The Community Service Committee of the Cherokee Nation convened on June 16, 2025, to discuss ongoing housing projects and address concerns regarding property management and development timelines. The meeting highlighted significant progress in housing developments in Sallisaw and Jay, despite challenges posed by recent weather conditions.

The meeting began with a report on the current state of construction at Redbird Smith Estates in Sallisaw. Committee members were shown photographs of the site, revealing that sod has been laid and the grass is thriving despite the rain. The completion of homes is nearing, with final cleaning and inspections scheduled before residents can move in. The anticipated completion date for the duplexes has been adjusted to mid-July, slightly later than the initial goal of July 4.

Discussion then shifted to the housing developments in Jay, which are set to be among the first Energy Star-rated homes in the area. These homes will feature energy-efficient appliances and insulation, potentially leading to lower utility costs for residents. However, the additional costs associated with achieving this rating pose challenges for maintaining affordability.

Committee members also addressed concerns regarding vacant housing units across various complexes, particularly in Jay. There is a pressing need to expedite the turnover of these units to accommodate individuals on waiting lists. The committee acknowledged that recent disasters have diverted resources and attention away from this issue but emphasized the importance of addressing the backlog.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue monitoring housing developments and to work towards improving the efficiency of property management. The committee expressed appreciation for the ongoing efforts to enhance housing availability for the Cherokee Nation community.