Tribal Observer Issue: May 1, 2006

Tribe to impose a sales tax on June 5 to generate additional revenue

A 6 percent Tribal sales tax will be levied by the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan on certain goods and services sold on the Isabella Reservation effective June 5.

“Council stands together in the belief that this tax will generate much needed revenue to keep current services to the Tribal membership moving in a positive way,” stated Tribal Chief Fred Cantu Jr. in an April 26 letter to the membership. “We believe the Tribal tax will be another successful way to cultivate a revenue stream that has been present and untapped for many years.”

Chief explains Tribal tax

Boozhu, Tribal Members,

I pray this letter finds you and your loved ones enjoying the blessings of springtime. There is much to be thankful for and much work to do as we continue to look at ways to improve our Tribe and deliver quality services to the membership.

Water supply information tapped and flowing in annual report

During 2005, your tap water met all U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) drinking water safety standards. Your Tribal employees vigilantly safeguard your water and supplies. We are proud to report that your water system had no violations of maximum contaminant levels or any other drinking water quality standards this past year. This report will give you even more information about the safety of your water supply. Please read on for additional information. Informed customers are our best allies.

Tribal resolution outlines parameters for sales tax measure

RESOLUTION NO. 06-051 WHEREAS: The Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan is a

Federally recognized Indian Tribe under a Constitution and By-Laws ratified by the Tribe on November 4, 1986, pursuant to P.L. 99-346; and

WHEREAS: This Resolution is adopted by the Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Council pursuant to Article VI, Section 1(k) of the Constitution of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan; and

WHEREAS: The Tribal Council has determined that a need exists to implement and administer a Tribal Sales Tax within the boundaries of the Isabella Reservation; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Tribal Council hereby enacts Ordinance 27—Tribal Sales Tax Ordinance, as it appears below: