Structure, Programs & Services, (2005)

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Tribal Government

Structure, Programs & Services,

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Tribal Government

CONSTITUTIONAL OBJECTIVES

Upon restoration, the Siletz Indians established a membership and adopted the Constitution

of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. The Constitution symbolizes the incessant desire of the

tribal government to alleviate past hardship endured by the Siletz Indians, through spiritual, cultural,

social, personal, and economic enhancement, as indicated below:

1. Continue forever, with the help of God, our unique identity as

Indians and as the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians of Oregon,

and to protect that identity from forces that threaten to diminish it;

2. Protect our inherent rights as Indians and as a sovereign Indian

tribe;

3. Promote our cultural and religious beliefs and to pass them on in

our own way to our children, grandchildren and grandchildren’s

children forever;

4. Help our members achieve their highest potentials in education,

physical and mental health and economic development;

5. Maintain good relationships with other Indian tribes, the

UnitedStates, the State of Oregon and local governments;

6. Support the Government of the United States and encourage our

members to be loyal citizens;

7. Acquire, develop and conserve resources to achieve economic and

social self-sufficiency for our tribe;

8. Insure that our people shall live in peace and harmony among

themselves and with all other peoples.

In pursuit of these objectives, the Constitution promotes implementation of a three-pronged tribal

governmental structure that consists of the Tribal Council, General Council, and Tribal Court. The

authority of this government extends over all persons, subjects, and property included within the

jurisdiction of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians of Oregon, except and only as limited by the

Constitution and the laws of the United States.

MEMBERSHIP

A. ELIGIBILITY

Membership in the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians consist of 4,181 individuals who are:

1. Enrolled exclusively with the Siletz Tribe; and

2. Whose name validly appears on the official and tribal roll dated May 16, 1978, provided that,

where proper evidence so indicates and subject

to the provisions of this ordinance, the blood

quantum levels listed thereon may be corrected by Tribal Council as outlined in the

Constitution of the Confederated Tribes of

Siletz Indians of Oregon; or

3. Who possesses one-sixteenth or more degree

Siletz blood quantum, filled an application for

enrollment in accordance with the provisions of

this ordinance. “Siletz Blood” is defined as that

derived from a direct ancestor who was named

on any roll or records (of Siletz) tribal members

prepared by the Department of the Interior

prior to June 13, 1979;

4. Applicants for enrollment

must be living from the time

they make application until the

time they are accepted by Tribal

Council as members on the

Tribal Roll.

Development and maintenance of the consistently increasing roll is governed by the

Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians of Oregon Enrollment Ordinance, originally adopted on February

18, 1980. The Siletz Tribe Enrollment Department facilitates the enrollment and relinquishment

process.

B. INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS

1. CONSTITUTIONAL

Duly enrolled members of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians are granted the following

Tribal constitutional rights:

A. The right to equal opportunity to participate in the economic

resources and activities of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians of

Oregon in accordance with eligibility requirements set by the Tribal

and Federal Governments;

B. The right to exercise traditional rights and privileges of members of

the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians of Oregon where not in conflict

with other provisions of this Constitution, Tribal laws and ordinances,

or the laws of the United States; and

C. Freedom of worship, conscience, speech, press, assembly and

association.

2. COMMITTEE INVOLVEMENT

The membership may serve as advisors to the Tribal Council when appointed to a standing or

ad-hoc committee.

A. Standing Committee

A policy of the Siletz Tribe is to establish

permanent committees that provide advice and

assistance to the Tribal Council in a specifically

designated area of concern. The standing committee

complies with all laws, regulations and policies set by

the Tribal Council that include, but is not limited to,

the Standing Committee Ordinance,§2.90.

The primary goal of the standing committees

is to improve the overall welfare of tribal members.

Committee members provide guidance and assistance

to Tribal Council in implementing Tribal policy.

A standing committee is comprised of up to

seven tribal members, each serving two-year terms,

including at least one Tribal Council representative

appointed annually to each Standing Committee. The

Tribal Chairman and, when the committee is

responsible for an area in which the Tribe provides

services to individual members, the staff member responsible for supervision of the related program,

are ex-officio members of the appropriate committee. Other staff members are not precluded from

committee appointments provided the General Manager authorizes such appointment.

Current standing committees include: Budget, Cultural Heritage, Education, Health, Housing,

Natural Resources, and Pow Wow.

B. Ad-Hoc Committee

The Tribal Chairman establishes by resolution specifically designated ad-hoc committees as are

deemed appropriate. Such committees are temporary in nature and focus on particular projects. The

following are examples of those presently in existence: Government Hill, Siletz Valley School, and Dundas/

USDA.

BRANCHES OF GOVERNMENT

TRIBAL COUNCIL

The Tribal Council is comprised of nine members elected by the General Council to terms of three years

each. Upon election, the Tribal Council fulfills the following functions:

1. Elects internal officers such as the Tribal Chairman, Vice-Chairman,

Secretary, and Treasurer;

2. Exercises all legislative authority of the government, except that vested

in the General council;

3. Exercises executive authority of the government;

4. Exercises the right to delegate authority as it deems appropriate;

5. Employs legal counsel, though choice of counsel and fixing of fees is

subject to approval of the Secretary of Interior;

6. Prevents the sale, disposition, lease or encumbrance of Tribal lands,

interest in land, or other Tribal assets without the consent of the Tribe;

7. Negotiates with the federal, state and local governments;

8. Enacts ordinances establishing procedures for processing membership

patterns;

9. Prescribes rules and regulations governing the adoption of members;

10. Prescribes, by ordinance, rules and regulations governing loss of

membership for failure to satisfy membership criteria;

11. Sets forth qualifications for Tribal Court Chief Judge, Associate

Judges and staff positions by ordinance and appoints persons to fill

said positions;

12. Promulgates rules of pleading, practice and procedure applicable

to any and all proceedings of the Trial Court in the absence of express

judicial action.

