Q&A With Legislative Branch Staff - Adam Candler

By VALERIE HARRINGTON-WIND — DIBIKWE, CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER.

1. What is your title with Mille Lacs Band Legislative Branch?

My job title is Legislative Counsel.

2. What does working in Legislative mean to you and what do you value most about your engagement with Legislative Branch and Band members?

Working in the Legislative Branch is not just a job to me; it is a commitment. I am most motivated and feel the most energetic when I know that my work means something. Working in a branch of government that possesses the ability to shape the way the Band government will look for many years to come can be very rewarding. I value the Legislative Branch elected officials and other Band members who cross paths with the Band Assembly in the sense that it is good to see so many people fighting for the different causes they believe in.

3. What motivates you in working in the Legislative Branch?

I am motivated mostly by the ability to pass good laws that will improve Band government in the future. Though passing a law can be very difficult, I am motivated to make progress in any way that is feasible.

4. What is something significant that you are proud of accomplishing with the Legislative Branch?

I am most proud of the Band Assembly’s adherence to procedure, (including the adoption of a legislative process, live-streaming, and rules for Band Assembly meetings.

5. How would you describe the Legislative Branch to a Band member that may not know about the Legislative Branch?

I would describe the Legislative Branch to a Band member as a hybrid body of government which retains both the law-making power of the Band and certain approval authorities (such as large contracts, land leases, and foster care licenses). The Band Assembly also retains the authority to confirm or deny many appointed officials. As time goes on, it is up to the Band’s elected leaders to determine how these powers are exercised.

6. Is there anything else you would like to share with Band members about you or the Legislative Branch?

I would just like to share that I have had a great time working with all of the elected officials and staff members who currently make up the Legislative Branch. Although each of the elected officials sometimes have diverging interests and points of view, they all care a great deal for the well-being of the Band. They also all have terrific senses of humor, which is something that all of us staff members enjoy.