Nya:wëh sgë:nö,
How do I start this article? There is much going on around the world today and I hope you are well and staying healthy during these abnormal times. We are watching how these events affect our Nation’s Treasury. Covid-19 was quickly replaced by rioting and racial injustice nationwide. These situations create inconsistency in the world and markets each day. The Nation must use these markers to make decisions moving forward.
We’ve been able to respond to the health and financial crisis by doing many things. Six-month financial reports with supplementary schedules through March 31, 2020 were reviewed and showed a strong year was in the works but as we all know that changed; swiftly and sharply when the Coronavirus struck. We’ve been able to revise the 2020 general, indirect, and distribution surplus fund revenue and expenditure budgets to create a “path” to get to September 30, 2020, the close of our fiscal year.
Working with the fiscal department we have created a five month concept budget for the period (October 10/1/2020 – 2/28/21). These numbers are estimated and uncertain as no-one is able to forecast the demand of gaming and resort operations, especially with NYS moving through the reopening phases.
Part I Treasury funding provided in response to the COVID-19 pandemic for Tribal entities was received and an allocation policy is in draft to the Council. Part II funding is unknown at this time, but when it is received we will have the policy set to allocate at that time.
The Seneca Nation has received Payroll Protection Program funds or small business loan grant funds if spent correctly. We’ve received $1.5 Million which will be spent at SG& E, One-Stops and Highbanks. We’ve also been granted BIA funding which we’re able to allocate the entire costs of the three weeks the Nations was “furloughed” due to COVID-19. Also tee’d up, a final true up of the Wells Fargo line of Credit following the June Council. All these efforts have and will help the nation come out of the financial hole dug by the pandemic.
As we move into summer, many more people will be out and about doing their business. The Nation continues to use cautionary measures within our Administrative buildings and Health centers for the protection of employees and community members. With rioting and large gatherings occurring more often we need to stay mindful of how serious this disease continues to be. We have recently lost some prominent members of our Nation to this pandemic, it is crucial that we continue to follow the recommendations for social distancing, face mask use and sanitizing of hands to keep into the future. Stay safe.
Also, be reminded that we have a millings project underway. Staff are working tirelessly creating a plan and mapping, which will be the most efficient way for DPW and others to deliver millings to homeowners. To date the team has completed 128 driveways with 157 remaining. The list continues to grow daily. Please be patient with this process as there are a limited number of drivers and laborers (to spread). We anticipate it could be a month from when the request comes in to when the work begins.
To end on a happy note, I hope the stay home order has created many ideal opportunities for families to spend time together enjoying family activities and helping children with their homework. These are definitely unprecedented times. I know it’s been especially difficult for High School and College Seniors to not have the highlights and memories afforded to others in their senior year. My hope is that we can make it extra special for them, they deserve the recognition!
As always stay healthy, stay strong,
Matthew Pagels
