Editorial: Winnebago Tribe needs to address spending of leaders

Monday, March 9, 2015  

Chairman John Blackhawk and other leaders of the Winnebago Tribe are facing a recall effort. Photo from Ho-Chunk Inc / Facebook

Nebraska newspaper calls on the Winnebago Tribe to implement stronger financial controls in the wake of an audit that questioned spending by council members:

The findings of the audit of the Winnebago Tribe and the WinnaVegas Casino call out for reform.

And it should be enduring reform that would stop misuse of funds before it reaches the extremes outlined in the audit.

The last thing the tribe needs is for the current scandal to be repeated in a few years.

As revealed by the audit, the casino operation provides a lucrative revenue stream for the tribe.

The irregularities came to light when the tribe’s gaming commission learned of casino debit cards issued to tribal employees and council members as bonuses and payment for extra services.

Get the Story:
Editorial: Winnebago reform needs to last (The Lincoln Journal Star 3/9)

Kevin Abourezk: Two more leaders of Winnebago Tribe quit jobs (3/6)
Kevin Abourezk: Leaders of Winnebago Tribe face recall attempt (3/2)