Eugene Sommers
As your District II Representative, Eugene is voted in by and specifically serves the communities of Waubun, Naytahwaush and Mahnomen. Please stay tuned for further updates from your District II Representative!
November 2025 District 2 Report
Boozhoo Anishinaabe,
As we move into the fall season, I want to share updates on projects and initiatives happening throughout District 2.
Road Projects
The paving of Clark Road is nearing completion. This important project will improve transportation safety and accessibility for community members.
New Houses in Naytahwaush
Construction is underway on four new housing units in Naytahwaush. These homes will provide
much needed housing opportunities.
Arvig Fiber Project
The fiber buildout in Naytahwaush is progressing smoothly. Eighty percent of duct installation has already been completed. Physical infrastructure is expected to be finished by the first week of November. Cable pulling will follow in late November, with splicing expected to begin in early 2026. These upgrades will bring more reliable and faster internet service, supporting education, economic opportunity, and communication across the community.
Sports Complex Food Shelf
The new food shelf project was officially approved at the September RBC meeting. This initiative will help support families in need and enhance community wellness.
Government Consultations
This quarter, we met with multiple State agencies, including the Minnesota Department of
Transportation (MnDOT), Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA), and Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MN PUC). These consultations ensure that Tribal interests are represented in planning and decision-making around infrastructure, transportation, agriculture, and energy across the region.
Tribal State Relations Training
The Tribal–State Relations Training was hosted Oct. 22-25 at Shooting Star Casino. This training helps State and local government agencies better understand how Tribal governments operate, the history of Tribal State relations, and how the two governments can work together effectively.
We also welcomed a visit from the Brookings Institution, who toured the reservation. Strengthening partnerships like these helps build long-term policy development and greater visibility for our Nation.
Minnesota Chippewa Tribe Meeting
White Earth hosted the TEC Meeting at the Shooting Star Casino on Oct. 20-21.
Education, Health, and Human Services Subcommittee update:
Human Services Director Dr. Evelyn Campbell reported new efforts to expand employment and elder services, along with renewed suicide prevention funding for 2025–2026.
Chemical dependency site visits were completed, and key treatment centers received license
renewals. Employment and training programs continue helping members overcome barriers and find stable work.
The Great Lakes Inter Tribal Epidemiology Center also attended the subcommittee meetings and presented to committees on work they are doing in Indian Country.
Miigwech for your continued support and involvement.
Contacts
Eugene Sommers
Email: Eugene.Sommers@whiteearth-nsn.gov
Office Phone: 218-935-6250
Cell Phone: 218-396-9502
Christopher Vanwert Jr
Chrstopher.Vanwert@whiteearth-nsn.gov
Cell Phone: 218-850-2533