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Robert Martin has stepped down as tribal chairman of the Morongo Band of Mission Indians.
Martin, who has held various leadership positions with the tribe dung the past 30 years, retired July 1 rather than seek reelection, according to multiple reports.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my journey as I worked with our tribal council, our membership, and leaders in all branches of governments to advance self-reliance and tribal sovereignty,” Martin said in a statement.
“I’m proud of the great progress our tribe and our Tribal Council have made together during my tenure as we created new economic and educational opportunities for our members, our region, and all of Indian country.”
In 1987, Martin helped the tribe, which is located near Palm Springs, secure a decision from the U.S. Supreme Court that confirmed Native American gaming was legal. He oversaw the construction of the Casino Morongo in 1994 and the development of the Morongo Casino Resort & Spa 10 years later, according to the reports.
