Tribal Self-Governance Planning Cooperative Agreement - The Snoqualmie Indian Tribe respectfully submits this application for the Indian Health Service (IHS) Tribal Self-Governance Program (TSGP) Planning Cooperative Agreement. The primary purpose of this project is to assess the Tribe’s readiness to assume control of IHS-funded health programs, services, functions, and activities (PSFAs) under Title V of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA), and to develop a comprehensive plan to support a successful transition to self-governance. As a federally recognized Tribe located in Washington State, the Snoqualmie Tribe has made substantial progress in reestablishing its governmental and health infrastructure since regaining federal recognition in 1999. The Tribe’s Health and Wellness Department has grown significantly over the past decade, currently offering behavioral health, substance use treatment, community wellness, and administrative support services. However, the Tribe does not yet operate its own primary care clinic under IHS funding or compacted services. Participation in the TSGP represents the next strategic milestone in the Tribe’s pursuit of health sovereignty and culturally relevant care. The planning period will focus on seven key objectives: Conduct an organizational readiness and gap analysis to determine the Tribe’s current capacity to manage IHS programs and identify areas for infrastructure or workforce enhancement. Analyze the current PSFAs provided by IHS to determine which services the Tribe may feasibly assume in the initial compact. Support community engagement and stakeholder input through facilitated meetings, focus groups, and surveys with Tribal members, staff, and leadership. Assess legal and financial systems, including the Tribe’s Indirect Cost (IDC) structure, fiscal accountability systems, and policies to ensure they meet federal self-governance requirements. Develop a Strategic Transition Plan and complete a TSGP Planning Report in accordance with 25 U.S.C. § 5383(d). Provide consultation and technical assistance to ensure understanding of compacting requirements, timelines, and documentation preparation. Deliver targeted training for Tribal staff and leadership on TSGP implementation and long-term program sustainability. Through this Planning Grant, the Tribe will build a strong foundation for negotiating and executing a self-governance compact and funding agreement. This planning period will be guided by internal tribal leadership, supported by technical consultants with experience in Tribal health administration, and rooted in broad-based community input. The Snoqualmie Tribe is deeply committed to increasing access to quality healthcare, expanding culturally responsive services, and exercising full control over the design and delivery of health programs for its people. By engaging in this planning process, the Tribe aims to eliminate persistent gaps in care, increase long-term sustainability, and strengthen Tribal sovereignty. The TSGP Planning Grant will position the Tribe for successful participation in Title V and lay the groundwork for a future where health services are determined, delivered, and governed by the Snoqualmie people. We respectfully request funding to begin this critical step toward self-determination in healthcare.
