Image provided by: University of Oregon Libraries; Eugene, OR
About Siletz news letter. (Siletz, Oregon) 1989-1997 | View Entire Issue (Jan. 1, 1996)
Our temporary gam ing facility is another case in point. As strange as it looks, it too, represents the hard work of a lot of people working against formidable odds to accomplish what many people thought couldn’t be done. CHAIRMAN’S REPORT By Delores Pigsley, Tribal Chairman Another eventful year has come to an end and another has begun. The temporary facility represents a long, bitter legislative struggle to have a parcel of off- reservation land put in trust for gaming. It was a remarkable achievement that had never happened before and probably never will. And for that, we should be proud. Despite our problems I look back on the past year with pride at our accomplishments - and there were many. Issues such as those involving our court system and social services are complex, emotional and too often entangled in personalities. But difficult as they are, with your help we can resolve these issues if we set our minds to cooperatively tackle them on an objective, impersonal basis. This doesn’t mean we need to agree on every issue. Honest, rational, differences of opinion is vital in arriving at creative solutions to our problems. The construction of our new administrative building is an example of what can be achieved when staff, tribal government and community work together. The building is in itself a CEO REPORT Nelsen Witt, Tribal CEO The Siletz Tribe continued to build on foundations established since restoration. “Self- Governance” continued to be refined as the process was expanded beyond 1HS and the BIA. Preliminary discussions were initiated as procedural agreements developed with other agencies. The Tribe encouraged and supported federal legislation to expand the self-governance process and m in im ize federal control in the service delivery process and to reinforce the federal trust and funding responsibility. The administrative building construction was completed, Tribal health services were enhanced by additional staff and clinic space and the gaming center became a reality. These were cherished goals of die Tribe and their accomplishment reflects the Siletz Tribal trademark to get the job done. The tribal gaming center became a -reality because of years of hard work and dedication by the Tribal Council and the Gaming Committee. Words cannot express the respect I have for their marvelous accomplishment but more important is the process that led to its construction. It represents the creative thinking, resourcefulness and hard work of our staff and tribal government working in coordination with each other. hard work-long hours and their unwillingness to give up when the obstacles seemed insurmountable. The land use issues of the potential site at Donald, the opposition of the governor, the last hour retraction of the commitment of the Secretary of Interior, the conflicting decision by the federal court, persuasive negotiations with the governor regarding the Lincoln City site, difficulties in lobbying legislation through congress to facilitate trust status for the Lincoln City site, intense negotiations of a state compact and finally the construction and operation of the “Chinook Winds Gaming Center.” All of these issues had to be dealt with as part of the process and without their resolution there would not be a facility at Lincoln City. If not for the perseverance and tenacity of those involved the Tribe would not have a gaming center anywhere. As with restoration, reservation establishment, 638 Contracting and self-governance the Tribe has paved the way for other tribes to follow. The permanent facility is yet to be completed. There is still much to be done. I am confident the As we look forward to the new year we are faced with another election within the next two months. As Tribal Chairman, it is my hope that the candidates facing this election will conduct not only a spirited, campaign, - but one based on the issues and the truth. Unfounded allegations are destructive whether involving our tribal elections, the operations of our gaming center or any other issue. But I trust that you believe as I do, that ultimately, fair play and integrity will prevail On behalf of the Tribal Council, my very best wishes to you, our tribal members and friends, in the coming year and wherever you may be! Tribal Membership, Tribal Council and staff working together as usual will put together a gaming center worthy of die Confederated Tribes of Siletz. I would like to express my gratitude for the opportunity to work for the Confederated Tribes of Siletz and being a part of your success and accomplishments. I want to wish everyone the best for 1996 as we look forward to an even bigger and better year. I want to pay special tribute to the employees of the Tribe. Too often we neglect to recognize those who are on the delivery end of tribal programs. The Siletz Tribe can be proud of the quality staff they have put together and the dedication and hard work they have exhibited. Communication is our greatest asset. Teamwork and the ability to work issues out internally is what sets the Siletz apart from others. We can ill afford to have rumors and unfounded allegations disrupt our functioning. If we have questions or concerns or even complaints there are formal procedures within the Tribal structure. Remember the Siletz Tribe has proven over and over again - “ Together we can do it!”
