Grand Traverse Band ousts council incumbents

Friday, February 2, 2007  

Members of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians of Michigan ousted at least two incumbents on the tribal council.

Voters went to the polls last Thursday amid an ongoing election dispute. The tribe held two primaries last year after allegations of impropriety were directed at two front-running candidates.

Those two candidates were taken off last week's ballot but voters ousted vice chairman George Bennett, who had made the allegations, and John Concannon, a two-term incumbent. A third incumbent who is ahead by just four votes could be on his out too, pending a recount.

Meanwhile, the two front-runners -- Brian S. Napont and Thurlow "Sam" McClellan -- are awaiting word on their challenge to the tribal election board. But since the court's chief judge was recently forced to resign, the case is unresolved.

Get the Story:
Tribal Council veterans ousted (The Leelanau Enterprise 2/1)

Relevant Links:
Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians - http://www.gtb.nsn.us

Related Stories:
Grand Traverse Band election dispute continues (11/03)
Grand Traverse Band election delayed a second time (10/19)
Grand Traverse members want police force cut (08/17)
Grand Traverse Band to hold another election (06/22)
Grand Traverse Band, county meet for first time (07/28)
Grand Traverse Band to celebrate recognition (05/27)
Appeals court upholds Michigan tribe's restored land (05/25)
Michigan tribe expected to sign tax deal with state (05/14)