The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation of Connecticut swore in three council members on Monday.

Richard E. Sebastian is the new vice chairman. He said he wants more tribal members to work at the tribe's casino, which recently cut 700 jobs.

More tribal members work in the government side, where voluntary buyouts have been offered. James T. Jackson, who was sworn in to the council, said he wants the tribe to focus more on community.

“The national economy and the world economy — we have no control over those factors. We’re making sure we’re keeping our head above water,” said Jackson, The Norwich Bulletin reported.

Joyce M. Walker was sworn in as vice chair of the Office for Elders Council.

Get the Story:
Mashantucket Pequots: Challenges ahead for tribe's leaders (The Norwich Bulletin 1/6)
Two New Mashantucket Councilors Take Office (The New London Day 1/6)