Approximately 20 residents and business owners coughed up the $10 membership fee, due at the association's annual general meeting in December, Grogono estimated. He said there are now about 35 paid members.

Elected by the board of directors Jan. 8, Grogono replaces the association's first president, Ken Pook.

Both Pook and Robin Beaumont, who served as vice-president and secretary-treasurer, have left Yellowknife.

The association's priority, said Grogono, is to see the association's lawsuit against the city to have secret briefing meetings for city council judged illegal brought to its conclusion.

"(Former alderman) Dick Peplow, Ken and Robin are actively following the proceedings," said Grogono.

The last three councils met in secret regularly. The new council has replaced weekly secret meetings with largely open committee of the whole meetings.

"A lot of money has gone into this and (association lawyer Steven Cooper) indicates we're at the end of the trail," said Grogono. "Probably one more court session will provide the facts to satisfy a judge."

Grogono lost out to Mayor Dave Lovell by six votes in the October municipal election.

Former alderman Mike Byrne was elected vice-president and Jim Philip secretary-treasurer of the association. Longtime city hall watcher Mike Piro and Sandra Elliot are serving as directors.