SC Newsletter February 2022

A WORD FROM CHIEF CHARLES DIEBOLD

As we look forward to 2022 it seems we still have remnants of the previous 2 years with us having to deal with Covid. We as a Nation continue to mourn the loss of Seneca Cayuga citizens due to COVID-19, and the impacts the virus has had on all native people, has been difficult. To help our members respond, recover, and rebuild, the tribe allocated CARES Act funds from the U.S. treasury to help ease the financial burden this virus has caused.

We must be optimistic in that this storm will pass and life as we knew it will return. The Nation has made much progress in moving the tribe forward. Over the course of the upcoming year, we are excited to begin several new projects and changes that are planned.

The Nation has Worked to provide Nation Police officer to supplement our SORNA program. Vince Gonzalez has completed the Federal Police Officer Training and will work with the BIA to complete further field training. His assignment area will consist of the Seneca Cayuga reservation area and any cross deputizations with neighboring jurisdictions. This is quite an accomplishment and if you get the chance, please congratulate him.

The housing department is proceeding with a grant the Nation received to build some homes within the reservation and more details will be forthcoming. Housing and repairs are needed areas of assistance for members and the housing department is continuing to investigate ways to better serve our tribal members.

There will also be tribal elections coming up this year as well. This will consist of 4 Business Committee and 2 Grievance committee positions. More information is contained within the newsletter along with a URL to view election information online.

We continue to look for ways to provide tribal members with information and are investigating various outlets to accomplish this. While the tribal website is the most central location, we have found some elders that do not use the internet and may rely on family members to share information about the tribal programs and news.

Soon it will be time for our ceremonies to begin, which will begin with the Sundance which is usually held in April. With the world as it is, technology everywhere and everything is now, now, now, we should all be thankful of our history, culture, and tradition that our Nation was founded on. The Seneca Cayuga carry on our traditions as they have for hundreds of years. We strive to continue our old ways and will continue to do so. They are unique and hold value to all our Nation for our ancestors followed those principles.

As your chief I am excited for what the new year brings. Be safe and wish all your families good health. Stay safe.

Nya-Weh, Charles Diebold, Chief of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation

COMMITTEE SUMMARY

The Business Committee (BC) has re-established several committees, which include a BC member as the chairperson. They are actively collaborating on existing committees, both internal and external, to represent the Nation.

Kim Guyett (Secretary-Treasurer) is the chairperson for the Enrollment Committee.

Amy Nuckolls is the chairperson for the Housing Committee

Cynthia Donohue Bauer is the chairperson for the Education/Welfare Committee

Tonya Blackfox represents the Nation for the Northeastern Tribal Health System Governing Board and the Claremore Indian Hospital Board of Directors.

Curt Lawrence and Kim Guyett work with the Tax Commission.

BUSINESS COMMITTEE

Charles Diebold, Chief

Curt Lawrence 2nd Chief

Kim Guyett, Secretary-Treasurer

Cynthia Donohue Bauer, 1st Council Person

Amy Nuckolls, 2nd Council Person

Hoyit Bacon, 3rd Council Person

Tonya Blackfox 4th Council Person

Good NEWS

CCDF AWARDED GRANT FOR NEW LEARNING CENTER

The CCDF program has initiated a project to use a recent federal grant to build a new learning center at the Nation Headquarters. The learning center will have programs for 90 - 100 kids aged six months to 12 years. The program will focus on language and cultural learning. Because this new learning center funding is from Federal money, there are many steps to complete before construction begins, and plans can change.

PROPERTY SALE

The Business Committee recently completed the sale of the building (old convince store on Bayard Street) in Seneca Falls New York. The property was originally deeded to the Seneca-Cayuga Nation for $115,000 and was sold for $1,000,000. The proceeds from the sale will be allocated to future economic development.

TINY HOMES GRANT

The Housing Program recently received a grant to build eight tiny houses. Once complete, people who need to quarantine due to COVID or do not have a place to live due to COVID will use the houses. The project’s first step is to upgrade and install the water and sewer infrastructure needed for the houses and is currently in progress. The houses will be built after the water and sewer installation is complete.

Glimpses of TRADITION

LACROSSE STICK (FAR LEFT)

The game of Lacrosse is not just a college sport. Lacrosse comes from our creation story. Lacrosse is played for recreation and Ceremonially. It’s rough, you have to be tough, but when you’re on the field, with that stick in your hand, all your worries and cares go away. It is important to teach our children that no matter where they play, you are playing for the entertainment of our Creator and to keep a good mind.