The Tribal Council conducts regular meetings on a monthly basis. Special meetings are of a

discretionary nature and are announced by the Chairman upon request of three or more Tribal Council

members.

Meetings of the Tribal Council are open to the membership of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz

Indians. The Tribal Council may discuss any matter in a closed or executive session provided the motion

requesting such closure expresses the general subject matter at issue. Final or official action is prohibited

in closed session.

Decisions of the Tribal Council are embodied in a resolution or ordinance depending on the

intended purpose and permanency of the decision.

GENERAL COUNCIL

The General Council consists of all duly enrolled members of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz

Indians who are eighteen (18) years of age or older. When needed, the General Council engages in the

following:

1. Elects Tribal Council members;

2. Approves or disapproves any salary or wages paid for

performance of Tribal Council duties;

3. Exercises the powers of initiative and referendum;

4. Recalls elected Tribal officials;

5. Amends the Constitution; and

6. Submits advisory recommendations to the Tribal Council.

TRIBAL COURT

The Siletz Tribal Court is comprised of one Chief Judge, two Appellate Judges, one District

Court Judge, one Gaming Court Judge, one Community Court Judge, one full-time Court Administrator,

and one half-time Deputy Clerk. Tribal Council appoints Judges to Tribal Court and this branch of

Government is empowered with the judicial authority of the Tribal government. This authority includes,

but is not limited to, the power to review and overturn Tribal legislative and executive actions for violations

of the Tribal Constitution or the Federal Indian Civil Rights Act of 1968.

The Tribal Council, in accordance with the Constitution, determines qualifications for the Chief

Judge, Associate Judges, and staff positions and appoints the Chief Judge and Associate Judges to a

minimum four and two year term respectively.

FORM OF GOVERNMENT

On September 15, 1988, Congress enacted the Tribal Self-Governance Demonstration Project

(hereinafter Self-Governance Project). It became Title III of the Indian Self-Determination and Education

Assistance Act Amendments of January 25, 1988. The Siletz Tribe accepted self-governance as a form of

government on October 1, 1992.

The purpose of the Self-Governance Project is to encourage and perpetuate autonomous tribal

existence through alleviation of federal domination of programs and services. This enables Indian

tribes to engage in meaningful conduct to plan, conduct, and administer those programs and services to

meet the needs of their people. In doing so, the self-governance tribes are empowered with the ability to

redesign programs, activities, functions, and services of the Bureau of Indian Affairs; to reallocate funds

for such programs, activities, functions and services according to its tribal priorities; to provide such

programs, activities, functions, and services as determined by its tribal priorities; to enhance the

effectiveness and long term financial stability of its tribal government; and to reduce the Federal-Indian

service bureaucracy.

The United States reaffirms its trust responsibility to the self-governance tribes to protect and

conserve the trust resource. The Self-Governance Project does not, in any manner, terminate, waive,

modify or reduce the trust responsibility of the United States to the Tribe or individual Indians.

INTERNAL GOVERNMENTAL STRUCTURE

The Siletz Tribe is a highly structured governmental entity that provides employment for 232

individuals in permanent, temporary, part-time and contract capacities. The governmental structure

consists of Management, Program Directors, and Staff. In addition to Siletz area staff, the Siletz Tribe

provides services to its members through offices located in Portland, Salem, and Eugene.

The Management Staff includes the General Manager, Assistant General Manger,

Administrative Officer, Department Managers and Area Office Managers. The managers supervise

the following departments: Administration, Education, Health Care, Housing, Human Resources,

Human Services, Legal, Natural Resources, Planning, and Tribal Police.

Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians

11 County Service Area

Portland

WASHINGTON

COUNTY

TILLAMOOK

COUNTY

MULTNOMAH

COUNTY

YAMHILL

COUNTY

POLK

COUNTY

CLACKAMAS

COUNTY

^Salem

MARION

COUNTY

^ Siletz

LINCOLN

COUNTY

BENTON

COUNTY

LINN

COUNTY

^Eugene

LANE

COUNTY

Map is displayed in UTM 10

with NAD 1927 datum.

Cartography by Brady Smith.

Created July 19, 2005.

1:1,250,000

Administration Department

Mission Statement:

It is the mission of the Administration Department to provide administrative support to Tribal Programs and Tribal Government for

efficient delivery of programs and services to Tribal Membership and

clients.

Responsibilities:

The Administrative Manager oversees Accounting, Fringe

Benefits, Information Systems, Public Works Department,

Property and Procurement, Facilities and Fleet, and

Administrative staff. Duties also include serving as plan

administrator and trust officer for the Tribe.

Programs and Departments

The Accounting Department maintains a fiscally sound

reporting system. This system provides the governing body

with timely financial data, used as a tool for decisions relative

to the financial future of the Tribe. Accounting is responsible

for processing checks (which includes accounts payable and

payroll), maintains investment accounts, and records activity for checking and sweep accounts.

The Property and Procurement is responsible for obtaining and delivering all materials, supplies, and

equipment needed by

Tribal staff. In addition,

this

department

maintains inventory of

all

non-capitalized

equipment.

Staff

members oversee the

excess office supplies/

equipment

process,

which

includes

determination

condition, placement,

storage, auction and, if

necessary, disposal.

The Public Works

Department maintains

the water tower and reads

water meters on a

monthly basis. They also provide cleaning and maintenance of Tribal offices, including the

administration office, programs offices, and other Tribal property and roads. They are also responsible

for current assistant stock for Housing.

