Executive Branch Third Quarterly Report

OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT JONATHAN NEZ | PRESIDENT MYRON LIZER |VICE PRESIDENT

EXECUTIVE BRANCH THIRD QUARTERLY REPORT

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION JULY 2021 NAVAJO NATION OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE NO.

I. Department of Diné Education 2 II. Department of Human Resources 32 III. Diné Uranium Remediation Advisory Commission 39 IV. Division of Community Development 42 V. Division of Economic Development 58 VI. Division of General Services 78 VII. Division of Public Safety 82 VIII. Navajo Department of Health 94 IX. Navajo Division of Social Services 108 X. Navajo Division of Transportation 116 XI. Navajo Gaming Regulatory Office 120 XII. Navajo Nation Department of Justice 125 XIII. Navajo Nation Division of Natural Resources 130 XIV. Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency 156 XV. Navajo Nation Telecommunications Regulatory Commission 161 XVI. Navajo Nation Veterans Administration 164 XVII. Navajo Nation Washington Office 166 XVIII. Navajo-Hopi Land Commission Office 173 XIX. Office of Hearing and Appeals 185 XX. Office of Management and Budget 187 XXI. Office of Miss Navajo Nation 190 XXII. Office of Navajo Public Defender 195 XXIII. Office of Navajo Tax Commission 198 XXIV. Office of The Controller 201 1

Department of Diné Education

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

I. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

DODE hosted a live forum regarding the state of education on the Navajo Nation amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic with Navajo Nation school leaders and health experts the evening of June 17, 2021. The panel took questions and concerns from the audience as well as points brainstormed by DODE staff that parents may have about sending their children back to school for in-person instruction.

During weekly school leadership meetings, updates and remarks are provided by Acting Superintendent of Schools Patricia Gonnie about the impact the pandemic has on the reopening efforts for schools on the Navajo Nation. Staff from OPVP and DODE programs give remarks on their schools and various programs, and the CDC and Navajo Nation Epidemiology Center also provide continuous updates on COVID-19 statistics.

The Center for Disease Control’s approval for emergency use of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for youths over the age of 12 in April present another avenue by which schools can be made safe for students to return this fall. DODE continues to recommend their staff receive their vaccine if they have not, and we now urge students over the age of 12 to receive theirs.

Schools operating on the Navajo Nation were required to submit individualized reopening plans, which included the following criteria:

• The school must have a plan for virtual, hybrid, and in-person learning.

• Schools will follow Navajo Nation COVID-19 Safe Schools Framework as outlined in the Navajo Nation School Reopening Plan. The framework is designed from learning recommendations with core and conditional prevention strategies, based on CDC guidelines.

• Having procedures for diagnostic testing and contact tracing in case of exposure.

• Reporting COVID-19 exposure to the Navajo Health Command Operations Center.

• All schools will establish a Reopening Readiness team and complete the Reopening Readiness Assessment. Afterward, the Readiness Assessment team will sign the attestation statement that includes recommendations for reopening to DODE, school administration, and the district school board.

Following the passage of Resolution CJN-36-21 by the 24th Navajo Nation Council and signing by Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez on July 6, 2021, DODE will inform the public that schools can reopen for in-person instruction. Information will include comments from school staff and health experts on what has been done to ensure students and teachers will be safe.

• Inform parents that it is their decision whether they want to send their children back to school for in-person instruction for the Fall 2021 semester while providing information on what has been done to make schools safe.

• Monitor the ongoing developments of the COVID-19 pandemic, including rise of new variants and the rollout of vaccines. Continue to use the information provided by NNEC to maintain safe workspaces for staff and ensure education settings are safe for students to return.

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Office of Navajo Nation Scholarship & Financial Assistance/Higher Education Grant Program

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. Major accomplishments for the program is having an increase in the Federal Budget after four years of being slated for elimination.

2. Another major accomplishment is the ONNSFA working through the pandemic closures of the Navajo Nation government successfully and without any major incident. ONNSFA staff were here for students and caused a bit of normalcy for students and they appreciated it.

3. Two Memoranda of Agreements were signed with ASU and UNM law schools, which match tuition costs. These two agreements save a lot of money for the program because the universities also help fund our students.

4. Education involves the entire family, because it impacts family households and finances. Despite the pandemic, many students continued their college and vocational education. And many students were sheltered at home, off campus or on campus housing and their basic needs were met with food and supplies. There are students who opted not to continue school due to the pandemic and because they lacked the technology infrastructure to attend classes online.

5. ONNSFA services continued 8 - 5, Monday through Friday. ONNSFA personnel were in their offices for students and processing their applications, answering telephones, email messages, receiving mail and logging in documents. Having an employee answering your phone call and email messages goes a long way when the government is not completely open to the public. Students and families were very grateful that we were answering their calls.

6. The former administration consistently zeroed out the BIA Higher Education Scholarship budget. Fortunately, with the successful advocacy of President Nez, the BIA Higher Education Scholarship was funded under the Federal Budget Continuing Resolution. We continue to pursue Forward Funding of the federal funds. This will accomplish the budget to be appropriated 2 years beginning in July and well before the Fall term begins.

7. Chief Manuelito Scholarship requires Navajo language and government to qualify for the Chief Manuelito Scholarship every year. Many students aspire to earn the scholarship at an early age. Today is the application deadline so we will have the final numbers at the next meeting.

8. The Navajo language and culture preservation is important to the Navajo people. The Navajo Nation Scholarship office supports the preservation of the Navajo language and culture by offering the Chief Maneulito Scholarship. The students are required to take two units of Navajo language to qualify for this funding.

9. Arts, financial literacy, etc. ONNSFA is accomplishing goals towards the First Lady’s priorities. ONNSFA serves more than 13, 000 students attending college and vocational schools, which will help the young generation to be self-sufficient and contribute to their Navajo society with their education. The First Lady made a powerful presentation at the 2020 Chief Manuelito Scholarship Awards ceremony.

10. Partnerships with colleges and universities where we match tuition are great accomplishments, because colleges and universities also fund our students. We stretch our budget to as many students as possible, so without these partnerships, a lot more students would be going without funding.

11. An agreement with Arizona State University Sandra De O’Connor College of Law was signed by President Nez this week to match funds equal to tuition costs.

12. An agreement was also signed by President Nez with New Mexico School of Law to match funds equal to tuition costs.

13. An agreement was signed by President Nez with New Mexico Highlands University for coordination of a tuition scholarship funded by the university.

CHALLENGES

1. Major challenges to getting the Federal budget is not received until 3-6 months later. The other challenge is that it requires bipartisan support in Congress to get funds.

2. Major challenges to ONNSFA operations are the building is not always clean. We were supposed to get sneeze guards, most did not come in until two months ago.

3. Challenges to any agreements is the lengthy review process. There is nothing wrong with the policies. It's the people who are in those positions that take too long. They do not confirm of receipt of messages, they do not respond to requests for update or status checks. The Navajo Nation needs to re-teach all employees to be professional.

4. The challenges were related to communication breakdown because of telephones not working including email and Internet being down periodically. We would like to have reliable internet in the near future as the Navajo Nation has received funds for ARPA funds.

5. We remain in need of additional office space and our building has poor ventilation.

6. The Navajo Educating Center is old building because it wasn’t taken care of properly. There is a constant bad odor in the north entrance. The building is either too hot or too cold. It needs a lot of repairs and cleaning.

7. In addition to Navajo courses, it is important for students to have and aspire for high academic achievement, which is indicative through ACT scores above 21; however, the greatest challenge right now is the Navajo Board of Education trying to change the criteria of scholarship mid-year by waiving the ACT requirement. The board wants to lower the high academic achievement bar.

8. Some challenges in achieving the priority are the Internet is not always reliable and at least one additional staff is needed to assist with our IT issues.

9. For all agreements, getting through the review process was a major challenge. Two of these agreements were started 2 – 3 times because the others were not moving forward. These agreements spent many weeks and months at Department of Justice and later the OPVP Legal Counsel’s office. Meanwhile, our students and university partners were calling. It was an extremely difficult time.

Office of Standards, Assessment, and Curriculum Development

1. $100,000 NMPED IED grant approval for Dine Language & Culture educational online resources and material for educators, administrators, etc.

2. Completed Online assessments feasibility study for three assessments that Dine Language & Culture teachers can assess and administer.

3. Completed two Indigenous Language & Culture grant applications; pending approval.

4. 4 Students receive the Navajo Nation Biligual SEAL Award.

5. OSCAD conducted two Professional Development; 1) Student Success Through Culturally Responsive Teaching through Virtual Learning” and 2) Néé'Níji Nizhoónigo' nóohoo'áh Naa'noseeldo.for school educators, teachers, administrators and School Board members.

6. Two meetings with a representative from the Diné Bizaad Subcommittee éto give an overview of the Dine Language & Culture program with Office of Standards Curriculum & Assessment

CHALLENGES

1. 164 Review Process is time consuming and limits timeframe and quality for initiatives, projects, etc.

2. Not all communities & schools have reliable, high speed internet services.

Office of Navajo Nation Library

1. ONNL staff attended the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED) Tribal Education Appropriations FY 21-23 session for $4,500,000 for tribal libraries to develop and staff culturally and linguistically relevant after-school student services and community-based summer programs. The ONNL has submitted an amended Plan of Operation to incorporate amendment to establish Navajo Nation Chapters to be recognized as libraries by three State Librarians. ONNL and Information Technology staff are responding to questions from Navajo Nation DOJ for more clarity on the proposed Plan of Operation amendments. The ONNL staff continue to participate with IT staff and others to schedule fiber connection and securing E-Rate discounts. ONNL staff is also attending training so that chapter staff can be trained when the Navajo Nation chapters open libraries.

2. The ONNL advertised and received one (1) qualified applicant for the Torreon Library. ONNL staff will be scheduling interviews for the Programs and Projects Specialist applicant on June 30, 2021. A Memorandum of Agreement will be negotiated with Torreon Chapter to support the library operations and expansion to meet community needs.

3. The ONNL and Navajo OSERS are collaborating to set up a Children’s Library focusing on promoting literacy. The Navajo Nation Office of the First Lady has also been invited to work with the team.

4. 10,000 books donated by a person in Los Angeles, CA. 25 boxes of children’s books donated by a person through Reader to Reader. Navajo Nation Head Start and Navajo OSERS utilize early childhood book donations for outreach and literacy events.

5. The ONNL has opened allowing 10 visitors at a time to utilize the Library resources. Staff are following Safety Protocols based on CDC guidelines. A review of the library was conducted by a DoDE Safety Team member. Additional recommendations will be implemented based on the review.

CHALLENGES

1. The ONNL is planning to secure Bibliocommons as it has many built-in library tools and apps that will greatly benefit and improve on the current way of barcoding and printing labels.

2. ONNL needs a plan for computer upgrades, as computers are obsolete. Only 1 laptop purchased with CARES Act funding was issued to 1-ONNL staff. Software upgrades are needed computers used by patrons.

Office of Dine Accountability and Compliance

1. DoDE/ODAC has been providing all schools (BIE Operated, Tribally Controlled, Public, Private) with weekly meetings to educate and update all schools on and near the Navajo Nation (Tribally Controlled, BIE Operated, SEA's on COVID-19 updates for schools to plan appropriately.

2. The current Grant/Contract Reauthorization requires the NNBOE to look at the fiscal and assessment aspects of a school to determine the number of years a school is reauthorized. The NNBOE is planning to make the Navajo Language and Culture a part of this requirement for reauthorization. The NNBOE is planning to have a work session in the near future.

3. 2021 Grant Reauthorization of Schools: Thus far the DoDE (ODAC included) and Navajo Nation Board of Education (NNBOE) has Reauthorized "14" P.L. 100-297 grant schools and "1" P.L. 93-638 contract school. Eleven schools are pending grant reauthorization during the month of July.

4. ODAC continues to administer weekly Navajo Nation School Leadership virtual meetings with Tribally Controlled, BIE Operated, State Public Schools and Private Schools per CDC and the Navajo Epi Center with presentations on COVID-19 cases on the Navajo Nation

and answer questions from school personnel. This platform also provides schools with updates on School Reentry Plans, Departments of Education updates and info from OPVP.

5. ODAC is continuing to provide technical assistance to schools due for Grant Reauthorization. This includes working with the Office of Navajo Business Regulatory and the Navajo Nation Department of Community Development to request these offices to expedite document approval from schools to complete their application for Grant Reauthorization.

