Local News

Colville Business Council Primary Election Coming Up May 2

Apr 16, 2015

The field of candidates has been slated for the upcoming primary election for the Colville Business Council. The May 2^nd primary will narrow the field to two candidates for each position.

In the Omak District, for Position number 1, incumbent Richard Tonasket will face three challengers, Kimberly M. Belgarde, Shirley K. Charley, and Karen Condon.

For position number 2 in the Omak District, incumbent Mel Tonasket is being challenged by two candidates, Mandy Carson and Cherrie Moomaw.

In the Nespelem District, for position number 1, incumbent Ricky Gabriel will face five challengers, John Batten, Marietta Grunlose, Deb Louie, Harvey Moses, Jr., and Brian J. Nissen.

For position number 2, incumbent Andy Joseph, Jr, faces three challengers, Sheila Cleveland, Zekketal Vargas-Thomas and Charlene Bearcub.

In the Inchelium District, Position number 1, both incumbent Stevey Seymour and Bessie Simpson will move onto the general election.

For position number 2, incumbent Allen Hammond faces three challengers, Brian Seymour, Doug Seymour and Elizabeth (Susie) Allen.

And in the Keller District, position number 1, incumbent Jack Ferguson faces two challengers, Connie Davisson and John Stensgar.

The polls open for the primary at 8am, on Saturday May second. Polling locations include the Omak Senior Meal Site, Nespelem Community Center, Keller Community Center and the Inchelium Long House.

This year the Business Council approved a resolution implementing the sign-up for a permanent absentee ballot voting method. This allows a single absentee ballot request to remain in effect until the voter asks to be removed from the list, rather than having to request an absentee ballot each year. Those interested in getting on the list need to complete their form and send them to the Election’s Office as soon as possible. Forms are available on the Tribes website at www.colvilletribes.com.

The top two finishers in the primary will move onto the General Election being held on June 13^th.

Each year half of the 14 member council faces election for a two year term.