Tuesday, June 13, 2023

Councillor Reid Skelton-Morven announces quest for Chief Councillor's post for Metlakatla First Nation


A current City of Prince Rupert council member has some larger ambitions to share with those who follow him on social media.  

Those coming by way of an announcement from Reid Skelton-Morven that he has decided to seek out the position of Chief Councillor with the Metlakatla First Nation.

"After some time of careful thought & deep reflection, I’m coming home. Which is why I’m honoured to now officially announce my candidacy for Chief Councillor of the Metlakatla First Nation."

The decision to make the run for the position in Metlakatla seemingly finalized after the weekend's Seafest activities.

"And after spending time with members of all Nations in song on the water yesterday, I’ve never felt more called in my spirit & soul to now use my gifts to serve my Nation & people directly, and collectively in a purpose much bigger than myself. 

Which upon election, The Meltakatla Governing Council will have my full commitment as Chief, as I will then resign from my position with the City of Prince Rupert."

His full announcement from Monday  can be reviewed through his City Council related Facebook page.

So far he would appear to be the first to declare public intention towards the Metklakatla election period that may be ahead.

The plans for the election and any other notes related to candidacy information have yet to be shared on the public portals for the First Nation 

Metlakatla First Nation website

Metlakatla First Nation Social media stream

The election page for the First Nation is an information relay which still reflects on the last campaigns of 2019, with only a single line referencing the 2023 elections.

Mr. Skelton-Morven's plans to stay on as city councillor during the campaign and only resign his post should he win, has a precedent in the community.   

Former City Councillor Jennifer Rice did much the same back in her  original and successful run for the MLA's seat in the Legislature back in 2013.

Though that decision to keep her city council post while campaigning for the higher office did result in some controversy at the time, with more than a few calls for her to step aside.

Whether Mr. Skelton-Morven will hear similar commentary during his summer quest for a new direction for his political energies remains to be seen.

As we noted last month, Mr. Skelton-Morven also recently took on duties with the Black Press publication Northern View in Prince Rupert, he had no word to share on how his decision to seek office in Metlakatla may impact on that post.

Update: Councillor Skelton-Morven spoke to his decision as part of Monday's City Council session, his comments towards his candidacy in Metlaktla can be reviewed at the one hour forty six minute mark.


More notes on Metlakatla can be reviewed here.

Our observations from City Council can be explored here.



2 comments:

  1. 8 months in to a 4 year term and he pulls the plug. But not before raising taxes so we can embark on an expensive and unnecessary by election.

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    Replies
    1. Only if he wins. If he loses nothing changes so put your faux outrage in reserve for a few more months.

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