The immediate future of the Pretty Bird Woman House domestic-violence shelter in McLaughlin could be determined tonight during a public meeting on plans to relocate the shelter in house near the city's downtown area.

The McLaughlin city council delayed action Jan. 7 on a proposal by Pretty Bird Woman House officials to purchase a house about a block from city hall to use for the shelter and its offices. Some city residents and officials are worried that the shelter - which was heavily vandalized while operating out of an apartment in another part of town - might again be the target of vandals or stalkers of women who might seek shelter at the center.

The potential problem is complicated by unclear legal jurisdiction. City and county law officers apparently don't have authority to arrest tribal members, even in the city. And Bureau of Indian Affairs law-enforcement is stretched thin.

"I've invited Gerald White, the chief of BIA police, to attend the meeting to answer some of those questions," shelter director Georgia Little Shield said Monday afternoon.

McLaughlin Mayor Ron Dumdei didn't respond to a previous Journal telephone call or a follow-up call earlier today at McLaughlin High School, where he works as a counselor.

The city council has zoning authority on placement of the shelter, which has struggled with financial problems but raised enough money during an online fundraiser to buy a new shelter and office headquarters.

Little Shield said she was hopeful the council would approve the shelter.

"Pray for us," she said. "I'm hoping I can answer any questions they have."

Contact Kevin Woster at 394-8413 or kevin.woster@rapidcityjournal.com