Tribal Documents Department/Records Management Office (2024)

BLACKFEET NATION

Tribal Documents Department/Records Management Office

P.O. Box 850

Browning, Mt. 59417

(406)338-7990

documents@blackfeetnation.com

BLACKFEET TRIBAL BUSINESS COUNCIL

MINUTES

APPROVED

JANUARY 22, 2025

1. December 5, 2024

2. December 16, 2024

3. December 18, 2024

4. December 30, 2024

General Session

Special Session

Special Session

Special Session

BLACKFEET NATION

P.O. Box 850, Browning, MT, 59417

Telephone: (406) 338-7521 / Fax: (406) 338-7530

CUT E B U; CIL

Rodney Gervais, Jr. - Chairman Rodney Gervais, Jr.

Shelly M. Hall - Vice Chairman Shelly M. Hall

Patrick D. Armstrong, Jr. - Secretary Patrick D. Armstrong, Jr.

Lionel Kennerly, Sr. - Treasurer Lyle Rutherford

Cleo Bullshoe Main

MINUTES OF THE Everett Armstrong

BLACKFEET TRIBAL BUSINESS COUNCIL OE oe ea

lliff “Scott” Kipp, Sr.

GENERAL SESSION Michael J. Comes at Night

TRIBAL CONFERENCE ROOM

DECEMBER 5, 2024

9:13 A.M.

Chairman Rodney Gervais Jr. called the meeting to order and Secretary Patrick

Armstrong Jr. called roll with the following present to constitute a Quorum of seven (7)

members:

Rodney Gervais Jr. Patrick Armstrong Jr. Thomas Rutherford Jr.

Everett Armstrong Cleo Main Kristy Bullshoe

Michael Comes At Night

INVOCATION: Bill Spotted Eagle gave the prayer.

***Shelly Hall entered the meeting at 9:15 A.M. (8)***

AGENDA: Items were added to the Agenda.

***Tliff Kipp Sr. entered the meeting at 9:18 A.M. (9)***

BTBC UPDATES: Chairman Rodney Gervais Jr. stated the BTBC met with the BIA & BOR

regarding a lease within the Reservation boundary.

lliff Kipp Sr. stated the Thunder Radio station project is in progress and there are new

frequencies for outlying communities; 88.1, 88.7, 90.3 and 90.7.

Shelly Hall stated the Allocation Committee has been continuing revising and editing to the

Grazing Resolution to improve issues.

Page 2, December 5, 2024 General Session

BTBC UPDATES (CON’T.): Positions have been advertised for the Domestic Animal

Committee to address the at-large dog issue (health and safety) on the Reservation. There will be

efforts to have more spay/neuter clinics available.

Selections will be made for the Beautification Committee whom will be responsible for

addressing the clean-up of the trash on the Reservation.

The Credit Board positions have been advertised and there has been efforts to improve the Credit

Policies and Procedures.

There are bi-weekly meetings with the Blackfeet Boarding Dormitory; efforts are being made to

provide adequate housing to students in need and getting information of the services offered to

the public.

The Blackfeet Agriculture Department has developed a four (4) man fencing crew to identify

roadways throughout the reservation to help keep stock off the roads.

Thomas Rutherford Jr. stated there was a meeting with the U.S. Attorney’s Office regarding the

Presidential transition.

There have been discussions with the Finance Committee to require the Credit Director and

Board to provide updates.

23 Individuals within Tribal Health have been taking the Crisis Incident Stress Management

Training through the State of Montana.

There was a meeting with the State of Montana regarding Medicaid expansion. THIP will extend

services throughout Glacier and Pondera Counties, a further update will be provided in January.

Commercial transportation is provided for medical appointments and services will be expanded.

Discussion has been held with Stephanie Iron Shooter, DPHHS, regarding the Medicaid

Eligibility Program which is currently under Manpower but will be transitioned back to the

Tribe.

Rodney Gervais Jr. stated a Plan will be developed for Medicine Bear Shelter to be utilized for

transitional living, Opioid Litigation funds will be identified for the renovation of the building.

Kristy Bullshoe, Law & Order Committee Chair, stated the District 5 Acting Special Agent will

be visiting on December 11" to tour the law enforcement facilities and to improve personnel

issues. Discussions have been held with Pondera County to better serve the Heart Butte

Community.

Page 3, December 5, 2024 General Session

BTBC UPDATES (CON’T.): Michael Comes At Night there have been meetings in

Washington D.C. regarding the Wastewater Compact funding, the Blackfeet Boarding

Dormitory, Veteran’s affairs and Federal funding.

Michael Comes At Night stated there are efforts to improve the 477 Program with ManPower

and identifying funding.

***Thomas Rutherford Jr. left the meeting at 10:03 A.M. (8)***

BTBC UPDATES (CON’T.): Cleo Main stated there has been gaming financial reports

provided and they will be reviewed.

There was a program to provide hay to local ranchers. The program has concluded and a report

of the production and distribution will be provided.

There will be Christmas Powwows in Starr School and Browning.

The new radio station in Heart Butte is named KWRR.

Grant funding is being located for the Round Hall renovation in Heart Butte.

***Rodney Gervais Jr. left the meeting at 10:10 A.M. (7)***

BTBC UPDATES (CON’T.): Everett Armstrong stated the Alcohol Sale hour limitation will

continue through the school year. Efforts are being made with the appropriate programs to assist

individuals who are homeless or struggle with substance abuse.

