Colville Tribes seat new leadership following death of chairman

Friday, July 15, 2016  

Leaders of the Colville Tribes, from left: Chairman Michael Marchand, Vice Chairman Mel Tonasket and Secretary Bessie Simpson. Photos from Colville Tribes

The Colville Tribes of Washington have a new slate of leaders.

Michael Marchand, who previously served as vice chair, was appointed chairman at a meeting on Wednesday. He succeeds the late Jim Boyd, who passed away unexpectedly last month.

Mel Tonasket will serve as vice chairman. He is a longtime member of the council from the Omak District.

Bessie Simpson was appointed Secretary. She represents the Inchelium District.

During its meeting on Wednesday, the council seated newcomers Sheilah Cleveland, Larry Allen, Georgia Simpson and William Womer. They were elected in June.

Incumbents Michael Marchand, Edwin Marchand and Joseph Somday won their re-election bids, according to the official results.

Rounding out the 14-member council are Ricky Gabriel, Jack Ferguson, Susie Allen, Bessie Simpson, Mel Tonasket, Andy Joseph Jr., and Richard Tonasket. Their seats were not up for election.

Chairman Jim Boyd from Colville Tribes passes away at age of 60 (06/22)