McNeel, Jack
Indian Country Today (Lakota Times)
03-15-2006
NESPELEM, Wash. -- March 18 may be one of the most important days in the
history of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation. A
referendum vote is scheduled for that date. Passage of the referendum would
lift a moratorium on mining on the reservation and allow the Colville
Business Council to pursue proposals from mining companies. Rejection of
the vote would keep the moratorium in place.
The possibility of large amounts of money is a big draw but opposed to that
are the loss of a mountain and its spiritual value and the likelihood of
environmental problems. Both sides have their supporters, creating a split
in tribal members.
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