Nez Perce Tribe Hosts Urgent Community Session, Aims for Partnership

UPDATE: The Nez Perce Tribe held a pivotal meeting this week at the Red Wolf Golf Club in Clarkston, emphasizing their commitment to being a collaborative partner in the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley. Elected officials from Asotin County and other local governments gathered for a two-hour session that underscored the tribe’s significant contributions and aspirations for the community.

During the presentation, Chairperson Shannon Wheeler articulated the tribe’s desire to enhance relationships with local leaders, stating, “When the tribe comes to town, we bring a lot to the community. We want to be the best neighbor you have.” As the third-largest employer in the region, the Nez Perce Tribe provides approximately 1,500 jobs and has a vibrant membership of over 3,500 enrolled members.

In addition to discussing historical ties and cultural resources, the meeting highlighted the tribe’s role in local schools and organizations. Nakia Williamson, manager of the cultural resources program, emphasized the tribe’s commitment to fostering partnerships: “We want to create partnerships in good faith with no ulterior motives.”

The Nez Perce Tribe’s recent purchase of the Red Wolf Golf Club in 2019 is part of a broader strategy to enhance community engagement. The tribe is currently applying to place the land into trust, which could lead to the introduction of sports betting and card games at the club.

Moreover, the tribe has also acquired the former Umpqua Bank building in downtown Clarkston, which is undergoing the same trust application process. However, there are no plans for gaming activities at this location, according to Nikoli Greene, executive officer of Nez Perce Tribal Enterprises. Greene highlighted the importance of collaboration, stating, “We are stronger and more vibrant when we work together.”

As the meeting concluded, elected officials expressed their appreciation for the information shared and their desire to maintain positive relationships with the Nez Perce Tribe. Asotin County Commissioner Brian Shinn noted, “We won’t always agree on everything, but we can always work together.”

The Nez Perce Tribe’s efforts to strengthen community ties and enhance regional development are crucial at this time, as they seek to make a lasting impact on the area. As the tribe moves forward with these initiatives, local residents and leaders will be watching closely to see how these partnerships unfold.

Stay tuned for further updates on the Nez Perce Tribe’s initiatives and their ongoing impact on the community.