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Serving Northern St. Louis County, Minnesota

My errors not intended to hurt the Band

Posted

As is noted on the Bois Forte website, I am in violation of the Bois Forte Code of Ethics on 25 occasions. I had elected to be judged in a public setting rather than a closed executive session meeting. The reason I did so was for Transparency to show the public that any violations were not done with any deceit or disregard for our public funds.

Primarily the violations were for use of my Tribal credit card and for purchases of Tribal Members’ cultural events and cultural items. To which the items were always receipted and reconciled. All purchases were fully disclosed on receipts and were diligently given to the accounting office for review and approval. The Tribal Council described most of the offences as procurement-related violations.

I now recognize that I did not follow the procurement policy exactly as adopted in the bylaws. However, any action I took was for the sole advancement of the Bois Forte Tribe.

I used the Bois Forte Reservation Tribal Council Credit Card User Agreement as my guide in making any purchases with the credit card. Therein it states the credit card is issued to me solely for the purpose of travel and business-related expenses only. It also includes purchases of activities and meals.

If you were in attendance at my council hearing on Sept. 10, you would have heard open discussion by the council members that this agreement is vague and ambiguous. There were several purchases that were debated because there was incorrect or no guidance by the Chief Financial Officer as to certain purchases.

Finally, I am only writing to express that any action taken by me was for the good of the Tribe. No money was spent without verification with receipt to the accounting office.

The majority of the violations were over one year old and were only brought forth after I requested disciplinary action on the Chief Financial Officer. I always represent the Band professionally with integrity, honesty, and openness. I am recognized as a representative of Bois Forte that brings honor to my position.

Miigwech,

Karlene Chosa

Bois Forte Tribal Council

Representative District I

Nett Lake, Minn.