Leader Staff
Laurie Boivin was elected chairwoman of the Menominee Tribal Legislature at an annual reorganizational meeting Sunday, replacing Craig Corn, who served as chairman for the last two years.
The vote returns Boivin to the role she last held in 2010. Boivin served from 2003 to 2012 as a legislator in various roles before completing the allowable term limit under the Menominee Tribal Constitution.
“This is a pivotal time in our tribal history,” Boivin said. “We have a very strong Tribal Legislature right now that is completely focused on addressing the needs of the Menominee people.”
Boivin was re-elected to the Legislature in January.
“When I served out my last term as a legislator I thought that would be it for me,” Boivin said. “But last summer when the federal government approved our application for the Kenosha casino, it was as if a spark was reignited in me. I have always believed in the Kenosha project as a means to raise our tribe to a greater level of self-sufficiency.”
The project still needs the approval of Gov. Scott Walker, who recently announced he would he would have an independent consultant review the proposal.
Gary Besaw, a member of the Tribal Legislature, will continue as chairman of the Menominee Kenosha Gaming Authority, according to Boivin, who said Besaw has her full support.
“He will be the point person for the tribe in our relationship with our partners, Hard Rock International, and will lead our tribal efforts in working with Governor Walker’s team as we seek final approval,” she said.
Boivin confirmed she will give the State of the Tribes address in Madison on Thursday before a joint session of the Wisconsin Legislature on behalf of the Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council.
The Legislature on Sunday also elected Crystal Chapman-Chevalier as vice chair and Joan Delabreau as secretary.
“The Menominee Tribal Constitution provides for an annual reorganization of the Menominee Tribal Legislature,” Corn said. “I am grateful for the faith shown in me by the Legislature during my two terms as chairman. I look forward to the next three years as a member of the Legislature and I am fully committed in my support of Chairwoman Boivin.”
Boivin has been a member of both the Keshena and Kenosha Gaming Authorities and served as general manager of the Menominee Casino in Keshena from 1989-1996. Currently, she is the business manager of the Menominee Tribal Clinic, a position from which she will take a leave of absence to serve her term as tribal chairwoman.