SRPMIC Elections Information

Ṣa:mai cu’ig,

My name is Jacob Butler, and I have accepted the nomination to run for the office of President of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.

I have worked for our community for 24 years. As the Cultural Resources Specialist, I served as a government-to-government consultant for the Tribe. Throughout my career and personal life, I have worked with Tribal, state, and federal governments and built relationships that I continue to
maintain today. I believe those relationships are important as we work to protect our sovereignty, our culture, and our future.

I have always believed we can protect what is important to us while also creating opportunities for our people. Protecting our ancestral lands and cultural resources must remain a priority, but we also need to be thoughtful about responsible development and the opportunities it can bring to our community.

My service has also included working with organizations and boards outside of the Tribe, including Native Seed Search. These experiences have given me a broader understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Native communities.

As your District One A Council Representative, I have worked to listen to different perspectives and make decisions based on what I believe is best for the community. I know that not everyone will always agree with every decision, but I believe leadership means listening, being willing to have difficult conversations, and standing by what you believe is right.

Our community is facing important decisions about our future. We need leadership that understands where we came from, recognizes where we are today, and is willing to prepare for where we are going.

I want to help create more opportunities for our people while making sure our elders are respected, our youth are prepared for the future, and our culture remains at the center of who we are.

This decision is not one I made lightly. I understand the responsibility that comes with serving as President, and I am prepared to put in the work.

I am asking for your support and your trust. Together, we can continue building a stronger future for our community.

The decision lies with you.

Dova ep em nei.

“Influenced by Elders, Inspired by Youth, Led by Tradition.”
Ricardo Juan Leonard (aka Brusha) is a respected community leader, Army veteran, traditional singer, and current member of the Office of Vice President. As a candidate for Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community President for the 2027-2030 term, Ricardo brings a strong foundation of service, cultural knowledge, and dedication to the families of the Community.

Ricardo is the son of the late Louella B. Leonard and brother to Vickie (Leonard) Andrews, the late Anthony Leonard, and the late Terrance Leonard. He is married to Annette (Manuel) Leonard and is the proud father of five children: Bowie, the late Jason, Alyssa, Mavi, and Ariana. Ricardo is also a proud grandfather of eight grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.

His education includes earning his GED, graduating from Motorcycle Mechanics Institute, and completing two years at Scottsdale Community College, where he studied American Indian Policy and Law.
His leadership is rooted in tradition, responsibility, and respect. As a traditional singer who speaks the O’odham Niok and carries knowledge of the Community’s cultural past and present, he understands the importance of preserving song, dance, ceremony, language, and teachings for future generations. He has been honored to learn the songs of the Onk Akimel O’odham from Elders in the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community and the Gila River Indian Community. His service to many families through traditional ceremonies reflects a deep commitment to honoring the values, practices, and responsibilities that continue to strengthen the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.

As an honorably discharged Army veteran, Ricardo carries the values of discipline, sacrifice, and service. He served four years in the United States Army, with duty stations in Garlstedt, Germany, and Fort Hood, Texas. He is a life member of American Legion Post #114, the Bushmasters, where he previously served as post commander and continues to stay actively involved. Ricardo was also inducted into the Arizona Veterans Hall of Fame. His experience gives him a strong appreciation for veterans, military families, and the importance of supporting those who have served.

Ricardo currently serves on the Saddleback/Relnvent Communications Board, the 12% Committee, the Tempe Desert Conservation Commission, and the SRPMIC Audit Committee. He also serves as a Council Representative for the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), and the Facilities Appropriations Advisory Committee for the Phoenix Area Indian Health Service through ITCA.
Ricardo is running to continue addressing important issues that affect Community families, including education for youth and young adults, improved housing availability for all Community members, and open communication with fellow Community members and others. He also supports facilitating an additional wing for youth at the new Journey to Recovery-Detox facility. His campaign is centered on listening to concerns, preserving culture through song and dance, strengthening support for veterans, and continuing respectful, community-centered leadership. His vision is to honor the past, serve the present, and help protect the Community’s cultural identity for generations to come.

During his past 26 years on Council, Ricardo has made decisions with the youth of the Community in mind, and he will continue to do so. He is committed to showing respect to all, upholding the Constitution to the best of his ability, and serving morally and ethically. Above all, the traditional teachings shared by his Elders will continue to guide his thoughts and actions so that, as a community, we never lose sight of the O’odham and Piipaash ways of life.

