Chief Robert Louie to seek re-election in 2013
If you had asked him two years ago, Chief Robert Louie would've told you the 2010 Westbank First Nation election was his last.
But Louie, who was first elected chief of WFN in 1986, isn't ready to step out of office just yet.
He recently confirmed his decision to run in next August’s election.
“I am definitely going to run one more term,” said Louie.
“There are just a few things that have to be worked on and I feel compelled that I’ve got to see them through.”
The WFN chief said future phases of Okanagan Lake Shopping Centre, reserve expansion near Okanagan Lake and land additions from the Westside Road Interchange Project are some of the areas he hopes to focus on in the coming years.
Another major project for Louie is Lake Okanagan Wellness Clinic: The private hospital he announced last April.
If all goes according to plan, construction on that facility could take place as early as next year.
“We definitely are getting ready for that construction.
“There’s a lot to this, many millions of dollars involved with this one. It’s just taking its time going through the normal process of proper design, construction and all the elements.”
Louie said he made his decision to seek re-election after being asked by several members. But he's not focusing on the 2013 election just yet.
“I’m not campaigning or anything like that. I suppose as we get closer to the election, we’ll reassess. Every political candidate has to reassess from time to time—I’m no exception.
“Right now, I certainly feel I’ve got the energy to proceed and want to proceed on some of these projects.”
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