Incumbent Council Member, Chief Judge Ousted in KBIC Election

One incumbent member of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Tribal Council was turned out of office in yesterday’s election, and another survived by a very narrow margin. Unofficial results of the voting were released last night by the Tribal government. Two council seats were available in each district.

In the L’Anse District, newcomer Dale Goodreau received the most votes, with 309. Longtime incumbent Susan LaFernier garnered 253 votes, just two votes more than challenger Jean Halverson Jokinen. Incumbent Jennifer Misegan trailed with 214 votes.

Voting was also close in the Baraga District, where current Council President Warren “Chris” Swartz, Jr., led the tally with 274 votes. Newcomer Kim Klopstein received 260 votes, and will also join the Council. Elizabeth Connor received 253 votes, and Sue Ellen Elmblad got 237.

Longtime KBIC Chief Judge Bradley Dakota was also voted out of office, falling to William Jondreau 300-229.

Results will not be official until certified by the Tribal government.