The future of commercial development on several parcels of land will be decided today by members of the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation.
Following a series of public meetings, a land designation vote is being held in six locations.
The band is trying to designate reserve and pre-reserve lands in Prince Albert, Pelican Narrows, Southend and Creighton for commercial and leasing purposes.
PBCN land manager Ted Merasty says federal regulations have changed, so in this referendum, a 55% voter turnout is not required:
“Because of Bill C-45, under these new regulations that were followed, a simple majority will rule. And by that I mean if 100 people come out to vote and 51 say ‘yes’, then the measure will pass.”
Any Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation member over the age of 18 is allowed to take part in today’s vote.