Category: Administration

For Immediate Release: Tribal Council Advocates for Tribal Interests at the State Capitol

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320

Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 20, 2024

Tribal Council Advocates for Tribal Interests at the State Capitol

Ute Day at the Capitol was officially designated by Governor Jared Polis in 2019 to publicly celebrate and honor the contributions and sovereignty of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, and the Ute Indian Tribe. In addition, this designation encourages Coloradans to actively seek knowledge about the history and heritage of the Ute people in Colorado’s past, present, and future. That history has long been one of broken promises and the infringement of Tribal lands and sovereignty. Agreements with the Ute bands have been dishonored for the economic gains of others. This disrespect is not a relic of a distant past but far too often continues today. To address ongoing violations and historical injustice, Tribal Council traveled to Denver last week to meet with state legislators and the Governor to emphasize the importance of the State to uphold its commitment to Tribal agreements, particularly those concerning Tribal land.

On Friday, March 15, 2024, Chairman Baker gave a powerful address to the General Assembly. He highlighted key concerns, including Colorado’s violation of its 30-year-old gaming compact with the Tribe, efforts by the City of Durango to infringe on the Tribe’s sovereignty by annexing lands within the Reservation boundaries, and the importance of safeguarding the Tribe’s water rights.

With respect to gaming, Chairman Baker reminded the Legislature that the Tribe’s Gaming Compact, ratified by the State Legislature, signed by the Governor, and approved by the Secretary of Interior, allows the Tribe to engage in gaming activities “that are identical to the activities and bet amounts that are authorized in the State of Colorado.” Therefore, when the State authorized statewide internet sports betting, the Tribe under its Compact was allowed to engage in statewide internet sports betting. However, the Governor failed to honor this Compact when the Colorado Department of Gaming ordered suppliers to not engage in business with the Tribe, solely to benefit non-Tribal gaming interests. The Tribe is entitled to engage in statewide internet sports betting in accordance with its Gaming Compact and the Chairman called upon the State Legislature to ensure that the State’s longstanding agreement with the Tribe is honored. He encouraged the Legislature to support legislation supported by Senator Robert Rodriguez, Majority Leader of the State Senate, ensuring that the State complies with its obligations under the Gaming Compact.

Chairman Baker further encouraged the Legislature to assist the Tribe in resisting efforts by the City of Durango to annex lands within the Reservation boundaries. He reminded the Legislature of the State’s history of seizing Tribal land to support non-Tribal economic interests. Chairman Baker related the City’s plans to take advantage of lands and resources within the Reservation boundaries, of which have been confirmed by federal law, to support the City’s economic interests. He described the City’s failure to collaborate with the Tribe on this issue, its disregard for the cooperative agreements with La Plata County, and how annexation will worsen the already critical MMIR crisis through increased jurisdictional complexities. Chairman Baker asked that the Legislature support a bill sponsored by Senators Jessie Danielson and Cleve Simpson, House Majority Leader Representative Monica Duran, and House Minority Leader Rose Pugliese, requiring Tribal consent before lands are annexed within the Reservation boundaries.

Following the address, Tribal Council met with Governor Polis and Lt. Governor Primavera for a roundtable discussion. Once again, Tribal Council encouraged the Governor to honor the Tribe’s sovereignty and the State’s agreements with the Tribe. In May 2019, Governor Polis wrote, “In Colorado we respect our government-to-government relationship with the Tribes.”  During the roundtable discussion, he acknowledged his administration did not contact or consult the Tribe while sports betting was in the process of being implemented. Moreover, when the Governor suggested that the electorate may have supported sports betting legislation to generate revenue for the State, he was reminded that members of the two Colorado Tribes had supported the legislation because it enabled the Tribes to engage in sports betting under their longstanding gaming compacts and Tribal members’ votes counted as much as those of non-Tribal members.

By visiting the Capitol, Tribal Council demonstrated their commitment to building strong relationships with state officials. Their advocacy aims to secure policies that respect the Tribe’s self-governance, to enact positive changes, and to promote prosperity for the Southern Ute Indian Tribe.

