Osage Nation Principal Chief candidate Joe Tillman outlined his priorities for economic development, youth engagement and cultural preservation during an appearance on KWON Radio’s Community Connection program on Monday.
Tillman is a Fairfax native and said his experience includes serving in the Red Eagle administration before later being elected to the Osage Nation Congress, where he has served for two and a half terms. He previously ran for principal chief against current Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear, falling short by 86 votes.
Among his top priorities, Tillman said the Osage Nation must diversify its economy beyond gaming revenue.
“We rely completely on gaming right now for about 99% of our revenue,” Tillman said. “We have got to be good stewards and go out there and get some economic development for the tribe.”
Tillman highlighted potential opportunities…