By Joe Morey News Editor
In a decisive move to address escalating concerns within the community, the Lac Courte Oreilles Tribal Governing Board (TGB) has approved a new lease agreement for its Tribal Housing Division. The decision comes amid growing suspicions of unauthorized occupants, tenants with overdue rent, and increased drug-related activity at the new apartment complex on Round Lake School, Miskogiizhig Apartments.
Tribal Chairman Louis Taylor emphasized the urgency of addressing these issues, stating, "We need to start removing people involved in drug activities because there are kids in the building. People are bringing drugs from the Twin Cities, and we cannot afford to go easy on violators."
Taylor expressed strong support for a new lease agreement that includes stricter provisions to hold tenants accountable and empower the Tribal Housing Division to enforce rules more effectively.
The newly updated lease agreement provides additional authority to the Tribal Housing Division Director, Chad Martin, to ensure compliance. The director highlighted ongoing efforts to address the issues, saying, "We are in the process of inspecting the units and having tenants sign the new lease agreements. This allows us to check for unauthorized subleasing and to educate tenants about the rules."
Martin is also collaborating with the new chief of police, Susie Taylor, who resides in the complex, to identify individuals associated with drug activity.
"We are working to ensure any visitors involved in illegal activities are addressed, while also identifying solutions for tenants with rent arrears, including payment plans and payroll deductions for tribal employees,” Martin explained.
The urgency of these measures is underscored by a housing shortage within the community.
Over 50 individuals are currently on the waiting list for a home in the new complex.
TGB member Gary “Little Guy” Clause stressed the importance of protecting the housing complex for those in genuine need. "We need to be unaccommodating to drug traffickers and put tenants on notice. There are families waiting for a safe place to live, and we cannot allow illegal activities to jeopardize that."
During a recent TGB weekly meeting, members of the Board expressed by tightening lease agreements, improving enforcement, and collaborating with law enforcement, the board aims to safeguard the community, provide secure housing for families, and address the root causes of the complex’s challenges.
As the new policies take effect, the Board is hopeful these measures will create a safer and more equitable living environment for all residents.
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