An election's coming up this month in Dakota Tipi First Nation, and candidates for the chief's two-year term are presenting their platforms to the community. Candidate Karl Stone outlines his focus.

"My belief is action speaks louder than words. I mean, we can sit there and we can talk about different issues we have in the community ,and the with the provincial and federal governments, that need to be resolved, but action needs to be taken. I think that's one of the biggest issues that I saw over the past few years that I sat on Council."

He notes it's a first for him.

"I didn't know if I'd run for chief, but people were asking and asking. So, I guess over the past few years it's been a little bit frustrating seeing some of the setbacks that fell into my hands on Council."

Stone relates another issue in his platform.

"One of the issues that we have right now is a lack of financial services. I know there's funding that is available out there that we need to tackle. Right now I know we're making progress and trying to secure funding for sports and recreation in the community. We're working toward building a ball park, skate park, and hockey rink right now."

Other candidates include David Pashé, Francis Pashé, Keith Pashé, Billy Moore, and Darlene Walters-Myran.

The election takes place Thursday, November 17th from 9:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Portage Online News will present other candidates' views as well.  Some candidates were unable to be reached.