Cherokee Nation Businesses spent a reported $8.5 million on a golf course and land that's partially owned by a board member, The Tulsa World reports.

Board member Bob Berry abstained from the 14-0-1 vote to buy the Cherry Springs Golf Course in Tahlequah. He confirmed that he owns part of the course and that the land is held in an estate for his children.

The land cost the tribe $7 million, the World reported. A non-disclosure agreement prevents Berry family and CNB from explaining the reason for the additional $1.5 million in the deal, the paper said.

Normally, the Cherokee Nation Council must approve purchases above $6 million. But the council voted to lift the ceiling to $15 million last month, the World reported.

Cherokee Chief Bill John Baker owns a furniture store next to the property. A CNB board member also owns land near the site.

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Cherokee Nation Businesses buys golf course, land near Tahlequah (The Tulsa World 1/7)