In a split 17 to 3 decision, the Vilas County Board of Supervisors expanded and changed the membership and purpose of the county-tribal concerns committee adding language the committee will be strictly advisory with no authority to determine policy with respect to county government and cannot enter into any agreements, contracts, or expend any county funds.
Membership will be equal between the county and Lac du Flambeau tribe with county representation reduced from five to three and tribal representation increased from two to three.
Direct communication between the county and Lac du Flambeau tribal government was formally established after exercise of treaty rights started but obtaining a regular flow of information over the years has had both good and awkward results.
County board chairman Ron DeBruyne stated it was a good idea when it started and is still a good thing but trying to keep communications open has not been easy. Former tribal president and current county board supervisor Tom Maulson felt this was a vital link with the tribe.
