Last Wednesday saw Sandy Bay First Nation elect a new chief and council.

Johnny Spence replaces Irvin McIivor as chief, for a two year term.

Spence admits there's a lot the new council has to do for the community, especially where band funding is concerned. He notes they're five million dollars in debt, and it'll take a couple of years to pay that down.

Spence stresses eliminating Sandy Bay's debt is a priority for the new council. Building outlets such as Rona in Portage and Christies from Brandon are among the band's creditors. He estimates each is owed about $200,000.00

Spence is eager to move the community forward, but admits he and the council have no firm plans yet. That process is expected to begin in the next few weeks.