TEB Members Discuss Economy Efforts
A report by Fort Peck Tribes executive board members Bryce Kirk and Lawrence Hamilton Jr. regarding efforts to improve the economy highlighted the Wolf Point Community Organization’s monthly meeting held on Monday, Aug. 21.
Hamilton said that Kirk, TEB member Marva Chapman and he traveled to Helena to discuss renewal of the gaming compact. Hamilton reported that they visited with Lt. Gov. Kristen Juras along with officials from the Department of Revenue and Montana Lottery.
Hamilton said TEB officials pushed hard to get the compact re-approved. The plan is to have Juras write up and present the proposal.
“Gaming will stay the same,” Kirk said. “Revenue will stay the same.”
Jason Hamilton Sr. thanked the TEB members for their efforts. “This is all for our kids.”
WPCO chair Roxanne Gourneau noted, “Our community benefits from these endeavors.”
Lawrence Hamilton said that hopefully a new meat processing plant will be completed by the end of the year. Robbie Magnan, director of Fort Peck Tribes’ fish and game department, is leading the project. Hamilton said the plant will employ six individuals. Instruction on meat handling for potential employees is available at Miles Community College.
Kirk said the old HeadStart building in Wolf Point should be torn down by the end of the month. A new $7.2 million facility will be built.
TEB officials have also been having discussions regarding bringing an ammunition business to Poplar. The business would create about 60 jobs.
Hamilton and Kirn announced that the day labor program will start with $2.1 million from COVID funds.
Through the day labor program, businesses or individuals could have people work. The business or individual will pay the program $13 an hour, and the worker will be paid $10 an hour. The remaining funds will help sustain the project. Contact Nick Bighorn at 406-768-2300 if interested in the project.
“It’s putting people back to work,” Kirn said. “We’re just trying to get them back on their feet.”
Lance FourStar, Wolf Point City Council member, provided an update during the meeting.
FourStar said that members of the state Democratic party will provide a free feed during the Poplar Indian Days on Sept. 10.
Gourneau noted the importance of “get out the vote” efforts.