Key Priorities

• Preserve and strengthen culture through song, dance, ceremony, and traditional knowledge and prayer, which is very strong.
• Support veterans, military families, elders, youth, young adults, and Community families and create civic pride.
• Strengthen educational opportunities for youth and young adults. and create Civic Price
• Improve housing availability for all Community members.
• Continue listening to concerns and communicating openly with Community members and others.
• Encourage respectful leadership grounded in service, accountability, and tradition.

Michael W. Dallas, Sr. is a lifelong member of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community and currently serves as the Council Representative for District II, a position he has held since December 2014.

Raised in the Lehi District by his grandmother, former Vice President Merna Lewis, Michael grew up with strong core values centered on faith, prayer, service, respect, and accountability. Those values continue to shape the way he lives, leads, and serves the Community. Michael is a man of faith, and prayer remains a strong foundation in both his personal life and his approach to leadership.

Before being elected to Council, Michael worked for the Community’s Senior Services Department, where he advanced through several positions before becoming Assistant Director. His experience gave him firsthand knowledge of Tribal government operations and the importance of providing dependable, respectful service to Community members.

Michael is a first-generation college graduate who earned a Bachelor of Science in Applied Management and a Master of Science in Leadership from Grand Canyon University. He has also pursued a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis in Organizational Development. Throughout his time on Council, he has represented the Community through local, regional, and national boards and committees involving economic development, education, health and human services, federal budgeting, and Tribal policy.

Michael has been married to his wife, Berlene Dallas, for 28 years. Together, they have six children and two grandchildren. His family remains one of the strongest influences in his life and reinforces his commitment to creating opportunities and a strong future for the next generation.

Michael believes every Community member has a stake in Salt River’s development and progress. He is seeking the office of Vice President because he believes leadership should be grounded in respect, transparency, accountability, fiscal responsibility, and service to the people.

As Vice President, Michael is committed to strengthening the voice of Community members in major decisions, improving the efficiencyof Tribal government, protecting Community resources, supporting fairness and accountability, and strengthening Salt River’s advocacy at the state and federal levels.

His guiding principle is simple: “Honor the seat, serve the People.” For Michael, those words reflect both the responsibility of leadership and the standard he intends to uphold as Vice President.

Isaiah 6:8

Hello my name is Cheryl Doka and I am a proud member of Salt River and a candidate for Vice President. I was born and raised here in the community my mother is Rebecca Collins and my father is Fredrick Doka Jr. I have four children and eight grandchildren. I must mention my wonderful, great grandparents Ben and Cecelia Collins who had instilled in me the traits, values, and morals that I have valued throughout my life.

It has truly been a pleasure serving you, the people of Salt River as your Council Representative for District C for the past 8 years. I am so grateful for the support, encouragement, and the trust that was provided to me to be your voice.

My education consists of and A.A.S in Business, B.S. in Business with a Minor in Human Resource Management, and an MBA with an emphasis in Management. In my professional career I had the privilege of being employed within the community at On-Auk-Mor, the Tribal Government, Salt River Fields Project, and Talking Stick Resort. These wonderful opportunities allowed me to work with many Community Members pertaining to employment.

Currently, I am the Council Representative on the Salt River Gaming Enterprise board, 12% Gaming Grant Committee, Salt River Materials Group, and the Salt River Financial Services Institute. I was previously the Western Region Representative for the Indian Gaming Association and on the Land Management board prior to being elected to Council. Possessing years of experience and knowledge in management, gaming, gaming regulatory, accounting, human resource, and land management, it has helped tremendously in decision making both on the boards and Council. I always focused on solutions that are positive, fair, and consistent on various issues.

My priorities since 2018 have been Mental Health, Youth Drug Prevention, and Higher Education. I am grateful to the strategy teams who have worked hard to provide so many new resources, activities and opportunities. I am a true believer in investing in our people.

Some areas I would like to review are the hiring preference, termination process, timeline for community projects, education and communication. From the youth to the elders and everyone in between who live in the community and the ones who do not you all are important and your voice matters.

Lets aim for a healthy, strong community together!

