January 16, 2025
Comox Valley, BC

For immediate release: K’ómoks First Nation welcomes new Chief and Council effective January 7, 2025

The Nation held elections on Sunday Jan 5, 2025, to form K’ómoks First Nation (KFN) elected Chief and Council for the upcoming two-year term. Effective January 7, the new Council consists of:

  • Elected Chief Councillor: Nicole Rempel with 105 votes
  • Elected Councillor: Candace Newman with 110 votes
  • Elected Councillor: Susan Savoie with 84 votes
  • Elected Councillor: Richard Hardy with 81 votes

“I am deeply humbled and honored to have been elected to serve my community and membership for a fourth term as Chief Councillor,” shared Nicole Rempel, who previously served as the elected Chief of K’ómoks First Nation from 2017 to 2023. “I look forward to working with my fellow Council members to represent and advocate for all members of our nation, for our rights and for our future. Together, we will pursue opportunities and partnerships to create a strong and sustainable future for generations to come, while continuing to support the incredible work of our staff in delivering vital programs and services to our people in a fiscally responsible manner.”

Chief Rempel emphasized the significance of the months ahead: “We stand on the threshold of history with an upcoming vote on our treaty. It is an exciting time as we look to our future and the possibilities that we have negotiated and fought hard for over the past 30 years. Regardless of the path our nation chooses, there is much work to be done. I am ready to roll up my sleeves and work together on the future of K’ómoks First Nation with the direction of our membership.” With her previous experience as Chief Councillor and the portfolios held in those years, her passion for language and culture, and her love for her community and respect for the land, Chief Rempel brings a vision of equality and strong leadership to guide the nation toward a bright future.

Councillors Newman, Savoie and Hardy have each served previous terms as councillors.

This election saw a strong voter turn-out, with more than 63% of eligible members voting for their new representatives.

“We are very thankful for the past Chief and Council and we are all looking forward to working with the new Chief and Council,” said Tina McLean, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). “It is an exciting time for KFN with the Treaty vote and many exciting opportunities.”

New K’ómoks First Nation Elected Chief and Council from left to right: Councillor Candace Newman, Chief Councillor Nicole Rempel, Councillor Richard Hardy, Councillor Susan Savoie

 

Media Contacts:

K’ómoks Communications
250 339 4545
communications@komoks.ca

Nicole Rempel
Elected Chief Councillor
K’ómoks First Nation

Tina McLean
Chief Administrative Officer
K’ómoks First Nation