With surprise and gratitude, we managed a quorum at our most recent General Tribal Council meeting (125 members required). By comparison, the level of communication was far more productive than in recent meetings. Tribal members were able to obtain valuable information regarding present and future tribal endeavors, while concerns, comments and suggestions were also shared. Although an anecdotal discussion, the subject of the composites company really plays a major role in the tribe's financial future.
Bay Mills has invested heavily in this opportunity and its success becomes more imperative as the economy and the casino industry slows. Diversification is the only way to ensure our tribe's financial future. For Bay Mills, diversification equals opportunity. The field of plastics is a multi-billion dollar industry and the opportunity for Bay Mills to seize our share of the market grows with each step taken. However, company growth, the creation of an outstanding product, and financial success is predicated on the selection and training of initial staff.
Recently, the Executive Council conducted interviews where two worthy applicants were selected as the first of 12 initial members of the composites team. They are presently undergoing hands-on training. Future training may be conducted in conjunction with the community college to further advance the knowledge of composite employees, with the ultimate goal to provide staff with skills to efficiently produce the product and service the machinery.
Council members balanced the experience and skills of applicants with their work history in order to determine the best fit and chance for success. Staff was chosen on the basis of their commitment, desire and aptitude for the industry, coupled with the need for responsible, resourceful and mechanically inclined individuals. Initially, all staff will be hired in at the same level (pay and status). It is hoped that as the business (and profit) increases and staff respond positively to the required training and performance standards (to be established), greater levels of responsibility will come to those worthy of promotion. Until then, staff will fall under the direction and training of an existing company with a production line similar to the one we are having constructed. Once our own line is established, staff should be ready to begin producing our product to potential clients.
Much work still remains for the Executive Council. A final decision regarding benefits, pay scales, job descriptions and applicable employment and personnel policies must be completed before a well organized and efficient company can be realized. This is not an easy task. Each decision must be deliberate and well considered if we are to secure an environment of success. As a viable opportunity, the plastics industry can provide Bay Mills with employment and financial opportunities far exceeding our current enterprises. Time, sweat and dedication will be a determining factor for us.
Ensuring a comfortable, healthy and prosperous way of life for our people is a major goal of this Council. Our efforts within the plastics industry may pave that way for us. Most importantly, our work toward diversification can minimize the effects of consumer markets and sluggish economies.
LeBlanc is Secretary of the Bay Mills Executive Council.
