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PEHDZEH KI/WRIGLEY
Communication will be an important factor for Pehdzeh Ki First Nation over the next year according to the band's newly re-elected chief.

Tim Lennie was returned to the position of chief during the band's Dec. 9 election. Lennie, the incumbent, received 29 votes. The other candidates for chief included Gaylene Moses, 14 votes, Sharon Pellissey, 12 votes, Maurice Moses, 4 votes, and Darcy E. Moses, 4 votes.

This is Lennie's second consecutive term, he was originally elected in December 2009. Since 1986 Lennie has served approximately seven different terms as chief.

Improving communication

Lennie said he wants to work on improving communication in the community, including holding more community meetings and dispersing more information. Lennie said his leadership style involves providing information to the band's members so they can decide on the direction the band will take on issues.

Lennie said he has his own opinions, but communication will be important so the membership can provide a clear mandate to the band council.

The community does have concerns about issues including the Dehcho Process and devolution and people will have to attend public meetings so they can provide their opinions, said Lennie.

"There needs to be continued community involvement," he said.

Lennie said another goal for the term will be to establish an election policy and code of ethics before the next election.

The fact the band doesn't have an election policy has been a contentious issue and a source of conflict, he said.

Lennie said he was originally excited when he found out about his re-election, but that being chief isn't easy.

"There's a lot of work for leadership in a small community," he said.

Lennie said the last term was very difficult as council worked to get Pehdzeh Ki First Nation organized and financially stable. Establishing the band as a government without the proper financial resources is a struggle, he said.

The band has also been preparing itself to deal with the Dehcho Process, mining in the area, the Mackenzie Valley Pipeline and the Mackenzie Valley highway. Lennie said leadership in small communities have to multi-task, dealing with everything from economic, social, political and environmental issues while still taking care of their own health and well-being.

Lennie said one thing leaders soon realize is it takes both the leadership and the whole community to work together to move the community forward.

"We have to continue in the best interest of our people," he said.

It will be the community's children and grandchildren that will inherit what is developed, said Lennie.

"It's a long road. It's a non-ending thing for First Nations."

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