Confederated tribes elect new chief

The World, Coos Bay, Ore.
·2 min read

Feb. 22—Sunday, February 11th, 2024, The Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua & Siuslaw Indians elected Doug Barrett as Tribal Chief. Chief Barrett was serving his second term as Tribal Council Position #6 and was previously appointed as Vice-Chair in April 2023.

He succeeds Chief Donald "Doc" Slyter and will complete the previously elected term which expires April 2030.

The newly-elected Chief brings dedication, passion and experience to the role. He spent his career in Tribal Government committed to the well-being of Tribal Members, teaching prevention services and guiding families about culture, tradition and history.

Chief Barrett is a Siuslaw Tribal Member and 3rd generation Councilman. He is a Canoe Steersman (Skipper) and passionate about Canoe Journey, an annual event that tribes in the Pacific Northwest participate in to celebrate their heritage.

Chief Barrett spoke of his plans: "I will stay focused on our important projects like salmon restoration and protecting the lamprey. From our lands and timber projects to protecting our waters, I will continue the vision Chief Slyter set." He went on to add: "I will ask the Tribal Members what they would like to see, listen to the suggestions and do what I can to bring culture and tradition forward."

Brad Kneaper, Chair of the Tribal Council stated: "After a difficult time in which we lost our Chief, who walked on in early November, a Special Election was held to fill the position of Chief.

Tribal Council Vice-Chair Doug Barrett was elected and assumed the position as of the certification of the election results. Chief Barrett was sworn in at a special Council Meeting on February 12, 2024, by the Election Board Chairman Michael Brainard. "

Mr. Kneaper added: "I am excited to work with Chief Barrett in his new position as he starts this new journey. Chief Barrett has worked for the Tribe for many years prior to his Council terms and has always had a passion for his work and the Tribal Membership. Congratulations Doug, I know that you will continue to work hard for us all."

About CTCLUSI: Headquartered in Coos Bay, Oregon with a five-county service area including Coos, Curry, Lincoln, Douglas and Lane Counties, The Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians are one of the 9 Federally Recognized Tribes of Oregon. CTCLUSI is comprised of 3 Tribes (4 Bands): 2 bands of Coos Tribes: Hanis Coos, Miluk Coos; Lower Umpqua Tribe (Quuiich); and Siuslaw Tribe.