ATLATL (LEFT)

A Successor of the spear, and the precursor to the bow & arrow atlatls were used in hunting and battle. Ancient peoples understood the mechanics of levers & were able to achieve higher velocity and range by throwing a dart with an atlatl. An over sized arrow called a dart would be loaded onto the hooked end lay along the length of the atlatl. The user would hold the atlatl with the first two fingers, using a whipping motion to launch the dart. It takes some practice, but it is state of the art weaponry from antiquity.

WATER DRUM & STICK (BOTTOM)

The water drum is our main musical instrument used in ceremonies and social dances; the water drum represents life itself. The vestal is made of clay from the earth, and the deerskin stretched over the top would have provided food, clothing & the water it contains are life sustainers. The rocks or marbles represent obstacles in life, while the rope is our life in which there are many twists and turns. You must learn to overcome all the challenges that may arise along the way.

This water Drum & stick are on loan from Vince Gonzalez. The drum stick was made by John Henry Charloe. No objects pictured or displayed were ever used ceremonially

Upcoming ELECTION

AN ELECTION FOR THE SENECA–CAYUGA NATION WILL BE HELD

JUNE 4, 2022. PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION CAREFULLY AS SOME ELECTION PROCEDURES HAVE CHANGED.

ELECTION TIME LINE

Please keep in mind the following key dates for the coming election:

February 4, 2022 - Election Administrator will mail the Official Election Notice Packet to each member that is 18 or older on June 4, 2022

March 6, 2022 - Deadline to return Voter Registrations Forms.

March 15 and 16, 2022- Dates to file declaration of candidacy at the Nation Headquarters in Grove, OK.

May 28, 2022 at 1:00pm - Deadline for candidates to submit the name of their election day representative.

June 3, 2022 by 5:00pm - All absentee ballots must be received at the designated PO box by 5:00pm on June 3rd to be counted.

June 4, 2022 from 8:00am - 1:00pm - Voting will take place at the polling place from 8:00am - 1:00pm. The polling place will be the Nation Community Building located at 24805 South 660 Road, Grove OK.

DECLARING YOUR CANDIDACY

If you will be running for a position in this year’s election specific procedures must be followed.

The following positions will be elected:

Business Committee: Second Chief

Business Committee: Secretary Treasurer

Business Committee: Second Councilperson

Business Committee: Fourth Councilperson

Grievance Committee: Second Committee Member

Grievance Committee: Fourth Committee Member

The requirements to run for elected office are: Be a member of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation. Be not less then twenty-five years of age. Reside within 150 miles in any direction of the Bassestt Grove Stomp Grounds

To declare your candidacy you must file in person March 15th and 16th 2022 from 8:00am - 4:00pm at the Nation Headquarters in Grove. You must have a valid SenecaCayuga Nation Membership Card or a drivers license, state identification, or passport with you when you file your candidacy. There is a filing fee for all positions of $1,000 for Chief positions, $750 for Business Committee Positions and $300 for Grievance Committee positions.

VOTING PROCEDURES

It is vital that every member vote in this years election. This is your chance to choose your leaders. The Election Committee works hard to ensure a fair election that follows the election process prescribed in the election ordinance. In order to run or vote there are specific things you will need to do. The following page will let you know how to participate in this year’s election.

IF YOU LIVE MORE THAN 50 MILES IN ANY DIRECTION FROM THE NATION’S HEADQUARTERS:

If you live more than 50 miles from the Nation’s Headquarter, are a member, and will be 18 or older on June 4, 2022 you are eligible to vote by absentee ballot. You must follow these steps:

1. You will receive a voter registration packet in the mail.

2. Complete the voter registration and return it per the instructions. It must be returned by March 6, 2022.

3. You will receive an absentee ballot by mail.

4. Fill in the ballot and return it per the instructions. All absentee ballots must be received at the designated PO box by 5:00pm on June 3rd to be counted.

IF YOU LIVE WITHIN 50 MILES IN ANY DIRECTION OF THE NATION’S HEADQUARTERS:

1. You will receive a voter registration packet in the mail.

2. Complete the voter registration and return it per the instructions. It must be returned by March 6, 2022.

3. You will vote in person at the polling place from 8:00am - 1:00pm. The polling place will be the Nation Community Building located at 24805 South 660 Road, Grove OK.

