Members of the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians recently removed all five council members, including chairwoman Priscilla Hunter, from office.

But there is confusion over whether the action was illegal. Tribal members met on Tuesday to consider the issue but voted down two separate proposals aimed at resolving the situation.

It is not clear whether the Bureau of Indian Affairs still recognizes Hunter as the legitimate leader. But the National Indian Gaming Commission says the tribe needs a stable leadership in order to continue operating a casino.

Hunter's office and home was raided in May over alleged irregularities at the casino. The NIGC temporarily shut down the facility for operating without a state-tribal compact but the tribe was able to reopen it and has signed an agreement with the state.

Get the Story:
Coyote tribal meeting ends with no dispute settlement (The Ukiah Daily Journal 10/21)

Relevant Links:
Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians - http://www.coyotevalleytc.com

Related Stories:
Police raid casino offices, chairwoman's home (05/26)