The Fringe Benefits staff oversees the daily management of the Tribes’ multiple insurance programs. In

addition to bookkeeping and data management duties, staff members serve as liaisons between

insurance providers and those insured to secure optimum benefits coverage. Services to employees

include benefits orientation, information updates, and paperwork assistance.

The Facilities & Fleet staff is responsible for all of the community facilities, fleet, and cell phone

communications of the Tribe. Functions of this program include: preservation of Tribal buildings;

oversight of the Tribal Community Center’s rental schedule; and on-call status for Tribal facilities’

emergencies. GSA certified Fleet staff organizes Tribal employee use of GSA and Tribally owned vehicles,

including regular checks of DMV and insurance compliance, as well as maintaining these vehicles to

GSA standards.

The Information Systems staff is responsible for all computers and software in the Area Offices and

Siletz Offices; linking information between these locations; and ensuring the integrity of all Tribal

computer data. Other duties include: maintaining internet services and networks, research for future

computer and software needs, development of customized databases, and systems training.

Caroline Easter Front Desk- Admin

Education Program

Mission Statement:

To provide opportunities for tribal members to reach potential, establish independence and improve quality of life through lifelong

learning and education.

Responsibilities:

The program manager is responsible for the design, development and implementation of programs

and services to fulfill Tribal goals and purposes for childcare, culture, education, pow-wow and

youth services.

Programs and Departments

Child Care

The Child Care program assists eligible tribal

families in the 11 county service area with

securing child care services and with paying

childcare expenses.

The Cultural Resources Program promotes the unique cultural identity and history of the Tribe.

Program staff work on research and preservation of language, dance, celebrations, basketry and

issues related to the documentation, protection and preservation of cultural resources within the

aboriginal homelands of the Siletz Tribe. The Cultural Resource Program also coordinates the

Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act issues on the local, regional, and national

level. The Cultural Resource Department and the Cultural Resources Committee sponsor an annual

Memorial Day dinner following a ceremony.

A Culture Camp is held the last week of July in Siletz. The camp is for tribal families to learn tribal

traditions, culture and history in a village type atmosphere. This is a time for our people to be

together, learning together the ways of our ancestors. There is a sense of belonging, meeting relatives, making new friends and leaving camp remembering we come from a strong tribe with a proud

heritage.

The Language and Traditional Arts Instructor coordinates the Language Program, curriculum development, curriculum implementation, the documentation of alternative terms and pronunciations in

various Athabascan dialects and teaching the language. Athabascan is taught in community classes

held regularly in each of the four area offices and to schoolchildren in the Siletz area. Traditional arts

are taught, including gathering and preparing materials for basketry and regalia.

Siletz Tribal Pow-Wows are under the

direction of a Cultural Education

Director. The Director works with a

Pow-Wow committee to plan and

organize two Pow-Wows a year:

Nesika Illahee Pow-Wow and Restoration Pow-Wow. This program coordinates culture awareness presentations

for schools and other organizations

and is the staff liaison for the Siletz

Valley School.

Each year the Siletz tribal people

and friends participate in Run to

the Rogue, an annual relay run/

walk to the Rogue River in

southwestern Oregon the second

week of September. The Run

commemorates the Siletz Tribal

ancestors who were forcibly

removed from their homeland in

the Rogue River Country and

marched north to Siletz.

The Head Start Program is an

early childhood developmental

program preparing three and four

year old children for public

school. Siletz Tribal Head Start

focuses on education, health,

social services, cultural enrichment and parental involvement.

Children participate in a structured classroom environment a

minimum of four day per week,

three and one-half hours per day.

Centers are located in Siletz,

Springfield, Salem and Portland.

Each center serves 20 children.

Siletz and Salem have 10 slots for

home-based programs.

Supplemental Education Program or

Johnson O’Malley (JOM) benefits K12 Indian students in support of

their intellectual growth, vocational

goals and cultural enrichment. The

programs also advance the

participant’s physical, social and

emotional growth. Basic services

such as tutoring, cultural enhancement recreational activities and

college preparation classes are

provided to supplement existing

educational programs available in

communities.

Adult Education assists with developing skills to obtain and retain employment. The program may

provide funding for special interests and General Education Development (GED) classes. The program

coordinates with other service providers to establish continuity for Adult Education.

The Higher Education Program is a scholarship program for eligible Siletz Tribal members to continue their education beyond high school. Developing leadership skills and increasing employment

opportunities in professional fields is the goal of participants. The program requires admission and

enrollment in an accredited institute pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree or a two-year program that will

transfer to a four-year college or university. The program is available to all tribal members regardless

of residency.

The Adult Vocational Training Program provides support for vocational training Siletz Tribal

Members residing within the 11 county service area. The program requires a high school diploma or

GED certificate and focuses on individuals with no previous training, job skills, or trade. Training

may be obtained at either a community college or a technical institute. Application approval for

training and financial assistance is limited by availability of funds.

The Language Program, under the direction of the Language and Traditional Arts Instructor, is

designed for curriculum development, curriculum implementation, the documentation of alternative

terms and pronunciations in various Athabascan dialects and teaching the language. Currently,

Athabascan is taught in community classes held regularly in each of the four area offices and to

schoolchildren in the Siletz area.

The Youth Services Program focuses on the well-being of young people and advocates for the needs of

youth. Tribal resources and others are used in developing positive community models. The program

provides academic and leisure time activities in a supervised setting. Young people participate in

constructive pursuits after school and on weekends.