Efforts are being made to build community centers in outlying communities.

A community event is scheduled for Christmas and more information will be provided to the

public.

Patrick Armstrong Jr. stated there will be a meeting with the Education Department to discuss an

MOU to address truancy.

***Rodney Gervais Jr. entered the meeting at 10:18 A.M. (8)***

BTBC UPDATES (CON’T.): Patrick Armstrong Jr. stated Heart Butte Schools is requesting

assistance to send sports teams on travel for games.

There are no new developments in regards to hunting rights in Yellowstone and the CM Russell

refuge, more information will be provided.

Page 4, December 5, 2024 General Session

BTBC UPDATES (CON’T.): Patrick Armstrong Jr. stated kitchen utilities will be ordered for

the Multipurpose Building.

Cleo Main stated the Heart Butte arbor construction is scheduled to be completed by March of

2025.

There will be a new store constructed in Heart Butte near the gas station and there is a contest

available to the public for the naming of the new store.

The Heart Butte Senior Center construction is still in progress, more information regarding the

completion will be available at a later date.

HONORARY WOMEN’S COUNCIL: Wilma Manywhitehorses, Myrna Galbreath, Molly

Bullshoe, Violet Provic and Annie Vielle were present at the meeting to discuss detox, alcohol

abuse and housing issues.

HONORARY MEN’S COUNCIL: Honorary Men’s Council Members were present at the

meeting to discuss transitional living elderly firewood, a budget to reflect the same amount of FY

2024 and two meetings a month honorariums to be retroactive to October 1, 2024.

AMENDING THE HONORARY MEN’S COUNCIL FY 2025 BUDGET AND

APPROVING THE INCREASE OF MEETING HONORARIUM FEES: Everett

Armstrong made a motion by Resolution {#93-2025} to approve a budget amendment in

the amount of $26,000.00 with funds to be determined by the Treasurer for the Honorary

Men’s Council for fiscal year 2025 and to approve an increase in the meeting honorariums.

Second by Cleo Main. Motion carried unanimously. (9)

AMENDING THE HONORARY WOMEN’S COUNCIL FY 2025 BUDGET AND

APPROVING THE INCREASE OF MEETING HONORARIUM FEES: Everett

Armstrong made a motion by Resolution {#90-2025} to approve the Honorary Women’s

Council FY 2025 Budget in the amount of $26,000.00 with funds to be determined by the

Treasurer; and, approving the increase of meeting honorarium fees. Second by Iliff Kipp

Sr. Motion carried unanimously. (9)

MULTI AGENCY OPERATION DRUG ISSUES: Jesse Laslovich, Montana US Attorney;

Dave Alesky, Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent; Caesar Abala, DEA Resident

Agent; Kyle Sinclair, BIA; Misty Keller, BLES Chief of Police and Maurice Red Horn, Glacier

County Sheriff, were present at the meeting to provide a Press Release for drug trafficking and

indictments for drug charges after a 6 month Law Enforcement initiative.

HONORING/CARL MCLEAN: Carl McLean, Nurturing Center Director, was honored and

gifts were presented.

Page 5, December 5, 2024 General Session

HONORING/HARDEE SKUNKCAP: Hardee Skunkcap was honored for being inducted into

the Native American Athletic Hall of Fame and gifts were presented.

HONORING/SHAYLEE GILHAM: Shaylee Gilham, United States Marine Corp., was

honored for her service and gifts were presented.

WELLNESS CENTER UPDATE: Monti Gilham, Project Coordinator; Michael Gervais,

Engineer; Shane Jacobs, Engineer; and Elizabeth Lockwood were present at the meeting to

discuss the Wellness Center Project. No action.

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK: Pete Webster, Glacier National Park Deputy Superintendent,

was present at the meeting to update the BTBC. No action.

STYEH COMMUNICATIONS: Brian Demarco, Jodi Carlson and Jahly Flamand, Siyeh

Communications Employees were present at the meeting to request BTBC Action.

APPROVING SUBMISSION OF THE NTIA DIGITAL PLANNING AND CAPACITY

GRANT FOR SIYEH COMMUNICATIONS: Patrick Armstrong Jr. made a motion by

Resolution {495-2025} to approve the submission of the NTIA Digital Planning and

Capacity Grant for Siyeh Communications. Second by Cleo Main. Motion carried

unanimously. (7)

PLANNING DEPARTMENT: Paulette Butterfly, Planning Department Director and Beverly

Santicola, Center for Rural Outreach and Public Services (via Zoom) were present at the meeting

to discuss the development of the Blackfeet Nation Comprehensive Economic Development

Strategy (CEDS).

***Everett Armstrong entered the meeting at 3:04 P.M. (8)***

***Michael Comes At Night left the meeting at 3:06 P.M. (7)***

***Thomas Rutherford Jr. left the meeting at 3:11 P.M. (6)***

***Tliff Kipp Sr. left the meeting at 3:15 P.M. (5)***

PLANNING DEPARTMENT (CON’T.): Further discussion regarding a retreat for the CEDS

development. No action.

