# Structure, Programs & Services, (2005)

> Briefs, arguments, decisions, and more.

URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aconfederated_siletz%3A19f12c65595c526a

## Record

- **Collection:** Tribal code
- **Document type:** Tribal code

## Text

Tribal Government

Structure, Programs & Services,
Enterprises, Affiliates & Partnerships

This page intentionally left blank for printing purposes.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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·

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
of
condition, placement,
storage, auction and, if
necessary, disposal.
The Public Works
Department maintains
the water tower and reads
water meters on a

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

43

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.

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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.

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Tribal Enterprises,
Affiliates, and Partnerships

Chinook Winds Resort & Hotel

Logan Road RV Park

Lakeside Golf Course

Toledo Mill Site

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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
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Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/tribal%3Aconfederated_siletz%3A19f12c65595c526a. Public record. Not legal advice.