Poarch tribal members interested in running for open government seats in the 2013 election are now less than a week away from the deadline, according to information released by Tribal Administrator Edie Jackson.

The cutoff date for interested members to submit a letter of candidacy is Tuesday, April 2. Seats open in this year’s election include tribal secretary, treasurer and one at-large tribal council seat.

To date, only one challenger for the at-large seat currently held by Eddie Tullis has publicly announced intentions to run.

Current PCI Employment Relations Director Terri Morris said there are several reasons she is endeavoring to serve on the tribal council.

“One of the reasons I decided to run is because it has been a life-long ambition of mine,” Morris said. “I think that every tribal member thinks about being able to have the privilege to help lead their people. I believe that it is something that everybody wants to do. It’s one of the highest positions in our tribe and it is quite an honor.”

According to tribal information, others interested in announcing formal candidacy should submit a biography and picture by April 2. The names of all candidates, as well as any proposed constitutional amendments, ordinances, and/or resolutions will be posted Saturday, April 13. The last day to submit candidacy for a write-in ballot for the tribal council is set for Thursday, May 2.

This year’s tribal elections are scheduled to be held Saturday, June 1, from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m.