Wednesday, Aug 31 2011 2:56PM
Improved healthcare was just one of many issues discussed at the two-day meeting of tribal leaders and government officials in Salt Lake City.
Recently, more than 400 tribal leaders and state government officials convened in Salt Lake City for a two-day discussion panel regarding issues facing Native Americans.
The Salt Lake Tribune reports some of the key topics discussed at the meetings, which took place on August 30 and 31, included the need for better and more affordable housing on tribal lands, and improved healthcare and education for tribes.
Rodger Boyd, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development who works with tribes on various programs, told attendees tribes can improve housing through partnerships with the private sector and by leveraging capital. This, he added, would lead to more quality housing, as well as construction jobs for Native Americans.
"Tribes need to create an environment where outsiders know what to expect, because investors don't know how to joint venture with tribal governments," said Boyd, according to the paper.
Shirlee Silversmith, director of the Utah state Division of Indian Affairs, told the local Fox News affiliate that communication between tribal leaders and government agencies and officials is key to solving problems for Native Americans.