***Patrick Armstrong Jr. entered the meeting at 3:33 P.M. (6)***

***Michael Comes At Night entered the meeting at 3:35 P.M. (7)***

***Thomas Rutherford Jr. entered the meeting at 3:35 P.M. (8)***

***Tliff Kipp Sr. entered the meeting at 3:35 P.M. (9)***

APPROVING FUNDS FOR COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Patrick Armstrong Jr. made a

motion by Resolution to approve $20,000.00 from the Buildings and General budget for

Community Activities. Second by Thomas Rutherford Jr. Motion carried unanimously. (9)

Page 6, December 5, 2024 General Session

APPROVING FUNDS FOR HEART BUTTTE SCHOOLS: Patrick Armstrong Jr. made a

motion to approve $2,079.35 from the Community Activities budget for the Heart Butte

Schools Basketball and Wrestling teams for thirteen (13) hotel rooms to attend a

tournament. Second by Cleo Main. Motion carried unanimously. (9) Excerpt {#E2025-26}

APPROVING CHANGE ORDER FOR HEART BUTTE STORE: Patrick Armstrong Jr.

made a motion by Resolution to approve a Change Order in the amount of $980,000.00 for

the Heart Butte Store. Second by Cleo Main. Motion carried unanimously. (9)

APPROVING CHANGE ORDER TO EKA, LLC FOR THE MULTIPURPOSE

FACILITY KITCHEN AND HOSPITALITY SUITE: Patrick Armstrong Jr. made a

motion by Resolution {#98-2025} to approve a Change Order to EKA, LLC for the

Multipurpose Facility kitchen and hospitality suite in the amount of $220,683.00. Second by

Everett Armstrong. Motion carried with a vote of seven (7) FOR; one (1) OPPOSED,

Shelly Hall; and two (2) ABSTAINED, Thomas Rutherford Jr. & Cleo Main. (7-1-2) (9)

FORMING CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT COMMITTEE AND REQUIRING THAT

ALL CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS BE REVIEWED BY THE CONSTRUCTION

COMMITTEE PRIOR TO SUBMISSION TO THE BLACKFEET TRIBAL BUSINESS

COUNCIL FOR REVIEW/APPROVAL: Shelly Hall made a motion by Resolution {#94-

2025} to form a Construction Contract Committee which consists of the Tribal Treasurer,

Procurement Director, Planning Department, Tribal Construction Inspector and an

Attorney in the Blackfeet Legal Department. Further, all Construction Contracts are to be

reviewed by the Construction Committee prior to submission to the Blackfeet Tribal

Business Council for review/approval. Second by Kristy Bullshoe. Motion carried

unanimously. (9)

AMENDING FY 2025 ELDERLY/HANDICAP FIREWOOD BUDGET: Iliff Kipp Sr.

made a motion by Resolution {#100-2025} to amend the fiscal year 2025 Elderly/Handicap

Firewood Program budget in the amount of $47,155.00 from the Buildings and General

budget. Second by Kristy Bullshoe. Motion carried unanimously. (9)

APPROVING FUNDS FOR RAWHIDE SINGERS: Iliff Kipp Sr. made a motion to

approve $1,547.10 to the Rawhide Singers to perform at the Earl Old Person Memorial in

Missoula, Mt. on December 18, 2024. Second by Thomas Rutherford Jr. Motion carried

unanimously. (9) Excerpt {#E2025-27}

***Michael Comes At Night left the meeting at 4:37 P.M. (8)***

CRYSTAL CREEK LODGE/SOBER LIVING: Kristal Davis, Holystar Fish and David

Bullcalf, Crystal Creek Lodge Employees were present at the meeting to discuss sober living.

Page 7, December 5, 2024 General Session

DIRECTING CRYSTAL CREEK LODGE TREATMENT CENTER TO DEVELOP AND

IMPLEMENT A PLAN FOR DETOX, DRUG AND ALCOHOL TREATMENT,

TRANSITIONAL LIVING AND OTHER AVENUES OF AFTERCARE FOR

PHYSICAL, MENTAL, EMOTIONAL AND SPIRITUAL SOBRIETY: Thomas

Rutherford Jr. made a motion by Resolution to direct the Crystal Creek Lodge Treatment

Center to develop and implement a Plan for detox, drug and alcohol treatment, transitional

living and other avenues of aftercare for physical, mental, emotional and spiritual sobriety.

Second by Everett Armstrong. Motion carried unanimously. (8)

ALLOCATING A PORTION OF THE OPIOID LITIGATION SETTLEMENT FUNDS

FOR THE RENOVATION OF THE MEDICINE BEAR SHELTER AND REQUIRING

THAT THE CONSTRUCTION RENOVATION PROJECT BE BID OUT: Kristy Bullshoe

made a motion by Resolution {#96-2025} to allocate a portion of the Opioid Litigation

Settlement funds for the renovation of the Medicine Bear Shelter and to require that the

construction renovation project be bid out by the Procurement Department. Second by

Shelly Hall. Motion carried unanimously. (9)

TWO GUNS WHITE CALF FAMILY: The family of Two Guns White Calf were present at

the meeting to request legal support.

***Patrick Armstrong Jr. left the meeting at 5:07 P.M. (8)***

TWO GUNS WHITE CALF FAMILY (CON’T.): Further discussion. No action.

RECESS: The meeting recessed at 5:20 P.M. (8)

RECONVENE: The meeting reconvened at 5:33 P.M. with the following members present

to constitute a quorum of eight (8) members:

Rodney Gervais Jr. Shelly Hall Thomas Rutherford Jr.

lliff Kipp Sr. Everett Armstrong Kristy Bullshoe

Cleo Main

CLOSED SESSION: The meeting went into Closed Session.

