Developing a Community Vision

Over the last two years, the Salt River First Nation (SRFN) in Fort Smith has participated in facilitated workshops to improve band governance and working relationships. The purpose of these meetings is to have everyone contribute to the information gathering and participate in the decision-making in order to come to a group consensus on the issues and objectives.

The leadership of the SRFN recognized the need for guiding principles and through these workshops created a draft strategic plan to help the band move forward and remain focused on achieving its goals. In previous sessions, policies and procedures were developed and included a code of conduct, roles and responsibilities of chief and council, and a work-plan to help to the band deal with a number of challenges.

Continuing to build on these earlier practices, further workshops in December 2007 resulted in four new policy directives: a decision-making process and the correct use of band council resolutions (BCRs); the creation of a portfolio system where each councillor has an area of responsibility; a staff reporting and office structure; and a conflict of interest process. By establishing governance as its priority, the SRFN is building a solid foundation for the band's long-term strategic plan.

“Involving the Council and making a commitment to work together as a team was successful since we were all involved in setting goals for the band,” said Toni Heron, SRFN Sub-Chief. “We were a united team focusing on the future and working together towards the goals set before us. We came away feeling like we accomplished something.”

The workshops helped the leadership team, committee members and trustees understand their roles and responsibilities and those of others. Documenting these processes and polices, committing to following the processes the workshop participants developed and working towards a greater openness amongst all band members is an important step for the SRFN.

Sticking to its action plan and addressing and resolving its issues will benefit the community and band members and help them maximize and enjoy their successes.