Dance House

Pre Construction

Dance House

Complete

Health Department

Mission Statement:

To help members achieve their highest potentials in physical and

mental health, to promote the concept of self-responsibility for

health and quality of life for Siletz Tribal members, and to assure

that comprehensive medical services are provided.

Programs and Departments

The primary philosophy of the Siletz Tribal Alcohol and Drug Program is that alcoholism, chemical

dependency, and other addictions are progressive illnesses, which are treatable. Treatment is offered

adhering to the following values: the continuous improvement of service delivery, people deserve to be

treated with dignity and respect, and the value of diversity and cultural sensitivity. The program is

licensed by the State of Oregon and complies with State and Federal regulations regarding client

confidentiality. The A&D program provides a talking circle as needed, informs clients and their families

of recreation activities, and co-sponsors the A&D New Year’s gathering. Services include: assessment,

counseling, sweat lodge, home visits, jail contacts, court appearances, transportation, and referrals.

Individual, group, and family treatment are provided by staff that is dedicated to providing culturally

sensitive services that are holistic in nature. Case consultations and program meetings with mental

health, ICW, and medical staff are held in order to assure multi-disciplinary approach to treatment.

The Transitional Living Center is a part of the Alcohol and Drug Program that operates with grants and

volunteers who are trained in cultural orientation, confidentiality, CPR, ethics, conflict resolution,

infectious disease management, and TLC policies. Weekly staff meetings and monthly case consultations

with mental health, Indian Child Welfare, and medical staff assure clients’ needs are reflected in treatment

plans. Residents receive counseling and training in domestic violence prevention, parenting, and life

skill development.

Community Health promotes programs to ensure the safety, awareness and well being of the community.

The department is composed of community health nursing, community health advocates, and tobacco

prevention and education. Activities include physical activities, home visits, immunizations, hospital

visits, transporting, HIV awareness, first aid and CPR instruction, instruction in proper installation of

child safety seats, and tobacco cessation classes. The Community Health Department distributes child

safety seats and bicycle helmets, plans community events around the National Health Observances,

publishes educational articles in tribal newsletters and coordinates events in cooperation with Head

Start, USDA and the Diabetes Program. Particular emphasis is placed on assisting tribal members to

access medical, dental, pharmaceutical and mental health care and locating alternate resources whenever

possible. Community Health staff are particularly skilled in assisting navigation of Contract Health

Service rules and procedures.

The Dental Department performs general dentistry and services including restorations, oral hygiene,

preventive care, oral surgery, and emergency walk-ins as needed. The department participates in

advocating dental hygiene and conducts outreach activities during the year. These activities include the

distribution of baby bottle tooth decay prevention packages, publication of Tooth Talk articles in the

Siletz News, placement of dental sealants, and presentations to Head Start students and parents about

proper dental care. Dental staff provide screening and referral to the Chemawa Orthodontic Program,

and make space available monthly for treatment of patients in our clinic.

Health Administration includes risk management, patient accounts, information systems, medical

support, and Contract Health Services (CHS). CHS pays and adjudicates claims for professional medical/

dental/mental health services provided to eligible individuals based on certain criteria. Level of care is

subject to the availability of funds. CHS funds are intended to help pay for health care when no other

source of payment is available. CHS also supplements alternative resources after they have been utilized.

The Medical Department provides comprehensive outpatient medical services to eligible Native

Americans and their descendents. Medical services are also available to local community members

who are covered by medicare, Medicaid or private insurance. Services include a pharmacy, laboratory,

radiology, nursing, optometry, and mental health. Medical staff includes an internist, a family practice

physician, two part-time pediatricians, a physician assistant, and family nurse practitioner. In addition

to seeing patients in routine clinical visits, this department also provides other services to promote

healthy living. The Diabetes Program includes dietary and nutritional education, case management,

lab checks, luncheons, and exercise opportunities. Diabetic group visits and meetings, as well as an

annual retreat are available to people with diabetes or their support person. The Diabetes Program

sponsors community events such as Relay for Life, Exercise Challenge and America’s Walk for Diabetes. Nursing staff provides childhood immunizations and flu/pneumonia vaccines to adults. Women’s

health programs include an annual Gathering of Life and special health screening clinics.

The Siletz Community Health Clinic has been accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care since 1999. Accredited organizations can demonstrate continuous quality improvement, patient-centered care, effective management and planning, and adequate facilities to accomplish

the organizations mission. SCHC

provides services to members of

the Siletz Tribe and their dependents, other Native Americans

who are eligible for health services

through Indian Health Services,

and residents of Siletz and surrounding communities.

Siletz Community Health Clinic

Housing Department

Mission Statement:

To insure that the low income Siletz Tribal member has the opportunity to obtain housing that meets his/her needs, is affordable, and

provides a safe, healthy living environment.

Programs and Departments

Down Payment Assistance assists low-income tribal members with home ownership opportunities,

providing down payment and closing costs grants to leverage private funding. Services are available

to tribal members living anywhere in the United States. Grants amounts are income-based and cannot

exceed $20,000. In addition, the Section 184 Indian Housing Loan Guarantee Program is designed to

offer home ownership, property rehabilitation, new construction, and refinance opportunities for

tribal members. HUD provides a 97% guarantee (85% for construction and repair) to participating

lenders for loans made under this program.

The Emergency Assistance Program serves homeless tribal members throughout the 11-county service

area. Funds are available to motels, hotels, and landlords on behalf of homeless Tribal members, providing

them with temporary housing, 1st month’s rent, or a month’s rent/house payment to prevent eviction.

Assistance cannot exceed $1,000 and participants can only access once every two years.