6. ODAC assisted in contacting 32 Navajo Tribally Controlled Schools to submit their Tax Form 941's to the Navajo Nation Washington Office for the purpose of data needed to obtain funds from the American Rescue Plan for the Navajo Nation.

CHALLENGES

1. DoDE continues to work with the Navajo Elections Administration to draft legislation to mandate background checks from all Navajo BIE-Funded School Board officials. Due to staff turnover at NEA, this project is at a standstill until a permanent Director can be hired.

2. Due to the litigation (Chavez vs. Navajo Nation) regarding the Navajo Nation's School Apportionment Plan is at a standstill as ODAC is experiencing an increase in complaints from stakeholders on local school boards making questionable decisions that affect their communities.

3. DoDE/ODAC continues to request for collaboration with the BIE Navajo Region. However, BIE Navajo Region is slowly communicating with DoDE in regards to the CARES Act and ARP fund allocations.

4. An injunction was filed against the newly approved Apportionment Plan. This injunction has caused questions of who will govern the 66 Navajo BIE-funded schools for SY 2021- 2022.

5. ODAC is currently implementing the NN School Intervention Policy on Shonta Preparatory School as community members from the Shonta area have filed their concerns with DoDE/ODAC. Due to the Pandemic of COVID-19 and travel restriction, our office is in the final stages of completing the intervention. However, during the implementation of this intervention, new issues became evident causing serious concerns in regards to decision made by the governing board of Shonto and their leadership. 10

Johnson-O'Malley Program

1. The Johnson O'Malley Program's JVA was fulfilled for the Program Manager Position. DPM forwarded Six applicants and the interviews have been scheduled for June 29-30, 2021.

2. The Johnson O'Malley Program submitted a detailed Annual Report to the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Navajo Regional Office per the 25 CFR. The report included the (27) twenty-seven JOM Subcontractors' reports and JOM Administration.

3. The Johnson O'Malley Program is a participant in the ARPA Planning Work Group to review DODE proposals and to prioritize the 100 million cap for the 3-Year Plan. Johnson O'Malley Program submitted a proposal for Dine' Language Books/Curriculum Materials, STEM/STEAM Projects and Infrastructure for New Office Doors which totaled $37,000.00.

4. The Johnson O'Malley Program Sr. Education Specialist have been a participant in about (30) Tribal Consultation Hearings. A list of concerns have been developed for various departments to address.

5. The Johnson O'Malley Program was a participant in the BIE Tribal Consultation in May 2021 and comments were made virtually to BIE, Washington Office. The topics of discussions were: Implementation of a distribution methodology based on the annual student count (as required by the JOM Modernization Act) - Current target date for implementation is 2023-2024 school year.

a. Discussion of the JOM student count form. b. JOM Annual Report update, c. Clarification of JOM student eligibility criteria in 25 CFR 273.112 - Who is an eligible Indian Student under the JOM Act?. d. Discussion of allowable costs/expenditures of JOM funding in 25 CFR 273.113 - How can the funds be used under the JOM Act?. e. Documents needed for annual award of funds (budget, student count form, etc.

CHALLENGES

1. Navajo Nation 164 Approval Process: The 164 Reviewer are not using the 5-day reviewal limit which hinders the execution of contracts result in delayed contract award and schools not spending their funds

2. Navajo Nation Risk Management insurance requirements put a hold on all of the JOM Contracts: One-Time Supplemental Funding, 2-Year Contracts, Modifications and FY 2021-2022 Funding.

3. JOM Program literally going in circles with contract extensions and modification for the ongoing contracts due to delayed contract execution by the OOC Contract Administration.

4. JOM Program need support from DODE, DOJ, OOC, 0MB and OP/VP to get schools on tract and move the contracts through the 164 reviews expediently.

5. When the Johnson O'Malley funds allocated to the Subcontractors (School Districts) are not fully expended it becomes "unexpended funds" and not viewed favorably by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Tribal Council and the Navajo Nation President.

Office of Dine Y.O.U.T.H

1. Crownpoint - a) The agency has concluded and implementing Virtual Afterschool programming. An organization “Explora” Program has collaborated to implement the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, & Mathematics) curriculum to improve the guiding students, inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking to master the implementation of the curriculum. The various activities include: Dine Language and Culture – the staff are reenforcing the Dine Language and Culture for the enrolled students. The engagement of teaching how to pronounce and hold a small conversation with an adult and/or elder.

Prevention curriculum are implemented to ensure students never doubting themself, embrace change and let oneself kindness hero. School Outreach, the month of April and May, staff provided structural programming to grade s K through 8th graders. Daily Huddles virtual meeting, the weekly meeting to focused, team building, and to improve the performance of engagement through-out each week. a. The agency has been implementing Virtual Afterschool Programming by providing various activities. Youth learning how to write and speak the Diné (Navajo) Language and healthy eating and the different types of vegetables are healthy to eat, by gardening and implementing the Dine (Navajo) history.

2. Huerfano Center – Providing programming services. Dine Language and Culture: The students learned about Language, pictorial activities and Dine history. Prevention: Utilizing the Diabetes Education in Tribal School Student Assistance Program and Dare to Be You. Utilizing and implementing to ensure the student’s changes are happening and accepting the challenges. Character Count emphasizing and development of core ethical traits –trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. a. The agency has been implementing Virtual Afterschool Programming by providing various activities. Youth learning how to write and speak the Diné (Navajo) Language and healthy eating and the different types of vegetables are healthy to eat, by gardening and implementing the Dine (Navajo) history.

3. Chinle – a) The Chinle Office of Dine’ Youth/Boys and Girls Club of Dine’ Youth submitted an$700,000.00 proposal to the Navajo Nation American Rescue Plan Act. Some of the details of the proposal is fund an infrastructure project. The project benefits that are foreseen are the facility will serve as a one stop place for the sixteen (16) chapters/communities and the 24 schools (tribal, grant/contract, BIE, public) and the agency head start centers.

a. The ODY/BGCDY has been expending the external funds (K Accounts) accounts have been closed out, while others are at expenditure pending status with requisitions making their way through the liquidation channels. Working with the Department of Personnel Management, the vacant personnel positions budgeted for the Boys and Girls Club are going through job announcements and for a pool of applicants for each position. Have these positions filled by the time ODY centers are reopen for in person programming.

4. Fort Defiance – a) Implemented an array of Virtual Programming. Character & Leadership development, Prevention and Healthy Life Skill, Recreation, Arts and leisure fun activities. Girls Scout Virtual met bi-weekly for sessions and leadership development. a. Implemented an array of Virtual Youth Programs with Navajo Head Start. Providing with programming on Character & Leadership Development, Prevention and Healthy Life Skill, Recreation, Arts and Leisure fun activities.

5. Shiprock – a) Partnership continuing with Dine Introspective – Presentation, programming on Tai Chi. b) Youth resilient through culture teaching. c) Summer Youth Employment Program with Mexican Water chapter a zoom presentation was conducted in Dine (Navajo) language and culture, arts & crafts. End of the School year celebration drive-thru, provided Northern agency youth with incentives such as: coloring books, suitcases, snacks, and lunch bags. To ensure our Dine Youth to continue with their educational endeavors.

6. Tuba City – a) Emphasizing and promoting the core principles of the DoDE Philosophy and collaborated with Cameron and Oljato Head Start. Kaibeto Boarding School, Tuba City High School. The implementation of Dine culture, history, and Dine (Navajo) language.

a. Partnership with Native Americans, with drive up distribution of Disaster Relief supplies: PPE, Sanitizers, Hand wipes, paper products (toilet paper, paper towels), disposal gloves, snacks, disinfectant cleaners, scented candles, school supplies, eyeglass wipes, arts and crafts supplies, basketball rims and nets, books for all ages. The items were distributed to community members within Tuba City area.

7. Boys & Girls Club of Diné Y.O.U.T.H. – Received notification Liability Insurance documents submitted to Risk Management informed ODY/BGC have bound the policy. NN Risk Management is waiting on the Certificates of Insurance for Directors and Officers and Employed Professional Liability.

CHALLENGES

1. Chinle – The payment process for Crownpoint Youth Complex, paying out Arviso Construction. Having to go through the 164 Review process takes a long time.

2. Boys & Girls Club of Diné Y.O.U.T.H. – The upload payment information into FMIS – Navajo Nation is utilizing, its barrier when some vendor’s do not accept Purchase Orders from Navajo Nation.

3. Crownpoint / Huerfano – Cannot utilize the Operational P-Card, unfortunately some vendor’s do not accept Purchase Orders from Navajo Nation.

4. Ft. Defiance – Delays with financial documentations, not processed in a timely manner with the Navajo Nation Finance Departments

5. Shiprock – Due to Covid-19, the restrictions are continuing therefore the centers are still closed. No students are allowed into the facility. However, ODY continue to provide virtual programs.

Office of Dine School Improvement (ODSI)

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. ODSI submitted to response to the DSAP federal peer review team

2. ODSI worked with 34 Tribally Controlled Schools on their school improvement plans for the SY 21-22

3. ODSI assisted tribal leaders in addressing sovereignty in education issues relative to public schools

4. ODSI provided professional development to 40 teachers from 20 schools in math and science

5. ODSI is developing a parental involvement handbook for parents. We are 60% complete with project.

6. Sharing information to parents on school improvement initiatives.

7. Assisting schools with parental involvement activities.

8. Providing information to parents on graduation and promotions.

9. The DODE school safety task force meeting addressed mental initiatives at schools

10. Funds for mental of student has be identified.

11. Mental health initiatives across the NN is becoming more evident.

12. New ARPA funds have been identified for school improvement initiatives

13. Tribal leaders are now understanding the value of Human Capitol Infrastructure development.

14. The Dine Philosophy of Learning model for school improvement has advanced.

15. The Parental Involvement Handbook is nearing complete.

16. DSAP meeting the federal requirements as a school accountability regulation.

17. ODSI is working on data collection and research with the Missing and Murder Indigenous Women initiative with First Lady.

CHALLENGES

1. The DSAP federal peer review process is unfair. In the CFR this process is to be complete in 60 days.

2. School improvement initiatives are impacted by uncertainties relative to school reopening plans

3. BIE's ARPA award of 171 million is unknow to schools.

4. Tribal consultation with public and BIE funded schools regarding ARPA funds did not happen.

5. Sovereignty in Education for the Navajo Nation needs to be defined by federal, state, and tribal statue.

6. The Human Capitol Infrastructure Develop is not understood because it represents a non- tangible outcome that is not visible.

7. Parents voicing their concerns about lack of school support for students being on-line

8. Weak internet connections across schools

9. Limiting graduation and promotion attendance for student family members

Navajo Head Start

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. Issuance of the FY2021 Notice of Grant Award from the federal Office of Head Start for COVID-19 supplemental funds.

2. Implementation of the TCU-HS Summer 2021 Bootcamp for interested NHS parents and staff.

3. Successfully coordinated all NHS centers and offices during the COVID-19 Pandemic and continued services and providing resources to our families.

4. Reporting to the Health, Education, and Human Services Committee of the Navajo Nation Council on Performance Audit.

5. NHS has successfully implemented a virtual event “Transitional Tuesday” to encompass head start promotes who will be transitioning into kindergarten. Children had the ability to virtually take a tour of kindergarten classroom and meet the principal.

6. Navajo Head Start provided virtual training opportunities for families that focused on Early Mathematics and Literacy monthly.

7. Several families received Care Packages from First Things First that consist of diapers, baby wipes, formula, snacks, and cleaning supplies.

8. Mental Health and Disabilities Liaison reached out to all families who have child identified with a disability to ensure the child was receiving services as written in their individual educational plan.

9. NHS has been awarded COVID and ARAP supplemental funding to secure positions for Social Workers to ensure that we help children, families, and staff solve and cope with problems in their everyday lives. The NHS program works directly with professional consultants who are able to diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional issues.

10. Updated policies and procedures to not only target children with learning difficulties but also those who may be experiencing mental health challenges due to trauma and/or loss due to COVID-19. 17

11. Issued an RFP for a Traditional Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant.

12. Navajo Head Start collaborated with Navajo Nation Division of Social Services and referred families to proper department based on the family’s needs.

13. Helped families gain access and completed all required forms for housing.

14. NHS staff provide support for families that need housing through daily relationships with parents and children and referrals to the Navajo Housing Authority or other community organizations that will support our requests.

15. Radio advertisements on KTNN about the program’s phased approach to reopening and what services are available to community members.