FOR A MORE DETAILED UNDERSTANDING OF THE ELECTION PROCEDURES PLEASE READ THE SUMMARY OF THE ELECTION ORDINANCE ON THE FOLLOWING PAGES. THE FULL ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE AT SCTRIBE.COM

A WORD FROM THE BUSINESS COMMITTEE

THE REGULAR ELECTION OF THE NATION BUSINESS COMMITTEE AND GRIEVANCE COMMITTE E POSITIONS WITH TERMS EXPIRING JUNE 4, 2022 SHALL BE CONDUCTED AT THE JUNE 4, 2022 ANNUAL GENERAL COUNCIL MEETING

DATE OF THE ELECTION SHALL BE JUNE 4, 2022

O n January 4, 2022 the Business Committee of the Nation adopted the Election Ordinance of the Nation establishing that the conduct of the regular election to fill the Business Committee and Grievance Committee positions with terms expiring June 4, 2022 shall be conducted at the June 4, 2022 Annual General Council Meeting.

ELECTION PROCEDURES

COMMITTEE POSITIONS TO BE ELECTED

The regular election of the Business Committe e positions to be contested on June 4, 2022, and the terms of office shall be:

SECOND CHIEF TERM TO BEGIN JUNE 4, 2022, AND END JUNE 6, 2026

SECRETARY -TREASURER TERM TO BEGIN JUNE 4, 2022, AND END JUNE 6, 2026

SECOND COUNCILPERSON TERM TO BEGIN JUNE 4, 2022, AND END JUNE 6, 2026

FOURTH COUNCILPERSON TERM TO BEGIN JUNE 4, 2022, AND END JUNE 6, 2026

The regular election of the Grievance Committee positions to be contested on June 4, 2022, and the terms of office shall be:

SECOND COMMITTEE MEMBER TERM T O BEGIN JUNE 4, 2022, AND END JUNE 6, 2026

FOURTH COMMITTEE MEMBER TERM TO BEGIN JUNE 4, 2022, AND END JUNE 6, 2026

POLLING PLACE

The polling place shall be held at the Nation Community Building located at 24805 South 660 Road, Grove, Oklahoma. The Election Administrator shall ensure that the polling place is staffed by at least two (2) polling officials at all times during the polling period. The voting hours shall be 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The agenda for the regular annual General Council meeting to be conducted on June 4, 2022 shall state that the casting of ballots at the polling place shall be in person and the hours shall be 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

VOTER REGISTRATION AND ABSENTEE VOTING

By no later than February 4, 2022 the Election Administrator will mail the Official Election Notice Packet to each of the members of the Nation 18 years of age and older on June 4, 2022 notifying each of the members that they must register to vote in order to cast their ballot in the duly called election. M embers of the General Council shall be required to register to vote only one time, once a member has registered to vote they shall remain registered voters.

The Election Administrator shall notify each member of the Nation 18 years of age and older on June 4, 2022 that all persons desiring to vote in the election of the officials of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation must complete and return the provided Voter Registration Form to the Enrollment Committee registering to vote and shall elect to vote at the Polling Place as a resident voter, or to vote as a non -resident voter by Absentee Ballot.

All Voter Registration Forms must be return mailed to the Enrollment Committee Post Office Box 452387, Grove, OK 74345 Attention: Enrollment Officer and must be received in the said Post Office Box by no later than 11:00 a.m. on March 6 , 2022.

The members of the Nation that returned their Voter Registration Form to the Enrollment Committee within the required timeframe prior to the date set for the election shall be placed on eit her the Registered Resident Voter List or the Registered Non -Resident Voter List which shall be prepared by the Enrollment Committee.

The Registered Resident Voter List prepared by the Enrollment Committee shall contain the full name to include the maiden name; assigned voter registration number; roll number; date of birth; residence address; and mailing address of each member of the General Council that has returned their Voter Registration Form and whose residence address is within a fifty (50) mile radius from the Nation’s headquarters office 23701 S. 655 Road Grove, OK 74344. All Nation members listed on the Registered Resident Voter List who reside within a 50 mile radius in any direction from the Nation’s headquarters office located in Grove, OK shall be considered as resident voters in the

election of the officials of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation and must vote at the polling place on the Election Day unless the member has a legitimate reason for being absent from the polling place on the Election Day and so states the reason on the Voter Registration Form.

The Registered Non -Resident Voter List prepared by the Enrollment Committee shall contain the full name to include the maiden name; assigned voter registration number; roll number; date of birth; residence address; and mailing address of each member of the General Council that has returned their Voter Registration Form and whose residence address is not within a fifty (50) mile radius from the Nation’s headquarters office located in Grove, OK. All Nation members listed on the Registered Non-Resident Voter List who reside out-side of the 50 mile radius in any direction from the Nation’s headquarters office located in G rove, OK shall be considered as non-resident voters and shall be eligible to receive an absentee ballot Packet when electing to vote as such within their Voter Registration Form

The total number of all the members that have returned their Voter Registration Form which has been verified by the Enrollment Committee shall constitute the Registered Voter List to cast their ballot in the scheduled election.

