KITSELAS CHIEF councillor Glenn Bennett has changed his mind about stepping down.
Bennett, who has held the top job at the Kitselas First Nation for 10 years, had announced earlier this year he wouldn’t be running again in elections taking place next month.
But he said many people asked him to reconsider.
“After my announcement that I was going to retire, I got so many words of encouragement from my band members and some local businesses to reconsider,” he said.
Bennett had wanted to step aside and allow others to lead, but people told him the First Nation had many major projects to complete.
The list includes a cultural community centre, participation in a natural gas pipeline development and becoming involved in plans to expand the container port at Prince Rupert.
“After giving it some thought…I decided to let my name stand if nominated,” said Bennett.
The Kitselas have also signed a deal with BC Hydro providing jobs and economic benefits tied to the Northwest Transmission Line.
Bennett is one of six names on the list of candidates for the chief’s position. William Bolton, Judy Gerow, Shirley Gray, Brian Seymour and Patti Squires are also on the list.
There are 17 candidates running for five councillor positions – Ben Auckland, Wilfred Bennett Sr., Joe Bevan, William Bolton, Judy Gerow, Shirley Gray, Cora Kennedy, Anne McDames, Doreen McMillan, Debbie Moore, Ed Mould, Brian Seymour, Gerry Seymour, Freda Wright, Lynn Wright, Victor Wright, and Dora Young.
Joe Bevan, Judy Gerow, Gerald Seymour and Ken McDames Sr. are currently on council.
This council’s two-year term expires June 12 and the Kitselas First Nation goes to the polls June 10, 2011.
Two polling stations will be available, one at the Gitaus Administration Office at the Gitaus subdivision and the other at the Kitselas Hall.
Those knowing they’ll be out of town can request a mail-in ballot.
