2025 Election Results

MBQ Elections Results for 1 Chief and 6 Councillors are:

R. Donald Maracle

Sekenh: Sewahkwekenh

Firstly, I wish to thank my nominators for the position of Chief in our December 6th, 2025 election. Many thanks to all who have supported me over the past 32 years as Chief and to our staff and to our funders who have helped us realize many projects benefiting our members. Working together, roads were reconstructed, Water Treatment Plant was built, Culbertson Partial Claim Settlement, Surrender 24 accepted for negotiation, Turton Penn Loss of Use estimate completed, 128 Long­term Care Facility, subdivision development on Flat Street, 1018 homes connected to safe drinking water, $10 million for roads, repair and open road allowances, new Mohawk Family Services addition, ISC reimbursement of Fire Hall construction costs, to mention a few.

Some of the goals for future work on Council include the following:
    • Settle loss of use claim for 200-acre Turton Penn Leased Land
    • Lobby for funds for water lines to the un-serviced 226 homes
    • Community consultation on the Four Pillars Settlement for loss of culture
    • Reimbursement from Canda for the185 acre Golf Course land purchase in the amount of $1.2 million.
    • Develop subdivision infrastructure at Huron Brant Drive and Sadie’s Lane
    • Community consultation for development plan Culbertson Tract Land-294 acres
    • Work with Agriculture Canada and other organizations to stimulate food production
    • Continue to work with electricity energy producers to generate more electricity and increased revenue for the community
    • Assess the feasibility of a 401 Service Centre, the busiest highway in North America. 
    • Develop a Sports Complex to promote physical activity for youth and seniors
    • Continue negotiations on Surrender 24 accepted by Canada on December 5- 2024.
    • Community consultation regarding impacts of proposed Bill-S2 (One parent rule for Indian status
    • Community meeting regarding the Long-term Care Facility prior to opening- April/26
    • Build more affordable housing units
    • Lobby for additional post-secondary education funding
    • Lobby to Non-insured Health Benefits are meeting the needs of the community
    • Continue to lobby for permanent traffic light at all Highway 49 intersections

On December 6, 2025, I seek your support and I remain committed to providing strong, determined, and results-oriented leadership.

Chief R. Donald Maracle,
Wolf Clan

Chris ‘Hockey’ Brant

Ogwari Brant

RE-ELECT CHASE ‘OGWARI’ BRANT

My name is Chase Ogwari Brant. I have lived most of my life here in Tyendinaga, where I live with my wife of 16 years and our four children, who range from 9 to 18 years old. I am the youngest of four children born to Darla and the late Harold Brant. I’d like to first thank Diana Brant-Winkler and Chris Brant for the nomination.

I am seeking re-election for the next term on Council. I currently hold the Community Safety and Housing
portfolios. These first two years on council have been a major learning experience, but they have also been a productive and meaningful time for our community. The path forward is never a straight line. There are always twists, turns, and roadblocks. What matters is staying focused, adapting, and continuing to push forward for our people and community.

When I started this term, I held only the Community Safety portfolio. When another councillor stepped away, I took initiative and stepped up to ensure the work continued.

Policing

We have developed a Tyendinaga Police Services Board and are moving toward a self-administered police force, stepping away from OFNPA oversight and OPP control. This has been a long and detailed process, but we are now nearing completion. We expect to be operating as an independent force within the next few months. This shift will give our community more control, improved response times, and true policing sovereignty.

Ambulance

We have successfully secured two full-time ambulances for the community, along with the paramedics needed to operate them 24 hours a day. This was achieved through a partnership between MBQ and Hastings County. They currently share space at the fire hall, and an expansion is now in development to provide a dedicated home for the service.

Housing

We established a Housing Selection Committee made up of community members to help place applicants in rental units as they become available. There are currently 59 applicants on the central housing waitlist, including singles, families, and both full-rate and rent-geared-to-income households. Tyendinaga currently has 210 rental units: 136 full-rate and 74 RGI.