AGRICULTURE DEPARTMENT: Galen Hall, Assistant Agriculture Department Director,

was present at the meeting to request BTBC action.

***Everett Armstrong left the meeting at 5:37 P.M. (7)***

Page 8, December 5, 2024 General Session

CONFIDENTIAL PERSONNEL EXCERPT: Excerpt {#E2025-28}

PERSONNEL ISSUE (CLOSED SESSION): Discussion regarding a personnel issue. No

action.

CONFIDENTIAL PERSONNEL RESOLUTION: A Confidential Personnel action was

taken.

DIRECTIVE/LEGAL DEPARTMENT POLICIES & PROCEDURES: Shelly Hall made a

motion to direct the Blackfeet Legal Department to update the Legal Department Policies

& Procedures. Second by Thomas Rutherford Jr. Motion carried unanimously. (7) Excerpt

{#E2025-29}

CONTRACT NEGOTIATION PROCESS: Shelly Hall made a motion to require all new

Contracts to be submitted to the BTBC at least ten (10) days prior to approval and the

Contract Negotiations are to be with the Contractor and the BTBC in a private setting.

Second by Thomas Rutherford Jr. Motion carried unanimously. (7) Excerpt {#E£2025-30}

PERSONNEL ISSUE: Discussion regarding a personnel issue. No action.

CONFIDENTIAL LEGAL ISSUE: A Confidential Legal action was taken.

LAND RESOLUTION: Resolution {#97-2025}

LAND RESOLUTION: Resolution {#88-2025}

REQUIRING INVENTORY OF ALL BLACKFEET TRIBAL HOUSING

ADMINISTERED UNDER THE UMBRELLA OF THE TRIBAL GOVERNMENT:

Shelly Hall made a motion by Resolution {#102-2025} to require an inventory of all

Blackfeet Tribal Housing administered under the umbrella of the Tribal Government.

Second by Michael Comes At Night. Motion carried unanimously. (7)

LAND SALES: Discussion regarding land sales. The issue will be addressed with the Land

Board.

EARMARKING $25,000.00 FROM MONTANA PUBLIC RADIO’S LEASE FOR

HAUSMAN HILL SITE FOR PURCHASE OF NEW RADIO BROADCAST

EQUIPMENT: Thomas Rutherford Jr. made a motion by Resolution {#103-2025} to

earmark $25,000.00 from the Montana Public Radio’s Lease for Hausman Hill site for the

purchase of new radio broadcast equipment for Thunder Radio. Second by Michael Comes

At Night. Motion carried unanimously. (7)

PERSONNEL ISSUE: Discussion regarding a personnel issue. No action.

Page 9, December 5, 2024 General Session

CONFIDENTIAL ENROLLMENT ACTION: A Confidential Enrollment action was

taken.

BTBC MINUTES: Presented to the BTBC were the November 18, 2024 Executive Session;

the November 18, 2024 Enrollment; the November 20, 2024 Special Session; the November

25, 2024 Special Session and the November 27, 2024 Special Session Minutes.

Thomas Rutherford Jr. made a motion to approve the Minutes, as presented. Second by

Michael Comes At Night. Motion carried unanimously. (7)

APPROVING 10-08-24 LAND BOARD MINUTES: Thomas Rutherford Jr. made a

motion to approve the October 8, 2024 Land Board Minutes, as presented. Second by Iliff

Kipp Sr. Motion carried unanimously. (7) Excerpt {#E2025-31}

APPROVING 11-19-24 LAND BOARD MINUTES: Thomas Rutherford Jr. made a

motion to approve the November 19, 2024 Land Board Minutes. Second by Kristy

Bullshoe.

Thomas Rutherford Jr. AMENDED his motion. Second by Kristy Bullshoe. Motion carried

unanimously. (7) Excerpt {#E2025-32}

ADJOURNMENT: Thomas Rutherford Jr. made a Motion to Adjourn. Second by Cleo

Main. Motion carried unanimously. (7) The Meeting a Adjourned at 8:26 P.M.

erc

APPROVED:

‘itn LA»

Patrick D. Armstrong Jr Secretary

Blackfeet Tribal Business Council

BLACKFEET NATION

Cc Cc E

Rodney Gervais, Jr. - Chairman

Shelly M. Hall - Vice Chairman

Patrick D. Armstrong, Jr. - Secretary

P.O. Box 850, Browning, MT, 59417

“Pgs ‘ we Telephone: (406) 338-7521 / Fax: (406) 338-7530

L, 0} BU. CIL

Rodney Gervais, Jr.

Shelly M. Hall

Patrick D. Armstrong, Jr.

Lionel Kennerly, Sr. - Treasurer Lyle Rutherford

1 1 i

MINUTES OF THE eats

BLACKFEET TRIBAL BUSINESS COUNCIL npg cae

co! ipp, Sr.

SPECIAL SESSION Michael J. Comes at Night

LEGAL CONFERENCE ROOM

DECEMBER 16, 2024

11:38 A.M.

Chairman Rodney Gervais Jr. called the meeting to order and Acting Secretary Thomas

Rutherford Jr. called roll with the following present to constitute a Quorum of six (6)

members:

Rodney Gervais Jr. Shelly Hall

Everett Armstrong Cleo Main

Thomas Rutherford Jr.

