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From: Brett A. Locklear
Date: 16 Jan 2004
Time: 14:35:43 -0500
Remote Name: 152.1.219.155
I am reminded in the words of our Lord and Savior, “Let him without sin cast the first stone.” I am sure all of you are familiar with were this passage is derived. I find it here appropriate to ask who among us are the tormentors? Who among us have lived most perfect lives, those without blemish or shame? Any takers? I did not think so. It is imperative to realize that the Tribal Council and the Tribal Administrator are two separate entities. The council governs the policies and administration of the tribe, along with many other duties. The administrator carries out the policies set by the council and also oversees the day-to-day operations of the tribe. These, my friend, are two very separate and distinct duties. In my correspondence, if you carefully look, I referenced that I was, “constantly mortified by the allegations and the consistent badgering of current tribal leadership, specifically that of the staff.” Emphasis here is placed on “STAFF.” Individuals seem not to realize that tribal staff cannot simply enforce large appropriations without consent of the council. One would assume that some lead way would be given to allow a person of this caliber to have autonomy in some developments, however, I have not seen many opportunities offered by the council. In corporate America, we call this micromanagement. You call it whatever you see fit. In reference to HUD being in Robeson County and doing an investigation… Yes, they were there and yes, I know they probably found some things to question. But, were those policies in place when current administration INHERITED the problem? YES!!! Moreover, what is the council’s involvement? If memory serves correctly, they approved the purchase of the mobile homes, prior to the hiring of Ms. Jacobs. As far as the locale of these homes, I admit, I am not aware of the property. But, again, the council voted to purchase these lots. The blame here is not solely on the shoulders of tribal staff. Realize this – it is imperative to see the working of the Lumbee government. And, on a final note, concerning Mr. Baker… I do not know the reasons why his position was terminated. However, knowing Ms. Jacobs, I am sure she had her grounds. You should be careful the grounds you cross without knowing all the facts. Being a personnel issue, she is not at liberty to divulge information concerning his termination. He, on the other hand, is able to tell what ever he pleases. Remember, there are always two sides to every story. If you want to throw stones at the Lumbee Tribal Government, then you do so. I cannot and will not tell you not too. However, when casting those stones towards certain peoples, I caution you to be careful. A lot of people make judgments without having all the facts. I urge you and everyone else to remember that God is our judge. Just a Christian word of advise…