Trust reform update sheds some light

FROM THE ARCHIVE

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 22, 2002

Special Trustee Observations
Special Trustee Tom Slonaker, who was appointed by former President Bill Clinton but retained by Norton, says he supports the move to reorganize Indian trust.

To do that, he says three steps are needed: 1) develop a strategic plan; 2) create an accountable, effective organization and preferably staff it with persons experienced with trust in the private sector; and 3) develop "business processes" and a "business plan" for reform.

"In this Report, the Department responds to the fundamental tenet of trust: Is there an accurate accounting provided to the beneficiaries, individual and tribal?" he asks. "When one inspects the accounting responsibilities for trust assets under the law applicable to Indians trust, the answer is basically 'no.'"

Slonaker also spends a good portion highlighting EDS and the recommendations the firm has made on a number of key projects, including reevaluating the Trust Asset and Accounting Management System (TAAMS). He say he supports the department's decision to halt work on the project.

Secretary's Observations | Special Trustee Observations | Trust Transition Observations | Departmental Reorganization | Historical Accounting

Get the Report:
Status Report to the Court Number Eight (1/16)

Relevant Links:
Indian Trust, Department of Interior - http://www.doi.gov/indiantrust
Indian Trust: Cobell v. Norton - http://www.indiantrust.com
Trust Reform, NCAI - http://130.94.214.68/main/pages/
issues/other_issues/trust_reform.asp