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Southern Ute Permanent Fund Gears Up for the 2024 Spring Clean-Up

2024 Annual Spring Clean-Up

April 15-19, 2024

 By Appointment Only No pickups over the weekend or the week after.

Save the Date! Fall Clean-up Oct 7-11, 2024!

Tribal Members, Tribal Departments, and any tenant of the Southern Ute Indian Housing Authority are eligible for Spring Clean-Up services. Tribal Departments will not pick up for non-tribal tenants living in Tribal Member owned rental homes. All pick-ups must be within the boundaries of the Southern Ute Indian Reservation only.

For Immediate Release: Southern Ute Indian Tribe Celebrates Reaffirmation of AAA Credit Rating

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320
Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 6, 2024

Southern Ute Indian Tribe Celebrates Reaffirmation of AAA Credit Rating

Southern Ute Indian Reservation – The Southern Ute Indian Tribe is proud to announce the reaffirmation of its AAA credit rating by Fitch Ratings.
Fitch Ratings, a global leader in credit ratings and research, has recognized the Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s steadfast dedication to economic stability and prudent financial practices since 2001. The AAA rating reflects the Tribe’s ability to meet financial commitments and uphold a robust financial profile, even in the face of national and global economic challenges.
“We are honored and grateful for the reaffirmation of our AAA credit rating by Fitch Ratings,” said Chairman Melvin J. Baker. “This rating underscores our Tribe’s unwavering commitment to sound financial management, responsible governance, and the well-being of our Tribe.”
The Southern Ute Indian Tribe has consistently demonstrated financial resilience, leveraging strategic investments and responsible fiscal policies to maintain its AAA credit rating. This prestigious rating not only reflects the Tribe’s financial strength but also enhances its ability to pursue economic development initiatives, secure favorable financing terms, and ensure continued prosperity for its members.
“Having an AAA credit rating places the Tribe amongst a very small group of governments and companies that enjoy such a prestigious standing. By way of comparison, Fitch has rated the United States at a lower AA+ level. The AAA rating is reflective of the Tribe’s commitment to sound financial planning and preservation for future generations”, said Permanent Fund Chief Financial Officer, Christine Hudgens.
As the Southern Ute Indian Tribe celebrates this noteworthy achievement, it remains dedicated to continuing its financial excellence and sound practices.
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Southern Ute Election Board: Vacancy

The Southern Ute Election Board is seeking two Regular Board Members and two Alternate Board Members 🗳️

The Election Board is a paid committee that follows IRS guidelines, and eligibility for Southern Ute Employee benefits are based on hours. A criminal background check is required and as an appointed official of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, you are subject to the Code of Ethics.

Qualifications; 11-2-102, (1) & (3):
Must be a Southern Ute Tribal Registered Voter
Must reside within the exterior boundaries of the Southern Ute Indian Reservation
Shall not have been convicted of a felony
Shall not have been convicted of a misdemeanor involving dishonesty or fraud within five years immediately preceding the appointment

To apply, please submit a Letter of Intent to Human Resources, PO Box 737 Ignacio, CO 81137. Please see the graphic for a full list of requested information to be included in the letter:

  • Full Name
  • Contact Information (i.e. address, phone number, email address)
  • Date
  • It is suggested and helpful to include one or more of the following details:
    • Description of why you are a good fit for the position
    • Explanation of your motivation to join the Committee
    • List relevant experience
    • Outline ideas of how you can improve this committee
    • Disclosure of any other Boards/Committees you currently serve on

For more information, please contact Tribal Council Affairs at 970-563-2319 or email swhyte@southernute-nsn.gov.

Tribal Broadband Modernization Project: Phase II Construction Update & Traffic Impacts

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970-563-2320
Summer Begay, Communication Specialist – 970-563-2313

FOR RELEASE: February 05, 2024

Tribal Broadband Modernization Project: Phase II Construction Update & Traffic Impacts

Project News: Phase II is underway and construction has begun to connect fiber to homes!

Where: Crews will be working within the Ignacio town limits, CR-517 near the Sky Ute Casino and Ute Rd. Construction will take place along the edge of the roadways/alleyways. Please see the maps with construction zones indicated in red.

What: The broadband project will include trenching, boring, and plowing to lay fiber, as well as reclamation and seeding. Construction vehicles and fiber spools will be visible on the shoulder.

