Joe Pierre Jr. new chief at ʔaq̓am

Joe Pierre Jr is not new to Council; Joe served in past years as a Councillor for the Community of ʔaq̓am.

Joe Pierre Jr. has been named Chief of ?aq?am St. Mary’s Indian Band. — Photo: St. Mary's Band

There is new leadership at the St. Mary's Band, near Cranbrook, with the results of the 2016 ʔaq̓am St. Mary’s Indian Band Custom Election now confirmed.

According to a press release issued by the Band, Joe Pierre Jr. has been named Chief of ʔaq̓am, with the most votes in the election in the 2016 Custom Election.

Also re-elected Councillor Codie Morigeau and Julie Birdstone have been named Councillors, with the second and third most votes in the 2016 Custom Election. A swearing-in ceremony was held on November 3rd, 2016.

Joe Pierre Jr is not new to Council; Joe served in past years as a Councillor for the Community of ʔaq̓am. He is returning to the Council table after a two year absence. Councillor Codie Morigeau retained her seat for a second term.

Councillor Vickie Thomas and Corrie Walkley’s seats were not up for election, and will continue to serve on ʔaq̓am Chief and Council for the remainder of their four-year term.

Chief Operating Officer, Jodi Gravelle, stated that the most satisfying outcome was the voter turnout, with 58% of the eligible voters exercising their right to vote.