16. Identification of new Business Units for awarded supplemental grants.

17. Streamlining of services under the new guidance of the Director of Financial Services.

18. Additional funding streams available for NHS through submission of funding proposals by program.

19. NHS successfully completed Seasonal and Duration sites for the SY 2020-2021. School Readiness Team successfully implemented remote learning them outlines with implement of Dine language.

20. School Readiness Team is in the process of revising the Dine Language Assessment (Cultural Knowledge and Language) suitable for children 0-5 years old.

21. Purchase of HATCH Tablets to enhance learning opportunities for children at home and building on learning skills.

22. Integration of Dine language and cultural learning in the overall organizational planning and implementation (i.e., Sharing of Our Grandparents teachings, Vision and Mission statement in Dine Kehji, Professor emeritus program).

23. Program governance meetings every month: Parent Policy Council, NNBOE, and HEHSC meetings

24. All Navajo Head Start internal policies and procedures are under revision.

25. Collaboration with all Navajo Nation offices to complete the Office of Head Start Grant Application.

26. Collaboration with Office of Head Start.

27. Collaboration with the Navajo Nation Command Center and the Department of Dine Education Preparedness Team.

28. Requiring Tribal and Federal background checks for all staff and volunteers.

29. NHS Community Mitigation Team meetings.

30. The ability to provide new buses for reliable transportation for NHS students across very rough terrain.

31. NHS working to help bring new facilities to the Navajo Nation communities that house an NHS center/classroom.

32. Begin preparation for repairing minor deficiencies with NHS facility.

33. 100% Center screening rooms and isolation rooms at NHS sites for safety of staff and children

34. Scheduling assessments with NOSHA on screening and isolation rooms

35. Working with OEH for Annual Sanitation permits

36. Clarification with Electrical companies on billing issues with NHS sites.

CHALLENGES

1. Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Center-Based and Home-Based services for Head Start and Early Head Start families and children.

2. Immediate hiring of personnel based on Navajo Nation DPM, OOC, and OMB procedures.

3. Information Technology Infrastructure and connectivity needs improvement. NHS still needs funds to address through the program.

4. Slow Navajo Nation procurement process that stalls NHS payments and places blame on NHS from vendors for non-payment or late payments.

5. Misleading directions from the Office of Management and Budget on the implementation of grant applications and awards.

6. Parent participation was a challenge to complete, however, Family services had conducted a survey from parent participation who consistently build adjustments to parent trainings.

7. Volunteers to NHS must pay for their own Tribal Background check, which may hinder the processing of their application and clearance to help in the centers or offices.

8. Lack of internet infrastructure for some communities and families impacted participation rates.

9. Lack of understanding between a child having and identified learning difficulty and experiencing mental health challenges due to lived experiences.

10. Throughout the COVID-10 Pandemic, it’s been challenging for the MHD team to physically go to the classroom to audit student folders to ensure NHS is on track per Office of Head Start requirements.

11. Some families don’t meet the eligibility requirements for housing.

12. Shortage of housing availability in smaller communities.

13. Availability of housing for NHS staff in proximity to NHS classrooms across the Navajo Nation.

14. Release of additional funds needed for construction of more NHS classrooms and buildings to attract more employees to the Navajo Nation.

15. Lack of funding for Chapters to repair buildings for educational use or provide needed utilities.

16. Disposing of old property within old buildings, which requires a contract and additional funds.

17. Slow hiring and personnel document processing for new staff that Finance department needs.

18. NHS Financial internal policies and procedures are under revision.

19. Delay of learning devices distributed for children and not enough time for children to project growth.

20. Families face many obstacles of retrieving home learning packets as transportation played a factor.

21. Lack of internet connectivity for families in several communities made it a challenge for students to participate in ZOOM or Microsoft Team video calls.

22. Delays in processing of documents through 164 review process.

23. Governance and Protocol Training for program staff and governing bodies

24. Training for Governing Bodies regarding NHS fiscal, program and management components.

25. Creating a housing plan for NHS staff – without identified funds.

26. Construction funds needed for renovation of many NHS classrooms in buildings that do not belong to NHS.

27. Chapters need to spear head construction projects that their community members want/need as well as sign Intragovernmental Partnership Agreements (IPAs) for facility usage. Presentations have been made to impacted Chapters, however, Chapters are slow to sign and provide supporting documentation for the Navajo Nation’s 164 review process.

28. Presenting IPA to new chapter officials with NHS sites 21

29. Slow processing of financial documents to get more supplies due to complex Navajo Nation’s Financial System. Waiting on department approvals such as OOC and Contract Accounting.

30. Slow process of contracting major work for NHS sites for roofing, HVAC services, and Fire extinguisher and Fire suppression system service and delivery, all due to Navajo Nation’s procurement processes and waiting on departmental approvals.

31. Limited funding for overhead cost at NHS sites.

Project # 1: DODE: Re-evaluate Title 10, Navajo Nation Education Code. NHS is working with Office of Head Start, Navajo Nation Department of Dine' Education programs, NHS Policy Council, Navajo Nation Board of Education, and tribal colleges & universities to brainstorm for improvements and partnerships on projects that involve Title 10. NHS seeks to separate from the Navajo Nation.

Project # 2: Navajo Language Commission. NHS is working with other departments and programs to ensure the revitalization of the Dine' language among NHS students and strengthening of the Navajo Head Start Immersion Program. Program wants to hire Dine' Language & Culture Specialists to maintain the Immersion Program. NHS has secured additional funds to strengthen the Diné curriculum through a Navajo Language Consultant as well as partnered with Navajo Technology University to increase the numbers of Diné speaking staff and parents.

AdvancED Navajo Nation

1. From October to December, our office staff have worked with and contacted 25 schools across the Navajo Nation. These schools were contacted and supported via technical assistance over the phone, Zoom meetings. We are working with schools to ensure they are starting to prepare for their Accreditation Engagement Reviews for next school year, conduct their Monitoring reviews this school year. The first schools with reviews were in October and continue each month throughout the school year.

2. Office staff has worked with 8 schools. 1:1 with schools who will host their Accreditation Engagement Review, and Monitoring Reviews during this fiscal year. Schools that are preparing for their Engagement Review have been trained on the tools that will be used to evaluate their progress; and the official Cognia Training “Preparing for your Engagement Review” training. Program Manager worked with schools 1:1 to ensure understanding and implementation of framework and online platforms.

3. This quarter we worked to recruit and retain 30 team members and/or lead evaluators. As all reviews are completed virtually, all work with team members is done virtually, including training and ensuring they are able to meet all expectations to serve on the teams.

4. We have primarily worked with schools over zoom meetings to increase their capacity in their ability to prepare for their engagement reviews. Due to the closure of schools and the current stay at home order, we ceased all activities regarding the Eleot pilot and other onsite school support. We have supported approximately 25 schools.

CHALLENGES

1. School Reopening and the format of the education that will be provided is not a barrier, but rather creates more unknowns. All schools will undergo and host virtual reviews. We are currently working with all schools to understand this format. There are two schools that are unresponsive at this time.

Office of Special Education & Rehabilitation Services

1. The Navajo Nation Growing In Beauty Home Visiting program has continue to retain 95% of enrolled families by allowing flexibility of scheduling appointments through virtual or telephone visits. The home visiting program currently provides services to 231 Navajo families & 200 Navajo Children who reside on the Navajo Reservation for both Arizona 24

and New Mexico. Services for this reporting period include 91 development screenings, 350 + family virtual & telephone visits with families that include family activity. Each month each enrolled child receives a free book to promote Early Language Literacy in families homes. Our home visiting program has collaborated with Navajo Nation Project I-LAUNCH to begin outreach efforts for promoting early childhood development awareness and participating in Drive Thru events. The program recently renewed grant & contract with ADHS & Tribal MIECHV for this FY 2021. The Home Visiting programs that receive funding from AzFTF has also been renewed and a new award to the contracted BIE schools will be continuing with service deliveries.

2. Arizona Early Intervention Program: Growing in Beauty Program has been completing the initial intakes, evaluations, Individual Family Services Plan meeting (Initial, 6 Months and Annual) and transition through telephone and ZOOM with families. This will continue until further notice. Arizona Early Intervention continues to monitoring the Navajo Nation Growing in Beauty Program in the areas of 45 Days Timeline, Timely Services and Transition.

3. Navajo Project I-LAUNCH’s major accomplishments within the 3rd quarter include expansion of system wide collaboration with early childhood providers and stakeholders, resource mapping, and the initiation of direct services. Through the I-LAUNCH’s advisory council and outreach efforts, the program has gained meaningful collaborators either by strengthening existing partnerships or welcoming new stakeholders to the team. Currently I-LAUNCH has over 40 organizations and programs within in the Navajo Nation and surrounding areas in Arizona and New Mexico participating in I-LAUNCH’s advisory council as known as the Navajo Nation Early Childhood Collaborative. I-LAUNCH has also been recognized by several partners and collaborators including Navajo Head Start in efforts to finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to provide Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (IECMHC) along with professional development and continued promotion of social emotional wellness for young children and families. I- LAUNCH has also partnered with Northwest New Mexico First Born program and Arizona First Things First to collectively create an Early Childhood Resource Map to provide visual representation of the early childhood resources that exist on the Navajo Nation and surrounding areas. The beta version of the map has been presented to various groups for feedback and suggestions to further develop the map to meet our audience’s wants and needs. Lastly, with I-LAUNCH’s heavy focus on system’s level work for the past quarters, the team has purposefully shifted focus to safely provide virtual and socially distanced, drive-thru direct services such as child development/adult screening, parenting classes, and reflective supervision in the latter part of the quarter as the Navajo Nation moved into yellow status indicating moderate-low restrictions.

4. Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) and Independent Living (IL): A total of 299 VR consumers and 101 IL consumers were served during 3rd quarter at different stages of the VR and IL process. 25

NNOSERS successfully submitted new 5-Year Grant application to federal funding agency Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) on April 21, 2021. This grant period begins October 1, 2021 through September 30, 2026.

NNOSERS VR staff continues to participate in a 9-month AIVRTTAC Employment Development and Employment Placement training project alongside four (4) other tribal nation VR programs from Oregon, Alaska, Wisconsin and Mississippi. The end result will be the development of a training manual designed specifically for American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Service (AIVRS) programs nation-wide to implement employment infrastructures unique to their tribal communities. To date, content areas covered are 30-day employment plans, job development, job carving, employer/business liaison relationships, customized employment.

5. NM Early Intervention completed 38 evaluations/assessments leading to eligibility, received 36 referrals, completed 23 initial intakes, completed 55 IFSPs, and 26 transitions to Part B programs. NM EI supported children and families throughout the pandemic via phon/virtual video telehealth services and are preparing to plan for in person services with input from staff and families, following Navajo Nation and state guidance.

CHALLENGES

1. The challenges that the Navajo Nation Growing In Beauty Home Visiting program encountered for this reporting period include the following; limited internet services to upload data entries, limited access to office withing school building, minimal support from the school administrators to allow summer employment for Parent Educators. These barriers prevent each parent educators to meet the quality assurance monitoring that are quarterly with Parents as Teachers and with Funding agency.

2. Az Early Intervention Program: The Tuba City office has a very slow internet and this really interferes with the work we do. Especially getting onto our AzEIP ITEAMS data system. Internet is still very slow and sometimes it goes out for several days.

3. The barriers for Navajo Nation Project I-LAUNCH within the 3rd quarter continue to be limitations in providing direct services. Although the nation has moved into the yellow status, there are still challenges to delivering direct services virtually and most recently, Drive-Thru events, to early childhood providers, stakeholders, and the community. Providing direct services virtually excludes many of our Navajo people from participating in our events and services due to unreliable or lack of internet and/or phone service. Lastly, the Social Services Representative position have been vacant the entire quarter. The

program has not received any applications for this position. Program Supervisor continues to advertise the open position.

4. VR and IL Programs: Although OSERS staff have returned to work and continue to follow established CDC guidelines and protocols, the delivery of services to consumers continues to present challenges. They include: a) lack of reliable internet access and little to no cell service in remote areas; b) consumers still fearful and not wanting to return to school or training till Fall 2021 or Spring 2022; c) some consumers requesting case closure and will re-apply at a later date; d) programs and offices still not allowing face to face meetings thus resorting to curb-side meetings with consumers; e) no reliable transportation and others. The Independent Living program is slowly picking up in terms of contractors proceeding with the construction of ramps only. Another significant barrrier is the recent increased cost of lumber materials which impacts the IL budget and the projected number of ramps and renovations to complete due to rising cost.

OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

Navajo Traditional Apprenticeship Program

1. Number of Practitioner under Navajo Traditional Apprenticeship Program participants have increased from 9 to 15

2. Number of Apprentices under Navajo Traditional Apprenticeship Program participants have increased from 10 to 21

3. Nine (9) ceremonies are added to the previous list

4. All NTAP participants are vaccinated

5. Practitioners/Apprentices are beginning to perform ceremonies regularly

6. Practitioners/Apprentices gathered herbal medicines and gave offerings for people's protection against Covid 19

7. Covid 19 patients/victims seek therapeutic help from Practitioners

CHALLENGES

1. Ceremonial performances were decreased and limited during pandemic due to Covid 19.

2. Communication between NTAP participants and OSCAD was limited, no in person contact during Covid 19 pandemic.

3. Technology usage for NTAP participants was none due to technology illiterate, communication was done through phone and mail.

Division of Human Resources

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

I. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. In collaboration with the Division of Human Resources and Navajo Nation TV & Film, the Department of Retirement Services developed and hosted the Navajo Nation Virtual Retiree Celebration recognizing a total of 325 retirees for both 2019 and 2020.

2. Throughout 3rd Quarter of FY 21, Division of Human Resources programs have implemented virtual training and orientations to Navajo Nation employees and entities. Virtual initiatives include the Navajo Nation Multi-Service Orientation, Navajo Preference in Employment Act, Sexual Harassment Awareness Training, and Enhanced Retirement Program.

3. On May 4, 2021, the 24th Navajo Nation Council's Budget and Finance Committee approved Legislation No. 0073-21 in support of the Enhanced Retirement Program (ERP). The Department of Retirement Services is working with Executive and Legislative Branch employees to offer enhanced retirement benefits in recognition of their years of service.

4. After 18 months of displacement, the Department of Personnel Management has reoccupied their original worksite location in Administration Building No. 1 as of Monday, April 5, 2021.

5. In support of the two-day visit by the First Lady of the United States, Dr. Jill Biden, Dr. Fowler provided the Benediction during the Welcome event at the Veteran's Memorial Park in Window Rock, AZ.

6. In celebration of the graduating Class of 2021, Dr. Fowler provided congratulatory remarks in support of outreach by the Office of the President and Vice President.

7. In collaboration with the Division of Human Resources and Navajo Nation TV & Film, the Department of Retirement Services developed and hosted the Navajo Nation Virtual Retiree Celebration recognizing a total of 325 retirees for both 2019 and 2020.

8. With the assistance of the Office of the Controller and the CARES Act Hardship Assistance Program, the Navajo Nation's official enrollment has increased to 399,494 with respect to ongoing tribal enrollments by the Navajo Office of Vital Records & ID.

9. In support of the Navajo Nation Mental Health Coalition, Division of Human Resources Public Information Officer produced a video for Hozho Mondays, a virtual mental health initiative.

10. Division of Human Resources Administration, Program Managers, and select personnel have completed a one-hour virtual suicide prevention training known as LivingWorks, provided by IHS.

11. Within FY 21 3rd Quarter, Staff Development & Training Department launched virtual Sexual Harassment Awareness training for Navajo Nation Employees. To date, a total of 1,377 participants have attended the mandated training.

12. Navajo OSHA provided assistance to the Employee Housing Program with building codes.

13. Navajo Office of Vital Records & ID continues to provide enrollment verifications for those who applied for the CARES Act Hardship Assistance Program facilitated by the Office of the Controller.

14. Office of Navajo Labor Relations has implemented virtual presentations on the Navajo Preference in Employment Act and other inter-departmental collaborations.

15. The Division of Human Resources, Administration and all programs, are now 6B certified.

16. DHR Administration continues to monitor program expenditure levels deemed adequate.

17. Ongoing budget preparation for FY 2022 with individual programs.

18. In recognition of the 53rd anniversary, Staff Development & Training Department hosted a free, virtual webinar on the "History of the Navajo Nation Flag"; presented by Jay R. DeGroat. The webinar featured a lecture by Mr. DeGroat on the development and design of the flag and Q&A session with Navajo Nation employees in attendance.

19. In celebration of June as National Pride Month, Staff Development & Training Department hosted a virtual infosession on "Pride Month 101: History, Lessons, & Practice". The webinar featured a presentation on the history and present-day nuances of Pride with intent to provide awareness and to support diversity, equity, and inclusion within the Navajo Nation workplace.

20. In response to COVID-19, Dr. Fowler continues to utilize her voice to activate community awareness and safety using the Navajo language. Initiatives include ongoing translation and communication on OPVP Townhalls, Radio Forums, PSA's, and virtual presentations.

21. On May 4, 2021, the 24th Navajo Nation Council's Budget and Finance Committee approved Legislation No. 0073-21 in support of the Enhanced Retirement Program (ERP), administered by the Department of Retirement Services.

22. In an effort to reduce the number of vacancies with the Executive Branch, the Department of Personnel Management provided Qualification Assessment training to Divisions so as to review and assess incoming applicant(ions). As a result, the Division of Human Resources has a low-number of vacancies for 3rd Quarter Ending.

23. Effective May 24, 2021, the Navajo Nation Band transitioned to the Office of the President and Vice President from the Division of Human Resources.

CHALLENGES

The current situation of COVID-19 on the Navajo Nation has brought many challenges and our programs are providing limited services to our communities and customers. We use this challenge to improve and make great changes in our Division and programs for our Navajo Nation.

OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

Diné Uranium Remediation

Advisory Commission

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

IV. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

V. CHALLENGES

VI. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. Commission Regular Meeting on May 13, 2021. Reports A. Report on Response, Assessment and Evaluation Services (RAES) Employment and Training Contract by Ed Sussenguth, Program Manager, Tetra Tech, Inc., 1999 Harrison, Suite 500, Oakland, CA 94612, and Autumn Roe, Contracting Officer, USEPA Region 9, 75 Hawthorne Street, San Francisco, CA 94105; B. Report on a Proposed Legislation for Congressional Field Hearing on the Navajo Nation by Honorable Kee Allen Begay, Jr., 24th Navajo Nation Council, Representing Tachee/Blue Gap, Many Farms, Nazlini, Tselani/Cottonwood, Low Mountain, Window Rock, AZ 86515. Old Business A. Resolution 007-21: Discussion of President Jonathan Nez’s Statement on DEIS for Disposal on NECR Mine Waste at UNC Mill Site (April 12, 2021) impact on the Uranium Commission’s approved Technical Review of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Disposal of Mine Waste at the United Nuclear Corporation Mill Site. Presentation by Dr. Clifford Anderson, PhD, PE, RLS, Technical Adviser to the Uranium Commission.

2. Commission Special Meeting on May 26, 2021. A. Resolution 007-21: Discussion of President Jonathan Nez’s Statement on DEIS for Disposal on NECR Mine Waste at UNC Mill Site (April 12, 2021) impact on the Uranium Commission’s approved Technical Review of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Disposal of Mine Waste at the United Nuclear Corporation Mill Site. Presentation by Dr. Clifford Anderson, PhD, PE, RLS, Technical Adviser to the Uranium Commission. The Commission approved to incorporate President Nez's statement in the Technical Review.

3. Uranium Mine Waste Disposal Methods Regulations. The Commission staff continued with research on the disposal methods and development of draft disposal methods regulations. The work plan of the multi-agency work group is to complete the technical study and draft a policy (regulations) on mine waste disposal methods, which will be submitted to the Commission for presentation at public hearings for public comment. The draft legislation will then be submitted to the President and Navajo Nation Council for their review and consideration. The Technical Working Group members include officials from NavajoAML, USEPA, Uranium Commission, USBIA, Navajo Land Dept., Navajo DOJ, and Navajo EPA.

4. Uranium Commission staff conducted Technical Review of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Disposal of Mine Waste at the United Nuclear Corporation Mill Site prepared by Nuclear Regulatory Agency (NRC). The Technical Review was submitted to NRC with approved Uranium Commission Resolution 007-21.

5. Conducted Technical Review of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Disposal of Mine Waste at the United Nuclear Corporation Mill Site, and submitted approved comments to NRC.

6. The draft Uranium Mine Waste Disposal Methods and Process for Locating Repository Sites Regulations is approximately 85% complete, and will work with Navajo DOJ in drafting the legislation on mine waste disposal methods for review and consideration by OPVP and Navajo Nation Council.

CHALLENGES

1. The lack of an approved budget presents difficulties for operation of the Commission. 2. Three Regional AUM Commissioners need to be appointed from the Eastern AUM Region, North Central AUM Region and Southern AUM Region. 3. The Uranium Commission office needs to be relocated in a more suitable and safe location.

Division of Community Development

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

I. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

CAPITAL PROJECTS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT On January 30, 2021, The Navajo Nation Council allocated $23,954,719.77 from the Sihasin Fund to the Division of Community Development to implement a Heavy Equipment expenditure plan for Leg-islation CJA-01-21. DCD Heavy Equipment team is continuing to assist the 110 Chapters with Procure-ment of various categories of heavy equipment and vehicle purchases. On May 3, 2021, CPMD re-quested a time extension for the Heavy Equipment Sihasin projects. The deadline was moved to June 15, 2021. Resolution NABIJN-14-21 amended CJA-02-21 to extend the deadline and time-frame for the expenditure or encumbrance of project funds to October 1, 2021.

The Capital Projects Management Department (CPMD) is formally notifying LGA Certified Chapters that the final version of the Sihasin LGA Certified Chapter Grant Agreement was released on Wednes-day, June 16,2021. The purpose of the agreement is to: a. Clarify the roles and responsibilities of the CPMD and LGA Chapters; b. Use appropriate Grant Agreement format and not MOA; c. Streamline the procedures and execution of the Project Grant Agreement between the LGA Chap-ter and OPVP; and Strengthen the relationship between LGA Chapters and the Navajo Nation Central Government An orientation to review the new grant agreement was conducted for chapters through a Google Meet teleconference on Monday, June 21, 2021.

On April 6, 2021, the Division of Community Development opened the online DCD ARPA Funding Request Form to afford the Navajo Nation Chapters the opportunity to request for funds for chapter projects from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. The DCD ARPA Funding Request deadline was extended twice with the final deadline of June 9, 2021. A total of 559 projects were submitted through the DCD ARPA Funding Request Google Form and are under review by DCD and its partners: Navajo Tribal Utility Authority; Jemez Mountain Electric Co- Op; Continental Divide Electric Co-Op; Socorro Electric; City of Farmington Electric; Navajo Engineering & Construction Authority; Indian Health Services-Office of Environmental Health; various Navajo Nation Divisions and Departments including Water Management Branch and Navajo Division of Transportation; Ramah Navajo Utility Authority and ARPA Consultants.

