Six candidates have been nominated to run for four seats on Wrangell Cooperative Association’s Tribal Council for this year’s election.
Two current Tribal Council members have been re-nominated, which include Frank Churchill Jr. and Richard Oliver.
The four other nominated candidates seeking a seat are Christie Jamieson, Dustin Johnson, James Leslie II and Ethan “Coven” Petticrew.
Five candidates spoke separately with KSTK’s News Director Colette Czarnecki on why they are running and how they see themselves in this role.
Each Tribal Council member holds their seat for two years and four out of eight seats are up for election annually.
Voting hours are from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday (Feb. 2) at the Cultural Center. Absentee ballots can also be picked up at the WCA office during normal business hours.
Wrangell Cooperative Association Tribal members aged 18 years or older are qualified to vote.
Anyone with questions can contact WCA at their tribal office at 907-874-4304 or email wcatribe@gmail.com.
Listen to the candidates
KSTK did not hear back from Frank Churchill Jr. when requesting an interview.
Jamieson said what’s most important for her is making sure every tribal member, especially elders, are seen, heard and supported, while protecting culture for the next generation.
Johnson said what’s most important for him is to support the community with the values that WCA stands for.
Leslie said what’s most important for him is focusing on economic development and using tourism funds to preserve culture.
Oliver said what’s most important for the tribe is tourism and bringing in unrestricted revenue.
Petticrew said what’s most important to him is strengthening the tribe’s ability to care for its people, especially elders and youth, in a sustainable, self-determined way.
