The Tulalip Tribes are not immune to the economic downturn, and tribal leaders are heeding the advice of their elders to make wise choices for the good of the community.

That's the message delivered by tribal chairman Mel Sheldon at a recent breakfast meeting of the Greater Marysville Tulalip Chamber of Commerce. Speaking to chamber members at the March 27 event, Sheldon shared accomplishments and challenges expected by the Tribes through the remainder of 2009.

"The economy will bounce back," Sheldon said confidently, "and our partnerships will help us remain strong."

The construction of the Tulalip Resort Hotel has added 500 jobs in the area. Strategic cuts to the 2009 budget will result in all 3,000 tribal enterprise jobs being saved, helping to stimulate the local economy.

"The hotel is doing extremely well for us," said Sheldon. "Weekends are almost always sold out, although there's room for growth mid-week." The gaming enterprises at the Tulalip Casino and Quil Ceda Creek Casino also continue to thrive.

The Tribes have tackled two other big projects over the past year. The new administration building is slated to open in late June or early July, housing 400-plus employees and centralizing many administrative departments. The Hibulb Cultural Museum and Natural Preserve will open to the public in late summer or early fall, and its initial exhibit will honor the sacrifices of Native American military veterans.

Meanwhile, Quil Ceda Village continues to grow as a retail destination. "Businesses are knocking on our doors" to locate at the Village, according to Sheldon, and that growth may include up to 100 additional stores at Seattle Premium Outlets, a regional medical center and a variety of national-chain restaurants.

"Quil Ceda Village generates $30 million in sales tax each year," Sheldon explained, "although there's currently no return of those dollars in services to us."

He touched on the issue of a 4-year college in north Snohomish County, saying the Tulalip Tribes are dedicated to working with Rep. Mary Margaret Haugen to secure a campus north of Everett.

Tribal leaders are also working to bring a water pipeline from Everett. "Our aquifer goes down as much as 50 feet in the summer," Sheldon shared, "and it's important to find ways to ensure a steady water supply."

The Tribes are committed to supporting the surrounding communities as well. "Since 1992, we've given more than $27 million in community donations," said Sheldon. "We're honored that we can make those contributions."