The Registered Voter List, prepared by the Enrollment Committee shall record each member’s election as to vote as a resident voter at the Polling Place or to vote as a non -resident voter by Absentee Ballot. The Chairperson of the Enrollment Committee shall provide a copy of the Registered Voter List to the Election Administrator and to the Chairperson of the Election Committee upon its completion.

DECLARATIONS OF CANDIDACY

The date for filing of Declarations of Candidacy shall be March 15th and 16th, 2022 from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the Nation Headquarters Office 23701 S. 655 Road Grove, Oklahoma.

QUALIFICATIONS OF ELECTED OFFICIALS

A prospective candidate for elective office of the Seneca -Cayuga Nation must meet all of the requirements contained within Article II of the By -Laws to the Constitution of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation as follows:

(1) Be a member of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation.

(2) Be not less than twenty-five (25) years of age, and

(3) Reside within a radius of one hundred fifty (150) miles in any direction from the Bassett Grove Stomp Grounds.

Any qualified member of the Seneca -Cayuga Nation who desires his/her name to be placed on the ballot as a candidate for office shall file a Declaration of Candidacy with the Election Committee at the Nation Headquarters Office 23701 S. 655 Road Grove, Oklahoma in the form prescribed by the Election Administrator. The Burden of Proof shall be on the candidate to present evidence that the candidate meets the qualifications of elected officials. Such required documentary evidence will consist of:

(a) The Candidate’s Seneca-Cayuga Nation Membership Card to verify the Candidate’s membership in the Seneca-Cayuga Nation, to verify that the Candidate is not less than twenty-five (25) years of age and to verify that the Candidate resides within a radius of one hundred fifty (150) miles in any direction from the Bassett Grove Stomp Grounds, or

(b) A valid driver's license, state identification card or a valid United States passport to verify the identity of the Candidate, to verify that the Candidate is not less than twenty-five (25) years of age and to verify that the Candidate resides within a radius of one hundred fifty (150) miles in any direction from the Bassett Grove Stomp Grounds.

At the close of the filing period, the Election Committee shall verify the qualification of the candidates who have filed their Declaration’s of Candidacy with the Enrollment Officer or the Enrollment Committee who shall verify and attest to the fact that each filing candidate is not less than twenty -five (25) years of age, resides within a radius of one hundred fifty (150) miles in any direction from the Bassett Grove Stomp Grounds and is a member of the Nation. However, in determining if the candidate “is a member of the Nation,” the El ection Committee shall not attempt to redetermine the candidates eligibility for membership but shall only verify said candidate is a current member of the Seneca -Cayuga Nation.

FILING FEE

There shall be a non -refundable filing fee of One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00) for Chief position, Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00) for Business Committee positions and Three Hundred ($300.00) for Grievance

Committee positions. Filing fees will be paid by cashier's check or money order only. The filing fee shall be paid on the same date the prospective candidate submits his/her declaration of candidacy. The filing fee shall be deposited into the Nation's General Operations Account to defray the expenses incurred during the election. Upon submission of the Declaration of Candidacy and payment of the required filing fee, candidates shall not be allowed to withdraw from the election or file for a different elected position.

VOTING PROCEDURES

All Nation members listed on the Registered Resident Voter List who reside within a 50 mile radius in any direction from the Nation’s headquarters office 23701 S. 655 Road Grove, OK shall be considered as resident voters in the election of the officials of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation and must vote at the polling place on the Election Day unless the member has a legitimate reason for being absent from the polling place on the Election Day and so states the reason on the Voter Registration Form.

A Registered Non -Resident Voter who has requested and has been mailed an Absentee Ballot for a particular election shall be permitted to vote at the poll for such election, only if the Absentee Ballot has not been received by the Election Administrator. If a deceased member's outside return envelope is properly completed and postmarked on or before their date of death, the ballot will be counted. If the outer envelope is postmarked after the date of death, the ballot will not be counted.

The Registered Non -Resident Voter List in conjunction with the Voter Registration Forms returned by each member expressing the member’s desire to vote in the election set to be conducted shall be used by the Election Administrator for mailing of Absentee Ballots.

Absentee Ballot Packets shall include:

(1) Election Notice

(2) Ballot Instructions for filling out and date for returning of Ballot

(3) Pre-addressed, stamped envelopes to be returned to Election Administrator or to the Enrollment Committee.

