Native Village of Dot Lake Begins Self-Governance Compacting Process with the Bureau of Indian Affairs
DOT LAKE VILLAGE, ALASKA – June 26, 2026
The Native Village of Dot Lake is pleased to announce that it has officially begun the process of entering into a Self-Governance Compact with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, marking a significant milestone in the Tribe’s continued efforts to strengthen tribal sovereignty, expand local control of programs and services, and increase self-determination for its citizens.
Through the Tribal Self-Governance Program, federally recognized tribes have the opportunity to assume greater responsibility and authority over federal programs, services, functions, and activities that serve their communities. By pursuing compacting, the Native Village of Dot Lake joins a growing number of Alaska Native tribes exercising greater control over the delivery of services to their people.
“This is an important step forward for our Tribe,” said Tracy Charles-Smith, President of the Native Village of Dot Lake. “Compacting allows us to make decisions locally, respond more effectively to the needs of our citizens, and continue building a stronger future for our community while exercising our inherent sovereignty.”
The decision to pursue self-governance reflects years of organizational growth, financial stability, and sound administrative practices. The Tribe has demonstrated responsible stewardship of federal funds through successful audits, strong financial management systems, and the expansion of tribal programs and services.
Over the past several years, the Native Village of Dot Lake has significantly expanded its programs, including behavioral health services, victim services, tribal court operations, housing assistance, language preservation, youth programming, public safety initiatives, and the establishment of the Dot Lake Village Police Department.
“Entering into the self-governance process demonstrates the strength and capacity our Tribe has built over many years,” said Tracy Charles-Smith. “This effort represents an investment in our future generations by ensuring that decisions affecting our people are made by tribal leadership that understands our community, our culture, and our priorities.”
The self-governance compacting process includes planning activities, negotiations with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the development of annual funding agreements that identify the programs and services to be administered by the Tribe.
The Native Village of Dot Lake views this effort as an important step toward strengthening local governance, improving service delivery, increasing accountability, and advancing tribal self-determination for the benefit of current and future generations.
The Tribe looks forward to working collaboratively with the Bureau of Indian Affairs throughout the compacting process and continuing to advance tribal self-governance on behalf of its citizens.
About the Native Village of Dot Lake
The Native Village of Dot Lake is a federally recognized Alaska Native Tribe located in Interior Alaska along the Alaska Highway. The Tribe provides governmental services and programs that support the health, safety, culture, and well-being of its citizens and surrounding communities. Through its programs and partnerships, the Tribe works to strengthen tribal sovereignty, preserve Upper Tanana culture and language, and improve the quality of life for present and future generations.
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Kelli Reep
Fly Write Communications
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