TRIBAL COUNCIL

Throughout history, the Tribe has been ruled by both a Principal Chief and a Second Chief who are elected by the people and serve lifetime terms. The Tribal Council was established in 1957 and is now recognized as the main governing body. The seven Tribal members selected to serve as members of the Council are elected by popular vote and serve three year rotating terms. The Tribal Council holds regular meetings twice a month to conduct the business of the Tribe.

The leadership of the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe works diligently for the betterment of its people. While conditions have improved for the Alabama-Coushatta since they were granted the rights due an official American Indian tribe, their economic situation weighs on the minds of leaders responsible for keeping a heritage alive and their constituency thriving. Like other small communities, they maintain that they have the right—and are best suited—to plan for their future. 
 

Front row: (l-r) Second Chief Colabe III Clem Sylestine, Tribal Council Secretary Melanie Battise, Chief Oscola Clayton Sylestine

Back row: (l-r) Council Chairman Carlos Bullock; Councilman Pete Polite; Councilman Joe Thomas; Councilman Roland Poncho; Tribal Council Treasurer McClamroch Battise; Council Vice Chairman Kyle Williams