Kristy Bullshoe

WAIVER/48-HOUR NOTICE: Thomas Rutherford Jr. made a motion to Waive the 48-

Hour Notice of Meeting. Second by Shelly Hall. Motion carried unanimously. (6)

INVOCATION: Everett Armstrong gave the prayer.

WATER DEPARTMENT: K Webb Galbreath, Water Department Director and Dawn Gray,

Tribal Managing Attorney, were present at the meeting to discuss a response for the Secretary of

Interior regarding the deadline of Section 3720(f) of the Blackfeet Water Rights Settlement Acct.

Lengthy discussion.

CONCURRING WITH THE REQUEST BY THE SECRETARY OF INTERIOR TO

EXTEND THE JANUARY 21, 2025 DEADLINE SET FORTH IN SECTION 3720(F) OF

THE BLACKFEET WATER RIGHTS SETTLEMENT ACT BY 12-MONTHS, TO

JANUARY 21, 2026 (CLOSED SESSION): Thomas Rutherford Jr. made a motion by

Resolution {#99-2025} to concur with the request by the Secretary of Interior to extend the -

January 21, 2025 deadline set forth in Section 3720(f) of the Blackfeet Water Rights

Settlement Act by 12-months, to January 21, 2026. Second by Everett Armstrong. Motion

carried unanimously. (6)

Page 2, December 16, 2024 Special Session

EPA ISSUES/EAST GLACIER & BROWNING LAGOONS: Discussion regarding the

issues. A report will be provided by the Water Department. No action.

APPROVING CLOSURE FOR CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR’S HOLIDAYS: Everett

Armstrong made a motion to approve a Closure for Tribal Programs/Departments from

December 23", 2024 to January 3, 2025; regular business hours will resume January 6,

2025. Further, the dates of the closure are to coincide with the Public Schools Holiday

Closure. Second by Thomas Rutherford Jr. Motion carried unanimously. (6) Excerpt

{#E2025-33}

LOBBYIST: Discussion. No action.

IDENTIFYING FUNDS FOR EAST GLACIER WATER TANK ELECTRICITY: Shelly

Hall made motion by Resolution to approve an amount not to exceed $65,000.00 for the

East Glacier Water Tank Electricity from the Water Settlement OM&R funds. Second by

Everett Armstrong. Motion carried unanimously. (6)

SELF INSURANCE: Discussion regarding the Self Insurance Program. No action.

AMENDING EXCERPT NO. E2025-29 “DIRECTIVE/LEGAL DEPARTMENT

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES”: Shelly Hall made a motion to Amend Excerpt No.

E2025-29, “Directive/Legal Department Policies and Procedures” to reflect that the

directive is for the Legal Department to draft the Legal Department Financial Billing

Policy. Second by Kristy Bullshoe. Motion carried unanimously. (6) Excerpt {#E2025-29A}

RECESS: The meeting recessed at 1:34 P.M. (6)

erc

APPROVED:

Oe D. ETc Secretary

Blackfeet Tribal Business Council

BLACKFEET NATION

P.O. Box 850, Browning, MT, 59417

Telephone: (406) 338-7521 / Fax: (406) 338-7530

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Cc E U; UN

Rodney Gervais, Jr. - Chairman Rodney Gervais, Jr.

Shelly M. Hall - Vice Chairman Shelly M. Hall

Patrick D. Armstrong, Jr. - Secretary Patrick D. Armstrong, Jr.

Lionel Kennerly, Sr. - Treasurer Lyle Rutherford

Cleo Bullshoe Main

MINUTES OF THE Everett Armstrong

BLACKFEET TRIBAL BUSINESS COUNCIL ed ca

Iliff “Scott” Kipp, Sr.

SPECIAL SESSION Michael J. Comes at Night

TRIBAL CONFERENCE ROOM

DECEMBER 18, 2024

9:34 A.M.

Chairman Rodney Gervais Jr. called the meeting to order and Secretary Patrick

Armstrong Jr. called roll with the following present to constitute a Quorum of seven (7)

members:

Rodney Gervais Jr. Shelly Hall Patrick Armstrong Jr.

Thomas Rutherford Jr. lliff Kipp Sr. Everett Armstrong

Kristy Bullshoe

INVOCATION: Kristy Bullshoe gave the prayer.

AGENDA: Items were added to the Agenda.

TOM RODGERS/UPDATE: Tom Rodgers was present at the meeting to update the BTBC. No

action.

MANPOWER TEEN PREGNANCY PROGAM UPDATE: Carol Williamson, Manpower

Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program; Margaret Ann Adams, Yarrow and Shelly Old Chief, Out

Reach Worker were present at the meeting to provide an update on the Program and the services

provided. No action.

LYNN MADPLUME/UPDATE: Lynn Madplume presented a Power Point Presentation for the

Two Powers Equine Therapy. No action.

DEBBIE BULLSHOE/BILLBOARD: Debbie Bullshoe, Honor Your Life Program, was

present at the meeting to discuss a proposal for billboards. No action, further discussion will be

held.

Page 2, Decemer 18, 2024 Special Session

TONY & BILLIE JO BEAUDRY/BUSINESS: Tony & Billie Jo Beaudry were present at the

meeting to discuss a liquor license for their business. An application for a liquor license will

need to be submitted to the Revenue Department and the item will be readdressed.

