Ellis Ross is the Haisla Nation’s new chief councillor.
In a two-candidate race, the long-time councillor received 408 votes, outpolling opponent Gerald Amos (196) by a two-to-one margin.
Past chief councillor Dolores Pollard did not seek re-election.
In the ballot for the 10-member council, Lucille Harms topped the poll with 337 votes in her first run at office.
The next seven positions were filled by incumbents Kevin Stewart (337), Margaret Grant (311), Henry Amos (288), Brenda Duncan (283), Alex Grant (279), Keith Nyce (243) and Godfrey Grant (220).
New faces Joanne Ross (205) and Russell Ross Jr. (199) filled the final two spots.
One-time chief councillor Steve Wilson also received 199 votes but lost a tie-breaker to Russel Ross Jr.
Meanwhile ATCO Structures & Logistics announced last week that it had entered into a joint-venture agreement which it says will directly benefit the Haisla.
Harry Wilmot, president and chief operating officer of ATCO, said, “The joint-venture agreement with the Haisla First Nation will lead to employment and training for the Haisla people,” adding, “We look forward to a long-term positive relationship and the creation of mutual opportunities.”
Ellis Ross commented, “This joint venture with ATCO is another economic opportunity that will improve the lives of our people through employment and economic activity.”
Describing ATCO as “a respectful partner”, he said the Haisla looked forward to “ a long and mutually beneficial relationship.”
In March, ATCO announced it is working with the Haisla to build a 1,500-person construction camp needed for the Kitimat Modernisation Project.
It said this latest joint-venture agreement would lead to “other significant projects in the Haisla traditional territory.”