Jonathan Kruger was elected Chief of the Penticton Indian Band (PIB) for two terms from 2008-2016. He previously served on PIB Council from 2000 – 2008. Jonathan has been widely-recognized for his leadership and business achievements.He began his leadership on the platform of creating a Comprehensive Community Plan and a Land Use Plan. This CCP became the voice and of the community and vision for direction of his leadership.The success of PIB’s Comprehensive Community Planning (CCP) lead Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) to choose Jonathan to champion and provide mentorship to other first nations working on CCP projects.
Early on in his leadership he advocated separating business from politics in 2008 and was a proponent in the creation of the Penticton Indian Band Economic Development Corporation. He created a business-friendly environment opening PIB and Certificate of Possession (CP) holders up for business opportunities.
Jonathan worked with his Council and staff to develop Laws, by-Laws and Policies for the Penticton Indian Band. He successfully completed negotiations with Federal, Provincial governments, Municipal and Regional Districts.
Jonathan spearheaded the signing of a Protocol Agreement between the Regional District South Okanagan Similikameen and Penticton Indian Band, Osoyoos Indian Band and Lower Similkameen Indian Band. As well he worked with Okanagan Nation Chiefs to create a Syilx Unity Protocol to work with companies and governments on Nature Resources referrals consultation process.
He loves being on the land in his territory and believes in the Okanagan Nation Declaration “for the good of all, for all time.”