Only those members of the Nation whose name is contained on the Registered Resident Voter List and who have requested an absentee ballot and have demonstrated a legitimate reason to vote absentee, and those members of the Nation whose name is contained on the Registered Non -Resident Voter List and who have requested an Absentee Ballot within the submitted Voter Registration Form shall be allowed to vote by Absentee Ballot. All Absentee Ballots must be received in the post office box so designated by the Election Administrator by the date specified in o rder to be counted on the date set for the Nation's Elections.

Ballot Packet Instructions: All absentee ballot voters shall be notified that in order to be counted, all ballots must be received by return mail no later than 5:00 p.m. on the Friday prior to the “The Election Day". No hand carried ballots shall be accepted, it is required that the official envelope assigned to the Nation Member by the Election Administrator be used, otherwise ballot will not be counted.

All Qualified Candidates shall receive a copy of both the Registered Resident Voter Mailing List and the Registered Non-Resident Voter Mailing List: The Election Administrator shall see that every Qualified Candidate for office shall receive a copy of both Mailing Lists at the time of filing for elective office. The Registered Voter Mailing Lists thus provided, shall contain the full name of each member listed on the Registered Resident Voter List or the Registered Non-Resident Voter List.

POLLING PLACE INSTRUCTION TO VOTERS

Instructions to voters describing the manner for castings one’s vote shall be posted inside the polling place. Said instructions shall be prescribed by the Election Administrator.

NO ELECTIONEERING OR LOITERING SHALL BE ALLOWED WITHIN FIVE - HUNDRED FEET OF POLLING PLACE PREMISES This includes inside or outside the Polling Place premises, during such time as ballots are being counted. The Election Administrator shall request security personnel for assistance as may be required to maintain order about the building during the hours of election. The Business Committee shall cause a misdemeanor complaint to be filed with the Court of Indian Offenses against any such violators (offenders) of this section

POLLING PLACE VOTING BOOTHS

The Election Administrator shall cause at least six (6) voting booths to be provided at the polling place. Said booths shall contain a counter or shelf or some means of writing and shall be constructed in such a manner that personnel of

the Election Administrator can determine whether more than one person is in the booth, but in such a manner as to ensure secrecy by the voter in marking his/her ballot.

The following are exceptions to the rule that only one person is allowed in a voting booth: Physically disabled persons may have assistance in marking a ballot. Visually disabled persons may have assistance in marking a ballot. Hearing impaired persons may have assistance in marking a ballot.

In no case shall any type of assistance be provided to a voter by a candidate or their representative.

METHOD OF VOTING AT THE POLLING PLACE.

Voting procedures will consist of the following:

Secret Balloting. All voting shall be by secret ballot.

Casting Ballots. By the Voter:

The voter will state his/her name to the poll official.

The voter must show identification to the poll official. The voter’s name shall be verified with the Registered Resident Voter List.

The voter shall be required to sign the space on the Registered Resident Voter List next to his/her printed name.

The voter shall then be given the necessary ballot by a poll official, instructed to go directly to a booth, mark the ballot, and then place the ballot in the Electronic Tabulator. Voters must cast their ballot at the time of receipt and shall not be allowed to complete the ballot at any other time.

Spoiled Ballots. If a voter spoils the ballot given to him/her by a polling official, the Election Administrator shall provide procedures for spoiled ballots. The poll official will therefore issue a new ballot to the voter. Spoiled ballots will be preserved for review by the Election Administrator.

Closing of Polls. At the closing of the polls, all persons in line at the closing hour shall be given an opportunity to cast a ballot. No other voters will be allowed to join the line past the closing hour.

PROCEDURE FOR COUNTING BALLOTS

The Election Administrator and or designated personnel shall deliver at least two (2) Electronic Tabulator Machines to the polling place empty of all material, where the Electronic Tabulator Machines will be closed and locked in the presence of not less than two (2) members of the Election Committee.

(a) Securing Ballot Boxes: On the day of election the Election Administrator shall secure in his or her possession the ballot boxes and shall retire to a private room for counting. The Election Administrator will count the ballots. In addition to the Election Administrator, Election Committee and Election Administrator personnel and such staff support personnel requested by Election Administrator pursuant to this Ordinance. The presence of one (1) Observer per candidate as hereafter described will be permitted in the room where the votes are being counted.

(b) Counting Ballots: Upon removing the lock and opening the box, the Election Administrator personnel shall insert each ballot into the electronic tabulator for counting, giving due consideration to examining spoiled and replacement ballots.

