The Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians is hoping the state of Montana won't cut off $900,000 in funding but some members say they money should be held back.

Tribal leaders met with state officials on Tuesday to push for the release of the money. "We are still trying to get our books in shape," said Chairman John Sinclair, The Great Falls Tribune.

But former chairman John Gilbert said the tribe can't be trusted with a large amount of money. "It sounds like a mess, and it has to be cleaned up," he said, the Tribune reported.

Earlier this year, the state cut off a tobacco use prevention and economic development grant when auditors found the money was used for other purposes.

Get the Story:
Little Shell members ask state to withhold $900,000 (The Great Falls Tribune 12/2)

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