu status
Three people are in the running for the chief position, including incumbent Chief Brendan Mitchell of the Corner Brook ward. He is being challenged by Hayward George Young and Clyde Thomas Russell, who are both from the Stephenville ward.
Six people want to be the western vice-chief, including three from within the Corner Brook ward, namely Keith Cormier, Ron Jesseau and Edith Miller; two from the Benoit’s Cove ward, including Blain Ford and Gary Greene; and Andy Tobin from the St. George’s ward.
There is a two-way battle set for central vice-chief, between incumbent Joe Bouzanne and Randy Drover, who are both from within the Exploits ward.
Four names have come forth for the Corner Brook ward councillor position. Brian Dicks will be seeking re-election against Bob MacDonald, Jeff Soper and Geoff Sparkes.
There will be a new face representing the Stephenville ward, with Odelle Pike, Joe White and Stefan Young seeking that role.
Voters will choose between their current ward councillor or a new representative in two-way races three of the four remaining wards.
In Benoit’s Cove Bernard White will defend his seat on council against Darren Greene. Michael Alexander wants to take the seat away from Jasen Benwah in Port au Port. Andy Barker will be looking to retain his spot on council in a campaign against Rod Bennett in the Exploits ward.
In the St. George’s ward, it will come down to either Ivan White or Kenneth Lee as the new councillor.
Voters will choose the next council on election day, Oct. 23. An advance poll will take place Oct. 16.
