Ron Hoffman is the new executive director of Bethel’s Orutsararmuit Native Council. Tuesday was his fourth day on the job, and when asked why the tribe should have confidence in his leadership his answer was simple:
“I deliver. I have the ability to partner with respective organizations, whether it be local, state, or federal. I am aware of the process in dealing with legislative issues within the state of Alaska. I am also very familiar with the federal process as to how we could protect the interests of the tribe within the region."
Hoffman retired from the Association of Village Council Presidents Regional Housing Authority this spring after 30 years with the organization, the last half of those as president and CEO. He also served as President of the Association of Alaska Housing Authorities.
“As president," he said, "I worked with the other executive directors and CEO’s across the state in promoting legislative issues both at the state and federal level.”
This position connected him with state and federal contacts and, he says, taught him how to pursue state and federal funding, a skill he wants to wield to improve health care for tribal members.
Another project he’s excited to connect his construction experience to is developing ONC’s 17-acre plot behind the Bethel post office into a subdivision.
“And we’re very excited to see some development activity this coming spring.”
ONC just has one last hurdle: securing an easement to the site.
When asked why he retired from one executive job to take on another, Hoffman said he looks forward to the challenge and to improving the lives of tribal members.
Gene Peltola retired from the ONC executive director position in October.
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