Adopting a Custom Election Code is a vital step towards greater self-governance and autonomy for Cheam. It empowers our community to shape an election system that enhances accountability and reflects the unique needs of our members, all while promoting transparency and participation.
By making this change, Cheam can take greater control over our leadership selection process and ensure it serves the best interests of the community now and for generations to come.
Please find below documents for your review:
- Notice of Vote
- Online Voting Info Sheet
- Custom Election Code Info Sheet
- Custom Election Code V.8 (pages 29-45 are specific to the new CEC)
Important Dates to Note:
- April 2, 2025 – Community Townhall with Electoral Officer Fred Schiffner
- April 17, 2025 – Ballot packages will be mailed out to all eligible Cheam Voters
- May 7, 2025 – Community Townhall with Electoral Officer Fred Schiffner
- May 30, 2025 – Online voting opens
- May 30, 2025 – Mail-in votes must be received by this date
- June 2, 2025– In-person voting in the Cheam Gym 9am-8pm
Custom Election Code
Adopting a Custom Election Code for Cheam provides numerous benefits that align with our community values, governance principles, and long-term goals. Here are some key advantages:
Self-Governance and Autonomy
Under a Custom Election Code, Cheam can govern its own election processes without being restricted by the federal Indian Act regulations. This autonomy strengthens our capacity for self-determination, allowing Cheam to set our own rules for election procedures, eligibility, and governance. We can implement term limits, adjust election timelines (2-year terms to 4-year terms of the Council), and introduce nomination and voting processes that work best for Cheam. This ensures the system can respond to both current and future challenges.
Reduced Dependence on External Oversight
By adopting a Custom Election Code, Cheam reduces its reliance on outside bodies, such as Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), to oversee or intervene in election matters. This ensures that election disputes or issues can be handled internally by trusted community members and leaders, maintaining local control over decision-making.
Longer Leadership Terms for Stability
A Custom Election Code allows Cheam to establish longer leadership terms, which can contribute to greater stability and continuity in governance. Longer terms provide leaders with more time to focus on long-term projects and goals, fostering more consistent leadership and better planning for the future.
Opportunity for Innovation
With a Custom Election Code, Cheam can introduce modern and innovative election practices, such as electronic voting or hybrid systems that combine traditional and new approaches. This modernization can help ensure that all members, including those living off-reserve, can easily participate in the electoral process.
Community Ownership of the Process
The development and implementation of a Custom Election Code will involve extensive consultation with community members, ensuring that the final code is reflective of Cheam’s collective voice. This community-driven process promotes a sense of ownership and pride in our election system.
In Conclusion:
Adopting a Custom Election Code is a vital step towards greater self-governance and autonomy for Cheam. It empowers our community to shape an election system that enhances accountability and reflects the unique needs of our members, all while promoting transparency and participation.
By making this change, Cheam can take greater control over our leadership selection process and ensure it serves the best interests of the community now and for generations to come.
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