Running for Tribal Council Secretary
After reading some very thought provoking comments and questions on this sight, I want to respond to them and give a little more background on my qualifications to serve on Tribal Council.
My family has lived on Kamilche Pt for six generations. We have always been involved with the community and still are.
I understand the role, responsibilities, and accountability of an elected official, having served as an elected Shelton School District Director and a Washington State School Directors Association Board member where I represented 44 school districts. Transparency and hearing all voices was critical.
I currently serve on the Squaxin Museum Board and the Enrollment Committee. I also serve on the Board of Washington State Indian Education Association and Northwest American Indian Languages Alliance.
One of the highlights of my work was writing a successful grant bringing Head Start to Squaxin and our Child Development Center. This grant was the biggest the Tribe had ever gotten, $8 million dollars, including $2.4 million for construction to add four classrooms, a multipurpose room, outside improvements, and so much more. Before I retired in September of 2021, I had the environmental impact study completed, the architectural designs completed, and the contractor agreement done, waiting for Council approval. It is so exciting to see some of this construction happening now. The best part is the program is a five-year renewable grant, as long as Squaxin fulfills its obligations, such as timely and complete reports. This program allows Squaxin to serve more families for years to come with basic child development, child care, and school readiness.
As an elected Tribal Council member, I will bring with me a deep understanding that I represent all tribal members and am guided by the Squaxin Island Constitution.
Our Tribe is at a critical juncture. We must expect leadership that is trustworthy, transparent, and consistently conducts themselves with integrity.
It is vital that Tribal Council have a functional, frequent, and consistent process to hear from tribal members, both concerns and input to guide them in major decisions. Meeting once a year to only elect Council members is not enough. Decisions made today impact us today and for generations to come.
Some of my skills and abilities that qualify me for this council position include:
· Having respect and compassion for all our Squaxin people
· Being a good listener; people need to be heard
· Ability to be objective and follow policy consistently for all
· Collaborating with others to accomplish goals for all
· Being reliable, responsible, and respectful
· Public speaking in many arenas
· Addressing state, local and federal officials
· Writing and testifying on legislation and working with lobbyists
I look forward to serving all Squaxin Island members and community. I hope you will consider me when you vote this Saturday.