(c) Rules Governing Counting: The following rules shall govern the counting and recounting of votes:

(1) If the name of any person is handwritten on a ballot, said ballot shall not be counted for any office or question thereon.

(2) The marking of the ballots shall be in accordance with the instructions set out in the ballot packet.

(3) Marks used to designate the intention of the voter, other than those set out in the ballot packet as valid markings shall not be counted.

(4) Failure to properly mark a ballot as to one or more candidates shall not of itself invalidate the entire ballot if the same has been properly marked as to other candidates.

(5) Any ballot or part of a ballot on which it is impossible to determine the voter's choice of question or candidate shall be void as to the question, candidate or candidates thereby affected. If a ballot is not counted for any reason, the reason shall be written on the back of said ballot and signed by the Election Administrator.

(6) A ballot which was placed in the ballot box without being voted upon shall be considered as a mutilated ballot and shall be retained separately from the ballots which have been counted in whole or in part. Such ballots will not be counted.

(7) Each candidate, if desired, may select one (1) person in writing as his/her representative, who is not a candidate or incumbent, to serve as an observer to watch the counting of the ballots. Such designation must be presented to any Member of the Election Committee no later than 1:00 p.m. seven (7) days prior to the day of the Election. Observers are cautioned to minimize conversation, refrain from making favorable comments or exclamations with regard to candidates or Nation matters and know not to question Election Committee and Election Administrator personnel with regard to m atters other than the vote counting process. Observers can be ejected for inappropriate behavior or a violation of the foregoing or at the discretion of the Election Administrator.

(8) The Election Administrator personnel shall place each ballot in the Electronic Tabulation scanner(s) for ballot image capture and electronic counting.

(9) The Election Administrator may use any ballot image captured by the Tabulation Software to adjust the Scanner's interpretation of any ballot marking. Should the Election Administrator rule the voter intent to be different than that registered by the Scanner and Tabulation Software on any one ballot, the Election Administrator will correct the Tabulation Software accordingly. Each such adjudication of the counting of any Ballot so captured by the Tabulation Software will be projected for stakeholder observation and be verbally announced by the Election Administrator.

TIE VOTES

In the event two (2) or more candidates tie for the same position, the Election A dministrator shall conduct a recount of the ballots cast in that election as provided in Section 1 of this Article. Should there be a tie vote after the recount, a Special Election will be held for the run -off as soon as possible. Date shall be set by Business Committee (not more than 60 days from original Election Day).

RECOUNT

Recount: In the event that any eligible voter or candidate for Nation Office wishes to request a recount of the voting results of a given election for office, such eligible voter or qualified candidate must file a written or typed Request for Recount with the Election Committee Chairman no later than 4:30p.m., the Monday following the Regular Election or no later than 4:30P.M. on the second business day following a Special Election, legal holidays excluded. A non -refundable fee of Five Hundred dollars ($500.00) shall be paid to the Chair of Election Committee by certified check or money order made payable to the Seneca -Cayuga Nation for recount. The recount shall then be conducted in the same manner as the original count and shall be conducted immediately or within twenty -four hours of Request for Recount being filed.

The certified results will be posted in the Seneca-Cayuga Nation's Headquarters Office Building. The fee shall be paid on the same date the Request for Recount is submitted and said filing fee shall be deposited into the Nation's General Operation Account to defray the expenses incurred during the election.

CERTIFICATION AND ANNOUNCEMENT OF ELECTION RESUL TS

Two (2) business days after the protest period has expired, or on the day following resolution of an election protest or recount, the Election Administrator shall certify and issue an Official Notice of Election Results. The certified results will be po sted at the Seneca-Cayuga Nation's Headquarters Office Building.

INSTALLATION OF ELECTED OFFICERS

SECTION 1. PROCEDURE

All duly elected officers of the Seneca -Cayuga Nation shall be sworn into office immediately following the official certification of the election results.

SECTION 2. OATH OF OFFICE

The oath of office shall be administered by the Chief or a Pot Hanger of the Nation.

BUSINESS COMMITTEE

Election FAQ

WHY DO I NEED TO REGISTER TO VOTE?

Voter registration is needed to determine how many people must be present at the General Council to have a quorum. The number of General Council members that must be present at the annual General Council meeting in order to conduct official business will be determined as being 30% of the total number of the general council members that are listed on the Registered Resident Voter List. Note: Residents and non-residents can attend and participate in the General Council meeting. Resident status only impacts how you vote and the quorum calculation.

HOW DO I REGISTER TO VOTE?

You will receive a voter registration packet in the mail, sample below. The registration form must be returned per the instructions by March 6th in order to register to vote.

