The day started with an opening prayer from Marie. Lorrinda James did a brief introduction and review of the agenda. Following that, were opening comments from Mike, in which he spoke on how the impacts from Hydro have affected our lands and also to seek a small measure of justice and that this will move us forward. Then Tom Molloy mentioned that it wasn't actually a meeting, but a surprise birthday for Chief Pat Williams! Tom also explained that there have been a couple questions that have been coming up at these information sessions and he reviewed those questions.
During the presentation Lorrinda spoke on how we are getting the word out to other members and encouraged people to check the St’at’imc webiste, Facebook and photos that get posted from each meeting. Jacob Beaton continued the presentation by sharing information about the history of the Chiefs from 1911 and different impacts throughout the community. There were many years of work and the Chiefs today are taking a small measure of justice. There was also a breakdown of the compensation and settlement, Environmental Stewardship, Living Agreement and Relationship. Once we finished up with the presentation we were able to open the floor to questions for the members;
Q: Do any of the people see this money or does it go and stay into the trust?
A: Each community receives benefits that are specific to that community, in addition to the funds that are placed in the trust.
A: Negotiations have been ongoing since 1993.Q: Are membership list being updated for the vote?
A: We are asking members to spread the word on making sure the their address has been updated. It is up to each community member to ensure their band office has their current address so we are able to mail out the information packages and ballots.Q: How are the trustees selected, by the people or the council?
A: Each community selects one trustee that is not an elected official (Chief, or Councillor). They also don't have to be a member of that community, but should be someone the community trusts. How the community goes through this decision-making process is up to each community to decide (election, appointment, etc).There were over 20 members from the surrounding community that were able to attend this meeting and educate themselves on this important agreement.
-Lorrinda James
