Treaty #3 has a new Grand Chief.
Eagle Lake Chief Arnold Gardner was chosen last night to lead the Treaty organization and its 28 member communities.
He replaces Leon Jourdain, who was elected to a second mandate in October only to be forced to step aside by a sexual assault charge laid in February.
The controversy forced business at Treaty #3 to grind to a halt as members split into factions over his leadership.
Jourdain tried last night to keep his position, but Chiefs voted against his leadership by a vote of 15-5.
He is still fighting the criminal allegations.
Gardner, meanwhile, says he’s “honored and humbled” by the accolades from his colleagues.
