Gagwe:göh sgë:nö’,
I hope all are well. There are less than thirty days until spring. March 20th marks the beginning of a new cycle. And a little more than a full year of Covid-19 and those hurdles. But, maple harvesting will begin and we can be grateful for this gift to us. Gakwi:yo:h Farms and the language programs collaborate on harvesting and processing sap from community trees throughout our Territories. It is a great learning project for youth during the pandemic, which could become a life-long interest.
At February’s Council session I mentioned that a Special Council to approve the remaining fiscal year budget will be held on February 25th. As you may recall, the Nation budget was to cover the first five months of the Fiscal year. The next budget will begin on March 1st through September 30th. This final seven-month budget will show a slight reserve from the casino distribution to our land revenue. This process was created to preserve additional funds for critical situations such as the pandemic. As a result, the general fund budget may be reduced, but it will not affect programs and services.
Our Administration is working hard to open up the childcare centers to full capacity. Also, an evaluation of other Departments will determine what additional staff is needed to recall. There will be a survey to collect data on the furloughed employees as it’s been approximately 11 months since they were released due to Covid-19 and many may have sought new employment. Our overall goal is to create a right sized workforce while maintaining work product and efficiency.
Our Housing Authority will begin taking applications for the Emergency Rental Assistance program funding received from the US Treasury. This program is assistance for rental and utility assistance for households unable to pay due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For more specific information regarding eligibility and application questions (see page 8), contact the Housing Authority at 716- 532-5000.
Covid-19 update meetings will continue every Wednesday from 3 – 5pm in the Go To meeting format. Please request to SNgotomeet@sni.org to join the conversation name, enrollment number and phone number to be included in the session.
The number of positive cases continues to marginally decrease. It is important to keep up the good job following Covid-19 protocols – wear your mask, stay socially distant, keep your circle small and sanitize your hands. Don’t hesitate to contact the Health System and or your primary health care provider with questions regarding the covid and the vaccine at 532-5582 CHC or 945-5894 LRJ.
As always, remember to stay safe, stay strong.
Matt
Dah ne’hoh dih ae’.
