The Tribal Council for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes has a new chairman.
Vernon Finley of Polson was made the new leader of the tribal government on Jan. 2. He replaces councilman Ronald Trahan of St. Ignatius.
A year ago, the council had a deadlocked vote over who should become chairman and Finley and Trahan decided to split the two-year term. The 10-member council selects a chairman every two years.
This year is expected to be a busy one for the tribal government, according to communications director Robert McDonald. Key issues facing the council this year include the acquisition of the Kerr Dam and the water rights compact.