Sault Tribe Increases Mim.Wage

The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians has announced that it will follow the State of Michigan's lead and increase its minimum wage, to recognize dedicated employees and remain competitive in the Eastern Upper Peninsula job market. Minimum wage increases for Sault Tribe employees will take effect Sunday, October 1. Starting wages will be increased from $5.15 to $6.95 per hour, an increase of $1.80.

The tribe is recognized as a sovereign nation by federal and state governments, and as such, it is not required to follow state mandates such as the minimum wage.

Owing to a weakening economy, however, the tribe is in agreement that minimum wage increases are justifiable, the Tribe reported in a written release.

According to the tribe's human resources department, the increase will affect approximately 225 members, most being Kewadin Casino employees. The tribe is also adjusting the wage grid of entry level positions.

Tony Goetz, chief operating officer of Kewadin Casinos, said, "The wage increases will impact approximately 151 casino employees who are in primarily non-tipped positions.

Additionally, some of the positions that currently have starting wages that are just slightly above the new minimum wage will also be adjusted.

All current team members, in departments where the starting wage is being adjusted, will receive some sort of hourly pay increase."

The tribe offers benefit packages, including 401K, health insurance, long-term disability, supplemental insurance, life insurance, paid holidays, vacation leave, and sick leave.