The Right Choice For Our Tribe.
Get To Know Me
The Right Choice
A Little About Myself
Greetings, fellow tribal citizens. I am running for the position of Tribal Council Member at Large. I bring over 15 years of experience in Tribal government, starting as the vice-chair of our election board during a pivotal time when we reshaped our election process. The improvements we made are still relevant today.
My dedication to our tribe extended to the education committee, where I served while my daughters were growing up. I helped facilitate our tribe’s first overnight at Sonoma State University for our tribal youth and helped organized youth programs at Occidental Arts and Ecology. I also helped establish our very first Tribal Youth Council, engaging our youth in various programs to keep them involved in our tribal community.
For the past 9 years , I have been a committed member of our Economic Development Board. I have gained extensive knowledge of the casino industry, playing a crucial role in our expansion into the hotel business and the ongoing development of our resort casino. Building strong relationships within the casino industry and with top-level management has been a vital part of my work, ensuring a successful business operation.
If you seek a candidate with proven experience and a deep commitment to our tribe, I am that person. My 15 years of service have provided me with comprehensive knowledge of Tribal politics and a genuine desire to benefit all Tribal citizens. My decisions are always guided by the question: How will this benefit our Tribal citizens?
I am running for Tribal Council because I am passionate about the well-being for all Tribal Citizens.
Personal Background
I am a driven individual who strongly believes in setting goals and creating plans to achieve them. Through significant self-development work, I have reached this point in my life. In my business career, I’ve been a successful business owner, sales professional, business leader, and sports coach. I guess you can say I’m an entrepreneur. I’ve also learned a great deal from very successful people in both business and life. Along the way, I’ve taken individual courses to strengthen areas I felt needed improvement. I firmly believe in surrounding myself with successful people. I’ve applied the knowledge and teachings I’ve gained from their teaching to my own life.
I am a proud father of two successful young women—both graduates of Dominican University, both with a BA in education, and one earned a Master’s degree in education. Outside of work, you can often find me on a mountain trail, as I enjoy hiking and being outdoors. This is where I feel most connected to our ancestral home lands.
Summary
As a citizen of our tribe, I have been deeply involved in our community for many years. If elected to the Tribal Council, I am confident we can maintain a cohesive council. My current role on the GEDA board keeps me informed about government-related issues, and I have regularly attended Friday night Tribal Council meetings over the years to stay up-to-date on council activities. This experience means there would be no lengthy transition period if I were elected; I am already prepared to contribute effectively.
I am fully committed to doing my part as a Tribal Citizen to help our tribe flourish in business endeavors, cultural resource preservation, defending our tribal lands from would be reservation shoppers, and provide economic resources to our citizens. To achieve this honored position on the Tribal Council, I need your help. Please support me and vote for Terry Barboza for Tribal Council Member At Large! Thank you for your support!
My Focus
Body Of Work
Tribal Citizens,
If elected to the Tribal Council, my primary focus and contribution will be dedicated to shaping our future through active engagement of our tribal youth. It is essential to encourage our young citizens to be more involved with our tribe, fostering a sense of community and responsibility from an early age.
I propose the reestablishment of our Youth Council exclusively for our tribal youth, akin to how it was in the past. Specifically, I aim to revive the Youth Council for ages 10 to 18, providing them with activities throughout the year that keep them engaged and connected. Reflecting on my own experiences, the Youth Council played a pivotal role in fostering bonds and a sense of belonging among our youth. These connections were special and many have endured into adulthood.
By involving our youth in projects and activities, we can create a pathway that leads them into adulthood with a strong tribal identity. I envision reinstating our summer internship program for those returning from college, offering them roles within our tribal government, casino, or cultural department. This consistent involvement will cultivate a culture of giving back to the tribe, nurturing a future generation of leaders who are deeply invested in our community’s well-being.
In the business world, this is known as “building a bench”—preparing qualified individuals ready to lead. For our tribe, this approach is vital to ensuring sustainable participation and leadership in the years to come.
Additionally, I will prioritize strengthening connections with all tribal citizens. I envision regular surveys, conducted annually, this will gauge the thoughts, needs, and overall sentiments of our citizens regarding the tribe’s direction. These surveys will provide the Council with an understanding of what is important to our citizens. It will also bridge great communication between the Tribal Council and our citizens, fostering a transparent and connected community.
I am committed to moving these topics through a discussion phase, a planning phase, and on to actionable steps. Together, we can maintain a strong, engaged, and connected tribe.
My Promise
Tribal Citizens,
If elected to serve on the Tribal Council, I can make you a promise.
My father taught me from a young age to work hard and to give 100% in everything I do. His words and actions left a lasting impression on me, and throughout my life, I’ve held onto those values. Whether it’s been in my roles in business, being a parent, a coach, or a friend, I’ve always committed myself fully.
This is the promise I make to you. If I am elected to the Tribal Council, I will dedicate 100% of my time, effort, and passion to serving our tribe. Just as I have done during my years on the Economic Development Board, the Election Board, and the Education Committee, I will bring the same level of commitment to the Council.
I understand that serving on the Tribal Council requires a deep understanding of our tribal policies, laws, and agreements with external government agencies. I am prepared to do the hard work necessary to be involved in all important matters affecting the Tribe, develop informed opinions, and engage in meaningful discussions. This is the democratic approach I believe in, and it’s the approach I promise to bring to the Tribal Council.
My heart has always been in the right place when it comes to our tribe. I am passionate about our people and our growth, and for the past 15 years, I’ve been honored to contribute to the progress we’ve made as a Tribe. I want to continue building on the wonderful work we’ve accomplished over the years.
I promise to work hard, stay informed, and lead with a heart full of dedication to our tribe’s future. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you, my fellow Tribal Citizens.
Contact Me
Questions or Comments
Send me a message or ask me a question using this form. I will do my best to get back to you soon!
Elect Terry Barboza Tribal Council