Mutual Help Homeownership is a homeownership program on a 25-year amortization schedule with

house payments calculated at 15% of adjusted income. Eligible applicants must have an annual income

of at least $15,000. There are 74 Mutual Help homes located on three different parcels of reservation

land. Silatchee Park with 54 homes and Tootootney Court with 15 homes are located within a mile of

Siletz city limits. Oak Flats with 20 units is on trust property just outside and adjoining city property.

Rental Assistance provides rental subsidies, based on household income, to ensure improved living

conditions for low-income tribal members. This cash assistance program helps tribal members compete

for housing on the open market. The program’s focus is helping members to become self-sufficient.

Of the Rental Units that the Tribe owns and manages there is an eight-unit apartment complex located

on trust land within the City of Siletz. There is also a three-bedroom home located in city limits near the

dance house. Rental payments for these units are a fixed amount and not based on income. Low rent

apartments units are located at Tolowa Court (26 units) and Takelma Court (25 units) on the reservation.

Fifteen of these units are designed for elders. Rental payments are calculated at 15% of adjusted income.

Resident Services involves tenant and homebuyer counseling, preparing families for move-in, resource

development and networking, working with resident organizations, and coordinating with other Housing

and Tribal departments.

The Revolving Credit Program offers three different types of loans: Home Improvement Loans, Business

Loans, and Consumer Loans. Home Improvement Loans and Business Loans are funded up to $10,000,

Consumer Loans up to $3,000.

The Development and Modernization staff coordinates all rehabilitation and construction programs

funded through the NAHASDA block grant, the BIA, the Indian Health Services, Excess Pledge Revenue,

and other resources.

Programs include:

Assistance to Handicapped/Disabled Tribal Members and Tribal

Elders

A grant program to improve the safety issues and health or disability related conditions of homes for

eligible elder and disabled tribal members who own their homes. One time assistance for every sixyear period, per household, is given.

IHS Individual Sanitation and Facilities

Is a grant program to provide repair and construction of water and sewer services for homes that are the

primary residence, or owned by, Tribal members.

New Construction Program for Elders

Replaces privately-owned homes for elders who cannot qualify for long term mortgaging and whose

dilapidated homes are not economically repairable based on 45% or $45,000, whichever is less of new

construction costs. One time assistance is given per household.

Rehabilitation HIP Program

Provides grant assistance for moderate or substantial rehabilitation for homes that are the primary

residence of, and owned by, tribal members. One assistance is given per household every six years.

Over Income Construction Rehabilitation Program

Provides grant assistance for construction re-habilitation of homes that are the primary residence of,

and owned by, tribal members. Household income must exceed the published income limits of

NAHASDA. One time assistance per household is given every five years.

Rental Assistance Program

A cash assistance program that provides rent subsidy to help tribal members compete for housing on

the open market. The program’s focus is helping members become self-sufficient.

Oak Flats

Under Construction

Oak Flats

At Completion

Oak Flats

Play Area

Human Resource Department

Mission Statement:

It is the mission of the Siletz Tribal Human Resources Department to

obtain, develop, and train the most important resource the Tribe has:

Human resources. This department will provide service to Tribal programs and employment applicants in an efficient, respectful, and

helpful manner. It will assist employees with skill development to

ensure quality services to tribal members and personal growth of

tribal employees.

Responsibilities:

The department’s major function is to facilitate the hiring process. This includes the creation of new

positions, recruitment activities, salary analysis, provide benefits information and help, conducting

interviews, employee orientation, training activities for employees and managers, workers’ compensation,

background investigations, criminal history checks, maintain temp pool and recruitment, enforce Drug

Policy and personnel policies, produce monthly and yearly reports for Tribal Council and management,

employment law resources and employee incentive activities. In addition to the regular Human Resources

duties for the administration, the department contracts out its services to other Tribal entities. These

services include consulting, job description creation, HRIS, Recruitment, and background checks.

Programs

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available to Tribal employees and their immediate families. It

includes drug, family, marriage, financial, and depression counseling up to five visits at no cost to the

employee or family member.

Employee Incentive Activities provide motivation and recognition to Tribal staff through an award

program. Staff can be assured that their outstanding service does not go unnoticed. There are two major

all staffing each year, one summer and one winter.

Safety Management- is responsible for coordinating the efforts of the Safety Committee, building signage,

inspections, safety training, and drills.

Human Services

Mission Statement:

To assist eligible 477-Self-Sufficency clients in attaining self-sufficiency.

Programs and Departments

The 477 Self Sufficiency Program (477), previously the Employment Services Program, has Tribal Services

Specialists in all four Area Offices. 477 staff administers the General Assistance Program (GA) and

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits for the Siletz Tribes’ eligible clients. Staff

assists clients through home visits, providing information and referrals to other social service agencies,

family interventions, conducting orientations, and providing clients with application assistance. Staff

conducts monthly trainings for clients. They are provided with job search assistance, clothing allowances,

computer support, current job listings for state and local employers, and those with children are

coordinated with the Child Care Program.

Additionally, Siletz tribal members and other Native Americans, including Alaskan Natives and Native

Hawaiians, participate in 477 Programs such as: Classroom Training, Work Experience (WEX), Summer

Youth, Direct Placement, and On the Job Training (OJT). The WEX, OJT and Classroom Training

participants must be unemployed, under employed, or economically disadvantaged, and live in the Eleven

County Service Area.

The Siletz Indian Child Welfare Department (ICW) offers a variety of services to Tribal families who

are, or are at risk of, experiencing, family disruption and involvement with the State Department of

Human Services Department. The department’s staff includes: Case Manager I, Director, Case Manager

II, Case Manager III, Case Manager IV and Crisis Response Officer. The program delivers support,

advocacy, and intervention services to eligible children and family members throughout the Eleven

County Service Area. ICW provides services

such as case management and planning;

coordination of state, local, and tribal services

to aid tribal families; parenting classes and

access to professional services needed to

relieve family disruption; and, services to

children in out-of-home placement.

