“I want to thank everyone for their support. We now have a strong seven-member tribal council that is actively engaged,” Outgoing Tribal Council Chairwoman Cecilia Flores said Monday.
The tribal council for the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas convened Monday for its first meeting of the new year. The oath of office was administered to Melanie Battise and Crystal Stephenson who were both elected to new terms on the council.
Ricky Sylestine was elected tribal council chairman, Nita Battise was elected vice chairwoman, Melanie Battise was elected secretary and Crystal Stephenson was elected treasurer. All officers were also administered the oath of office as family and other tribal members watched.
“I want to thank you for the support,” Incoming Tribal Council Chairman Ricky Sylestine said. “My goal has always been quality of life for our people and to preserve the culture. When one sits in these chairs, it’s not always the easiest. We try to look at long term and make the best possible decisions. We’re still here. We will always be here. As tribal citizens, we want you to share your thoughts and goals. Let us not lose sight of who we are.”
Stephenson thanked the members for re-electing her, commenting that it is challenging, but rewarding, doing the work for the tribe. “We do have a great team of hardworking people that want what’s best for the people.”
Melanie Battise agreed that it is not an easy job. “Leadership is not a privilege to do less, but a responsibility to do more.”
Nita Battise remarked that the tribal council is 90 years’ strong, with the first tribal council having been established in 1936.