Completed Projects and Equipment Purchases: White Rock Chapter Renovation - Sihasin $500,000; 2018 NM Capital Outlay Funds $45,000; 2019 NM Capital Outlay Funds $90,000 Tse Chizhi (Rough Rock) Chapter Renovation Sihasin Funds $200,000 Beclabito Cemetery Fence - Capital Outlay $50,000 Tsidii Toi (Bird Springs) Motor Grader- Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 e. Tohatchi Tractor - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Pinedale Backhoe - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 San Juan Backhoe - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Manuelito Truck - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Tselani/Cottonwood Backhoe - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Red Valley Backhoe - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Black Mesa Crawler Dozer - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Indian Wells Backhoe - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Nenahnezad Backhoe - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Tsaile/Wheatfields Motor Grader - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Church Rock ATV - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Becenti Truck and Backhoe - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Navajo Mountain Motor Grader - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Rockpoint Motor Grader - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Lake Valley Skid Steer Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Cameron Backhoe - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Coalmine Canyon Skidsteer - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Whitehorse Lake Backhoe - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Round Rock Motor Grader - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Tse Chizhi (Rough Rock) Motor Grader - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 y. Manuelito Motor Grader - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Iyanbito Skid Steer - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21

Blue Gap/Tachee: Skid Steer - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Coyote Canyon Skid Steer - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 cc. Rock Springs Tractor - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Ojo Encino Backhoe - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Smith Lake: Heavy Duty Truck - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Kin Dah Lichii Chapter: Backhoe - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 Tolani Lake Chapter: Backhoe - Purchased with Sihasin Funds CJA-01-21 White Cone Powerline Project: Sihasin Funds Year 1 & 3 @ $234,333.49 Final Inspection - 4.22.2021 # of Homes = 5 Many Farms Scattered Phase II & III Sihasin Funds / Year 1 & 2 @ $265,000.00 Final Inspection - 4.20.2021 # of Homes = 9 Kin Dah Lichii - Year 2 @ $371,729.00 Single Powerline Ext. / Project Completed: May 04, 2021. The project served 9 homes. Construction was completed by NTUA. Houck - Year 1 @ $80,000.00 / Year 2 @ $273,278.00 Powerline Ext. / Project Completed: May 06, 2021. The project served 6 homes. Construction was completed by NTUA. Tselani/ Cottonwood - Year 2 @ $265,000.00 Powerline Est. Phase I, II, & Scattered / Project Completed May 13, 2021. The project completed the "ROW" for the powerline and served 3 homes. The rest of the 18 homes will be served by a grant from CDBG. Kaibeto - Year 1 @ $219,187.50 / Year 2 @ $460,812.50 Powerline / Project Completed: May 27, 2021. The project served 23 homes. Navajo Mountain - Year 2 @ $1,041,666.66.00 Rainbow Plateau Project / Project Completed: June 03, 202. The project served 17 homes. Construction was completed by NTUA. Birdsprings - Year 1 @ $84,105.00 / Year 2 @ $649,228.00 Powerline Ext. Phase III / Project Completed: June 10, 2021. The project served 12 homes. Construction was completed by NTUA. Nageezi - NM Capital Outlay Funds @ $90,000.00 Beyale Camp Powerline Ext. / Project Com pleted: June 11, 2021. The project served 3 homes. Construction was completed by Jemez Moun tain Electric COOP. Kin Dah Lichii - Year 2 @ $366,873.00 Upper Woodsprings Powerline Ext. / Project Completed: June 22, 2021. Construction was completed by NTUA. Eight Houck Bathroom Additions were completed with Sihasin Funds.

New Mexico Intergovernmental Agreements (IGA): The New Mexico House passed HB 285 on March 16, 2021 and the New Mexico Senate passed it on March 19, 2021. New Mexico House Bill 285 covers 64 fund requests for 81 projects for a total of $15,040,200 and the bill is currently pending the New Mexico Governor’s review and signature. The New Mexico Senate passed HB 296 on March 17, 2021 and the New Mexico House concurred with the bill on March 19, 2021. New Mexico House Bill 296 covers 21 reauthorization projects and the bill was signed by the New Mexico Governor on April 11, 2021. SB 285 Bond Questionnaires Completed April 23, 2021 and April 26, 2021 for NM CO projects. CPMD has received 19 of the IGAs which will be processed through the 164(B) for acceptance of the funds by the Navajo Nation. New Mexico IGAs: Nineteen (19) IGAs from NM HB 285 have been received in the amount of $2,658,200.00 on June 25 and 28, 2021. • F3172 Pueblo Pintado Sewer Lagoon Construct • F3173 Smith Lake Chapter Community Powerline Extend • F3174 To’hajiilee Chapter Waterline Construct • F3176 Thoreau Chapter Regional SCADA System Construct • F3177 Baca Chapter Bathroom Addition Construct • F3178 Casamero Lake Chapter Bathroom Additions Expand • F3179 Church Rock Bathroom Additions Construct • F3180 Crystal Chapter Green Knoll Split Mesa Water System Construct • F3181 Nahodishgish Chapter Bathroom Addition Construct • F3182 Tohatchi Chapter Public Safety Complex Construct • F3183 Tsayatoh Chapter Powerline Ext • F3184 Tse’ii’ahi Chapter Powerlines Construct • F3185 Bahastl’ah Chapter Warehouse Construct • F3186 Whitehorse Lake Chapter Bathroom Addition Construct • F3188 Little Water Chapter Regional Beacon Bisti Water System Construct • F3191 Huerfano Chapter Water System Improve • F3192 Lake Valley Chapter Water System Improve • F3193 White Rock Chapter Powerline Extend • F3203 Alamo Chapter Water Wells Construct

Six Chapters presented to the NM Tribal Infrastructure Fund Board during a virtual Zoom meeting on June 18, 2021 and were awarded 7.6 million.

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES CENTER DEPARTMENT

The Administrative Service Centers have and continue to provide technical assistance to the chapter staff. ASC staff provide training and individual technical assistance on a weekly basis to their as-signed chapters. With the use of teleconference and video-conferencing systems during COVID-19 public health orders, ASC staff provided technical support on a regular basis and at the request of chapter staff. Training topics were coordinated with other programs/offices to orientate and update chapter staff on procedures and duties. Resolved some personnel issues with staff and Direct Local Supervisors.

The Administrative Service Centers assisted chapters with completing ARPA priority project proposals. ASC staff successfully assisted their assigned chapters that needed help with ARPA proposals and the portal system created by DCD. ASC staff assisted with setting up ARPA meetings and work sessions with DCD and the Office of the President & Vice President including Council Delegates.

ASC staff stepped up to assist those chapters with no staff; Corrected budget errors; assist with financial activities; assisted chapters with budget preparation and reviews; ASC staff continue to pro-vide technical assistance with monitoring and compliance for financial reports, chapter operations and budgets such as Navajo Nation Sales Tax, HDNA and Youth Employment. ASC staff assist with filling vacancies with temporary applicants.

ASC assisted chapters with their Sihasin Heavy Equipment purchases. ASC staff updated requests, contacted chapters with the Heavy Equipment Team, and addressed invoices and documentation with chapters.

ASC assisted chapters with steps to get out of sanction; completed Corrective Action Plan follow ups with chapters and conducted six-month review and assessments for chapters to develop corrective action plans for audit findings. Chapter officials are reminded that they need to do their

part to im-plement the Corrective Action Plans. ASC staff continue to assist chapters with their audit findings, in-service training, and correcting findings.

OMMUNITY HOUSING AND INFRASTRUCTURE DEPARTMENT

1. CDBG: FY-19/20 Tselani/Cottonwood Powerline Project: The CDBG Program received the Authority to Use Grant Funds document on Feb. 19, 2021. The Subgrant Agreement was signed by President Nez and was submitted to the DOJ for an updated signature to make it sufficient. Thereafter, CDBG obtained a contract number and executed the Notice to Proceed for construction. FY-16/18 Kaibeto Powerline Project: The subgrant agreement was developed and was signed by President Nez. The subgrant agreement is currently back at DOJ for an updated signature to make it sufficient. Thereafter, CDBG will obtain a contract number and execute the Notice to Proceed for construction. FY-18 Kaibeto powerline project: Implementation Schedule extended to September 30, 2022 and closeout on December 31, 2022.

HIP: FY-19 Projects: HIP is serving five (5) eligible clients. A total of four (4) projects are 100% complete. More clients would have been served but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, services were very limited. FY-19 Kinlichee New Home Construction: The labor force completed a new one-bedroom home for an eligible applicant. The keys were turned over to the homeowner on May 20, 2021. FY-19 Greasewood New Home Construction: The labor force completed a new one-bedroom home for an eligible applicant. The keys were turned over to the homeowner on May 21, 2021. FY-19 Coyote Canyon New Home Construction: One-bedroom home is at 67% completion, it started on May 24, 2021. Proposed target completion date is August 31, 2021. FY-21 Submission of FY-21 SAFA packet to the BIA Navajo Regional Office to award HIP funds. Submission of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding proposal to the BIA Navajo Regional Office for subject funding to be awarded to construct new homes

CHID:

Two (2) BIA-638 Building Facility Projects Subpart J contracts have completed the 164 review process and were submitted to OMB to request BIA funds to be transferred to the Navajo Na-tion to begin the 20% planning and design for school repair and improvements. Conducted about 25 home assessments from the HIP unassisted name list. These homes may be considered for funding under the BIA ARPA funds. Payment for heavy equipment (backhoe) was issued to 4Rivers Equipment for damage repairs, after 1 year.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

58 chapters provided with IT technical assistance. Assistance includes website training, passwords, WIND, email, connectivity, computer equipment, software and ARPA portal assistance. 3 DCD newsletters published (April. May, June) Chapter trainings conducted: Office Hours assistance mini training sessions on chapter websites, WIND, Google Apps and ARPA portal held on Tuesday and Thursdays throughout the quarter. E-rate program overview presentation to chapters in all 8 ASC regions completed. Training included overview of E-rate program and requirements to participate from the Chapter libraries. DCD Revised Plan of Operations: Completed draft plan of operation document for proposed Solid Waste Department including draft organization chart for proposed Solid Waste Department and overall Division organization chart.

RURAL ADDRESSING

NNAA staff continued to monitor email at [email protected] and with DCD IT assistance, a filter was configured so that incoming email could be automatically forwarded to other email ad-dresses that have been pre-selected by the water access team. With the re-opening plan in place, NNAA provided orientation with base post installations at Round Rock chapter. Road/street sign materials have been purchased and some installations have begun for the community. Summer college students were hired by the chapter and the students are in-stalling base posts.

Participated in the plan of operation work session with RDC at Twin Arrows while practicing CDC guidelines. DCD presented the proposed plan of operation for RDC to consider. Additional follow-up work sessions will be scheduled with the legislative oversight committee. NNAA staff continue to provide service to the Navajo public for physical address verification (PAV) documents. The public can go online to request for PAV documents to renew their driver license, purchase a vehicle or for other purposes such as federal income supplement paperwork. This task will continue as a regular service. Northern agency chapters have been coming together once a month in a conference call to talk about rural addressing with NNAA staff. These 'RAMondays' conference calls have been designed to encourage Northern Agency chapters to continue with their rural addressing projects.

CHALLENGES

A. CAPITAL PROJECTS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT Two Navajo Laws were waived by 23rd NN Council to approve Sihasin Legislation-35-18: First is 12 N.N.C. Section 1310 (F) - NN Bond Financing Act and the other is [TCDCJY-77-99 - Capital Improvement Projects Guidelines, Procedures. This made implementing the projects challenging as some of these projects were not “shovel ready or construction ready”. Executive Orders. 001-20, 003-20, 004-20, 005-20, 006-20, 008-20, 010-20, 011-20, 012-20, 002- 21 and 003-21 due to COVID-19 has severely limited project activities including processing paperwork, contracts, fieldwork, and construction. CPMD staff currently work with a 1000% workforce in the office and are following Navajo Nation Guidelines due to COVID-19.

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES CENTER DEPARTMENT

Short staffed, no CSC or AMS at certain chapters; no ASC staff at certain offices; vacant positions continue to pull ASC staff to step in to help chapters. Many employees resigned or retired during the COVID-19 pandemic and several employees resigned due to new elected officials. Ongoing conflicts at several chapters continues to consume time for conflict mediation and conflict resolution efforts; some Direct Local Supervisors are unwilling to take disciplinary action against em-ployees and have limited supervisory knowledge; conflict resolution and peacemaking skills are needed. Some chapter staff do not cooperate with ASC, therefore, requiring the Direct Local Super-visors to take action.

Limited information provided in advance to ASC regarding legislations proposed or approved by Navajo Nation Council and requests from the Office of the President & Vice President. Legisla- tions/Resolutions need a lead contact person coordinating procedures and guidelines so the ASC staff and chapter staff can be trained and orientated. COVID pandemic laws and public health orders need to be changed to allow for full operation of chapters. Chapters want to return to full quorum and public meetings. Teleconference options should continue to be made available for social distancing and to increase participation from community members. COVID community mitigation and emergency management continues at all levels. ASC Department has no permanent staff except for the Department Manager II at the central administrative office. Two temporary employees are assisting on a part-time basis. The delay in hiring central administrative staff has delayed the Special Duty Pay/Hazard Duty Pay as well as the General Wage Adjustments for the chapter staff.

COMMUNITY HOUSING AND INFRASTRUCTURE DEPARTMENT

CDBG: Modifications to the existing Subgrant Agreement to turn it into a Subrecipient Agreement for powerline projects. Amendment to the FY-16/18 funding to assist additional clients with electric service in Aneth, UT: Amendment on project balance has to go through a formal amendment to award funds to assist families in Aneth.

HIP: COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, Stay At Home orders, weather conditions and OOC being unable to process/approve Purchase Orders for housing materials and equipment delayed the hous-ing construction activities. This had a huge impact on planning, meeting the construction sched-ule and affected the workforce work hours. Limited construction personnel to construct and complete homes: HIP was unable to work from March 2020 thru July 2020 (Admin Leave) due to Stay At Home orders from Navajo Nation. This affected funding overall for FY-19.

