Are you passionate about Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw and want to contribute to the democratic process? The Electoral Commission is seeking applications from Members to fill current vacancies for the term ending January 2024.
The deadline to apply has been extended to August 31, 2023 at 4:30 pm.
If you have questions, please call 604-980-4553 and ask to speak with Council staff or email cco@squamish.net.
The vacancies are for one individual residing in Xwmélch’tstn (Capilano) Reserve and one individual residing off-reserve.
As a member of the Electoral Commission, you will have a vital role in the administration of elections and referendums. Your responsibilities will include compiling and maintaining the voters list, securing voting locations and equipment, and reporting to Council on each election and referendum. You will also be involved in developing and amending election laws, ensuring the voice of our community is heard. Commission members are compensated with an honorarium of $100 per half-day meeting (three hours) and $300 for a full-day meeting.
What to include in your application
How to apply
The Electoral Commission was established in 2015 to ensure fair and transparent elections and referendums. It is made up of seven voting members, two alternates, and one non-voting member. Each seat represents a particular region or demographic of the community.
If you have any questions about the Electoral Commission, please email info@snelectoralcommission.com.
On January 23, 2020, Council appointed the following for a four-year term from 2020 to 2024.
My name is Les Harry, and my ancestral name is Hawaleren. I am the Elders representative on the Squamish Nation Electoral Commission, and this is my first term. My mother is Gwen Harry (Baker), and my Father was the late Ernie Harry. I applied to be on the Electoral Commission because I wanted to be more involved in the community. With my experience, I can help the Commission in the upcoming referendum and Council Elections.
My name is Jonathan Williams and I am the Squamish Valley representative on the Squamish Nation Electoral Commission. This will be my first term. My Squamish lineage is from my mom and her name is Charlene Williams. Her parents are Richard Williams and Linda Williams. Wilfred (Doc) Williams, Josephine Williams, Allen Lewis and Elizabeth (Betty) Lewis were my great grandparents. I grew up in the Squamish Valley. I have been involved with the community and culture since I was a child. I applied to be on the Electoral Commission because I wanted to learn more about how our governance system works and the people who do this work. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this good work going on in our community.
Membership Registrar (non-voting member)
The rules governing elections were contained in the 1981 Squamish Indian Band Election Regulations. In September 2015, Council approved the creation of the Electoral Commission as an arms-length body to assist the Squamish People in exploring the topic of election reform. The following Members served this first term, engaging with the community and incorporating feedback on changes to the 1981 Regulations which resulted in the 2018 Election & Referendum Law.
Approved by Membership on December 6, 2018
Approved by Membership on November 5, 2019