ONEIDA, WI (WTAQ) – The Oneida Nation is appealing a decision in a lawsuit with the village of Hobart regarding a special events permit.
The tribe is challenging the municipal special events permit ordinance, which the village claims they need for events like their annual Big Apple Fest.
A decision last month handed down by federal Judge William Griesbach said the village can require the permit for events on tribal lands not held in trust status.
Yet, the village may not fine the tribe or its officials due to the sovereign nation status.
Chairman Tehassi Tasi Hill said the tribe will appeal:
“The Nation remains dedicated to the principle that it and its members are subject to federal and tribal regulation within its undiminished reservation, not regulation of local governments. The Nation will stand on that principle in the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals. We will protect the sovereignty of the Oneida Nation and ensure the U.S. upholds its trust responsibilities to our Nation, as was intended in the 1838 Treaty,” says Hill’s statement.
Hobart administration Aaron Kramer praised the ruling at the time:
“Hobart is pleased with the decision which was handed down today by Judge Griesbach. His decision was based on sound legal reasoning and logical conclusions. We will now take our time studying the decision in more detail and discussing its full impact with our legal counsel. The Village will provide a more detailed response early next week once our review is completed,” states Kramer.
On April 18 a scheduling conference is set to take place before Judge Griesbach.
According to court records, no documents have been filed with the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago.