The HIP Program Manager and Carpenter positions are still vacant due to delays in hiring pro cess by NN DPM and the Job Vacancy Announcement (JVA) not being processed. Delay in hiring

Eligibility Technicians for Eastern and Chinle HIP Offices due to the PCQ's not processed in a timely manner.

CHID: Extensive delays in receiving purchase orders from Purchasing Department causes further delays in projects getting completed.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

COVID-related lockdowns and shelter-at-home made it challenging to provide training to chapter staff. The online training did not get as much participation as in-person training usually gets and the broadband connections are sometimes problematic. Once in-person training is allowable again, these kinds of issues should lessen. Chapters are asking for licenses for Microsoft Office. DCD does not have the resources to purchase extra licenses for these types of software. Chapter staff are reminded to include these additional costs to their operating budgets. Additionally, chapter staff are directed to existing free resources such as Google Docs that can be used to edit and create Microsoft Office documents.

OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

Division of Economic Development

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

IV. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

V. CHALLENGES

VI. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Support Services Department

1. Establishment, classification and advertisement of the Economist position. 2. Renewal of KPOC office space agreements for the next five (5) years 3. BIDF: Submittal of RFS to DOJ - MELP Guidelines revision, Records Management Policies, Re-visit of 2009 loan write-offs, re-establishment of Chief Financial Officer; MOA between OOC and DED under review at OOC; and loan ledger purchase process. 4 Leadership meeting with RDC regarding the BIDF audit.

Project Development Department

1. Church Rock Industrial Park a. Bi-weekly meetings continue on the Phase 2 project with the CMAR contractor and the project Architect. The anticipated completion of construction in September, 2022. The Project is facing the post pandemic volatile price on materials for construction. b. The Department met with EDA Seattle and Austin offices on the Public Works Grant for the Phase 2 funding. This was due to the cost of construction prices has escalated recently. c. The Schematic Design is 100% complete. L The tenant has been not attentive to the project meetings and notice was written about the need for their participation. Rhino’s Production Manager was denied re-entry to the US due to ViSA issues. The Department found a Korean (who is married to a Navajo) to interpret on communication with the equipment supplier on the placement of machines for the factory. d. The iina’ ba’ Inc., completed the installation of a Cattle Guard at the common driveway as required by the NM DOT to keep animals from going through the industrial site on Hwy 118. 2. NAPI Industrial Park a. Raytheon requested to exempt from wearing masks to the Navajo Nation but was denied by Dr. Jill Jim. Dr. Jim recited the most recent NN Public Health Order is still in effect. Raytheon is an essential business so stayed open during the COVID 19 shut down and had no one on their payroll with the COVID virus. 3. Fort Defiance Industrial Park: a. An Intradepartmental lease with the Navajo Public Safety (NPS) continue to evolve. The Department met with the NPS on the comments that DOJ cited in the document. The proposed response was sent to NPS on June 28th.

4. Chinle Industrial Park a. The Pay Request to Clawson Excavating was completed in May 2021. 5. Leupp Industrial Park a. Negotiations were completed this quarter with iina’ ba, Inc. for master plan and the site. 6. Dennehotso (Yazzie Acres) Industrial 59

a. Negotiations were completed this quarter with Powell Ritoch and Associates for master plan of the site. 7. Ganado Shopping Center a. Contract Mod #10 with Arviso Construction was approved and 164 Document entered into system for NNDOJ and OPVP signatures. The Mod is to repair sidewalks, and replace parking lot lights. b. The Emergency Operating Agreement was signed by all PNR Subway parties and submitted to Real Estate Department for distribution and collection of administrative fee. c. The NNDOJ has been reviewing the lease with Pizza Edge for legal review. The RFS was closed and will proceed with finalization of the lease and enter into 164. 8. NahataDziil Bashas Grocery Store a. NN Business Site Leasing Approving Committee approved the Bashas tenant lease on April 5, 2021. The business tenant lease was sent to Office of Navajo Hopi Indian Relocation (ONHIR), office on April 6, 2021 for their concurrence before the lease is executed by President Jonathan Nez. ONHIR has issues concerning provisions of the lease and the Department has been working with NDOJ to resolve the concerns. 9. Whites Cone Speedway Store a. A modification is needed for rental adjustment and extended terms. Staff is working with the company to renegotiate lease; an appraisal was completed for the site and a modification will begin the 164 process within the next month. 10. Business Site Lease Approving Committee a. The Committee has had numerous leasing transactions presented to the Committee in terms of new leases, modifications, assignments, collateral assignment of lease, etc. The Committee continues to meet as scheduled each month. The Committee will be presenting to the Resources & Development Committee as required with the next quarter. 11. Karigan Estates Commercial Property a. The sale of property is on hold pending collaboration with Navajo Land Department and future Request for Proposal to be issued to assist with sale. 12. Karigan Estates – Residential a. Navajo Partnership for Housing (NPH) continues construction activities at Karigan Estates through its wholly owned construction company, Clear Water Construction Partners, Inc. b. NPH is running out of buildable lots that will accommodate homes clients are currently requesting to be constructed. DED requests NPH to submit a cost analysis to the eroded sites for home construction on Karigan Estates and NPH is still finalizing costs. 13. The Grant application to Seattle Regional Office, Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration for development of Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy 2020 under the CARES Act is in process. Grant award budget was updated. 14. The 5 year plan – The project list for Department to submit funding amounts to American Rescue Plan Act was updated. PDD’s list was an appendix in the DED Administration to the NABI Committee. 15. The grant agreements were executed with Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise, Navajo Nation Shopping Centers, Inc., Navajo Nation Hospitality Enterprise and invoices were submitted for

payment. The Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprises received their payment of $15.0 million. The grant agreement for Navajo Arts & Crafts is still in the 164 Surname Process. 16. The groundbreaking ceremony of the Shonto Hotel project was held on April 06, 2021 with good turnout by local leaders. Precaution measures were all in place due to the ongoing pandemic. 17.The Department participated in several meetings relating to economic development projects and activities including update to B&F Committee on Permanent Trust Fund projects. Real Estate Department

1. Reviewed Business Site Lease - NavaMill Lumber & Lodging Co., Sawmill, AZ. 2. Reviewed Business Site Lease: Hills Enterprise, Shiprock, NM 3. Reviewed Business Site Lease: Sacred East Bottling Company, Shiprock, NM

Navajo Tourism Department

Partnership with Division of Community Development, NTUA, Shiprock Chapter, Dyron Murphy Architect and Hospitality Enterprise on the Shiprock Visitor's Complex project in Shiprock, NM.

Navajo Tourism Department re-bid for the Bond & Bond Demolition. Selected a contractor, the site will be cleared by contractor, NTUA, Frontier Communications, with attention to EPA monitor wells for Tooh RV Park development.

During this quarter the department has continues to advertise and promote the Navajo Nation with Clear Channel: New York City - Time Square15-sec video advertisement for display on June 28 to July 4, 2021 Location: 1560 Broadway, New York City, NY. Navajo Tourism Social Media has been updated and monitored daily.

Pinnacle overlook development. The Chapter is proposing a tourist overlook business. We are working on land designation, master-planning, funding, and neighboring Chapters’ coordination. Taiwan Navajo Tourism Marketing, virtually met with Taiwan travel group ‘Dream Now, Travel Later’ initiated an online/virtual travel. The series of activities will include a virtual photographic exhibit and social media campaign. Explore feasible ways to market/promote Navajo Nation.

Dinosaur Tracks Development- 4-acre tract destination, the Chapter is amending Resolution to increase acreage to 73.88. The legal plat would be re-done as well as Archeological, Environmental Assessment. Working on funding for design and engineering.

1. Google Analytics www.discovernavajo.com SUMMARY OF ANALYTICS: Viewership increased as it normally does during tourist season (generally, May to July). People are interested in visiting the Navajo Nation, but with the continued closure of Navajo Tribal Parks and federal parks within the Navajo Nation,

there is no direct tourism dollars. But viewership continues to rise despite the closure – particularly from California - in the metro areas of Los Angeles, northern in San Francisco and southern in San Diego. These areas are key places that Navajo Tourism Dept. has visited and actively advertised in e.g. roadside billboards and local magazine ads through our Co-Op Marketing plans with Arizona.

The average age of viewers is 25-34 – the millennial age group with a high percentage being female. The majority of our viewers were acquired through ‘organic search’ (e.g. keywords: Chinle Trading Post, Navajo, Navajo Ceremonies and Rituals, Navajo History, etc.). The second highest acquirement is through people typing in the website URL directly. And last a sponsored ad by USA TODAY via LocalLiq on Facebook.

People also are continuing to show a very high interest in Antelope Canyon. This is likely fueled by the various Hollywood actors/musicians that have shared photos of themselves at slot canyons -- in the general area of the high luxury resort of Amangiri in Canyon Point, Utah; thus tying in the age group of viewers 25-34 year-old. a. Users (visitors to website, who had initiated at least 1 prior website visit) i. INCREASE of 15.02% over previous quarter (Jan. 03 – Mar. 31, 2021) 1. 79,171 (Jan. to Mar.) vs. 91,063 (Apr. to Jun.) b. New Users (First time visitors to website) i. INCREASE of 15.48% over previous quarter (Jan. 03 – Mar. 31, 2021) 1. 78,051 (Jan. to Mar.) vs. 90,131 (Apr. to Jun.) c. Pageviews (total number of pages viewed) i. INCREASE of 10.54% over previous quarter. 1. 153,487 (Jan. to Mar.) vs. 169,664 (Apr. to Jun.) d. Viewership/Demographics/Location i. Male: 46.8% vs. Female: 53.2% ii. Age: 25-34 years’ old Comparison 2nd & 3rd Quarters 200,000

150,000

100,000

50,000

0 Users New Users Pageviews

1/3 - 3/31 04/01 - 06/28

iii. Location: United States 84,498 (Top 5 States/Top Cities) 1. California: 15,081 a. Los Angeles: 4,772 b. San Francisco: 940 c. San Diego: 707 d. Sacramento: 535 e. San Jose: 459 2. Arizona: 13,453 a. Phoenix: 5,222 b. Flagstaff: 783 c. Mesa: 628 d. Scottsdale: 603 e. Tucson: 583 3. Utah: 11,367 a. Salt Lake City: 2,984 b. St. George: 608 c. West Jordan: 466 d. South Jordan: 439 e. Sandy: 354 4. Texas: 7,370 a. Dallas: 1,563 b. Houston: 1,227

Users to DiscoverNavajo.com

By Stat

4,004

7,370 15,081

11,367

13,453

California Arizona Utah Texas New Mexico

c. Austin: 636 d. San Antonio: 416 e. El Paso: 209 5. New Mexico: 4,004 a. Albuquerque: 1,449 b. Farmington: 605 c. Gallup: 412 d. Shiprock: 322 e. Santa Fe: 276 iv. Location: International – Worldwide (Top 5 countries) SUMMARY: International interest has fluctuated as the COVID-19 pandemic has gone on. Certain travel restrictions had been put in place in various countries and at various international airports that required either no entry or restricted entry requiring quarantining or provided proof of having the COVID-19 vaccine. 1. United States: 84,498 INCREASED 19.43% from prev. quarter. 2. Canada: 968 INCREASED 23.79% from prev. quarter. 3. United Kingdom: 693 DECREASED 28,78% from prev. quarter. 4. China: 550 INCREASED 19.31% from prev. quarter. 5. Germany: 477 DECREASED 32.53% from prev. quarter. e. Acquisition (how are we receiving our visitor traffic?) i. Google.com (organic) 1. Apr. 1 – Jun 27, 2021: 44,825 ii. (Direct) / (None) 1. Apr. 1 – Jun 27, 2021: 20,104 iii. Local/Social Ads – User: International sponsored ad By Country on Facebook 90,000 84,498 1. Apr. 80,000 70,753 1 – 70,000 Jun 60,000 50,000 40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 968782 693973 550461 477707 0 United Canada United China Germany States Kingdom

(Jan-Mar) Apr.-Jun.

