Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation Chair Named to Kansas Governor's Economic Council of Advisors

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Steve Ortiz - Potawatomi

Native Brief: MAYETTA, KANSAS - Steve Ortiz, tribal chairman of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, was named to Kansas Governor Sam Brownback's Economic Council of Advisors. He is among 15 other business leaders from various economic sectors and geographic regions throughout named.

The Governor's Economic Council of Advisors was formed on Tuesday, July 27, 2011.

"The economic future of Kansas depends on the growth of existing businesses and the development of new industries," Brownback said in a news release. "Economic competitiveness requires a detailed understanding of regional, national and international economic conditions and trends."

The purpose of the council is to coordinate strategic planning and economic development resources, evaluate state policies and agencies performances, and conduct research on topics such as Kansas' basic industries, tax competitiveness, and regulatory structure.

Stan Ahlerich, the executive director of the council, wrote in the invitation email to Ortiz that "in these economic times the Governor believes that it is paramount to get insights and guidance from some of the state's best and brightest leaders."

Ortiz was asked to be on the council by the Governor and will represent the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, based in Mayetta, Kansas. The Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation owns and operates a casino, hotel resort and a golf course. The golf course, which is situated across from the resort was designed by PGA golfer Notah Begay, Navajo.

posted July 30, 2011 6:00 am edt