CRIT Tribal Council and Administration

Herman "TJ" Laffoon
Councilmember

T.J. Laffoon first wanted to become a Tribal councilman to be a part of the changes that CRIT was undergoing over time.

"When you see changes, you want to be a part of them and make a difference," he said. "I had a lot of goals, and really wanted to help who I call 'the little people' - the children of our community."

Laffoon has made it a priority to focus on economic development during his time on Tribal Council just for that reason - to ensure a brighter future for CRIT's children. But he also wants to make sure CRIT takes care of its elders, as well.

"I want to see us start more enterprises so that we can generate the revenue for the General Fund that we need to provide these services," he said.

Laffoon started on the council in 1990 and has served all but two years since that time. He also works in the Tribal Realty Office, so he's on the forefront of economic development efforts. He has also lobbied Congress to return the La Paz Lands to CRIT, a key tribal issue.

Laffoon said he wants to make it easier for working professionals to live in Parker and provide services to CRIT and the community.

He also said that listening to our elders is one of the most important things we can do.

"I've learned a lot and have had good teachers," he said. "You always learn a lot from your elders - it's important to sit and listen to them."

When not working on Tribal affairs, Laffoon is active in helping veterans. He has served as a commander for the American Legion, and is on the National Register for Military Funerals.

Laffoon stressed the need to maintain good relationships with other area governments, as well as making sure Tribal members participate in the Tribal government and vote in the upcoming local, state and federal elections.

"I want the people to be informed so that I can be their voice and understand their opinions," he said.

Laffoon's other priorities include improving nursing home care for elders, protecting tribal sovereignty and maintaining CRIT's history and culture for generations to come.

He said that one of the reasons he wants to continue to be on council is because the work is always interesting.

"We make key decisions, and it's never dull," Laffoon said. "It's always exciting to me."