Business

By Cara Cowan Watts, Cherokee 411 OKLAHOMA. Gen II Fire Protection, a Native-owned fire protection services company based in Oklahoma, continues to expand its regional footprint while earning national recognition for its comprehensive, client-focused approach to fire safety. Owned by Muscogee Creek Nation citizen Bryan Drinnon II, Gen II Fire Protection was founded in 2018 and provides full-service commercial and industrial fire protection across Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas, a

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — Members of the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians raised questions about spending decisions, elder services and transparency during public comments at the tribe’s Jan. 3 Tribal Council meeting. Archie Buzzard thanked council members for approving a $100 payment to elders but questioned why elders would be required to travel to Tahlequah to receive the funds. Larry Studi, a tribal member who frequently speaks during public comment periods, questioned

Leaders with the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians reported workforce growth, new business development and year-end financial figures during the tribe’s January Tribal Council meeting. Woody Anderson, executive director of the United Keetoowah Band Federal Corporation, announced the formation of a new company, Echota Data and Design LLC. Anderson also presented financial updates to the council, including a $56,791 check representing lease payments.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed changes to Section 401 of the Clean Water Act that could significantly limit how states and Tribes review and block federal permits for infrastructure projects that affect water quality.

Mitchell, a fifth-generation Collinsville native and citizen of the Cherokee Nation, owns and operates Caddy Corner Consignment & Boutique, a consignment clothing boutique on West Main Street. She also serves on the board of a local no-kill animal shelter. During the discussion, Mitchell and Watts traced shared family connections through the Crutchfield line, whose roots in the area date back generations.

Cherokee Nation Businesses has announced a $42 million investment in the Williams Center Towers I & II in downtown Tulsa — a prominent, multitenant office complex.