The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians has elected new members to its tribal council.
New members include: Gary Morseau Sr., vice chair; Alex Wesaw, treasurer, and Rhonda Keene and Mark Parrish were elected to member-at-large positions.
The Pokagon Tribal Council governs the sovereign government of the Pokagon Band and has 11 members who are elected to staggered, three-year terms by Pokagon citizens. The council also serves on the Pokagon Gaming Authority, which oversees the Pokagon Band’s Four Winds Casinos.
“I’m looking forward to a productive year with those new to council and those continuing to fulfill their terms,” said Chairwoman Rebecca Richards. “I would personally like to thank our outgoing Vice Chair, Andrew Bennett, and outgoing Member-At-Large Anita Morales for their service to our tribal council and (the Pokagon) Nation.”
Other council members include Richards; secretary, Sam Morseau; members-at-large, Mark Topash, Brandon Rapp, and Steve Winchester; and elders representative, Barbara Ann Warren.
The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi’s sovereignty was reaffirmed under legislation signed into law by President Clinton in September 1994. The Pokagon Band’s 10-county service area includes four counties in southwestern Michigan and six in northern Indiana.