Red Cliff Tribe Files Suit Against Bayfield County

They are Seeking a Judgement From Federal Court

MADISON, Wisc. – According to a recent news release the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians filed a lawsuit against Bayfield County challenging reservation zoning authority.

The Tribe says the County’s assertions of reservation zoning jurisdiction are unlawful.

The complaint states the Tribe has attempted to resolve the issues with the County, but the County has shown no interest in doing so.

“It is truly unfortunate that Bayfield County’s unjust position required us to file suit to protect our sovereignty,” said Tribal Chairman Richard Peterson. “The essence of tribal sovereignty is the right of a people to govern itself, which is at the core of this legal action. If Bayfield County feels they can intrude into the Red Cliff Tribal government’s sovereign authority within its own territory, it must be made absolutely clear that we will respond vigorously using all resources available to us.”

They are seeking judgement from the federal court to declare the County lacks authority to enforce land use regulations against the Tribe or its members.