North Street Housing Development

We have begun the first phase of the North Street Housing development, located just off North Street on Flat Street in Deseronto. This phase includes 21 one-bedroom units built to zero-energy certification standards. Twelve units are nearly complete, pending utility connections, while excavation has begun on the remaining nine.

The full development plan includes:
       • 26 detached homes
       • A triplex
       • A three-storey, 21-unit apartment building with a mix of one- and two-bedroom units

Although some may question the number of one-bedroom units, this reflects the real and immediate need for affordable single-unit housing in our community.

Other Completed Projects (24/25)

       • Five new homes on Upper Slash
       • Two new homes on Norways
       • Four transitional housing units in Shannonville
We also created an Arena Committee to design a new community arena. Land has already been selected, and we will be lobbying the government aggressively for funding.

Funding Success

Consistent lobbying pays off. This year alone, Council secured an additional $30 million from ISC to support essential community programs, road repairs, the fire hall loan repayment, and other priority needs.

Economic Development

Housing may be my top priority, but a thriving community also requires a strong local economy. When our small businesses succeed, the entire community benefits.

As someone who started a small business myself, I understand the challenges of getting a new venture off the ground and keeping it running. That experience taught me that, with the right support, our people can build successful businesses that provide jobs and services for others.

In the coming term, I will work to ensure entrepreneurs have access to start-up funding, training opportunities, and help navigating applications and red tape. Every new Mohawk-owned business means more local jobs, more services for our residents, and more of our dollars staying in Tyendinaga.

Closing

At its core, my platform is about building a stronger Tyendinaga from within. It starts with housing making sure everyone who wants to live on our territory can do so in a safe, affordable home. It grows through economic opportunity helping our people build businesses and careers right here at home.

I have the experience, dedication, and passion to turn these goals into reality. With your support, I will continue fighting for our community every single day. I humbly ask for your vote and your trust for another term on Council.

Together, we can keep our families close, our community thriving, and our future bright for the next seven generations.

Thank you all. Nia:wen.

Will Fisher

Building a Stronger Future for Our People
A Vision Rooted in Community and Tradition
Our community stands at a crossroads — between the strength of our heritage and the opportunities of the future. As we look
ahead, we must build on the wisdom of our ancestors while adapting to the needs of today’s generations. My platform is
grounded in respect, responsibility, and renewal: ensuring that every family, worker, and youth in our Nation has the opportunity
to thrive.

1. Economic Development: Building Sustainable Prosperity
We deserve an economy that reflects our values — one that empowers local entrepreneurs, creates stable jobs, and reinvests
profits back into the community.
Commitments:
• Support small businesses and local cooperatives with access to funding, training, and mentorship.
• Develop partnerships that promote ethical and environmentally responsible industries.
• Prioritize community ownership in all major projects to keep wealth within our Nation.
• Explore renewable energy and green innovation as long-term sources of income and self-sufficiency.

2. Employment: Opportunity for All Generations
Meaningful employment is the foundation of a strong community. Our goal is to ensure that every community member — from
youth to elders — has access to training, meaningful work, and career advancement.
Commitments:
• Encourage local hiring for all community projects and businesses.
• Develop a Youth Employment Initiative connecting young people with internships, apprenticeships, and mentorship
opportunities.
• Support initiatives that empower women, single parents, and those returning to the workforce.

3. Housing Crisis: Dignity and Shelter for All
Every person deserves a safe and affordable home. Addressing the housing crisis is a top priority.
Commitments:
• Create a community housing strategy that increases affordable housing options.
• Partner with builders to develop energy-efficient, culturally appropriate homes.
• Streamline the housing application and maintenance process to ensure fairness and transparency.
• Support housing for elders and young families to promote intergenerational living.

4. Governance and Modernization: Revising Our Bylaws
Our bylaws must reflect the realities of today while upholding our traditional values and governance principles.
Commitments:
• Ensure transparency and accountability in all decision-making processes.
• Use modern tools and technology to improve communication, access, and participation in governance.

