Role of Governance

Homalco First Nation (HFN) Chief and Council are elected by, and accountable to, Homalco people. Our direction comes from members input which is communicated back to the community through community plans. Our organizational chart shows how we are organized to serve the community. 

Chief and Council work to support healing, development, self-determination, self-actualization and good governance. They work to establish organizations that maintain Homalco’s connection and responsibility to our culture, lands and resources. We are guided by HFN beliefs:

• pek yet’s quiye gun (having humility firstly, followed by prayers for family, then self)
• naut’sa mawt (we are all one and interconnected)

Chief and Council are elected every four years through a custom election code. Even though this system is different from our traditional ways, our leaders are guided by the same values that sustained our ancestors. Leadership conduct is guided by the Homalco Nation Oath of Office and direction is set by the Comprehensive Community Plan, which is developed through an active community engagement process.

The Homalco First Nation administrative staff is responsible for implementing the policy directions that come from Chief and Council. They oversee the day-to-day business of the government. They are the experts in their respective areas and make things run smoothly. 

Even though these two areas work together, there is a separation between the two. Chief and Council respect the administration’s choices and decisions on an issue, unless it is otherwise stated in writing. 

Homalco Chief and Council are guided by a seven point Oath of Office. To learn more about the roles and responsibilities of Chief and Council, download our Governance Policy Manual.

1. Do my best to carry out my responsibilities respectfully, efficiently, and effectively according to HFN values and beliefs (e.g. pek yet’s quiye gun, and naut’sa mawt); 
2.  Work with Councillors, HFN employees and members in a positive, problem-solving and collaborative manner; 
3. Remember that my primary duty is to serve the best interests of members and future generations; 
4. Adhere to, and support the policies, values, and decisions of HFN Council, including conducting myself at all times in a manner that will bring credit to the HFN; 
5. Continually work towards self-improvement and development through self-evaluation, traditional teachings, and the current educational system; 
6. Act as a community development resource and political guide for all members to help advance and resolve issues; and 
7. Respect the decisions of HFN Council and members if I do not uphold and fulfil my responsibilities. 

Important documents

Read the Homalco First Nation Governance Policy Manual (2018).

Read the Homalco First Nation Financial Administration Law (2019).

Homalco members have the right to vote in Council elections. They also have the right to:

• Be represented by good government
• Attend community meetings and special meetings
• Share feedback, asking questions, and providing recommendations to Council on issues
• Fair and equal treatment
• Exercise their Aboriginal rights as defined in s.91(24) of the Constitution Act of Canada
• Have access to an issue resolution process
• Have reasonable access to Council approved meeting minutes, all HFN Policies, and quarterly financial statements.

Community Engagement

HFN Chief and Council believe that their decisions are improved when members are involved. That is why there are a minimum of four Community Meetings per year. Members who live away from home can see information about the meetings online.