I want to address the concerns regarding housing within our community.
At the duly convened Chief and Council meeting held this past Tuesday, Council members did not attend. During that time, I met directly with the Housing Manager and requested the Housing Policy, a Housing Management Plan, a projected budget, and a report outlining current housing expenditures and priorities.
As of July 23, 2026, I have not received the Housing Policy, a Housing Management Plan, a projected budget, or a complete report on housing expenditures and the remaining financial reports due to ISC for my review.
Housing funds are not being withheld. My responsibility as Chief is to ensure that community funds are spent through proper governance, accountability, and transparency. Before significant expenditures are approved, there must be a documented plan that clearly identifies priorities, budgets, and expected outcomes.
It is also important to me that our members can see how housing decisions are being made. The community deserves a Housing Management Plan that clearly shows which homes are scheduled for repairs, the order in which those repairs will occur, the criteria used to establish priorities, and how new homes will be allocated. This level of transparency builds fairness, accountability, and public confidence.
My commitment is simple: to ensure that every housing dollar is managed responsibly, transparently, and in the best interests of the members of Keeseekoowenin Ojibway First Nation.
Our people deserve clarity.
Our community deserves consistency.
Our future depends on unity, preparedness, and long-term vision.
WITHOUT PREJUDICE. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Chief Dwayne Blackbird
Ohkitchetah Assiginack