Copyright © 1999 NLThomas
All Rights Reserved

TAHLEQUAH - On the second day of Principal Chief Chad Smith's taking office of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma, five marshals posts had to be eliminated. Harold Wayne Jordan, who had been appointed director of security by the previous administration, was let go. According to a spokesperson, reassignments were offered to the marshals but most declined.

The spokesperson said that the reason for the elimination of posts is lack of funds. The funds meant to keep the marshals employed is drying up because the budget had been exceeded.

Chief Smith said that certified public accountants, with the help of other transition team members, are in the process of determining the financial standing of the tribe. The CPA's initial report is expected this week.

Linda Turnbull-Lewis, a volunteer member of Smith's transition team, said that going over the books "is a major job". Lewis said that Jim R. Paris, a CPA of New Mexico, who is experienced working with tribes on management and trust fund issues, is in charge of the audit.

Jordan complained that Smith had assured employees, verbally and by memo, that no one would lose their jobs. Diana Fishinghawk, an attorney representing Jordan, said no decision has been made to challenge his dismissal.

Earlier, Chief Smith had tried to calm the employees of the tribe stating that there might be job evaluations and that, at that time, no firings were anticipated.

On Monday, Chad Smith's first day as Principal Chief, included signing a letter to be sent to the U.S. Department of Interior requesting the tribe's law enforcement duties be returned to the CNO Marshal Service.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) has been handling the CNO's law enforcement responsibilities. for more than two years. The BIA took over the marshal's duties shortly after ex-Chief Joe Byrd fired all the CNO Marshal's and hired his own private police force.

On Monday evening the newly elected and re-elected council members met for the first time. The council approved funding for purchasing eyeglasses and denture work, and for $70,000 to cover costs of this year's tribal elections. Funds were also approved for Pell scholarships and vocational education as well as, for a federal food distribution program.

Smith said that a lot of congratulatory mail has been coming into his office. "People are welcoming change and are hopeful", he said. "That's good news for me and the Cherokee people."