When: Construction is ongoing. Hours of operation will be from 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

Travel Impact: Parking lanes, sidewalks, and alleyways may be temporarily closed during operations. Motorists will be required to reduce speeds and travel safely around the construction taking place on the side of the road. Please remember to slow down in construction zones, eliminate distractions, and drive with extra caution. Motorists are also urged to watch for workers and equipment along the roadway.

In the event of an emergency or to report a reckless driver, please contact the Southern Ute Police Department at 970-563-4401.

For more information about the Tribal Broadband Modernization Project, please visit the link in the image.
Toghoyaqh!

Current SUIT Job Openings – January 31, 2024

Southern Ute Permanent Fund

Grants Coordinator – Open until filled. – Ignacio,COPermits & ROW Specialist – Closes 2/13/2024 – Ignacio,COAir Quality Scientist I – Permitting – Closes 2/12/2024 – Ignacio,COLands Technician Trainee – S. Ute Tribal Members Only – Closes 2/12/2024 – Ignacio,COTribal Apprenticeship Program – Southern Ute Members Only – Open Until Filled – Ignacio,COGrounds Maintenance Worker – Closes February 2, 2024 – Ignacio,COTribal Ranger Trainee – Closes February 1, 2024 – Southern Ute Members Only – Ignacio,COLifeguard Part-time – Closes February 1, 2024 – Ignacio,COSwimming Instructor Part-time – Closes February 1, 2024 – Ignacio,COProject Manager – Construction – Open until filled – Ignacio,COTERO Worker – Ignacio, COTEAM Worker – Southern Ute Tribal Members only – Ignacio, CODetention Transport Officer – Open until filled – Ignacio, COAir Quality Scientist II – Permitting – Open until filled. – Ignacio,COBoys & Girls Club Aide PT – Open until filled – Ignacio, CODeputy Tribal Historic Preservation Officer – So. Ute member only – Open until filled. – Ignacio,COAir Quality Scientist II – Enforcement – Open until filled. – Ignacio,COTribal Attorney – Prosecutor – Open until filled – Ignacio,COGaming Investigator I – Open until filled. – Ignacio,COAfter School Program Leader – Open until filled. – Ignacio,COMuseum Director – Open until filled. – Ignacio,CONAGPRA Technician – S. Ute Tribal Members Only – Open until filled. – Ignacio,COSpecial Needs Aide (PT w/Benefits) – Open until filled. – Ignacio,CODirector of Strategic Planning – Open Until Filled – Ignacio,COConstruction Services Repairman – Open Until Filled – Ignacio,COHealth Center Support Services Manager – Open until filled – Ignacio,COMedical Assistant (Part-time w/benefits) – Open until filled – Ignacio,COEducation Department Assistant – Open until filled – Ignacio, CODentist – Part-time w/Benefits – Open until filled – Ignacio,COHVAC Technician – Open until filled – Ignacio,COUmpire / Referee – Open Until Filled – Ignacio,COScorekeeper – Open until filled – Ignacio,CODispatcher – Open Until Filled – Ignacio,COElementary Teacher – Open until filled – Ignacio, COPatrol Officer I – Open Until Filled – Ignacio, COTribal Health Department Director – Open until filled – Ignacio,CODetention Officer – Open Until Filled – Ignacio,COGrants Financial Analyst – Open Until Filled – Ignacio,COClinical Supervisor – Open Until FIlled – Ignacio,CODispatcher Trainee – Southern Ute Members Only – Open Until Filled – Ignacio,CO

To apply visit https://careers.southernute.com/pfund

Southern Ute Growth Fund – Tribal Members Only

No Jobs Found

Southern Ute Growth Fund

Joint Interest Billing (JIB) Accountant II – Closes 2/16/2024 – Ignacio, COJoint Interest Billing (JIB) Accountant III – Closes 2/16/2024 – Ignacio, COWells Team Manager – Closes 2/16/2024 – Ignacio, COMaintenance Worker I – Closes 2/9/2024 – Ignacio, COController – Closes 2/2/2024 – Ignacio, CO

