Planning and Development

The Planning and Development Department manages the Tribe’s land and natural resources. Properly managed development protects the health and welfare of residents and the environment, and is essential to a strong, sustainable community.

The mission of the Planning and Development Department is to assist the Community Council in implementing the Tribe’s vision for future growth and development. In addition, this department serves as an information clearinghouse and represents tribal interests on various boards and agencies related to local, state and national community and economic development activities.

The department is responsible for planning the current and future use of all Tribal lands while promoting the health, safety and welfare of the Indian people. Programs include:

• • Realty, Land Use and Title (acquisition, assignments, title status reports)
  • Natural Resource Protection (forest, water, biological)
  • Environmental Protection and Monitoring (water, recycling, clean air)
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS) (mapping, research, analysis)
  • Infrastructure (permitting, design, roads, utilities, hydrants, power)

Current projects include:

• Preparing, updating and implementing land use plans, regulations, ordinances and maps.
• Advising the Planning and Development Committee by providing technical and legal information for informed and consistent decision-making.
• Processing permits and applications, including building, timber harvest, woodcutting, land use applications, assignments, residency, solid waste and open space.
• Monitoring and responding to development proposals and proposed plans affecting Tribal lands.
• Collaborating with tribal departments and entities on land use issues affecting the Tribe.
• Assisting with land acquisition, title records and realty transactions, such as fee-to-trust, rights of way and leasing.
• Monitoring and providing natural resource protection of all Tribal lands including forest health, water and biological species.
• Developing and assisting with infrastructure needs such as sewer hookup, road construction and maintenance, and water storage and flow. Acts as a liaison for utility companies.
• Ensuring environmental programs are in compliance with EPA guidelines. This includes monitoring waterways, conducting a recycling program and assisting the tribe in environmental data collection.
• GIS mapping of all Tribal lands, including collection of inventory and analysis of data

Contact Us

Diana Beasley
Planning and Development  Manager
Phone: 209.928.5367
Email: dbeasley@mewuk.com

Erik Junker
Environmental Specialist
Phone: 209.928.5313
Email: EnvSpecialist@mewuk.com