Successful tribes work to create an environment for which economic development can take hold, reported Andrew Lee of the Harvard Institute. That environment can be created with an effective tribal court and by separating politics from management. Another possible way of creating a stronger economic climate is to elect council members to four-year, staggered terms in office. It's also the role of the tribal court to remain independent, reported Lee. A code of ethics also needs to be in place for council members.
Some people have a fear of others succeeding.
All of the information compiled above will be available soon in a report form from the Assiniboine and Sioux Tribal Enterprise Council. Local legislators Rep. Frank Smith of Poplar, Sen. Linda Nelson of Medicine Lake. In some stunning news, Nelson reported that energy rates would double for most Montanans because of a back room deal between the governor, legislative leaders and the power companies. In this area of the state we do have MDU and co-ops. She also said an estimated 2,000 Montanans have been laid off due to the energy crisis.