WHERE DO I VOTE?

Registered Resident Voters (defined as a member who lives within 50 miles of Nation Headquarters in any direction) are expected to vote at the polling place unless they request to vote by absentee ballot. Registered Non-Resident Voters (defined as a member who lives outside 50 miles of Nation Headquarters in any direction) may elect on your registration form to vote either at the polling place or to vote by absentee ballot.

WHY ARE THERE DIFFERENT PROCEDURES FOR RESIDENTS AND NONRESIDENTS? WILL THE VOTES BE COUNTED DIFFERENTLY?

It is vital that everyone votes and that every vote counts. Whether you vote absentee or in-person, your vote will be counted the same. We want everyone to have a part in choosing our Nation’s leaders.

There are different procedures for residents and non-residents to allow the formation of a quorum at the General Council meeting. Allowing non-residents to vote by absentee ballot ensures they have an opportunity to vote no matter where they live. Allowing residents to vote in person at the General Council meeting ensures enough people to have a quorum of the General Council to conduct the election and other business. Residents and non-residents are encouraged to attend and participate in the General Council meeting.

HOW DO I KNOW IF I AM A RESIDENT OR NON-RESIDENT?

To vote as a resident, you must live within 50 miles of Nation Headquarters in any direction. If you live more than 50 miles from the Nation Headquarters in any direction, you must vote as a non-resident. The map below is unofficial and is intended to give you an idea of where the boundary is. If you are unsure if you live within 50 miles, please contact the enrollment officer or a member of the Enrollment Committee.

Nation PROJECTS

BISON WATERING SYSTEM UPGRADE

The Maintenance Dept/Public Works has finished installing three water lines, watering tanks, and concrete pads for the Bison in the north pasture. The USDA/NRCS paid for this project. The watering tanks auto-fill and hold approximately 630 gallons each. The Cement Pads are 32’ in diameter to give the Bison a stable footing. There is some final work to do once the weather warms up. This project will help keep the Bison healthy and in good condition.

BATHROOM REMODEL AT CEREMONIAL GROUNDS

We are working on remodeling the existing four bathrooms and building a new one in the camp area to the north side of the grounds. The remodel will improve the ventilation and overall appearance and move them to a wastewater system in place of the current septic tank type

EXPENDED WASTEWATER SYSTEM

The Nation has a small utility program that supplies water and waste management to some of the homes and businesses close to the Nation’s headquarters. As part of the ARPA funding, the Nation is taking this opportunity to upgrade and improve the equipment and add additional resources to areas that currently do not have access. Another goal is to expand the current system to include the site for the new home project.

BROADBAND GRANT PENDING

We are in the process of applying for federal grants that would allow us to develop a new business entity that would provide broadband service within the 78 square miles of our reservation. This project would allow access to people, particularly students, who are not connected to the internet. We have applied for the grant and hope to learn the results in the spring.

Related Picture/s

From left to right, the bathrooms which will be remodeled, Doug works to install the new watering system, one of three new watering tanks.

COVID-19 PANDEMIC RESPONSE UPDATE, JANUARY 1, 2022

Seneca-Cayuga

Nation received $6,199,172 from the CARES Act in order to prevent, prepare, and respond to the pandemic. Funding concluded on 12/30/2021.

CARES Act Final Projects

After the passage of the American Rescue Plan Act, the Nation received approximately $33 million to respond and recover economically. Funding ends 12/30/2024.

American Rescue Plan Act Projects to Date

The Seneca-Cayuga's Business Committee 2022's goal will be to continue strategic planning efforts to best utilize the remaining American Rescue Plan Act that will impact the Nation for years to come. Future Projects will reflect the Top 7 COVID-19 priorities as determined by the results of the recent COVID-19 community survey

Seneca-Cayuga's Community Survey: Top 7 COVID-19 Priorities

PLEASE UPDATE YOUR NAME AND CONTACT INFORMATION

We must always have up-to-date contact information for every member. For the safety of all members, we will require a picture ID for all adult Tribal Members when applying for projects or benefits,

Please make sure your contact information and name is up to date with enrollment by calling 918-787-5452 ex 6027.

Please update to a new Tribal ID with a photo. You Can do this in person, by mail, or by email. The form can be found at sctribe.com/service/enrollment-department/

COVID-19 RECOVERY BAGS

If you test Positive for COVID-19, we now have COVID-19 Recovery Bags available. These bags are full of items that will help you recover from COVID-19, including an Oximeter, Infrared Thermometer, Sanitizing items, and much more.

