Category: Press Releases

Administration Community Culture Health Press Releases Tribal Members

Governor Polis and Lt. Governor Primavera visit Southern Ute Indian Tribe

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 2, 2023   Governor Polis and Lt. Governor Primavera visit Southern Ute Indian Tribe Southern Ute Indian Reservation – Chairman Baker and Tribal Council, extended a warm welcome to Colorado Governor Jared Polis, Lieutenant Governor Dianne Primavera, and the Colorado Commission of Indian Affairs Director Kathryn Redhorse during a visit to the Southern Ute Indian Tribe. During a productive meeting, a wide range of critical issues were discussed that hold significant importance for the Tribal community and the State of Colorado. These topics included Broadband, Behavioral Health, Housing, Transit, and legislative concerns, showcasing a commitment to addressing the pressing needs of both parties for the benefit of Tribal and Non-Tribal residents. Informative presentations were provided by the Southern Ute Shared Services and the Tribal Health Department. Chairman Baker and Governor Polis highlighted the importance of maintaining and strengthening the sovereign-to-sovereign relationship. “This relationship is progressive and has been a model for State and Tribal relationships”, said Chairman Baker. Governor Polis expressed willingness to elevate and collaborate with the Tribe on issues. Both leaders expressed interest in identifying future opportunities for […]

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Administration Community Health Press Releases Tribal Members

For Immediate Release: Biden Administration Initiative Allocates Vital Resources to Address Legacy Pollution

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 22, 2023 Biden Administration Initiative Allocates Vital Resources to Address Legacy Pollution Southern Ute Indian Reservation – The Department of the Interior has announced an initial allocation of nearly $40 million as part of President Biden’s “Investing in America” initiative. This substantial funding represents the first phase of a comprehensive effort to support Tribal communities in addressing abandoned oil and gas wells across Indian Country. The primary goals of this investment include advocating for Tribal land rights, promoting economic opportunities, addressing legacy pollution, and mitigating environmental hazards. The Southern Ute Department of Energy (DOE), in collaboration with the Tribe’s Contracts and Grants Department, applied for a grant under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Section 40601 Orphaned Well Program from the Department of Interior. Their grant application was specifically tailored to secure funds for conducting technical and field investigations into legacy plugged and abandoned wells, ensuring their integrity and long-term environmental protection. Andy Wetherell, Energy Manager at the Southern Ute Department of Energy, said, “the team is appreciative of Tribal Council’s support and the collaboration with the Tribe’s Contracts and Grants Department […]

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Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Southern Ute Indian Tribe Growth Fund Announces Kava Equity Partners and New Hires

For Immediate Release August 30, 2023 Southern Ute Indian Tribe Growth Fund Announces Kava Equity Partners and New Hires Kava Equity Partners is the Direct Private Equity Investment Group of the Southern Ute Growth Fund Southern Ute Indian Reservation, August 30, 2023 – The Southern Ute Indian Tribe Growth Fund (“Growth Fund”), the business arm of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, announced today its newest business subsidiary, Kava Equity Partners, LLC (“Kava Equity Partners”). Kava Equity Partners will grow and diversify the Tribe’s investments by seeking majority and minority, private equity investments in lower middle market companies that see business value in partnering with the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and are aligned with the Tribe’s cultural, environmental, and economic values. Growth Fund Executive Director, Mr. Shane Seibel, said, “We are excited to see the investment opportunities generated by Kava Equity Partners that will grow and diversify our portfolio.” Kava (pronounced “Kah-VAH”) is the Ute word for horse, which has historically been of great importance and profound significance to the Tribe. The horse allowed the Tribe to explore new territory and expand or grow resources for the membership and represents the values of partnership, reliability, and independence critical to the Tribe’s […]

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