McPherson to focus on accountability during second term

Couchiching band members have spoken–and Chuck McPherson plans to keep listening.
McPherson, who was elected to his second two-year term as chief Monday, said two messages came across during public forums last Friday and Saturday–accountability and focusing on youth and economic development.
“People definitely want an increased accountability from their leaders, which they deserve,” he remarked.
“And we definitely have to address the lack of facilities and programming for youths on our reserve,” he stressed. “In concert with that is the issue of economic development–creating a future.”
Chief McPherson, who also served as chief in 1986-87, garnered 128 of the 276 votes cast for chief Monday, beating out nine other nominees (Bernard “Sam” Bruyere, Joanne Bruyere, Bob Mainville, Dan Mainville, Joan Mainville, Robert Morrisseau, Rudy Morrisseau, Clint Perrault and Ed Yerxa).
“I’m definitely pleased with the outcome. It’s quite an honour to be named chief again and I’ll work to do my best once again,” he pledged yesterday.
Meanwhile, incumbents Dan Mainville and Bob Mainville were elected to council Monday, along with former councillor Don Bruyere and newcomers Dick Bird, Lucille Morrisseau, and Clint Perrault.
“I know them all quite well. It’s a good blend–there’s some new councillors on board,” said Chief McPherson. “I think we’ll get a lot accomplished working together.”
“It’s going to be a learning experience [but] I’m ready to go to work,” remarked Bird, who said he decided to “go for it” after being nominated for the first time.
“If I can be of any help, I’ll do it,” he declared.
But Bird noted the previous council might be a tough act to follow. “I really have to applaud our last council. They got on the right track and got the bills paid,” he remarked.
A total of 38 band members, several of whom also were nominated for chief, were nominated to run as councillors.
Voters cast their ballots between 9 a.m.-6 p.m. at the Couchiching band office.