Governance Structure

The Maaqutusiis Hahoulthee Stewardship Society (MHSS) is a non-profit organization that manages the lands, resources and economic opportunities within the haḥuułii of the ʕaḥuusʔatḥ Nation.

Following legal counsel, a structure was established for Ahousaht enterprises that benefit the ʕaḥuusʔatḥ people collectively, respect and reflect ʕaḥuusʔatḥ values, foster sustainable economic growth within the ʕaḥuusʔatḥ community, and adhere to principles of good business and governance. The recommended structure has thus been implemented in the creation of MHSS:

As a non-profit organization, MHSS is incorporated under the Society Act, which requires that members be named and are empowered to direct the governance and operations of the organization.

The members of MHSS are established in by-laws and are identified as those persons (or their appointees), who periodically hold the Ḥaw̓iiḥ titles within the respective houses of the Klakishpeelth, Klaphiyichist, and Zuchpeelth. Membership is non-transferable, and there are no shares that can be transferred or sold. Members are required to uphold the constitution and comply with the by-laws and policies of the society.

The MHSS Advisory Committee – which meets bi-annually (twice per year) – provides input and oversight regarding the operations of MHSS, and consists of Ḥaw̓iiḥ from the consolidated ʕaḥuusʔatḥ Nations, representatives from the ʕaḥuusʔatḥ elected council, health and education representatives and other ʕaḥuusʔatḥ members (including a youth representative) to ensure that the operations of the corporations under the Soceity align with the priorities and values of the ʕaḥuusʔatḥ people.

There are three for-profit corporations under MHSS that manage the everyday operations of the business. First is the Maaqutusiis Hahoulthee Stewardship Holdings Incorporation (MHSHI), responsible for the development and management of Maatsquii. Maaqutusiis Hahoulthee Enterprises Inc (MHEI), is responsible for the operations of the Tofino Wilderness Resort. The Ahous Business Corporation (ABC) is responsible for all economic development projects outside of Maatsquii, including the everyday operation and administration of MHSS.

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