The Elders Title VI Program promotes a

healthy, fulfilled lifestyle for elders

throughout their “Golden Years”. The Elders

Program Coordinator provides information

on nutritional skills, coordinates use of tribal

services, and serves as a liaison between tribal, state, and local programs that serve elders. The program

also provides transportation as needed, in-home housekeeping, meals on wheels, firewood, home health,

and home visits.

The Elders Council Coordinator plans, prepares and coordinates all activities as designated by the Tribal

Elders Council.

The USDA Food Distribution Program is

designed to promote the general welfare,

health, and well being of the Indian

population through nutrition. The Siletz

Tribe uses a refrigerated truck and

distributes USDA food in accordance with

the distribution guidelines approved by the

USDA Department within a 15 County area.

The main warehouse is located in Siletz and

a satellite warehouse is located in Salem.

Staff includes a USDA Director, USDA Clerk

and intermittent warehouseman. This program distributes commodity food to all enrolled Native

Americans. Distribution is scheduled on a monthly basis. In addition, to facilitate the Nutrition Education

Program, the USDA program coordinates with Community Health Advocates to prepare meal

demonstrations for clients. Also, recipes and health related information is available to ensure a healthy

life-style.

USDA main warehouse in Siletz.

Legal Department

Mission Statement:

The Legal Department provides comprehensive legal solutions for the

Tribal Administration.

Responsibilities:

The Legal Department supports the Tribal Executive branch’s goals by offering proactive counseling

and advice; drafting and review of legal and business documents; and representing the Tribal

Administration in problem-solving, negotiation, and litigation.

Delores Pigsley signing MOU at Oak Flats.

Natural Resources

Mission Statement:

To care for, protect, enhance, and provide for the wise use of all of

the Tribe’s natural resources in a manner that ensures that all generations to come will benefit from these resources. This philosophy

applies to all land to which the Tribe is historically tied, including its

aboriginal ancestral lands, its Coast Reservation, and its current and

future land holdings.

Responsibilities:

The Natural Resources Department is responsible for operating the Tribal Forestry, Fish and Wildlife, Aquatics, and Environmental Protection programs. Additionally, the department administers a

variety of grants and cooperative agreements from EPA and other entities covering the Tribes’

participation in the Portland Harbor Superfund site monitoring activities and various hydropower

relicensing projects.

Programs and

Departments

The Forestry Program

covers all aspects of forest

management on the Tribes’

4,000+ acres of timberland,

including: Timber Sale

Planning (environmental

assessments, unit layout

and design, road layout

and design, timber cruising, appraisals, and contract development),

Administration (contract administration and compliance inspections), Silviculture (prescription

writing, site preparation, reforestation, animal damage protection, brush control, and stocking

surveys), Forest Development (timber stand improvement, pre-commercial and commercial

thinning), Forest Protection (fire management, insect and disease control), Forest Inventory and

Management Planning, Firewood Permits, Timberland Trespass Inspections, and Road Inventory

and Maintenance.

The Fish and Wildlife Program

handles all aspects of Tribal fish

and wildlife including: issuing

and tracking deer and elk hunting

tags and licenses, salmon fishing

tags and licenses, and shellfish

permits. All issued hunting and

fishing tags and licenses are kept

on file for reference. Records of all

harvested animals are kept on file

for reports that go to the Natural

Resources Committee and to the

Oregon Department of Fish and

Wildlife. The program also covers

distributing confiscated game

meat and subsistence salmon to tribal members. In addition, the program works with staff at the

Tribal Fish Hatchery.

Aquatic Projects personnel

focus on the restoration and

maintenance of traditional

Tribal fisheries. Salmon, lamprey, and estuary research,

monitoring, and restoration

projects are examples of ongoing activities. This program also

oversees the Tribal Fish Hatchery and monitors the Siletz

River system, collecting stream

temperature, flow, and suspended sediment data at

locations throughout the

system.

The Environmental Protection

Program’s primary focus is on water

quality monitoring in the Siletz River

Basin, monitoring cleanup of the

Portland Harbor Superfund Site,

providing Tribal input to various

hydropower relicensing projects, and

participation in watershed councils.

Planning Department

Mission Statement:

Building Bridges: Connecting Past to Future, Dreams to Reality.

Responsibilities:

The Planning Department supports Tribal Governance to realize program missions by proactively

applying systems and tools that uniformly assess, coordinate, and evaluate projects and processes.

Programs and Departments

Tribal Planner

The Tribal Planner facilitates Council’s development of Tribal goals and objectives, and supports

Departments in successfully executing work plans and objectives. In addition to administering the

department, the Tribal planner under the Council and the General Manager’s direction, acts as a liaison

with other governmental planning entities, providing coordination and addressing regulatory

requirements.

The Transportation Program contributes to the creation of the Siletz Reservation Transportation Plan

and the Siletz Reservation Transportation Improvement Program (TIP); two documents that guide Tribal

transportation planning. The program also includes maintaining the Indian Reservation Road Inventory

(IRR), a list of roads on or accessing Tribal trust lands eligible for federal funding for improvements or

new construction. As in the past, Planning manages the Tribe’s responsibilities when it enters into a 638

contract (self-governance) with the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Branch of Roads for specific

improvement and/or construction projects (i.e., Gwee-Shut Rd.).