Ske:g tas. Añi an ap ce: gig Mikah Carlos. Añi ap viak o gami go:k aidagĭ. Añi an oḍ Onk Akimel O’Odham, Tohono O’Odham, Piipaash. Eñ je’e oḍ Amelia Carlos. Eñ o’g oḍ Michael Carlos baḍ. Eñ gaga’a oḍ Angelita Carlos baḍ. Eñ vosk oḍ Frederick Carlos baḍ.

My name is Mikah Carlos, and I am honored to have the opportunity to be considered for re-election for a seat on the SRPMIC Tribal Council for District I.

I graduated from Arizona State University with my Bachelors degree in American Indian Studies with a concentration in tribal legal policy, community and economic development. My minor was in psychology. After graduation, I was fortunate to work for the Community on substance abuse prevention for youth and to serve as Assistant Director for Youth Services, where it was my goal to incorporate as many cultural activities as possible with the youth to implement protective factors and build strong, healthy youth who will continue to help this Community grow. During my first term serving on the Council, I have learned a great deal and I am grateful for the experience and growth. I have had the opportunity to serve on boards for the Community, including Education, Gaming and the 12% Committee.

Additionally, I have pursued opportunities to represent the Community on a national level by serving on the National Indian Health Board, the Health and Human Services Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee, and the National Indian Child Welfare Association. As a result of my demonstrated leadership and advocacy, I have had the opportunity to testify before Congress on two separate occasions on behalf of the Community.

The ability to represent the Community on a tribal, city, state and federal level is not a responsibility that I take lightly. My Community and people have given so much to build me into the person I am today and it would be an honor to continue serving on their behalf in this capacity.

If re-elected to Council, I look forward to building on what I have learned and will continue to serve with dedication and a commitment to our community. I will continue to do the work to provide resources for substance abuse prevention and harm reduction, education and career opportunities for our people, and I will continue to advocate for the best interest of our people.

Dai hegai.

Skeg Tas!

My name is Wi-Bwa Grey, and I am asking for your vote to serve as your
Tribal Council Representative.

I am married to my childhood friend, Antonio Cachora, and I am a proud
mother of two children who keep me busy, grounded, and inspired every day.
I am currently employed with Student Transportation at Salt River Schools.
Before taking on this role, I served for 15 years as the Security Manager at
Salt River Schools. My career journey began at age 14, working for different
departments throughout our Tribal Government. I am no stranger to serving
our people, and I am no stranger to hard work.

I currently represent our Community as a sitting member of Governor Katie
Hobbs’ Arizona Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Task Force.
Through this important work, we have focused on policy and legislative
changes in Arizona while collaborating with Tribes throughout the state.
I have also served our Community as a member of the Landfill Board,
Education Board, and Donation Committee. These experiences have
strengthened my understanding of our Community’s needs and deepened my
commitment to our people.

My most valuable education has come from meeting and speaking with you, my fellow Community members. You have shared your experiences, struggles, ideas, visions, and possible solutions. I value what you have taught me, and I will carry your voices with me.

It is clear that we still have much to accomplish. We need greater
accountability from our leaders, enterprises, and departments. We must preserve our culture, history, and sacred lands. We need to hire qualified people, improve Community services, and provide stronger support for our veterans, especially those living with the unseen scars of battle.

We must believe in our people—not judge them by who they once were, but recognize their potential and who they can become. We need honesty, fairness, and truth instead of changing the rules as we go. Most importantly, our leaders must listen to and understand our people.

No bio submitted.

I am Henry Osif, candidate for Tribal Council, my Mother is Elizabeth “Lip” Osif-Abel (Ba:t) and my Father is Anthony “Tony” French (Ba:t), my immediate family consist of Lori Stevens, my nephews Adrian, Christian and Curtis Lopez, and Aristina the mother of my great-great nephew Noah. I am excited to be taking this step into Tribal Government where I have lived and served for over 20 years. I feel that I fit the role as a candidate to be your next Councilman and here is why.

My educational background in Business and Public Administration, combined with extensive professional experience in tribal government, has provided me with the knowledge, leadership skills, and practical expertise necessary to serve effectively on Tribal Council. My Business Administration studies established a foundation in organizational management, budgeting, strategic planning, and operational oversight, while my Bachelor of Science in Public Administration strengthened my understanding of public service, governance, policy implementation, ethical leadership, and community development. NAU’s Public Administration program has specifically provided me with the skill set to effectively and ethically serve in the public service fields.

