The Cayuga Council of Chiefs has publicly criticized the actions of Clint Halftown, the federally recognized leader of the Cayuga Nation, over recent disputes involving local community resources and businesses. Last Wednesday, the council condemned Halftown for severing a natural gas connection used by the Union Springs Central School District for over four decades, accusing him of harming the community and its children for financial gain.
The Council of Chiefs also highlighted Halftown’s move to shut down the Finger Lakes Drive-In by claiming property rights over its entrance and a portion of its screen. This action has escalated long-standing legal battles between the drive-in owner and Halftown’s council, now pending resolution in Cayuga County Court.
Expressing deep concern over Halftown’s leadership style, the Council of Chiefs has requested the Bureau of Indian Affairs to reevaluate its decision recognizing Halftown as the nation’s leader.
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