Questions on former tribal council member jobs
Hey savvy news reader! Thanks for choosing local.
You are now reading
1 of 3 free articles.
Editor,
A current council member did some digging and found out that the last council committed fraudulent appointments for each other at the 11th hour. The lame ducks appointed themselves to various jobs. She was adamantly opposed to this type of behavior and stated that she would never support any person appointed to a job without first being advertised, competed for and using the norms of Indian Preference. She believes that all tribal members should have a chance to apply for all open positions
The following former tribal council members were voted out of office; however, they appointed themselves to these respective positions without competition or advertisement:
1. Steve Lozar was appointed to the Legal Department in water rights
2. Jim Malatare was appointed to a job in gaming
3. Joe Durglo was allegedly appointed to a job at Kicking Horse Job Corps Center
These jobs were not advertised or openly competed for and ignored the possibilities that other tribal members might be eligible and apply.
Council members who voted for these actions are just as guilty as those who appointed themselves and went into positions without advertisement. Action needs to be taken by the current council to correct this situation posthaste. These positions must be advertised, competed for and filled by using of Indian Preference.
Numerous policies and procedures that were enacted throughout the years have been consistently violated by former council members. This has to stop. The tribal membership would like to have more of a voice in the tribal government. The district meetings that have been held are an impetus to help the people know what is going on and for them to provide input.
Jeri Roullier
St. Ignatius
