AKWESASNE -- The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council was saddened to learn about the sudden passing of former-Tribal Chief Phillip H. Tarbell, who died at his home on Dec. 16, said a press release from the tribe.

Commonly known as “Phil,” he was elected as a Tribal Sub-Chief in 1993 -- before serving as Tribal Chief from 1994 to 1997. He initially served under the constitutional government before being elected under the “3-Chief” system to the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe, said the press release.

During his time on Tribal Council, Tarbell was passionate about strengthening the governance processes of the tribal government, the tribe said.

Tarbell worked in consultation with tribal membership on the development and enactment of the Tribal Council Procedures Act of 1994; Tribal Law Development, Interpretation and Codification Procedures Act of 1994; and the Judiciary Act of 1994.

While on Tribal Council, Tarbell also joined efforts to diversify Akwesasne’s economy through Indian gaming and generate much-needed tribal revenue that helps supports community programs and services, said the tribe. He contributed to the formation of the tribal gaming commission and helped make improvements to the Tribal State Gaming Compact through the tribal referendum process.

Following his term, he continued to contribute towards the development of other tribal legislation through his regular attendance at tribal meetings, consultation and informational forums, and work sessions. He was major advocate for the creation of the Tribe’s Elders Benefit Program that continues to provide monthly financial assistance to tribal seniors, the tribe said.

Before running for elected office, Tarbell worked for the New York State Education Department as the Iroquois Cultural Affairs Specialist in the New York State Museum -- where he joined lobbying efforts that successfully resulted in the American Indian Tribal Libraries Act of 1977, which helped secure funding for the eventual creation and operation of the Akwesasne Library.

Tarbell is best known for being steadfast in ensuring transparency and accountability of the tribal government through the ongoing adherence of established policies and procedures. His institutional knowledge of tribal and state political dynamics and processes will be missed in tribal discussions, the tribe said.

“On behalf of the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe, we extend our sincerest condolences and warmest thoughts to his family, his friends, and to those community members and others whose life he has touched throughout his years,” said the tribe.

Out of respect for Tarbell’s passing, the tribal flag was lowered at the Ionkwakiohkwaronon Tribal Administration Building, where it was to remain at half-staff until the day after his memorial service.