A candidate for chief of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band says he would work to make the band financially self-sufficient if elected.
Jude Ratt is one of six candidates pursuing the top job of the La Ronge band.
Ratt said getting the band to a point of financial self-sustainability is an important step that needs to be taken.
“My first priority would be more self-sufficiency for the band, because we’re constantly struggling to meet financial needs for our band,” he said. “So, if we were more self-sufficient, we would be able to work on a lot more stuff for our band and the members.”
Ratt said he has a few ideas on how to tackle this goal with one being developing current band businesses.
“I think expanding our businesses through the band to bring in more income would be one of the top things to do there.”
He said one of the reasons he would be a good chief is because of his passion for helping people.
Ratt added his work experience is proof of this.
“I have made a living working with people and for people, so I believe I can do this job.”
Voting in the election began online Monday and continues until May 25.
In-person polls will be open May 25-26 in Stanley Mission and Lac La Ronge/Kitsaki.
All other band communities are scheduled to have in-person voting on May 26th.
(PHOTO: Jude Ratt. Photo courtesy of Jude Ratt.)