Throughout my career with tribal government, I have gained broad experience across multiple departments and levels of responsibility. My position in the Recreation Department as Assistant Director, I developed experience in community engagement, program administration, youth and family services, and staff leadership. As Customer Service Section Manager within Public Works, I strengthened my abilities in constituent relations, problem-solving, service delivery, and departmental operations. As the Project Manager for the Department of Transportation, I am responsible for coordinating projects, managing resources, ensuring compliance, and working collaboratively with stakeholders to achieve organizational objectives.

In addition to my professional experience, I served as an Education Board Member and in the Board Chair position which has provided valuable governance experience, including policy development, strategic decision-making, fiduciary responsibility, meeting deadlines, and advocacy for educational advancement. These leadership roles have reinforced my commitment to accountability, transparency, and making decisions that reflect the best interests of the community.

Collectively, my education, professional experience, and public service leadership have prepared me to contribute effectively as a Tribal Council member. I possess a comprehensive understanding of tribal government operations, community needs, infrastructure development, public services, and educational initiatives. Most importantly, I am committed to serving with integrity, promoting responsible governance, and supporting policies and programs that strengthen the Tribe and enhance opportunities for current and future generations.

My name is Denelle Lynn Manuel-Prieto, known to many as Girssy. I am honored to be nominated as a candidate for tribal council. I come from the Manuel, Wellington, Andrews and Phillips lineages.

I am happily married to Rudy R. Prieto, together we have three sons—Rudy, Ryan, and Ricky Prieto—our cherished daughter-in-law, the late Laurice Carlos-Prieto.

My purpose is to advocate for the voices of our people and champion a dedicated seat centered on the well-being and health of our community. I am committed to ensuring our community, those living within urban areas, including our California relatives, have representation that protect, strengthens services and honors our Himdak.

I bring many years of volunteerism, and extensive years of professional experience both within and outside Salt River. Through these years I have worked alongside youth, families, leaders and elders in understanding the needs of our community. Most importantly, our culture and traditions. These experiences strengthened my commitment to listen and address your concerns connected to health, mental wellness and the well-being of our people, most important land.

EDUCATION:

• Arizona State University -Bachelor of Science – American Indian Studies-Policy
• University of Oklahoma -College of Law – Master’s in Legal Studies – Indian Law
• Scottsdale Community College – Associate in Art- Gener al Studies
  • Certification in Tribal Court Advocacy

COMMITTEE BOARDS/VOLUNTEERISM:

• Judicial Conduct Disciplinary Commissions Salt River Representative
• Law Enforcement Commissions – Community-At-Large
• Election Board –District I Clerk
• Reentry Services (Program Development)
• Domestic Violence Committee
• Self-Governance
• Pipaash Veterans Committee

WORK EXPERIENCE:

• Executive Office Intern
• Youth Case Manager
• Higher Education Program Advisor
• Career Service Coordinator

I encourage every Community member to exercise their right to vote. Your voice matters for the future of our people. When we vote, we strengthen our Himdak to grow in unity and resilience.

Should I be honored to serve, I will represent our community with respect, accountability and integrity. ” Our future, starts with your voice.”

Hello,

I am Carla J. Banuelos and I am a candidate for Council Representative for the Lehi District.

I have lived almost all of my life in Lehi and I come from a large Piipaash family. My mother is the late Lauretta Gates, and I am the proud granddaughter of the late Ike & Sienna Frances Gates.

I’ve held many positions within the Community as well as outside our boundaries. I have been in my current position for approximately 20 plus years. I have also served as a Tribal Court Associate Judge, as well as a Tribal Court Advocate representing Adult Community Members charged with a crime and Juvenile’s when charged with an offense.

I am the mother three children, Crystal, Renee, and Grant, and I have one beautiful and amazing granddaughter, Isabelle.

I am seeking the position of Council Representative to serve our Community. As our Community continues to grow in enrollment, there must be a commitment as a Council to being financially forward-looking, strategically planning, reviewing our objective values and missions, and setting clear and achievable goals in order for our Community to continue to provide necessary services to our members.

If elected, I commit to being an active contributor, without bias, personal opinion, or gain; to weigh each decision with fairness and what is in the best interest of the Community. I assure you I will represent all of our Community and not just those of select few, as I believe a good leader makes decisions that benefit the common good.

Thank you, and I hope I earn your vote as Lehi District Council Representative.

No bio provided.