Busy times for Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation

PAQTNKEK MI'KMAW NATION - It is a busy time for the Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation.      
“We want to continue this momentum,” Chief Paul ‘P.J.’ Prosper said.     
He spoke with the Casket a couple weeks after his election for a fourth two-year term in that leadership role.     
“It is going quite well,” Prosper said of the Bayside Travel Centre initiative.     
An initiative of the Paqtnkek First Nation’s Bayside Development Corporation, which is located along Highway 104, is scheduled to open in early January.     
The initiative is behind schedule, which Prosper said is not unexpected for a project of this magnitude.     
“A number of things came up,” he added, noting the timing of some deliveries had been delayed.     
As for the benefits that will come from this historic development, Prosper talked about the employment opportunities. It will offer diversification, expanding on the usual job market that focuses greatly on the band office.     
He added the initiative will also serve as inspiration for entrepreneurs and help encourage them – and the community – in developing other “business-minded endeavours.”     
Revenues will also help fund further development, along with “key programs and services” in the community.     
Prosper, who bested former chief Gerard Julian in the Nov. 21 band election, will continue to work with five re-elected councillors, including Tma Francis, Kerry Prosper, Dolly Prosper, Anne Marie Paul and Judy Bernard-Julian.     
With this vote, the community added a sixth council seat, with Jeremy Raymond Paul garnering the spot over Robert Pictou after a draw. In the election, both candidates garnered 85 votes.     
This band council term will also include the ongoing development of their relationship with the Municipality of the County of Antigonish.     
“It has been an incredible experience,” Prosper said.     
He talked about the “importance of maturing open relationship of dialogue and sharing ideas.”     
“We are focussed on continuing to build on it,” Prosper added.     
Band council has also initiated the process of what he said will be a “milestone” for the community when it comes to financial administration and management practices.     
“We will have our own law,” Prosper said.     
During this term, council will also continue its focus on residential development and community infrastructure.     
“We are at the beginning stages,” Prosper noted when it comes to the possible construction of a community school.     
He expects to receive the same “tremendous support” that he did in his first three terms, not only residents and council, but also staff members and other levels of government, including Antigonish municipal councils.     
“I am very honoured and grateful to have this opportunity,” Prosper said.