HONORING/BERNARD WHITE GRASS: Bernard White Grass was honored for fifty years

of employment with the Blackfeet Tribe and gifts were presented.

RECESS: The meeting recessed at 12:20 P.M. (5)

RECONVENE: The meeting reconvened at 12:50 P.M. with the following present to

constitute a quorum of eight (8) members:

Rodney Gervais Jr. Shelly Hall Patrick Armstrong Jr.

Thomas Rutherford Jr. lliff Kipp Sr. Everett Armstrong

Cleo Main Kristy Bullshoe

LAND ACQUISITIONS DEPARTMENT: Roberta Arnoux, Land Acquisitions Director and

Jessica Edwards, Land Acquisitions Realty Specialist, were present at the meeting to discuss a

Sole Source Contract for the clean-up of the Holland House.

Trish Kuka, Procurement Director, stated the Project will be bid out for two weeks.

TRIBAL HEALTH: Various Tribal Health Programs were present at the meeting to discuss

issues within Tribal Health.

Lengthy discussion. No action.

APPROVING FUNDS FOR HOPE MINISTRIES, HELENA, MT FOR INDIVIDUALS

TO ATTEND TREATMENT: Kristy Bullshoe made a motion by Resolution to approve

$30,000.00 from Tribal Health for Hope Ministries, Helena Mt. for individuals to attend

treatment. Second by Thomas Rutherford Jr. Motion carried unanimously. (8)

DIRECTIVE/TRIBAL HEALTH PROGRAMS: Shelly Hall made a motion to direct all

Tribal Health Programs to develop Strategic Plans to be presented to the HESS

Committee. Second by Kristy Bullshoe.

Shelly Hall AMENDED her motion to include that the HESS Committee will meet with

Tribal Health once a month. Second by Kristy Bullshoe. Motion carried unanimously. (8)

Excerpt {#E2025-36}

RECESS: The meeting recessed at 2:45 P.M. (8)

i a

Page 3, Decemer 18, 2024 Special Session

RECONVENE: The meeting reconvened at 3:05 P.M. with the following present to

constitute a quorum of seven (7) members:

Shelly Hall Patrick Armstrong Jr. Thomas Rutherford Jr.

lliff Kipp Sr. Cleo Main Everett Armstrong

Kristy Bullshoe

CLOSED SESSION: The meeting went into Closed Session.

TRIBAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT: Josh Bird, Property Management, was present at the

meeting to discuss Tribal Property Leases.

LAND RESOLUTION: A land action was taken.

***Rodney Gervais Jr. entered the meeting at 3:13 P.M. (8)***

LAND RESOLUTIONS: Land actions were taken.

***Rodney Gervais Jr. left the meeting at 3:22 P.M. (7)***

BROESDER RANCH: Discussion regarding the Broesder Ranch. No action.

***Patrick Armstrong Jr. left the meeting at 3:30 P.M. (6)***

KING RANCH: Discussion regarding the King Ranch.

STOLTZ RANCH PROPERTY: Discussion regarding the Stoltz Ranch property. No

action.

***Everett Armstrong left the meeting at 3:44 P.M. (7)***

***Thomas Rutherford Jr. left the meeting at 3:49 P.M. (6)***

PERSONNEL DEPARTMENT: Dana Pemberton, Personnel Director, was present at the

meeting to request BTBC action.

CONFIDENTIAL PERSONNEL RESOLUTION: Resolution {#128-2025}

***Rodney Gervais Jr. entered the meeting at 3:52 P.M. (7)***

***Thomas Rutherford Jr. entered the meeting at 3:53 P.M. (8)***

Page 4, Decemer 18, 2024 Special Session

APPOINTING MEMBERS TO THE BLACKFEET CREDIT COMMITTEE (2024):

Shelly Hall made a motion by Resolution {4121-2025} to appoint individuals to the

Blackfeet Credit Committee. Second by Kristy Bullshoe. Motion carried unanimously. (8)

***Everett Armstrong left the meeting at 4:09 P.M. (7)***

CONFIDENTIAL PERSONNEL RESOLUTION: Resolution {#127-2024}

APPOINTING MEMBERS TO THE BLACKFEET HOUSING BOARD (2024): Kristy

Bullshoe made a motion by Resolution {#122-2025} to appoint individuals to the Blackfeet

Housing Board. Second by Cleo Main. Motion carried unanimously. (8)

APPOINTING MEMBERS TO THE BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE (2024): Shelly

Hall made a motion by Resolution to appoint individuals to the Beautification Committee.

Second by Everett Armstrong. Motion carried unanimously. (8)

AMENDING THE PERSONNEL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR THE

GRIEVANCE PANEL TIMELINE FOR 20 WORKING DAYS TO HEAR A

GRIEVANCE: Shelly Hall made a motion by Resolution {#108-2025} to Amend the

Personnel Policies and Procedures for the Grievance Panel timeline for 20 working days to

hear a Grievance. Second by Kristy Bullshoe. Motion carried unanimously. (8)

***Everett Armstrong left the meeting at 4:32 P.M. (7)***

PERSONNEL DEPARTMENT BUILDING/EXPANSION PROJECT: Dana Pemberton,

Personnel Director, stated there is a request to expand the Personnel Department Building.

