3/5/2018 BOARD OF SELECTMEN Minutes

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3 Board of Selectmen Minutes March 5, 2018 Status of Mashpee--Wampanoag Tribal Land into Trust. As the Tribal Council awaits the decision of the Department of the Interior regarding Ilrlashpee Tribal Land in Trust, the Board asked if there are options if the outcome of the decision was unfavorable. With referenced to this regard, it was disclosed the submittals were completed in November, and the Tribal Council received word on February 20, 2018 the status of the decision would be disclosed within 20 days. Correspondence exchanged with the Department of Interior has been made clear, as of today,the Land remains in Trust indicated representing Tribal Council Attorney Rebekah SaIguero. It is the perspective of the Tribal Council the Lands are in Trust, and there are opportunities between the courts and the Trust for potential litigation. In the event the decision is unfavorable, prospects are available to conduct an appeal of the administrative process as well l a.s the settlement4 The Town of Mashpee in valuing their relationship with the Tribal Council asked if there would be natters of mutual importance anticipated to be asked of the Town to ensure the Town would be prepared to support the Tribe in their endeavors. This would include support on any future litigation proceedings. It was agreed the Town's response and support to the Tribal Council is very important. If the Tribe was to move forward with a potential appeal process including settlement, support is duly warranted. In considering the Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) between the Torn of Il ashpee and l ashpee Wampanoag Tribe there was mutual agreement in this functioning document that would guide the entities in their relationship as it relates to the Trust. Board of Selectmen members conveyed the impoilance of the IGA partnership which has allowed the panties to function cohesively. Discussions followed regarding communication with the Department of the Interior collaboratively and collectively on the rela.tion.ship between the Town and the Tribe. Informing the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on this affiliation was also considered. Conversations with respect to this regard would be further considered in a responsible and timely manner. The Board of Selectmen indicated the Tow.of Mashpee tales the stance to support the Intergovernmental Agreement with the Tribal Council in their endeavor as reliable and responsible partners in areas of mutual interest.