27, 2021: 11,568 iv. Outbrainpp / Native 1. Apr. 1 – Jun 27, 2021: 4,398 v. Taboolapp / Native 1. Apr. 1 – Jun 27, 2021: 3,666 f. Referrals (Obtained thru the website channels) i. Facebook: 771 ii. NewMexico.org: 277 iii. Thediscoverer.com: 247 iv. Visitarizona.com: 155 v. Compendium.com: 135 g. Most viewed sites on DiscoverNavajo.com i. Home Page: 22,834 (13.46% Increase) ii. Antelope Canyon: 16,116 (9.50% Increase) iii. Navajo Culture: 10,243 (6.04% Increase) iv. Navajo Culture and History: 6,918 (4.08% Increase) v. Things to Know: 6,716 (3.96% Increase) 2. Website: www.discovernavajo.com a. Website changes: updates on the website due to outdated information of businesses that have succumbed to the COVID-19 pandemic and other businesses that have formed and registered with the NN Business Regulatory Department/NN Tax Commission offices. This included hotels and tour guide businesses, etc. in the tourism industry. i. Will continue to update information and photos. b. Website Redesign / RFP BID No. 20-01-2228 LE i. Bid Awarded to OBISIDIAN WEBSITES – Rocky Tano. ii. UPDATE 06/28/2021 - Working on first steps of awarding RFP, e.g. obtaining full budget, registration into BRD, tax commission clearance, etc. 3. Arizona Co-Op Rural Marketing Plan a. Lamar Digital Billboard Roadside – Ad Created: June 18, 2021. Submitted: June 18, 2021. i. For display in the month of July 2021 1. Dallas 2. Las Vegas 3. Albuquerque ii. Carries this message: “Visit Navajoland. DiscoverNavajo.com. Travel Responsibly. Masks are required on the Navajo Nation.” Display of the Navajo Nation seal, Navajo Tourism logo and Arizona Office of Tourism logo (this is part of the AOT Rural Marketing Co-Op Marketing Funding agreement). Social media logos for Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and 65

YouTube for our channels. Photos of John Ford Point and Antelope Canyon. b. Clear Channel w/ Off Madison Ave Collaboration i. Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport 1. Video Advertisement Display @ 10-secs for display May 1-30, 2021 – Ad Created: April 20, 2021. Submitted: April 26, 2021. a. Baggage Claim areas b. Escalators in Terminal 4 ii. Denver International Airport 1. Static Ad digital videowall (displays next to plane travel schedules) for May 3-31, 2021 – Ad Created: April 16, 2021. Submitted: April 19, 2021. 2. Location: Transit Station iii. San Francisco International Airport 1. Printed Diorama backlit display in walkway areas for display on April 5 to May 5, 2021 on the Sky Bridge. 2. Upcoming display in the same medium and for display on July 5 to August 1, 2021. c. AAA – Colorado i. ½ page Print ad and ½ page advertorial ii. Print in the AAA magazine for bi-monthly magazine for Mar/April 2021 d. AZ Rural Co-Op Marketing for 2021-2022 Application i. Waiting for further instructions to proceed on AZ RCM application. 1. AOT is waiting on the State of Arizona final budget funding for AOT for them to determine new/continued partners of the program. 4. Clear Channel a. New York City - Time Square i. 15-sec video advertisement for display on June 28 to July 4, 2021 ii. Location: 1560 Broadway, New York City, NY 5. Utah Office of Tourism (UOT) Co-Op Marketing Plan a. Year 2021-2022 Marketing Co-op Application Process started June 8, 2021 – initiated application of the Utah Co-Op Marketing Plan i. Met online with Kelly Day (Marketing Coordinator/UOT) for general overview and questions about the application start process. ii. Deadline: June 30, 2021 b. ROI (Return on Investment) – Love Communications w/ UOT Marketing Plan 2020-2021 i. Our investment for the following: 1. Digital Outdoor Billboard Advertising 8-Week Outdoor Campaign a. $10,000 Investment (UOT reimburses 50% of cost) 66

i. Dates Run: February 8 to March 29, 2021 ii. Rotates every few minutes on one of 10 locations along I-15 in Salt Lake City and suburbs. iii. Impressions: 6,589,550 @ 8-secs. Exceeded 100% of estimated delivery @ 140% delivery. 2. PulsePoint – marketing platform design to reach across the web a. $11,000 Investment (UOT reimburses 50% of cost) i. Dates Run: February – March 2021 ii. PageViews: 6,115; Hotel Bookings: 2,008; Average Time on Page 1:51. iii. Display Banner Clicks: 7,922; Click Thru Rate (CTR): .35% 3. BrandView – landing page for advertorial and display ads on KSL.com a. $4,400 Investment (UOT reimburses 50% cost) i. Date Run: February to March 2021 ii. Pageviews: 8,594; Unique PageViews: 6,386; Average Time on Page: 4:49 (Baseline is 2:00); 71 shares (baseline is 15) iii. Display Banne Clicks: 90; Click Thru Rate: .70% ii. Overall: UOT campaign was a success by exceeding the average click-thru rates, also the amount of impressions of our roadside billboard ad. iii. Our Google Analytics have shown our website also gained Users from Utah. This indicates our ad campaigns with UOT have reached people who previously either not interested or did not know about the Navajo Nation within a few hours’ drive from Salt Lake City. Google Analytics Report: Currently, we have 33,056 users that are displayed for April/May/June 2021. Currently, there are 31,815 new users reported for April 01, 2021 – June 28, 2021.

There are 10 major cities listed: The top five cities that are currently listed are: 1. Phoenix, AZ. 5,222 users (5.5%) 2. Los Angeles 4,772 users (5.08%) 3. SLC. UT 2,984 users (3.17%) 4. AD 2,891 users (3.07%) 5. Las Vegas 2,194 users (2.33%) The TOP five Countries that are listed are: 1. USA 30,818 (93.07%) 2. Canada 272 (0.82%) 67

3. UK 224 (0.68%) 4. Germany 172 (0.52%) 5. China 105 (0.33%)

Majority of views are using these types of Browsers: 1. Chrome 13,991 (42.70%) 2. Safari 9,886 (30.17%)

Top Active Page being visited: (active users) 15 active content (constantly changing) 1. Antelope Canyon 22,834 (13.46%) 2. Discover Navajo Start Page 16, 116 (9.50%) 3. Navajo Culture 10,243 (6.04%) 4. Navajo Culture/History 6,918 (4.08%) 5. Things to Know 6,716 (3.9%) Demographic: Male 53.2% Female 46.8%

Business Regulatory Department

1. Business Regulatory Department in conjunction with the Division of Economic Development hosted two of three public hearings on the Navajo Business Opportunity Act (NBOA). Department efforts to amend and improve the NBOA stem from growing concerns from the public and other entities on the effectiveness of the NBOA for Navajo Businesses. The first two (2) meetings took place on May 27th, June 24th, and the last public meeting being July 29th, 2021. All comments will be due to BRD by August 12, 2021. Public meetings have been and are being advertised over the local radio stations KTNN, KWRK and in the Navajo Times for May, June, and July of 2021. Department also sent out a Navajo Nation employee notice for the public hearings the week of the meetings for May and June 2021, as well as mailed out letters to all registered businesses (200+) with our department. Public meetings are being held with the zoom application in a virtual setting. 2. Business Regulatory Department in conjunction with the Division of Economic Development hosted two of three public hearings on the Navajo Business Opportunity Act (NBOA). Department efforts to amend and improve the NBOA stem from growing concerns from the public and other entities on the effectiveness of the NBOA for Navajo Businesses. First two (2) public meetings took place on May 27th, and June 24th. The last public meeting being July 29th, 2021. All comments will be due to BRD by August 12, 2021. Public meetings have been and are being advertised over the local radio stations KTNN, KWRK and in the Navajo Times for May, June, and July of 2021. Department also sent out a Navajo Nation employee notice for the public hearings the week of the meetings for May and June 2021, as well as mailed out letters to all registered businesses 68

(200+) with our department. Public meetings are being held with the zoom application in a virtual setting. 3. Business Regulatory Department hired two (2) Weights & Measures Inspectors in June 2021. After the two inspectors are properly trained the Navajo Nation will resume inspections for the Navajo Nation fuel dispensaries, and other locations where inspections are needed. Positions were vacant for over a year with zero inspections being done during that time. 2. inspectors are properly trained the Navajo Nation will resume inspections for the Navajo Nation fuel dispensaries, and other locations where inspections are needed. Positions were vacant for over a year with zero inspections being done during that time. 3. Division of Economic Development hired Mr. Notah C. Silversmith as Department Manager I for the Business Regulatory Department on April 12, 2021. The department has already taken strides in the right direction with Mr. Silversmith's educational background in Business and his Navajo Nation Government experience. 4. Business Regulatory Department allocated funds for a contract to help improve/finish the www.navajoeconomy.org website and migrate the www.navajobusiness.org website over to the new website. Request bids from Professional Service Contractors for this task. Department will be issuing contract before the end of the fourth quarter. 5. Business Regulatory Department provided all routine services for the department on top of improving turn around time for 164 reviews and providing excellent customer service to all constituents. Department Manager also held meetings monthly and short briefings weekly on employee assignments.

Small Business Development Department

1. The Small Business Development Department and all Programs have met their performance goals. 2. Administered a Professional Engineering Services Contract with Westland Resources, Inc. to generate construction documents for the site infrastructure for the Montezuma Creek 25 acres commercial site. A contract modification to extend the contract time is currently being routed thru the Section 164 Review Process. 3. Administered a Professional Engineering Services Contract with iina ba, inc. for contract administration services for site work and site infrastructure work for the Indian Wells 10 acres commercial site. 4. Administered an infrastructure construction contract, awarded to Arviso Construction, Inc., for the Indian Wells Commercial Development site. Currently, the project engineer is working with the contractor to resolve some issues regarding work that may not have been done in accordance with the plans and specifications. 5. Administered a Professional Engineering Services contract with Ritoch-Powell & Associates to prepare a site plan and infrastructure construction plans for 7.3 acres of land in Tse Bonito, NM. A contract modification to extend the contract time is currently being routed thru the Section 164 Review Process. 69

6. Administered a Professional Engineering Services contract with Ritoch-Powell & Associates to prepare a site plan and infrastructure construction plans for 22.6 acres of land in Tuba City, AZ. A contract modification to extend the contract time is currently being routed thru the Section 164 Review Process. 7. The Department is in the process of awarding a contract to Whiteriver Construction, Inc. for asbestos abatement and demolition/cleanup work at 7 business sites at various locations on the Navajo Nation. The proposed contract is currently under review by the Contractor. 8. The Department is currently working with the site developer in procuring a contractor for infrastructure work for the TC8 multi-purpose development in Tuba City, AZ.

Performance Criteria / Accomplishments: Number of Work Shops and/or trainings completed: 14 Number of business site lease transactions/land withdrawals/land use agreements 14 completed:

Number of clients assisted with their completed business plans: 19

Number of clients identified and applied for additional non-Navajo funding resources: 13

Number of jobs created: 43

Chinle Regional Business Development Office: 1. Indian Wells Commercial Site Development—with the assistance of Marlene Hoskie from the Navajo Nation Community Development, Chinle RBDO obtained $200,000 from the Sihasin Fund for further infrastructure development 2. Chinle RBDO staff provided two virtual trainings on CARES Act Fund-Expenditure Report to close out recipients grant funding, date February 19 and February 26. Both sessions had over 20 participants and many followed up with phone calls. 3. Dissemination of information to all businesses and their owners regarding the Re-opening of Navajo Nation Businesses. This includes guideline checklist and its associated information and forms starting March 15, 2021 per Public Health Order No. 2021-0005. 4. Navajo Nation Oil & Gas dba Blue Gap Store—survey issues resolved with new surveys, resubmit to Real Estate Department to complete novation transaction, recordation, and distribution of lease. 5. Compile and submit document requesting for Environmental Summary document to the Environmental Specialist at the Real Estate Department on February 26, 2021 to be used for a proposed new business site lease. All prior environmental clearance documents attached for the recycled Environmental Summary document. Signed document is pending. 6. Compile and submit request for Consultation for Environmental Summary Document on February 18, 2021 to the three Navajo Nation departments: Fish & Wildlife, Historic Preservation, and Navajo Environmental Protection Agency. They are given 20 days for

response. Document is for a new business site lease proposal. 7. Reviewed the default status of a lease in Chinle, Arizona which remains undeveloped and other issues. Compiled Lease Summary and request to terminate was submitted to Compliance Officer at the Real Estate Department on January 28, 2021. 8. Prepared one Emergency Operating Permit for a business in Chinle and waiting on one procurement clearance document for submittal.