Please get in touch with Mike Kerr at 918-533-5515. Answer a few simple questions and provide Mike with a photo of your positive test results. Bags are only available to those within a 50 mile radius of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation Complex and can be delivered or picked up.

STAY HEALTHY THIS YEAR AT THE FITNESS CENTER!

Member PROFILE

VINCE GONZALEZ TO BE SENECA-CAYUGA NATION’S FIRST BIA OFFICER

Vince Gonzalez recently graduated from a 14 week training course at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. He is currently completing a 16 week on the job training course with other BIA officers. Once fully trained Vince will be stationed at the Seneca-Cayuga Nation Headquarters as our first law enforcement officer. Vince submitted the following reflection on his time at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center.

I want to thank Chief Diebold, Dennis Sisco, Joanna Hadley, Gary Cunningham, Mike Mullins, Charlie Addington, and Eddie Eppler for believing in me and granting me the opportunity to become a Federal Police Officer. I want to thank my wife April and my family, who supported me through this adventure, and AJ Leadingfox for believing in me.

On October 4th, 2021, my journey began when I arrived at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) in Artesia, NM. FLETC is where all Federal Police Officers train and study to become officers. The first week was a shock, but the purpose was to weed out those who didn’t honestly want to be there. We marched everywhere, and we did room inspections along with physical fitness and a lot of classroom study. They tear you down and make you into an officer.

The instructions were professional and knowledgeable, and, along with the legal division, they taught us a lot. We did a fitness assessment test the first week, mid-academy, and a final evaluation. Then we did our rattlesnake run of 7.5 miles and 127 push-ups for everyone on the memorial wall of Indian Police Academy (IPA). Then we had to complete a series of real-life scenarios to graduate. It seemed like fighting for our lives! The whole course was 14-weeks, and I believe it produces good Indian Country police officers.

Training came to an end on January 7th, 2022. Graduation day! We started with 24 and graduated 13. It was one of the happiest days of my life. I will be a hybrid officer for the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) stationed on the Seneca-Cayuga Nation office. I will work day to day doing police work on nation land, cross deputized with Ottawa County, and work with local tribal police agencies. I look forward to serving our people. - Vince Gonzalez

From left to right, Joanna Hadley , Vince Gonzalez, Chief Diebold, and Dennis Sisco.

Vince Gonzalez with Cpt. Cleveland while training at the United States Indian Police Academy.

Upcoming EVENTS

BUSINESS COMMITTEE MEETINGS: FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH

All monthly Business Committee meetings will be held on the first Tuesday of every month at 6:00pm, unless otherwise posted. These meetings will be held at the New AOA located on the North end of the tribal complex.

ELECTION DECLARATION OF CANDIDACY: MARCH 15 AND 16, 2022

If you would like to declare your candidacy in the 2022 election you must do so in person March 15 and 16, 2022 at the Nation Headquarters in Grove, OK. The following positions will be elected on the Business Committee: Second Chief, Secretary Treasurer, Second Councilperson, Fourth Councilperson. The following positions will be elected on the Grievance Committee: Second Committee Member, Fourth Committee Member.

2022 ELECTION AND GENERAL COUNCIL: JUNE 4, 2022

Voting will take place at the polling place from 8:00am - 1:00pm. The polling place will be the Nation Community Building located at 24805 South 660 Road, Grove OK. You must register to vote prior to the election using the packet you received in the mail. Voter registrations must be received by March 6, 2022, and absentee ballots must be received by June 3, 2022.

TRIBAL COMPLEX WILL BE CLOSED FEBRUARY 21ST

The complex will be closed February 21st for Presidents Day.

Footprints on the MILKY WAY

The last two years have been shocking due to the Covid-19 sickness, and the emotional, physical, and spiritual effect it has had on our Tribe. To show respect for our Tribal family that has passed on, we acknowledge them here today.

John Frederick Fingerlin – 11/04/2021

Steven Max Perry – 12/28/2021

Dylan Cain Corum – 12/20/2021

Chase Alan Harding – 11/23/2021

Charles Forrest Roller – 7/29/2021

Barbara Jean Pease – 10/27/2021

Tracy Len Brown – 1/21/2022

Laurie Ann Heffelman – 1/22/2022

Abby Faye Putman – 1/15/2021

Emily Jane Bellm – 1/18/2021

Anna L Brown – 1/20/2022

Money is available to help pay for funeral and burial expenses. An application must be made within six months of death. Call the Benefits Department at 918-791-6025 or e-mail benefits@sctribe.com for information.

To update your address please mail this form to”

If the change of address is being submitted for a minor child or incompetent adult, please sign below: Parent/Guardian