Shelly Hall stated the request will need to be addressed by the Construction Contract Committee.

APPROVING RENEWAL OF THE TRIBAL HEALTH INSURANCE 2025: Thomas

Rutherford Jr. made a motion by Resolution {#115-2025} to approve the renewal of the

Tribal Health Insurance Policy with Tribal First, Hudson Insurance Group, for a period of

one (1) year to December 31, 2025. Second by Iliff Kipp Sr. Motion carried unanimously.

(7)

PERSONNEL ISSUE: Discussion regarding a personnel issue. No action.

***Rverett Armstrong entered the meeting at 4:47 P.M. (8)***

CONFIDENTIAL PERSONNEL RESOLUTION: Resolution {#104-2025}

Page 5, Decemer 18, 2024 Special Session

APPROVING FY 2025 BUDGET FOR THE HEART BUTTE CHRISTMAS POWWOW

AND STICK GAME: Patrick Armstrong Jr. made a motion by Resolution {#107-2025} to

approve a fiscal year 2025 Budget for the Heart Butte Christmas Powwow and Stick Game

in the amount of $15,000.00 from the Buildings and General budget. Second by Cleo Main.

Motion carried unanimously. (8)

***Cleo Main left the meeting at 5:25 P.M. (7)***

POLITE PEPION SR. & POLITE PEPION JR.: Polite Pepion Sr. and Polite Pepion Jr. were

present at the meeting to request BTBC action.

LEGAL RESOLUTION: Resolution {#114-2025}

LAND RESOLUTIONS: Land actions were taken.

AUTHORIZING APPROVAL FOR OVERTIME/CANDY BAGS: Everett Armstrong

made a motion to authorize Cleo Main and Anna Bullshoe to approve Overtime for

employees who worked to assist with the candy bags to be distributed to the public. Second

by Thomas Rutherford Jr. Motion carried unanimously. (7) Excerpt {#E2025-38}

APPROVING FUNDS FOR FOUR (4) INDIVIDUALS TO ATTEND THE MYCA

GRADUATION: Kristy Bullshoe made a motion to approve $350.00 each for four (4)

individuals to attend the Montana Youth Challenge Academy Graduation. Second by Iliff

Kipp Sr. Motion carried unanimously. (7) Excerpt {#E2025-37}

OPENING ACCOUNT WITH LOCAL BUSINESS FOR BLACKFEET BOARDING

DORMITORY: Everett Armstrong made a motion to open an account with Local Business

Owner in an amount not to exceed $3,500.00 for the Blackfeet Boarding Dormitory

(approximately 30 students). Second by Thomas Rutherford Jr. Motion carried

unanimously. (7) Excerpt {#E2025-34}

APPROVING FUNDS TO REZ MONKEYS: Shelly Hall made a motion to approve

$1,000.00 to Rez Monkeys for an all-expense paid trip for two (2) children. Second by

Kristy Bullshoe. Motion carried unanimously. (7) Excerpt {#E2025-35}

SELF INSURANCE: discussion regarding the Self Insurance Program. No action.

***Rodney Gervais Jr. left the meeting at 6:51 P.M. (6)***

APPROVING SIYEH CORPORATION TO SUBMIT A GRANT FOR THE FY 2025

TRIBAL BUSINESS GRANT: Patrick Armstrong Jr. made a motion by Resolution {#105-

2025} to approve Siyeh Corporation to submit a Grant for the fiscal year 2025 Tribal

Business Grant. Second by Iliff Kipp Sr. Motion carried unanimously. (6)

Page 6, Decemer 18, 2024 Special Session

APPROVING ENVIRONMENTAL CLIMATE GRANT APPLICATION SUBMISSION:

Kristy Bullshoe made a motion by Resolution to approve the submission of the

Environmental Climate Grant application. Second by Thomas Rutherford Jr. Motion

carried unanimously. (6)

***Rodney Gervais Jr. entered the meeting at 6:56 P.M. (7)***

***Everett Armstrong left the meeting at 6:56 P.M. (6)***

LEGAL UPDATE: Derek Kline, Special Counsel, provided an update. No action.

SUPPORTING 2025 MONTANA STATE ICWA LEGISLATION: Iliff Kipp Sr. made a

motion by Resolution {#113-2025} to support the 2025 Montana State ICWA Legislation.

Second by Thomas Rutherford Jr. Motion carried unanimously. (6)

APPROVING MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH U.S. DEPARTMENT

OF AGRICULTURE, FOREST SERVICE REGARDING CO-STEWARDSHIP OF THE

BADGER TWO MEDICINE: Patrick Armstrong Jr. made a motion by Resolution to

approve a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the U.S. Department of

Agriculture, Forest Service regarding Co-Stewardship of the Badger Two Medicine.

Second by Thomas Rutherford Jr. Motion carried with a vote of four (4) FOR; two (2)

ABSTAIN, Shelly Hall & Kristy Bullshoe. (4-0-2) (6)

CONFIDENTIAL RESOLUTION: Resolution {#120-2025}

CONFIDENTIAL PERSONNEL RESOLUTION: Resolution {#119-2025}

APPROVING THE PROCUREMENT OF EQUIPMENT FROM THE ROCKY

MOUNTAIN REGION BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS THROUGH LOTTERY

PROCESS: Shelly Hall made a motion by Resolution {#111-2025} to approve the

procurement of equipment from the Rocky Mountain Region Bureau of Indian Affairs

through lottery process. Second by Thomas Rutherford Jr. Motion carried unanimously.

