Business Operations

Program Purpose

The Office of Business Operations is the branch of management which oversees the implementation of policy, financial well being of the tribe, and relations with outside organizations.

Administrative Support

The Chief of Business Operations provides Central Council Tlingit and Haida with administrative support through the Finance Department and the Computer Information Systems Department. The functions of these organizational units range from supplying technology to the organization, financial management and investment of the Tribes Trust Fund. 

We are responsible for maintaining the work environment of the organization. We ensure that our staff has a productive work area, adequate computer and communication technologies, and meeting space and reception services. 

These are examples of the administrative support functions serving Tribal members, policy makers and program activities of the Tribe. We also coordinate meetings, maintain community contacts, prepare publications, purchase supplies and inventory, and others.

Tlingit & Haida Technology Industries

The Chief of Business Operations also serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Tlingit & Haida Technology Industries.

Debt Refinancing

We refinanced our debt of $2.5 million consolidating 9 loans with interest rates ranging from 7.02% to 9% and varying maturity dates. Our new payments will amount to $22,576 per month compared to previous loan payments of $51,143 per month. Our loan of $2.3 million is tax exempt with an interest rate of 5.9% and a 15 year amortization period. The other loan of $257,923 accrues interest at 8.5% with a 2%
interest subsidy from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The debt consolidation will smooth the cash flow of CCTHITA for the next 15 years.

Property Management

We provide property management of the Edward K. Thomas building and mantain the lease and property files for the organization.

Fiscal Management

The Chief of Business Operations is responsible for implementing the policies of the Executive Committee, and the General Assembly as directed by the President. We adopted fiscal policies this last year for the Trust Fund, the General Fund and the Self-Determination fund. 

Trust Fund

The Chief of Business Operations works with the Investment Committee in managing the Trust Fund and real estate of the Tribe. The Central Council received a $7.2 million settlement from Congress in 1972 and by 1987 the principle of the fund had fallen to about $4.9 million. The fund has grown to $13 million in value by December 31, 2006. 

Finance Department

The Finance Department performs grant accounting, payroll, accounts payable and accounts receivable, and fixed asset accounting functions for the Tribe. The Central Council uses generally accepted fund accounting for managing Tribal monies. It is also the responsibility of the Controller annually to prepare an indirect cost proposal submitted to the Department of Interior Inspector General. 

Each year the Central Council undergoes an audit by an independent auditor who examines our financial practices, financial status, grant administration activities and internal controls for financial and administrative procedures. The Tribe has not had an audit exception for more than 15 years.

Funding Agency

The Office of Business Operations is funded solely from indirect funds derived from grants and other general fund sources.

Message from the Manager

We feel it is an honor to serve our people. We work at developing our individual professional skills to be better able to
perform our responsibilities.

Contact Rose Westika directly (907.463.7104) if you have questions about our administrative or program operations. We will be happy to discuss any concerns with you so we can mutually work toward the best Tribal organization possible.