Cherokee Nation council approves amendments to Cherokee Heritage Center legislation, backs redevelopment plan

The Culture Committee of the Cherokee Nation Council approved amendments to the Cherokee Heritage Center Act after a presentation on a multi‑phase redevelopment plan and public engagement timeline.

The plan, developed by the Cherokee National Historical Society and Cherokee Nation cultural tourism staff, lays out a phased approach that preserves the seminary columns, creates a seven‑sided central gallery, and adds galleries, a café, classroom space and an amphitheater. The motion to adopt the Act amendments passed in a roll call vote; several council members were recorded as absent.

Christy Neuhoff, chair of the Cherokee National Historical Society, told the committee she was appointed to the society's board after the creation of the new society and said the organization worked with Cherokee Nation businesses to prepare a new strategic plan. "We worked on a new strategic plan, which analyzed the history of the site, how it is connected to our community," Neuhoff said.

Travis Owens, vice…