By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye
Ermineskin Cree Nation Chief Craig Makinaw comes across as quiet but the reason could be because he is thinking of ways to make help unify the four Cree bands in Hobbema.
The new chief was sworn in on Oct. 3 at the Ermineskin Elder’s Centre in Hobbema and spoke to members who witnessed the ceremony.
Makinaw hopes to have all the bands working together. “We can do a lot more working together and I know we can do it.”
He has already received support from the other bands and knowing the other chiefs personally makes it easier to communicate as they know his style of leadership.
A common understanding of goals would be the best way to make it happen, he said. The chief plans to host monthly community meetings to give people a chance to voice their concerns and opinions but also to understand what Ermineskin council is planning. Council wants to get community ideas on how to stop gang violence. He wants to keep the lines of communication open so there are no surprises.
Wetaskiwin Mayor Bill Elliot also attended and said it is important to remember we are all a part of the same community.
“As a city we are working hard to liaise with the Four Nations, they’re our business partners,” said Elliot.
Hobbema is an important facet of the economy, according to Elliot and he wants to work closely with Hobbema to form a positive partnership. The mayor plans to attend some Ermineskin council meetings and in turn have Ermineskin council attend Wetaskiwin city council meetings.