The Realty Program covers various aspects of Tribal fee and trust land real estate transactions, including

acquisition of fee land and transfer of land from fee status to trust status. Real estate transactions entail

title review, property line surveys, and environmental site assessments on fee and trust lands as well as

land appraisals, leases, and easements on trust lands. The program also prepares environmental review

documents and other environmental compliance documents, including state and federal permits for a

variety of Tribal projects. Additionally, the Environmental Planner represents Tribal interests as they

pertain to state water quality standards and federal air quality regulations.

Grant Writing helps obtain funding through the grant application process. This includes grant

opportunity monitoring, compiling databases of available funding, writing grant applications and

designing work plans. The Grant Writer secures holds on current grants and keeps all grant funded staff

informed of reporting requirements, re-application opportunities, and deadlines. The Grant Writer works

in conjunction with each of the Program Managers to discuss their programs funding needs, and to

coordinate efforts at compiling grant recommendations to present to council for priority projects.

GIS provides mapping and support to Tribal programs, including Planning and Natural Resources.

Staff gathers and maintains information on all Tribal land holdings and aboriginal lands, including tax

lot maps, aerial photos, legal descriptions, property boundaries, acreage, historic and present uses,

significant natural and human-made features, etc. Staff ’s primary responsibility is for the development

and maintenance of the Tribal GIS system.

The Enrollment Department oversees enrollment applications, relinquishments, issues Certifications

of Indian Blood (CIB), Tribal Identification Cards, and traces family genealogy. In addition, the staff is

responsible for administering the casket enterprise and administers death benefits insurance to the

membership.

Gwee-Shut Road

Tribal Court

Mission Statement:

To protect the rights of the Tribe and its members; to peacefully

resolve disputes; to enforce obligations and law while maintaining

the sovereignty of the Siletz Tribe as an Indian Nation.

Responsibilities:

To provide an on-going Tribal Court and Court of Appeals Program, resolving disputes according to

Tribal Ordinance, the Tribal Constitution, and the Indian Civil Rights Act.

Programs and Departments:

The Siletz Tribal Court is comprised of one Chief Judge, two Appellate Judges, one District Court

Judge, one Gaming Court Judge, one Community Court Judge, one full-time Court Administrator,

and one half-time Deputy Clerk. Tribal Council appoints Judges to Tribal Court and this branch of

Government is empowered with the judicial authority of the Tribal government. This authority

includes, but is not limited to, the power to review and overturn Tribal legislative and executive

actions for violations of the Tribal Constitution or the Federal Indian Civil Rights Act of 1968. Judicial

services currently include limited judicial services to family, juvenile, employment, gaming, torts, and

other matters that fall within the current Tribal Ordinances.

The Siletz Community Law Court is a component of Siletz Tribal Court, however the Community

Court has its own mission statement and special, complimentary responsibilities to that of the other

branches of Tribal Court.

Mission Statement: The Siletz Community Law Court is dedicated to serving the people of the Siletz

Tribe, by providing a fair, effective, and affordable venue for resolving interpersonal and community

disputes. The various traditions of the Confederated Tribes are respected and adhered to, and

practical, permanent solutions will be created in a comfortable and informal setting.

Responsibilities: The Siletz Community Law Court consists of four Gwe-shvt-naga (GWAY-SHUTNAH-GAH: Tututni word meaning in between he, she, it walks or go between)/Peacemakers and is a

part of the Tribal Court system. However, its focus is to use traditional Siletz methods to resolve

disputes through mediation and the use of traditional ways. Gwe-shvt-naga/Peacemakers are Siletz

Tribal members, appointed by Tribal Council, who have the respect of the Siletz Community, a

reputation for integrity, honesty, humanity and an ability to resolve problems. A tribal member may

request Peacemaking with an informal written request to Tribal Court. Gwe-shvt-naga/Peacemakers

may mediate a dispute concerning marital or family strife, minor disputes with neighbors, minor

community business transactions involving $2500 or less and any other matter that Tribal Court finds

appropriate, as long as all parties agree. These disputes may not include divorce, separation, or

annulment cases, as Tribal Court is not yet authorized to handle such cases.

Tribal Police

Mission Statement:

To assist community members in creating a safe and healthy

environment so that residents can succeed.

Responsibilities:

To provide safety services to the tribal and local Siletz community. Including neighborhood

patrols, emergency response, service of legal notices and related enforcement, traffic control, and

protective services.

Programs and Departments:

The Siletz Tribal Police is comprised of one Police Chief, two Officers, three Reserve Officers, and one

half-time Support Clerk, Our officers participate in coordinated enforcement, investigation, and

prevention teams and projects with county, state, and other agencies.

Tribal Enterprises,

Affiliates, and Partnerships

Chinook Winds Resort & Hotel

Logan Road RV Park

Lakeside Golf Course

Toledo Mill Site

Photo Courtesy of Chinook Winds

Chinook Winds Casino Resort

Chinook Winds Casino opened on

May 27, 1995, with a 10,000 square

foot temporary structure at the north

end of Lincoln City, Oregon. Within a

few short years this temporary casino

has been transformed into an ocean

front destination resort. Like all of

Lincoln City, Chinook Winds is built

on the land of our Siletz Tribal

ancestors and was a part of the

reservation as established in 1855. It

has been out of Tribal ownership only

once and is now, once again, part of

the Tribes’ reservation lands.

The resort includes a 158,000 sq. foot casino and convention center including two restaurants, deli,

lounge, bingo room, offices, meeting rooms and year-round, live entertainment. The resort also

includes a hotel with 227 rooms, 81 ocean view suites with fireplace and balcony, indoor heated pool,

sauna, spa, 7000 sq. feet of meeting space, a restaurant, lounge, and live entertainment on weekends, to

name only some of the amenities. In addition, the resort includes childcare at the Chinook Winds Play

Palace and Games Galore Arcade, available seven days a week.