5. Gaming and Licensing: Creating a Responsible Framework
Gaming and licensing are opportunities to generate revenue and employment — but they must be managed responsibly and for
the benefit of all.
Commitments:
• Establish a Gaming and Licensing Board to oversee regulation, compliance, and community benefit.
• Ensure that revenues support community services, education, and cultural initiatives.
• Promote responsible gaming practices and transparency in all operations.

6. Language, Culture, and Identity: Kanien’kéha at the Heart
Our language is who we are. Making Kanien’kéha (the Mohawk language) visible, accessible, and celebrated across our
community strengthens our identity and pride.
Commitments:
• Introduce Kanien’kéha signage on all public buildings, roads, and community spaces.
• Support language classes and immersion programs for all ages.
• Incorporate Kanien’kéha into public communications, events, and governance materials.

7. Preservation of Lands and Resources
The land is our mother — protecting her ensures our survival and the well-being of generations to come.
Commitments:
• Enforce strict protections against environmental harm and overdevelopment.
• Develop land stewardship programs rooted in traditional ecological knowledge.
• Promote community gardens, renewable energy, and conservation education.
• Ensure that all development respects the spiritual and cultural significance of our lands.
A Call to Unity and Action
Together, we can create a community that honours our past and embraces our future — one that provides opportunity, security,
and pride for all. With your support, we can make these commitments a reality.
“For our People. For our Land. For our Future, Together as One.”

Adam Herrington

Nick Leween

Elect Nick Leween for MBQ Council. 
Strong Roots. Safe Future. Community First.
Time for Change.

Shé:kon, my name is Nick Leween.
I’ve lived in Tyendinaga my entire life, and I’m proud to call this community my home. I currently serve as President of Tyendinaga Minor Lacrosse and as a member of the Arena Committee Board. My parents, Bob and Nancy Leween, have always set the example for community dedication – my father through his work with the Roads Department, and m y mother through her 25 years supporting youth at Quinte Mohawk School. They’ve both devoted their lives to the safety, growth, and well-being of our people – values that I carry forward today.

As a lifelong community member, I believe it’s time to take bold, forward-looking steps that reflect our shared goals and values. I’m running for Council to ensure Tyendinaga contineus to grow with purpose, opportunity, and safety – for both present and future generations.

Investing in Our Future – The Lacrosse Facility

Our youth deserve a place to grow, learn, and thrive. The new lacrosse facility will bring families, athletes, and community members together – promoting heatlhy lifestyles, teamwork, and pride. This project represents more thn sports; it’s an investment in our culture, our youth, and our collective spirit.

Building Our Own Economy

True progress comes from within. We can’t rely solely on outside funding or organizations for our growth. By developing community-led initiatives, fostering local partnerships, and supporting responsible economic development, we can create a strong, sustainable economy that benefits everyone in Tyendinaga.

Keeping Our Community Safe

Safety begins with leadership that listens and acts. We need clear, enforaceble bylaws – and a council that stands behind them. From property standards to public spaces, every community member deserves to feel secure, respected, and proud of where they live.

That also means taking a firm stance on organized crime and ensuring our enforcement measures protect our people, our lands, and our future. By strengthening community safety and accountability, we can preserve Tyendinaga as a place where families and youth continue to thrive.

Time for Change

Our community has endless potential –it just needs new energy, new ideas, and leadership rooted in action and accountability. Together, we can build a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Tyendinaga.

It’s time for change – and time to move our community forward.

If you have any questions, concers, ideas, or suggestions, please reach out to me:

nick.leween@gmail.com or 613-403-7751

Sherry Loft

Hello! I’m Sherry Loft

About Me

My name is Sherry Loft, and I am a lifelong resident of Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory.
I am the daughter of the late Loretta Hill (Doll) and Jack Sherrard, and the granddaughter of Everett John and Mavis Brant.
For 26 years, I have proudly served our community through roles at:
      • Red Cedars Shelter – supporting families
      • Home & Community Care – advocating for Elders
      • Mohawk Family Services – ensuring the well-being of children and families
I am a mother, a listener, and a strong believer in accountability, compassion, and transparency.

