Joe Pakootas

The Nez Perce Tribe of Idaho announced a new chief executive officer for its economic development unit.

Joe Pakootas signed an 18-month contract with Nez Perce Tribal Enterprises, according to news reports. He will oversee all of the tribe's businesses, including gaming facilities, convenience stores and other ventures.

“The Nez Perce Tribe is looking into diversifying their economy and there is great opportunity to create more jobs with new businesses on and near the reservation," Pakootas told Ta’c Tito’oqan News, the tribe's official newspaper.

Pakootas is a former chairman of the Colville Tribes in Washington. He served as CEO of Colville Tribal Federal Corporation for five years.

Last year, Pakootas won the Democratic nomination for Washington’s 5th Congressional District. He lost the general election to Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Washington).

Get the Story:
Joe Pakootas signs 18-month contract with Nez Perce (The Tribal Tribune 6/5)
Former congressional candidate hired by Nez Perce Tribe (The Lewiston Morning Tribune 6/3)

Related Stories:
Former Colville chair Joe Pakootas wins Democratic nomination (08/06)