To apply visit https://careers.southernute.com/sugf

Sky Ute Casino Resort

Director of Human Resources – Full Time – Closes 2/3/2024 – Ignacio, CO7 Rivers Bartender – Full Time – Closes 2/4/2024 – Ignacio, COSurveillance Agent I – Full Time – Closes 2/4/2024 – Igancio, COMulti-Games Dealer On-Call – Open until filled – Ignacio, CORolling Thunder Line Cook Full-Time $1000 Sign on Bonus!! – Open until filled – Ignacio, COCasino Housekeeping Staff – Full-Time $500 Sign on Bonus! – Open until filled – Ignacio, COFront Desk Associate – Full Time $500 Sign-on Bonus – Open until filled – Ignacio, COSurveillance Video Technician – Full Time – Open until filled – Ignacio, COEvent Staff – Full Time – Closes 2/2/2024 – Ignacio, COSenior Facilities Staff – Full Time – Closes 2/2/2024 – Ignacio, COLevel II Facilities Staff – Full Time – Closes 2/2/2024 – Ignacio, COEntry Level Facilities Staff – Full Time – Closes 2/2/2024 – Ignacio, COGeneral Manager – Full time Contractual – Closes 2/4/2024 – Ignacio, CORetail Staff – Full Time – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, COFront Desk Supervisor – Full Time – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, COPlayers Club Representative – Full Time – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, CORestaurants Manager – Full Time – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, COKitchen Utility Steward/Dishwasher – Full Time – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, CORoom Attendant – Full Time – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, COSecurity Officer – Full Time – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, COSlot Operations Floor Person – Full Time – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, COCafé Cashier – Full Time Evening Shift – Open until filled – Ignacio, COSlot Technician II – Full Time – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, COSlot Technician II – Full Time – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, COLaundry Attendant – Full Time – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignaico, COBuyer – Full Time – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, CODeep Cleaning Staff Graveyards – Full Time – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, COBowling Mechanic I Full – Time – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, COGrounds Supervisor – Full Time $2500 Sign on Bonus – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, COFacilities Technician – Full Time $1,000 Sign-on Bonus – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, COKitchen Utility Steward/ Dishwasher Supervisor – Full Time – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, COLead Facilities Technician (HVAC) – Full Time $2500 SIGN ON BONUS – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, COSpecialized Facilities Technician (Electrician, Plumber, HVAC etc.) – Full Time $2500 SIGN ON BONUS – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, COSeven Rivers Line Cook – Full Time – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, COFacilities Supervisor – Full Time $2500 SIGN ON BONUS – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, CORolling Thunder Grill Server – Full Time – Closes 2/1/2024 – Ignacio, CO

To apply visit https://careers.southernute.com/casino

Southern Ute Shared Services

No Jobs Found

Southern Ute Agency plans the Annual Sundance Pile Rx Burn tomorrow, January 17, 2024

Making notification that the Southern Ute Agency will be conducting the annual Sundance Pile Rx burn tomorrow, Wednesday, January 17, 2024. Attached is the News Release regarding the project.

Corey Francis will be the qualified Burn Boss Type 3 (RXB3).  For further information, Mr. Francis can be reached directly at (505) 330-4015.

Thanks,

Corey Francis

Tribal Council adopts NEW Title 32 – Civil Truancy Code as part of the SUIT Law and Order Code.

On January 2, 2024, the Tribal Council adopted new Title 32 – Civil Truancy Code as part of the SUIT Law and Order Code.

Please see the attached Public Notice for more information.

A copy of the code can be found at:  https://www.southernute-nsn.gov/government/tribal-code/

Leslie Barnhart

Legal Department

Southern Ute Indian Tribe

P.O. Box 737  | Ignacio, CO | 81137

970.563.2144

lbarnhart@southernute-nsn.gov

Chairman Baker Welcomes Box as Executive Officer

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320

Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 03, 2024

Chairman Baker Welcomes Box as Executive Officer

Southern Ute Indian Reservation – In a strategic move to enhance leadership and organizational stewardship, Chairman Melvin J. Baker proudly announces the appointment of Ms. Lindsay J. Box as the Executive Officer of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s Permanent Fund.

Ms. Box, with a proven track record of leadership brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Having traversed key positions within the Tribe, she possesses invaluable insights and a versatile skill set crucial for the strategic management and growth of the Permanent Fund. Box’s journey includes roles such as Tribal Council Communication Specialist, where she fostered crucial relationships and established robust communication channels to advance the Tribe’s vision. Her expertise as an HR Compliance Specialist contributed to operational excellence at the Southern Ute Growth Fund, showcasing her adeptness in policy formulation and human resources management.

Box’s connection to her Nuuchiu heritage fuels her dedication to ensuring traditions thrive alongside modern advancements. Serving on the Board of Directors for the National Tribal Energy Association and CommonSpirit’s Mercy Hospital, she has demonstrated leadership in promoting sustainable resource management and advocating for community well-being. Her educational background, including a BA in Sociology Criminology and a BA in American Indian Studies, forms a strong foundation. Pursuing an MA in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing Leadership from Boise State University and an MA in Communication Management from the University of Southern California, Box underscores her commitment to continuous growth.

Box will capitalize on her strengths in strategic planning and policy development to guide the Permanent Fund toward achieving the priorities and goals set forth by Tribal Council. Expressing her gratitude, Ms. Box stated, “As I step into the role of the Executive Officer, I am acutely aware of the profound responsibility it entails. I will remain committed to delivering the highest quality programs and services to our Tribal membership, upholding the preservation and advocacy of our reservation’s resources, and fostering an environment where Ute heritage and economic development walk hand in hand. Together, we will write the next chapter in our Tribe’s storied legacy, striving always for a future that honors the past while embracing the innovations that pave the way forward.”

As the daughter of Janis Smith and the late Orian L. Box, Lindsay is a proud mother living on the reservation with her partner, Arnulfo, and her children, Tavian (15) and Kiko (5). Her commitment to heritage is evident in her beadwork and sewing, preserving and celebrating Ute culture with every stitch.

For more information, please contact the Executive Office at 970-563-2301.

Photo Credit | Allison Ragsdale

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Summer R. Begay

Communication Specialist | Tribal Council Affairs

Southern Ute Indian Tribe

P.O. Box 737 Ignacio, CO 81137

Office: 970-563-2313

Work Cell: 970-553-0052

For Immediate Release: Stability and Renewal Baker Leads the Tribe into Second Term with New Council 12/18/2023

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320

Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 18, 2023

Stability and Renewal: Baker Leads the Tribe into Second Term with New Council

Southern Ute Indian Reservation – The Southern Ute Indian Tribe welcomed Chairman, Melvin J. Baker and Council Member, Marty Pinnecoose during the Inauguration Ceremony this morning at Sky Ute Casino Resort. Surrounded by family, tribal members, and visiting dignitaries, the ceremony marked a momentous occasion for the Tribe as it embraced Council Member Pinnecoose for his first term and Chairman Baker for his second term as Chairman.

Chairman Melvin J. Baker, a dedicated advocate for tribal sovereignty, brings a wealth of experience to his new term. Baker previously served four terms on Tribal Council. With a commitment to preserving and enhancing the resources, tradition, and identity of the Pino Nuuchiu, Chairman Baker is poised to lead the Tribe with vision and resilience. “Your faith in my leadership is truly inspiring. I am deeply grateful for your unwavering support and the privilege of serving as Chairman for another term”, stated Chairman Baker.

Council Member Marty Pinnecoose looks forward to beginning to his first term on Tribal Council. Pinnecoose had a multi-faceted career that included working as a journeyman ironworker, actor, teacher, role model, businessman. “I would like to thank the Tribal Membership for their vote of confidence, I am eager to learn, to listen, and to grow alongside you. This is not my seat alone, it is a shared space built on trust and collaboration”, stated Council Member Pinnecoose.

Chairman Baker has selected Lorelei Cloud to serve as his Vice Chairman. The appointment for the Executive Office will be announced in the coming days.

For more information, please contact Tribal Council Affairs at 970-563-2319.

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Summer R. Begay

Communication Specialist | Tribal Council Affairs

Southern Ute Indian Tribe

P.O. Box 737 Ignacio, CO 81137

Office: 970-563-2313

Work Cell: 970-553-0052