Why I’m Running

Our community is asking for change – change that brings honesty, clear communication, and accountability back to leadership.
I will always:
      • Listen to community voices
      • Communicate openly
      • Work for transparency in every decision
      • Bring your concerns forward with honesty and respect

My Priorities

1. Housing
   A commitment to building more affordable homes, reducing vacancy times in Band housing, supporting first-time how and land owners, offering fair mortgage rates, and exploring rent-to-own options so more families can access safe, stable housing.
2. Daycare & Childcare
   A plan to expand daycare spaces, hire and train qualified staff, prioritize childcare within the Territory, and ensure children learn in environments that include Mohawk language and cultural teachings.
3. Culbertson Tract Settlement
   A promise of regular public updates, meaningful community involvement, clear financial reporting, and responsible long-term planning to protect this land and its resources for future generations.
4. Economic Growth & Community Spaces
   A vision to use the golf course year-round for community events, support local entrepeneurs, and improve communication around major community purchases to strengthen economic opportunities close to home.
5. Transparency & Communication
   A commitment to open community meetings, clear updates on projects and spending, and an honest, open-door approach to leadership.

Lily ‘Lou’ Maracle

Greetings to everyone. My name is Lily Marlaine Maracle, but many know me as Lou. I was born and raised on the territory. I left for a time to find employment but eventually returned home to be close to family. I was taught never to quit and to always give my best. Today, I continue to serve our community by volunteering at many events. I am a mother, a grandmother, a mother-in-law, a sister, and an auntie – and each of those roles brings me deep joy. I chose to let my name stand in the 2025 election because I believe I can make a difference for our people.

The Mohawk people are known as “People of the Flint” which is strong and resilient. I believe that if we can set aside our differences and work together, we can restore peace, trust, and honour in our community. One of my priorities is introducing strong, reliable bylaws to ensure that future generations can own land, grow their gardens, and raise their families here. With 499 acres of land coming back to us, it concerns me that under our current rules, a single person could purchase up to 500 acres. That must be addressed.

I would also like to see improved facilities for our youth. Many of our young people excel in sports and deserve greater access to spaces and programs that help them develop their skills. In addition, we must take seriously the work of cleaning up our environment. This is not about today – it is about protecting what we leave for those who come after us. As Mohawk people, our connection to this land is not symbolic; it is part of who we are. The land is a gift from the Creator, and that gift comes with responsibility. When we say the words “before all else” in the Opening Address, we give thanks for the Earth, the waters, the plants, and the animals. Those words should guide our daily actions, not just our ceremonies. Gratitude is shown in how we care for the land and honour what we have been given.

I am also very excited about the new long-term care facility opening next year. This is something worth celebrating – our elderly family members will once again be able to live within their community. An elder once shared with me that the word “community” means “come in unity,” and that message has stayed with me ever since.

We must always think ahead to those who come after us. The decisions we make today shape their world tomorrow. Caring for the land and for each other is how we honour our ancestors and protect the future!

I encourage everyone listening to the candidates to pay attention, ask questions, and seek understanding. We have 2,200 members on TMT and a total of 10,529 members as of September 2025. Your vote is your voice. It means you believe in the person you choose and trust their ability to address issues, even when you disagree with them. Remember, the people’s choice will represent all of us for the next two years.

If I am elected as one of the six councillors, I commit to honesty, to seeing current projects through to completion, and to encouraging Chief and Council to provide quarterly updates to all 10, 529 members. We must be accountable and transparent, showing you the work we are doing to make our community a better place for all.