However, the casino does more than just supply entertainment; it is a valuable economic stronghold.

Chinook Winds provides employment opportunities to tribal members, and along with Siletz Tribal

Administration, it is the number one employer in Lincoln County. The Resort’s events and concerts

have continued to draw a large amount of visitors to Lincoln City and the surrounding areas. Spending

by non-local visitors has a positive impact on many sectors of the local economy.

Through Chinook Winds

Resort the Siletz Tribe

takes an active role in the

community by bestowing

monetary contributions,

hosting many community

oriented events, and

providing in-kind

donations of convention

space for various fundraisers, as well as technical support, advertising,

and manpower.

Siletz Tribal Gaming Commission

Mission Statement:

Our mission as the Siletz Tribal Gaming Commission is to ensure the

fairness, integrity, security, and honesty of Gaming Operations for

the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. We shall accomplish our

goals by enforcing and complying with: the Tribal/State Compact,

NIGC Regulations, Ordinance, Charter, Internal Controls, Policy and

Procedures, and all other applicable laws for the Gaming Operations

of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians.

SILETZ TRIBAL GAMING COMMISSION

The Siletz Tribal Gaming Commission (STGC) is an independent body that has been delegated the

responsibilities of regulating the Tribe’s Gaming Operation(s). STGC ensures that the Tribe’s Gaming

Operation(s) are complying with the Tribal Gaming Ordinance, the National Indian Gaming Regulatory

Act, National Indian Gaming Commission rules/regulations, the Tribal/State Compact, Minimum Internal

Controls, and/or any other applicable law, rule, regulation, policy or procedure. STGC does not involve

itself in Casino operations other than to the extent that its regulatory activities affect operations (e.g.,

licensing of employees and vendors).

AUDITS

On a regular basis, the STGC (and other agencies – i.e. Oregon State Police, the National Indian Gaming

Commission) audits the Tribe’s Gaming Operation(s). Annually, an independent auditing firm audits

the Gaming Operation(s) and the results are reported to the Tribal Council and the National Indian

Gaming Commission as required.

BACKGROUND INVESTIGATIONS

The STGC investigates and licenses all prospective employees and major vendors. The investigation

process is designed to keep corruption and organized crime out of the Tribe’s Gaming Operation(s).

Per the Tribal/State Compact, all Class III Gaming Vendors have background investigations that are

conducted by the Oregon State Police Tribal Gaming Section.

SURVEILLANCE DEPARTMENT

The Surveillance Department is charged with preserving the integrity of the Tribe’s Gaming Operation(s).

The department is independent of the Casino management and reports directly the STGC.

OFFICE OF HEARINGS AND APPEALS

The Office of Hearings and Appeals is an independent department of the STGC. This office conducts

hearing/appeals if an individual or organization (Gaming Operation(s), vendors, etc.) disagrees with

the remedial action ordered, or the sanctions assessed by the STGC.

Siletz Tribal Business Corporation

Mission Statement:

The mission of the Siletz Tribal Business Corporation is to incubate,

establish, and acquire Tribal enterprises for the economic benefit of

the Tribe and its Membership.

Responsibilities:

Although STBC neither owns nor controls Tribal assets, it makes recommendations to Tribal Council

regarding the use and development of Tribal resources for economic development. This includes:

promoting the best and fullest development of Tribal resources for income; identifying business potentials

of the Siletz Tribe; improving management and financial system of Tribal enterprises; expanding the

land base for economic development; and providing business potentials and employment for Siletz Tribal

Members.

Programs and Departments

Small Business Information Center (SBIC) provides support including one-on-one counseling, classes,

seminars, workshops, curriculum, instructional resources and other assistance to qualified tribal members

interested in becoming entrepreneurs. Ongoing counseling assistance is also available for business owners

who have participated in the STBC Small Business Program.

A Small Business Loan Program to foster the development of, or to improve existing, business operations

is currently available to qualified tribal members.

SBIC is affiliated with ONABEN (Oregon Native American Enterprise Network) and works with local

businesses to develop networking opportunities for tribal members.

Enterprises

Logan Road RV Park has 51 superb sites with full hookups including cable TV and Hi-Speed Wireless

Internet. Visitors can enjoy gaming and entertainment at Chinook Winds Casino Resort, golfing,

walking on the beach, hiking in the mountains and forests, fishing in our local lakes and rivers. There

is shopping at the many local shops and Factory Outlets provide exciting activities with something for

all ages and for everyone in the family. Also offering 24-Hour Shuttle Service to Chinook Winds

Casino Resort.

Siletz Valley School

Mission Statement:

The mission of Siletz Valley School, where children come first, is to

create a nurturing environment that encourages a love of learning,

motivates students to reach their full potential, and provides opportunity to achieve happiness and academic, social, and cultural success.

Vision Statement:

We envision a spirited school and community working together to create the highest quality educational experience for students to live, work, and progress in a diverse society. Values include: mutual

respect; tolerance; communication; friendly environment; cooperation; responsibility; commitment;

positivity.

The Siletz Valley School (SVS) serves the community of Siletz, Oregon. Although a part of the Siletz

community for decades as a public primary and secondary school, after scheduled for closure by

Lincoln County, in 2002 SVS was established as a charter school. SVS now serves children in kindergarten through eighth grades. In 2006, the school will expand to include high school and advanced

education. The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians is a primary member of the partnership that

supports, and contributes to, the success of SVS.

Siletz Valley School

This is a copy of a public record, reproduced as it was published. It is not legal advice, and it may not be the version a court would rely on. Check the official source before you cite it.