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December 30, 2009

CHEROKEE CHAT — New Year, new plans

By Cara Cowan Watts, Cherokee Nation Tribal Councilor District 7, Will Rogers

December 29, 2009 — For the Cherokee Nation, I am looking forward to 2010. In 2010, the “Reduce, Reuse and Recycle Act” (RRRA) for the Cherokee Nation.

The 2009 Act begins January 1, 2010 for all branches of the Tribal government and all of the Tribal businesses.

Policies and implementation for water conserving toilets and fixtures upon new construction or replacement; cell phone reuse program; eyeglass frame reuse program; recycling of televisions, computers and other electronics as appropriate; energy consumption reduction in existing facilities; assessment of energy efficient options for new construction and remodeling.

Other immediate requirements are 40 percent or more paper and cardboard recycling and non-specific goals for recycling of aluminum, glass and plastics.

The Act requires an annual results report as well as actively educating our employees about the importance of sustainable practices.

One unique aspect is the consideration of market creation for recyclables which hints at possible new business opportunities.

Any aspect of the Act requires a cost-benefit analysis. If cost precludes any implementation of the Act, a public notice will be posted in the Cherokee Phoenix.

Sustainability is my primary focus in 2010. As I review the implementation of the RRRA, I am also reviewing other areas of the Tribe for sustainability.

As the Tribe has become less dependent on government funding, we have become more dependent on Tribal revenues such as gaming profits.

As a Tribal legislator, our branch of government passes laws and approves the budget. By Constitution, the Council cannot appropriate money which does not exist and the Chief cannot spend money which has not been appropriated.

Every program and service at the Tribe should create a foundation for a stronger Cherokee government, community and/or economy.

We should ask ourselves hard questions about outcomes for the Tribe when it comes to each and every program.

Even during great economic times, we should always prioritize our monies to maximize the impact for the Tribe and put aside money for emergencies.

During 2010, my legislative agenda will continue to focus on creating a stronger workforce prepared for economic development and lucrative careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, protecting our environment for our future generations and strengthening Cherokee preference in employment and contracting for services and construction.

If you have questions, issues or concerns about the Cherokee Nation government, please email me at cara@caracowan.com or write me at P.O. Box 2922, Claremore, OK 74018.

For daily news and event notices, ask to be added to my District 7 email listserv. You can, also, find me on Facebook and Twitter.

To contact the Tribe, call 453-5000. The operator will connect you with the appropriate department. Tribal programs and services are administered by the Chief’s staff at the Tribal Complex. Tribal hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Save a trip to Tahlequah by using the Tribes Internet tools at www.cherokee.org. Almost all applications are available online to print from home.

• Cara Cowan Watts is deputy speaker of the Cherokee Nation Tribal Council and represents District 7-Will Rogers.

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