Category: Elections

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 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!

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

The Southern Ute Election Board Announces Notice of Run-Off Election for Tribal Chairman and (1) Tribal Council Seat

The Southern Ute Election Board has determined the Run-Off Election dates and deadlines according to the Southern Ute Constitution and Election Code of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe. Run-Off Election will be held Friday, December 15, 2023, from 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. The Election will be held at 285 Lakin Street, Ignacio, CO. A sample ballot has been provided containing Tribal Council Chairman candidates James M. Olguin and Melvin J. Baker. The Tribal Council candidates are Marty M. Pinnecoose and Cedric J. Chavez. Please call the Southern Ute Election Board at (970) 563-2303/2305/2730. Off reservation tribal members can call (800)772-1236 Ext, 2303. Email correspondence can be sent to election@southernute-nsn.gov

Southern Ute Election Board Announces 2023 Run-Off Election

Greetings,

The Election Board has determined the dates for the upcoming 2023 Run-off Election according to the Constitution and Election Code.  Run-off Election will be on Friday, December 15, 2023, 7 A.M. to 7 P.M. with voting located at the Election Office, 285 Lakin Street, Ignacio, CO.

Tribal Council Chairman candidates are James M. Olguin and Melvin J. Baker.

The Tribal Council candidates are Marty M. Pinnecoose and Cedric J. Chavez.

For further inquiry, please call (970) 563-2303 or 2305/2730; Off Reservation Tribal Members:  1-800-772-1236 ext. 2303; Email is also an option at election@southernute-nsn.gov

Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s Unofficial November 2023 General Election Results

The 2023 Tribal General Election vote count has concluded.
The “unofficial” results for Tribal Council are:
• Tara Vigil: 111
• Andrew Gallegos: 204
• Conrad Thompson: 93
• Cedric Chavez: 147
• Marty Pinnecoose: 134
Andrew Gallegos has received the majority of votes. A runoff election will be between Marty Pinnecoose and Cedric Chavez.
A special meeting was scheduled by the Election Board for Monday, November 6th to certify the vote count. Runoff dates are forthcoming.
The 2023 Tribal General Election vote count has concluded.
The “unofficial” results for the Chairman seat are:
• Christine Baker Sage: 42
• Byron Frost: 37
• Renee Cloud: 17
• James “Mike” Olguin: 72
• Ramona Eagle: 71
• Melvin J. Baker: 141
A runoff election will be between James “Mike” Olguin and Melvin J. Baker. A special meeting was scheduled by the Election Board for Monday, November 6th to certify the vote count. Runoff dates are forthcoming.

PC: The Southern Ute Drum

– Summer Begay, Communication Specialist.