The Council of Elders holds a place of profound respect and importance within our government. As established by Article IV of our Constitution, the Council of Elders serves in a vital advisory and administrative capacity to the Tribal Council. The wisdom and experience of our Elders are invaluable in guiding the decisions of the Nation, ensuring that our governance remains rooted in our cultural values and traditions.  

Constitutional Duties

As defined in the Bylaws, the Council of Elders is entrusted with specific duties to ensure the stability and integrity of our government. The Council may be called upon to:

• Break a tie vote in the Tribal Council. In such an event, the Council of Elders may call for a recess to confer and reach a consensus before casting the deciding vote.  

• Perform other duties as specified or as designated by the Tribal Council or by a formal petition from the members of the BLBBCI.

Membership

To serve on the Council of Elders, an individual must be a registered voting member of the BLBBCI, be a minimum of fifty years of age, and be duly elected by the voting members of the community.