Kwikwetlem Chief Ron Giesbrecht says the first nation will set up a separate economic development company — with an independent board of directors — following a call for his resignation over revelations last week that he had received $914,000 remuneration, most of which was a bonus for bringing economic development to his people.
Giesbrecht, who refused to speak with the media until he had discussed the issue with his band members, said in statement that the first nation — also known as the Coquitlam Indian Band — will also continue to improve its governance and procedures, which will be part of a discussion with band members at a meeting in October.
“We know that as Kwikwetlem’s economic development opportunities continue, it is important to separate the business from the politics and day-to-day running of our nation,” he said.
The announcement comes days after four band members called for Giesbrecht’s resignation.
Giesbrecht, who was unavailable for an interview with the Vancouver Sun Thursday, said only four people wanted him to resign and he has majority support from the band, which includes 84 members. Of those, 57 have voting privileges.
He maintains he is one of the lowest paid chiefs in the country, being paid $4,800 per year and decided to take the role of economic development officer to provide better opportunities for the Kwikwetlem nation, particularly youth, elder support and health programs.
He never expected the economic development programs to be so successful, he added.
According to figures posted under the federal government’s new First Nations Financial Transparency Act, Giesbrecht got $914,219 in 2013-14. The band said Giesbrecht made $4,800 as chief, $80,000 as economic development officer, $16,574 for expenses and more than $812,000 in the economic development bonus.
In an interview with the Tri-Cities Now, Giesbrecht said a 10-per-cent of gross profits bonus for new development projects was built into the contract for the band’s economic development officer three years ago, to give that person an incentive to get contracts.
When the economic development officer left for another job last September, Giesbrecht took over the job and contract.
Giesbrecht said the bonus was removed on April 1.
