BOISE — Idaho tribal leaders want Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter to create a cabinet post dedicated to improving tribal relations.

That includes resolving disputes that erupt when non-tribal members are apprehended for reservation crimes, only to be released without arrest because no agreements — or trust — exists with sheriffs in neighboring counties.

Coeur d’Alene, Nez Perce, Shoshone-Bannock and Shoshone Paiute tribal leaders met with Otter, though the Republican governor made no commitments, especially during an economic downturn when he’s cutting state budgets.

Coeur d’Alene Tribe Chairman Chief Allan on Wednesday, “Tribal economies in Idaho generate at least a half billion dollars annually. It only seems fair for tribes to have place within Governor Otter’s administration.”

Otter aides called last week’s meeting a “listening session.”

Do you think it likely Otter will grant the tribes a place within his administration?

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