Note: A list of others present and a copy of materials can be found at http://image.le.utah.gov/imaging/history.asp or by contacting the committee secretary, Jennifer Markham, at 538-1032.

1. Committee Business

Chair Evans called the meeting to order at 1:10 p.m. Rep. Demar "Bud" Bowman and Rep. Max Young were excused from the meeting.

MOTION: Sen. Peterson moved to approve the minutes of the November 26, 2001 meeting. The motion passed unanimously.

2. Report from the Task Force on Tribal Economic Development - November 30, 2001

Mr. Cannon briefed the Committee on background and contact information that was included in the mailing packet. He referred the Committee to a copy of S.B. 198, "High Level Nuclear Waste Prevention Study," from the 2001 General Session, which directed the DEQ (Department of Environmental Quality) to lead an effort to study the needs and requirements for economic development on Native American reservations. Mr. Cannon explained that the Committee would hear a report of the study which was conducted through the Task Force on Tribal Economic Development.

Ms. Dianne R. Nielson, Executive Director, DEQ and Chair of the Task Force on Tribal Economic Development, provided an overview of the executive summary and goals included in the Task Force's report, "Needs and Requirements for Economic Development on American Indian Reservations in Utah - A Long-Term Strategic Plan."

Committee discussion followed.

3. Panel Discussion on Economic Development Partnering

Mr. Richard Jones, President, Uintah Basin Applied Technology College, explained how partnerships can benefit both parties and cited the Uintah River Technology as an example. He discussed a program that allows minority-owned businesses to handle national governmental contracts through negotiated bids instead of by competitive bids.

Mr. Max Adams, Economic Director, Ute Tribe, described partnerships for the Head Start Program; Little Blossom, an early intervention program for children with learning disabilities funded by the school board; and an alliance with the State child welfare program. He described the businesses that have opened and jobs that have been created for tribal members. He emphasized the importance of URT (Uintah River Technology). He further outlined programs that are in the development stage.

Mr. Cameron Cuch, Education Director, Ute Tribe, emphasized the need to focus on the human resources in communities. He described the charter high school operated by the Ute Tribe and provided a description of other tribal educational programs. Mr. Cuch emphasized the diversity and contributions that have been made by Native Americans. He stated more success will be seen if the children are proud of their heritage and learn about the contributions that have been made by Native Americans.

Mr. Kerry Wold, Consultant, explained his work as a consultant with the Ute Tribe in developing different programs. He stated that as a result of the URT, the tribes have gained negotiation experience that will result in more confidence and success. Mr. Wold stated that he is currently contracted through Southern Utah University as a consultant for the tribal smart sites in Utah.

Mr. Forrest Cuch, Director, Utah Division of Indian Affairs, noted the importance of education and requested this issue be studied because education impacts economic development. He suggested that tribes need to establish a separate judiciary and more social programs. He distributed a copy of the newsletter "Division Messenger."

Chair Evans encouraged everyone to attend the activities listed in the newsletter, and she acknowledged the contributions of each panelist.

Committee discussion followed.

4. Other Items/Adjourn

MOTION: Rep. Anderson moved to adjourn the meeting at 3:00 p.m. The motion passed unanimously.