Most people likely don't think of Indian tribes when the discussion turns to economic recovery; but, as a recent article in the Duluth News Tribune reports, the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa is holding its own in the recession.
Karen Diver, chairwoman of the band's Reservation Business Committee, told the newspaper that none of the 2,000 FDL employees have been laid off. The band "kept a large part of Northeastern Minnesota working at a time when that wasn't the norm for the area. Even a small change in our activities would have a large impact," said Diver.
The newspaper reported that the Fond du Lac Band "moved forward on projects, completing a natural resources building, several housing complexes and a drug treatment center expansion." The band increased spending from 2009 to 2010, from about $160 million to $182 million, which includes payroll and membership payments. More than half the tribal employees work in non-casino jobs, according to Diver. In addition to government services, the band runs sand and gravel, lumber and construction businesses.
Karen Diver, chairwoman of the band's Reservation Business Committee, told the newspaper that none of the 2,000 FDL employees have been laid off. The band "kept a large part of Northeastern Minnesota working at a time when that wasn't the norm for the area. Even a small change in our activities would have a large impact," said Diver.
The newspaper reported that the Fond du Lac Band "moved forward on projects, completing a natural resources building, several housing complexes and a drug treatment center expansion." The band increased spending from 2009 to 2010, from about $160 million to $182 million, which includes payroll and membership payments. More than half the tribal employees work in non-casino jobs, according to Diver. In addition to government services, the band runs sand and gravel, lumber and construction businesses.
