The incoming chairwoman of the Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts wants tribal members to be more involved in decision making.
Cheryl Andrews-Maltais, 48, defeated incumbent Donald Widdiss in an election on Sunday.
She said Widdiss became too distanced and detached from tribal members.
Andrews-Maltais said gaming will be on the top of the tribe's agenda. Before he left office, Widdiss entered into a partnership with the Seneca Nation of New York to pursue a casino.
Andrews-Maltais, the tribe's historic preservation officer, also hopes to address sovereignty issues. Widdiss recently signed a land-use agreement with the town of Aquinnah after the tribe lost a major sovereign immunity case in state court.
Andrews-Maltais takes office in January 2008.
Get the Story:Cheryl Andrews-Maltais will lead Wampanoag tribe (The Martha's Vineyard Times 11/21)
Aquinnah shuffle won't alter casino plans (The Cape Cod Times 11/20) Relevant Links:
Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) - http://www.wampanoagtribe.net Related Stories:
Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe ousts chairman (11/19)
Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe to elect chairman (11/15)
