Vote Blacketter

Fixing a Broken System

Real Leadership for Infrastructure, Equity, and Unity Across All Districts

The current system—18 districts divided among 6 Ojibwe tribes—has created invisible lines of bureaucracy that make progress nearly impossible. With a chairman seat, secretary-treasurer seat, and three district seats per tribe, and voting on different timelines, proactive measures are rarely achieved. This structure has become a cycle of inefficiency, leading to cans being kicked down the road, empty establishments like the Spirits truck stop or Applebee’s, crumbling roads that damage our vehicles, and buildings plagued by leaks and mold. Candidates running against me will follow the same path as their predecessors because the system itself is the problem. But here’s the difference: I know how to make it work. Enhancing Infrastructure and Equitable Support for All Districts Our roads and public facilities are the lifelines connecting resources, opportunities, and our people. I will work steadfastly to secure funding for much-needed road repairs, infrastructure improvements, and other vital projects. By partnering closely with our three districts—both on and off the reservation—I will ensure that every district’s needs are addressed, promoting a balanced distribution of resources and fostering unity. This effort resonates with our broader community plans and reinforces our commitment to a resilient, connected future for all.

Empowering Community Voices with a District Cabinet

To further enhance our decision-making and responsiveness to community needs, I propose establishing a cabinet composed of members from each district. This cabinet will be tasked with listening closely to the concerns and ideas of our tribal members. By doing so, we can alleviate some of the pressure on the RBC, providing them with the space to focus on critical business matters that drive our community forward. This initiative ensures that every district’s voice is heard and that our leadership reflects the real-time needs of our people.

Building Safe Havens and Affordable Housing

To address homelessness and provide support for those in need, I propose building safe havens near our district centers. These facilities would include 20 homes at $3,000 each, with spaces for coffee and meals, laundry services, and overnight accommodations for those without a place to stay. Grants such as the Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) Competitive Program and the Continuum of Care (CoC) Program can help fund these initiatives, creating safe spaces for families and individuals to rebuild their lives.

Exploring Renewable Energy for the Future

Another idea is to build a power plant off the St. Louis River. Using propane or other renewable energy resources, we could supply customers off the reservation, creating a sustainable source of income. This initiative would help us cover vital expenses, such as ENP Elderly Nutrition Programs if funding runs low, and contribute to per capita payments for our children’s future. It’s a forward-thinking strategy that could empower our community to become self-sufficient and resilient.

Involving Tribal Members in the Decision-Making Process

To ensure transparency and community participation, I propose an option to include voting on these ideas within the reservation. Tribal members could have a say in shaping our future, reinforcing the importance of collaboration and unity as we take proactive measures to address our shared challenges. And for our people who live in other states or even across the globe, we want them to feel included too. If they visit their tribal land, we should ensure there is a place for them to stay and transportation available. Together, we can find a way—even when it feels like there is none. Aho.

Sincerely, James "Tubby"

Blacketter III Candidate for Secretary-Treasurer

Preparing for Potential Challenges Ahead With the possibility of a recession on the horizon, it’s critical that we act now to prepare. Our community must come together to develop a comprehensive plan to ensure our survival and growth during challenging times. If you vote for me, we will create this plan as a unified people, with an immediate start to address the following priorities:

Assessing Our Current Position

Analyze our financial trends from recent years with a clear, transparent graph to understand where we stand. Identify areas that may require immediate cuts or adjustments to protect our essential programs.

Safeguarding the ENP (Elderly Nutrition Program)

Recognizing the vital role of the ENP in supporting our elders, we must ensure it is protected even in the face of funding threats. Develop a fail-safe plan to secure resources and keep this program running seamlessly.

Healthcare Crisis: Indian Health Service cuts risk

Building Self-Sustaining Resources

Work towards creating self-sustaining initiatives, such as food production, energy solutions, and local businesses, to carry us through potential economic challenges.
Explore opportunities like renewable energy projects, including the construction of a power plant off the St. Louis River, to generate income and provide affordable energy to our people and neighboring communities.

Federal Grants to Support Our Goals

To turn these ideas into action, we can pursue the following federal grant opportunities: Indian Community Development Block Grant (ICDBG): Funding for infrastructure improvements, including housing and road repairs, to build resilience in tribal communities. Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) Competitive Program: Dedicated funding to construct affordable housing and address the critical needs of tribal members. Elder Justice Program Grants: Support for creating safety nets for elders and ensuring their access to essential services during times of crisis.

Ensuring Transparency and Community

Input As part of our strategy, we will engage in an open dialogue with tribal members to collaboratively determine our priorities. Voting within the community will ensure all voices are heard as we take steps to protect our future. The Path Forward These ideas reflect the proactive mindset we need as a community to stay ahead of potential economic downturns. Together, we can create a plan that protects our elders, supports our people, and builds a self-sufficient foundation for generations to come. If elected, I pledge to work tirelessly to implement these initiatives with your input, commitment, and support.