Wilton Rancheria Chairman Jesus G. Tarango, Jr. has been appointed to the Executive Committee of the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, becoming the first tribal leader to serve on the board in its 130-year history. The appointment was made official on September 3, 2025.
Robert Heidt, President & CEO of the Sacramento Metro Chamber, said, “Tribal communities have been an integral part of our region for generations. To have such a dynamic and visionary tribal leader sitting at the table taking part in discussions that pave the path for growth and possibility is both significant and long overdue. Chairman Tarango is committed to ensuring not only Wilton Rancheria’s voice is heard, but that all Indigenous communities are represented as we work together to build a successful, vibrant, and prosperous region for all.”
Wilton Rancheria is currently the only federally recognized tribe in Sacramento County. Both Wilton Rancheria and the Metro Chamber share a commitment to building a sustainable future for their community.
Chairman Tarango stated, “To serve on the Metro Chamber’s Board of Directors is an honor, especially here in the heart of our ancestral homelands. For generations, Tribal Nations have helped shape the Sacramento region, long before city lines, business districts, or chambers existed. I’m grateful to the Metro Chamber for recognizing the importance of Tribal leadership in such a visible and meaningful way. I’m proud to represent Wilton Rancheria and to share our voice, values, and perspective in the work ahead.”
Tarango was born and raised in Sacramento—homeland of Miwok and Nisenan people—and began his service with Wilton Rancheria when elected to its Tribal Council in 2016 as spokesperson. He later served as Vice-Chairman from 2018 before being re-elected as Chairman in 2024.
The Sacramento Metro Chamber Board includes leaders from organizations across various industries throughout the region who provide volunteer leadership for advocacy efforts benefiting members and businesses within California’s Capital Region.
Wilton Rancheria’s government consists of four branches: General Council (all voting members), Office of Chair/Vice-Chair (administration), Tribal Council (legislation/budget oversight), and Tribal Court (legal matters).
###
