Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe November Meeting

The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe held their monthly meeting on Saturday, November 5, 2016. Agenda items included a presentation by Executive Director Retha Herne, Akwesasne Housing Authority on HUD grant presentation, a legislative/lobbying update from Tribal Council Chiefs and an update on the Veterans Memorial Project by Sub Chief Cheryl Jacobs. Chief Ron LaFrance chaired the meeting.

Herne reported on the September $600,000 federal grant to finance a solar project for an agency-operated housing complex, as well as upgrade work on homes that are “most vulnerable” by improving windows, roofs, furnaces, ventilation systems and drainage.

Legislative and Lobbying Update

The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Chiefs, Lafrance, Cook and Thompson are working towards advancing the priorities of Border Crossing Rights, Native Teacher Loan Forgiveness, FDA Approval of Berbeprot-P (diabetes medication), Environmental Justice and Superfund Site. They have met with Congressmen, Senators, Senate and House Committees, and attended and actively lead and participated in United South and Eastern Tribe Summit and Conferences and the National Congress of American Indians Conference. For a detailed report, read the November edition of the SRMT’s Kawenni:ios.

Sub Chief Jacobs updated the community on the ongoing progress of the Veteran’s Memorial. This is the last week for sales of the lottery tickets that is funding this project. All tickets will be collected on Thursday, November 10 and the winning tickets will be drawn at he American Legion Post 1479 on Friday, November 11, 2016.

New Business

A motion was made to cover the lawyer’s fees of Renee Hart. The motion was voted on with 16 for, 16 against and 12 abstaining. With a tie, Chair Lafrance declared the Tribe would not pay for her lawyer’s fees.

Community members raised questions on the current court case of the former Bingo Palace and its ownership. Until the case is settled in Tribal Court, the proposed Lax Center is on hold.

A discussion on voting nationally and which candidate would best meet the needs of the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe and its members.

Congratulations were given to Julia Back Sidders for receiving the Boys and Girls Club of America National Medallion for “unusually devoted service” and to Jessica Jock Cree on receiving the 40 Under 40 Award.