Some Chickasaws criticize plan for new capitol

(Ada-AP) -- Plans for a new capitol building for the Chickasaw Nation are progressing, but the proposal is not without its critics.

Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby has said the tribe needs more room for its expanding government and a showplace.

But opponents say last week's cutting of 123 jobs in the tribe's health care system show there are other problems that should be addressed first. The health system has a four-and-a-half (m) million dollar budget shortfall.

Anoatubby says the health system's finances are separate from the tribe's other finances. He says the tribal government is making money, including more than 14 (m) million dollars in gaming centers, businesses and other projects last year.

Anoatubby says he doesn't know how much a new capitol will cost, but says it will the in the millions of dollars.