(6)

LAND RESOLUTIONS: Land actions were taken.

2023 HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN: Discussion regarding the Hazard Mitigation Plan.

Item was TABLED.

Page 7, Decemer 18, 2024 Special Session

APPROVING EXTENSION TO SOLE SOURCE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

CONTRACT UNDER RESOLUTION NO. 286-2023 WITH YARROW, LLC AS THE

GRANT EVALUATOR FOR THE “PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY EDUCATION

PROGRAM (PREP), TEEN PREGNANCY PREVENTION PROJECT: Thomas

Rutherford Jr. made a motion by Resolution to approve an extension to the Sole Source

Professional Services Contract under Resolution No. 286-2023 with Yarrow, LLC as the

Grant Evaluator for the PREP, Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program with ManPower.

Second by Iliff Kipp Sr. Motion carried unanimously. (6)

APPROVING AGREEMENT WITH MONTANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AND THE BLACKFEET NATION FOR

CULTURE AND HOPE TO IMPLEMENT THE TRIBAL UIO BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

IMPROVEMENT GRANT: Thomas Rutherford Jr. made a motion by Resolution {#117-

2025} to approve an Agreement with Montana Department of Public Health and Human

Services and the Blackfeet Nation for Culture and Hope to implement the Tribal UIO

Behavioral Health Improvement Grant. Second by Iliff Kipp Sr. Motion carried

unanimously. (6)

APPROVING MOU WITH BROWNING PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT #9 FOR

CULTURE AND HOPE TO PROVIDE SERVICES: Kristy Bullshoe made a motion by

Resolution {#118-2025} to approve a Memorandum of Understanding with Browning

Public School District #9 for Culture and Hope to provide services. Second by Thomas

Rutherford Jr. Motion carried unanimously. (6)

APPROVING FUNDS FOR STICK GAME COMMITTEE: Shelly Hall made a motion to

approve an amount not to exceed $5,000.00 for the Stick Game Committte for a

tournament; further, the Committee is to adhere to all past BTBC Actions and/or

Directives. Second by Patrick Armstrong Jr. Motion carried with a vote of five (5) FOR;

one (1) OPPOSED, Thomas Rutherford Jr. (5-1) (6) Excerpt {4E2025-39}

ADJOURNMENT: Thomas Rutherford Jr. made a Motion to Adjourn. Second by Patrick

Armstrong Jr. Motion carried unanimously. (6) The Meeting a Adjourned at 8:19 P.M.

erc

APPROVED:

(Lt¢n JA

Patrick D. Armstrong Jr., Secretary

Blackfeet Tribal Business Council

BLACKFEET NATION

C CO

Rodney Gervais, Jr. - Chairman

Shelly M. Hall - Vice Chairman

Patrick D. Armstrong, Jr. - Secretary

Lionel Kennerly, Sr. - Treasurer

P.O. Box 850, Browning, MT, 59417

Telephone: (406) 338-7521 / Fax: (406) 338-7530

FE UNCIL

Rodney Gervais, Jr.

Shelly M. Hall

Patrick D. Armstrong, Jr.

Lyle Rutherford

Cleo Bullshoe Main

MINUTES OF THE Everett Armstrong

BLACKFEET TRIBAL BUSINESS COUNCIL soa niitty Bullehoe

Iliff “Scott” Kipp, Sr.

SPECIAL SESSION Michael J. Comes at Night

LEGAL CONFERENCE ROOM

DECEMBER 30, 2024

12:33

Chairman Rodney Gervais Jr. called the meeting to order and Secretary Patrick

Armstrong Jr. called roll with the following present to constitute a Quorum of six (6)

members:

Rodney Gervais Jr. Shelly Hall Patrick Armstrong Jr.

Thomas Rutherford Jr. Kristy Bullshoe Cleo Main

WAIVER/48-HOUR NOTICE: Shelly Hall made a motion to Waive the 48-Hour Notice of

Meeting. Second by Kristy Bullshoe. Motion carried unanimously. (6)

LAND EXCERPT: Excerpt {#E2025-42}

TRIBAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LEASES/HARTH ACT: Dawn Gray, Tribal

Managing Attorney, stated there are issues with the Leases approved by the BTBC for the

Tribal Property Management. Further meetings will need to be held to discuss the HARTH

Act. No action.

LAND ISSUE: Discussion regarding a land issue. No action.

POSTPONING THE JANUARY 2025 GENERAL SESSION MEETING: Shelly Hall made

a motion to postpone the BTBC January 2025 General Session from January 2, 2025 to

January 9, 2025 due to the New Year’s Holiday Office Closure. Second by Thomas

Rutherford Jr. Motion carried unanimously. (6) Excerpt {#E2025-41} —

LEGAL ISSUE: Discussion regarding the Eagle Bear Settlement. No action.

Page 2, December 30, 2024 Special Session

ADJOURNMENT: Cleo Main made a Motion to Adjourn. Second by Thomas Rutherford

Jr. Motion carried unanimously. (6) The Meeting a Adjourned at 1:28 P.M.

erc

APPROVED:

J.

aie - ee —

Blackfeet Tribal Business Council