By LORI ANN EDMO
Sho-Ban News
FORT HALL — Temporary employees that work for the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes are subject to layoff after January 17 because of the government shutdown.
For example, Fort Hall Recreation Director Mike Sakelaris said three of the Rec program’s employees face layoff including Steven Broncho who does skiing lessons, Alberta Begay who works weekends to keep the gym open and Mia Murillo who instructs the dance group.
The Elder Nutrition program will have one less driver that helps deliver meals to homebound tribal elders. No lunch is served on Friday for elders for the duration of the shutdown.
Concerning the Commodity program, manager Miranda Dixey said they have enough food to distribute through the end of January but next month is questionable because employees at the main office in San Francisco are on furlough.
Consumer Services is staying open to assist Shoshone-Bannock tribal members with various emergencies depending on what the client is requesting. For example the program may help with utility shutoffs, auto repairs, rent, etc. Applications for wood are still being accepted through January 18 said staff member Wynona Boyer. The west door to the HRDC building is open for the program to take applications on Friday when all other offices are closed.