A Tangled Web of Political Intrigue within the Sault Tribe: The Controversy Unraveled

McGahey Construction, owned by a Sault Tribe Citizen, has been significantly supported by individuals named Austin, Aaron, and Betty. However, its owner, Randy McGahey, initiated a referendum against Binesi Construction, partially owned by our tribe (51%) and another tribal member. This move was detrimental to Binesi Construction, a venture that promised considerable economic benefits to our tribe.Consequently, U.P. Engineering, a non-tribal entity, secured projects initially intended for Binesi Construction, earning over $4 million. This shift led to a loss of approximately $2 million in potential revenue for our tribe.

Discontent with the former board members, notably DJ Hoffman who was instrumental in developing profitable ventures like Binesi Construction for tribal citizens, prompted a change in leadership. This new faction, unofficially led by Aaron Payment and referred to as the "new crew," proposed the dissolution of Sault Tribe Inc., a move counterproductive to their claims of fiscal irresponsibility, given the entity’s contribution of over $4.5 million to the tribe. Their actions seemingly rooted in personal vendettas rather than tribal welfare.

In consultations with McGahey Construction, the new leadership effectively ceased the operations of Binesi Construction, a decision viewed as paving the way for McGahey to secure more contracts. This became apparent with McGahey's increased presence in Sault Tribe reserves after Binesi’s dismissal.

The controversy deepened with McGahey's association with Jetta Corporation, a collaborator with Enbridge, a company opposed by many within the tribe including previously by Randy McGahey himself. This association brought to light a potential conflict of interest and contradicted their professed stance.

The conduct of the new leadership group and their strategic decisions have sparked concerns over their integrity and the potential impact of their continued governance on our tribe. Their actions, marred by hypocrisy, cast doubt on their dedication to advancing the tribe’s best interests.