Contract terminated

Observer Staff

10/28/2005 12:00:00 AM

In an effort to streamline and consolidate the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan's Legal Department, an outside attorney's contract has been terminated.

The contract for attorney Bryant Rogers-of the law firm of Roth, VanAmberg, Rogers, Ortiz and Yepa-was terminated on Oct. 21. The firm was originally hired to represent the Tribe on Dec. 12, 2001.

The New Mexico-based firm has a national client base specializing in Native American law. Tribal officials felt the membership needed a more direct, hands-on approach to handling legal matters for the Tribal government

"Mr. Rogers was originally brought on to handle enrollment issues, as well as fee to trust issues involving land acquisitions," stated Legal Counsel Sean Reed.

Tribal officials maintained the move will foster better communication and save on finances.

"Mr. Rogers' contract was terminated," stated Tribal Sub-Chief Bernard Sprague. "It is the intention of the Tribal Council to bring more of the legal efforts within the Tribal Operations In- house Counsel over a period of time. This will lead to closer communication and a more fiscally responsible effort."

-From the Saginaw Chippewa Public Relations Department