Thank you for your time and remember this: The Creator gave us two ears, two eyes and one mouth. Therefore, we should hear twice as much, see twice as much and speak only half as much. My ears will always  be open to listen to you. I will do my best and will not make promises that I cannot keep.

In closing, I once again encourage everyone to listen closely, ask throughtful questions, and seek clear answers. Cast your vote for the person who will best represent your values and priorities. If elected, I will work hard to strengthen our community, honour our traditions, and help restore trust between our people, Chief and Council. Thank you for your time and for caring about the future of our community.

Carlene Maracle-Smart

Carlene Jane Maracle-Smart – Yakononstate “She  keeps the house” (Bear Clan)

A Little About Who I Am

I’m Carlene Smart, daughter of Amos and Anna Maralce, and 1 of 13 children. My Mohawk name given to me by my Bear Clan Mother, Harriot Boots, is Yoko-Non-Sta-Te which means “She keeps the house”. I have been married to George Smart for 43 years. We have 3 daughters, Danielle Smart, Mandy Smart, Kerri Smart and 3 wonderful Grandchildren who have all tried their best to immerse themselves in the Mohawk Language, Culture and Ceremonies.

Education

• Loyalist College, graduaged as a Developmental Service Worker (Deans List)
• First Nations Technical Institute certificate in Small Business & Computer Basic Training
• Mohawk Language Program – Brock University & Trent University
• Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte certificate in Safe Food Handling
• Travelled to Akwesasne, Kahnawà:ke, Six Nations and Onondaga to learn Long House Ceremonies

Work History

• Currently working for the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte – Teacher of Language and Culture with the Kahwá:tsire Program
• National Indian Brotherhood Ottawa: Mail, Xerox Machine maintenance, Receptionist
• National Health & Welfare Ottawa: Secretary of Drug & Alcohol Addiction Program
• Odawa Friendship Centre: Collecting information from Indigenous people in urban settings
• General Dynamics, Michigan, USA: Writer Analyst making changes to Army Tanks
• Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte: Ball Diamond Canteen, Tyendinaga Day Care as a Developmental Service Worker, Quinte Mohawk School Before and After School Program Supervisor
• Business Owner & Operator: Three Sisters Water Company
• Proctor, Picton: Lsine assemply and later as an Inspector
• Gibbard’s Furniture Napanee: Learning to sand, stain and finish high quality furniture

Community Volunteerism

• Mohawk Ladies Guild
• Collecting and distribution of children’s winter clothing
• Dancing & singing at our Traditional Socials
• Financed and delivered food baskets to Community members
• Drove and collected items for the Tyendinaga Food Resource Centre
• Volunteered for the Quinte Mohawk Soup Program
• Opened my home to hold Long House Ceremonies
• Welcomed and helped to teach our Traditional Social Songs and Dances
• Made ribbon dresses for our young lady singers
• Helped make a CD with our Social Songs to help finance our young singers to have opportunities to travel to other Indigenous communities
• Met and fed those who travelled to Oka and also participated in protests locally and those of our Sister Reserves when and where support was needed, as the interest of our Indigenosu Rights were placed in jeopardy
• I have brought awareness as to the environmental issues within and around our community
• I have advocated for members of our community in relation to housing issues and members who have had to deal with Child Welfare issues

Interests and Hobbies

• Sewing, writing and cooking
• Teaching our Traditional Social Dances and Songs
• Teaching Language & Culture
• Staying informed about Community issues and politics

My Reasonings for Running for Council

I decided to run for Council this term to help our community deal with crucial issues such as:

1. Assess and develop ways to work together to clean up some of our environmental issues.
2. Determine the importance of hiring a Bylaw Officer for our Community, what their responsibility should  be, and lastly who they would report to.
3. Consider ways to monitor our residential areas, to protect our children from being harmed and to help keep our elders safe in their home, eliminate the amount of garbage being dumped here, minimize teh damage done by unsupervised dogs and/or other pets or animals that could jeopardize the safety of our community members.