Eastern Regional Business Development Office: 1. Pueblo Pintado Convenience Store – The RBDO Team was able to acquire a Tenant for the site operation of a convenient store, upgrading and installing of fueling station, job fair, and installing propane services. The tenant will be getting an Emergency Operating Agreement for 12 months and establish a permanent lease of the location. 2. Re-engaged in discussion with Chapter communities in Eastern RBDO region, to discuss Economic Development in potential viable communities. Draft a Request for Proposal to conduct Market and Economic Feasibility studies for seven Chapter communities as follows: Baca/Prewitt, Iyanbito, Thoreau, Church Rock, Rock Springs, Tsayatoh, and Manuelito. Awaiting Budget Transfer approval for Advertising funds to be replenished. 3. Opportunity Zone communities, re-ignited discussions with DED Executive Office personnel regarding Opportunity Zones communities to start talk for grants for development of viable communities i.e., Counselor and Rock Springs Chapters currently. 4. Collaboration with Eastern Navajo Land Commission Board and Office to acquire more information on development of Counselor Commercial 300 acres site and Gallup Eastside 80 acres site. Understanding the intent for usage upon land acquisition by Eastern Land Commission, Navajo Nation Land Department was in on dialogue, good communication and will continue to discuss with representatives of the Eastern Land Commissioners. 5. The Eastern RBDO has been in discussions to better the collaboration and accountability system with the DED Executive to address the Corrective Action Plan of the Business Individual Development Fund which has been on halt for years, hindering potential business clients the opportunity to get a Micro or Small Business Loans. Our Office is appreciative of the Division Director and DED Team in working to address the deficiencies that was noted in the Audit Finding report.

Fort Defiance Regional Business Development Office: 1. Conducted four (4) Chapters outreach through Zoom and telephone conferences. 2. Issued one (1) Extension of Emergency Operating Agreement due business impacted by COVID-19 Pandemic. 3. Issued one (1) Extension of Revocable Use Permit due to business impacted by COVID- 19 Pandemic. 4. Conducted (2) business training through Zoom. 5. Business Site (1) Cleanup provided by Navajo Sanitation, Inc. removal and disposal of used tires. 6. Three staff completed training on Sexual Harassment via Zoom. 71

7. Created ten (10) jobs.

Shiprock Regional Business Development Office: 1 Workshops/Trainings Conducted: 13 sessions 2. Business Site Lease Transactions: 9 3. Assisted clients with Business Plans/Certifications/Corporation applications: 2 4. Referrals of clients: 3 5. Job Creation/Retention: 20

Western Regional Business Development Office: 1. Processed five two (2) business site leases and got them approved by Division of Economic Development Business Site Lease Approving Committee. Processed 2 Emergency Operating Agreement and 1 Revocable Use Permit for businesses to continue operating. 2. Conducted 2 Trainings for individuals that are interested in starting a small business. The titled of the training are "Understanding Your Cashflow and Quickbook Data Entry" and Business Record Keeping & Introduction to Quickbooks". We had an average of 25 attendence to each of the trainings. 3. Eighteen (18) jobs were retain from the approval of the Emergency Operating Agreements and a Revocable Use Permit.

CHALLENGES

Support Services Department

1. Implementation of the BIDF audit Correction Action Plan. Proposed revision of the Guidelines for the Micro-Enterprise Loan, Small Business Loan and Investment Guidelines and development of the BIDF Records Management Policy. 2. Implementation of the PCard audit Correction Action Plan. Setting up virtual trainings and internal revidw of operational expenses. 3. Continuing using obsolete Loan Ledger in processing BIDF monthly reports. 4. Funds to purchase the new loan ledger.

Navajo Tourism Department 1. It has been difficult completing assignments and other projects because of limited work schedules due to the Navajo Nation Public Health Executive Orders related to the COVID 19 pandemic. 2. Program continues to provide limited services to businesses and individual clients via telephone calls and emails. 3. As we reopen the Navajo Nation Park and recreation system, we need to do the following

five steps to ensure proper safety protocols, guidelines, and procedures are followed. Due to the pandemic and closures of these parks, it is evident that we've experienced a mark able drop in tourism activities and revenues on the Navajo Nation. The impact left an indelible mark on the tourism industry, hospitality, and small businesses that rely on tourism. It is apparent that a marketing and PR strategy needs to be set in place, develop goals and a reporting method to measure the marketing matrix, define challenges, what strategies have failed, and how we can reconstruct from those failures. Create a campaign that is viewer-friendly, inviting, encouraging, and remain realistic.

Business Regulatory Department

1. In regards to the NBOA amendments, I see the following as challenges for amendments. The NBOA needs to be amended in a manner consistent with the Navajo Nation Procurement Act. The discussion for amendment will have to work with the Office of the Controller soon to make sure both the acts work in conjunction. I foresee a lack of communication and advisement from OOC in terms of working together on these acts to better assist and help Navajo Businesses operations on the Navajo Nation. 2. Covid-19 restrictions may affect the onboarding process for the two weights & measures inspectors. Travel is needed to properly train and onboard these two positions. Onboarding and training two new staff members to be inspection-ready is going to be a process. 3. Training and orientation to Navajo Nation Departments and Enterprises on the NBOA and proper procedures to follow in the per-bidding, and bidding process. I have witnessed this educational gap from the Office of the Controller and Business Regulatory while attending bid openings. Currently in discussion with Staff Development and Training to develop a training program for the bidding process on the Navajo Nation through BRD. 4. Contract assignment is always a concern as the end of the fiscal year approaches. I have concerns with the processing of contract(s) through the 164 process and being finalized at OOC's purchasing department by being assigned contract numbers. Adequate staffing at OOC is always a concern given they handle all of Navajo Nation Government's financial transactions.

Real Estate Department 1. Business Site Leases, Permits, and Agreements bypassing Real Estate review. 2. Survey plats not matching DBA name. 3. Illegible survey plats and legal land descriptions still being submitted.

Small Business Development Department 1. Experiencing challenges with the Administrative Review process, documents are not being reviewed in a timely manner and it is holding up progress concerning leases and contracts.

Chinle Regional Business Development Office

1. Continuous office computer equipment malfunctions and technical difficulties causing continuous repairs by the DED Network Specialist. Office internet and wireless system causes problems with printing and scanning of documents for work. Frequent power outage may be the culprit. Budget for new equipment is limited. 2. Staff at Chinle RBDO continue to follow CDC safety guidelines at the worksite for safety for all staff. All meetings are conducted on teleconference meetings unless in-person meeting is needed. 3. Providing virtual workshops and trainings via Zoom has been technically challenging due to faulty internet signals and computer equipment lacking proper communication technology. Our computer system seems to have technical issues when communicating and makes our trainings difficult and must rely on other RBDO to interpret. The basic zoom account is also limited to 40 participants which would not be adequate because our client base encompasses individual entrepreneurs, companies, programs and chapters. To subscribe to the next level requires a fee and possibly a budget transfer. It is understood the Small Business Development Department is working on getting all RBDOs a next level subscription. 4. Contractual Service for Environmental Assessment Services is still pending, this Assessment is necessary to transact several business site leases. The contractor, iina ba Inc., has requested site permits from Historic Preservation Department and Fish & Wildlife Department. They have communication issues and according to the contractor, the NN programs are nonresponsive and that the contractor is now working with the Program Director, Dr. Shebala. 5. Working with Real Estate Department is stressful due to their unresponsiveness to projects submitted to their office. No status report is relayed back to RBDOs and communication is limited. CRBDO had to retrieve a project from their office due to inactivity when project was to be remitted to BIA for completion of lease novation process.

Eastern Regional Business Development Office 1. Eastern Regional Business Development Office Region extends out to Alamo, Tohajiilee, Ramah and southeastern portion of the Navajo Nation. As RBDO we need to get more innovative in how we want to tackle the development concept. With existing businesses on Navajo Nation or Eastern portion, there is competition. 2. As Eastern RBDO we like to start the dialogues with Navajo Nation Legislatures in development policies. Policies that were enacted decades ago need to be refined to accommodate the new age of development. Shiprock Regional Business Development Office 1. Procurement Clearances delays from Office of Tax Commission adversely impact business site lease transactions 2. DED Real Estate Department added bureaucratic layer of reviews prior to OP/VP executive signatory delay business site lease agreements.

3. 2016 Navajo Land Department Land Withdrawal Designation Regulations an added bureaucratic layer NOT required for 2008 Navajo Nation Business Site Lease Regulations requirements delay business site lease agreements. Business Site Lease Regulations need to be updated.

Western Regional Business Development Office 1. Internet connectivity during ZOOM meeting, downloads, and up loads are very poor. Need to increase the bandwidth. 2. Zoom accounts and free teleconference accounts needed for WRBDO. Not enough time for training, and questions and answers. Some meetings are longer and need more time. Ownership of the zoom and telecom has to belong to the office and shared by Navajo Nation Employees.

A. Presidential or OPVP Assignment

If you were to share one of two major assignments from the OPVP, please describe below. The status of the project(s) will be reported each quarter going forward.

Business Regulatory Department

Project #1: Business Regulatory Department in conjunction with the Division of Economic Development hosted two of three public hearings on the Navajo Business Opportunity Act (NBOA). Department efforts to amend and improve the NBOA stem from growing concerns from the public being advertised over the local radio stations KTNN, KWRK and in the Navajo Times for May, June, and July of 2021. Department also sent out a Navajo Nation employee notice for the public hearings during the week of the meetings for May and June 2021, as well as mailed out letters to all registered businesses (200+) with our department. Public meetings are being held with the zoom application in a virtual setting.

Small Business Development Department Project #1: Quadrilateral Agreement Committee; streamline policy & regulations for the purpose Colorado River/San Juan River recreational development plans within Portal B. Project #2. Business Site Lease of Antelope Point Marina settlement and development buildout of hotel, and other development plans.

Chinle Regional Business Development Office Project #1: Navajo Indian Wells Commercial Site Development project and local government officials are moving forward with the business developments. Full funding of $3.7 million dollars has been restored on May 07, 2021. Budget forms are being revised with OMB. 75

Project #2: Impacted chapter representatives continue to ask for updates on the BSL Clean-up Contract for business site demolition/cleanup for five sites. Contract issues have delayed this project for the past 3-4 years. Sales Tax funding source is to be used.

Eastern Regional Business Development Office Project #1: Crownpoint Hotel – Eastern staff is working with the tenant, CSB Enterprizes, LLC, to secure private financing for equipment, inventory and working capital. Lending institutions are currently considering this project for financing. Once funds are in place, re-design of hotel project will occur, construction permits updated, and construction will begin. Navajo Nation funds are secured for construction activities. Project #2: Church Rock & Crownpoint Convenience Store & Gas Station projects – The Lessee, Thompson’s Acquisitions, LLC, Architect, Engineer and Eastern staff are working on re-design of C-Store projects due to cut in bank finances. Once re- design is complete and construction permits are updated, construction activities will begin. Navajo funds will be used for construction, and private loan funds will be used for equipment, inventory and working capital. Shiprock Regional Business Development Office Project # 1: 06/7/21 to 06/11/21: Navajo Nation Economic Development participated in the 2021 SelectUSA Virtual Investors Summit to promote investments into the Navajo Nation economy Project # 2: Developed updated 5 Year Plan of Project Listing for American Rescue Plan Act and 1/2 % Sales Tax Fund

Western Regional Business Development Office Project #1: Kerley Valley Commercial & Light Industrial Infrustructure Development -RPA, LLC has a contract to update all the engineering designs for the twenty-seven acres, the contract is in 164 review & approval process. Project has been put on the ARPA funding list Project #2: Business Center and Incubator Project. This is 8,000 square

Navajo Division of General Services

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

I. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. Division of General Services has been in the process of evaluating Departments within Division of General Services to examine ways services could be enhanced. Part of our assessment will be to ensure staffing and classification are optimized for maximum efficiency. 2. Division of General Services has updated its DGS Administration website. Information has consolidated all the plans of operation, employee contacts, policies and procedures. Additional information will need to be developed to ensure adequacy of policies and procedures to fully implement the intents and purposes of the plans of operation. 3. Division of General Services has worked hard with each of the departments to bring all employee performance appraisal forms and sensitive classifications current. Both objectives have been met. The next DGS personnel goal is to hire for all vacancies. Part of this involved expanding DGS administration capacity to complete in-house personnel assessments which is now being practiced. 4. Division of General Services has been working diligently to re-open the Navajo Nation Air Transportation. We have hired a consultant to assist us with the technical aspects of operating an air travel program. Department of Personnel Management has been working with us to upgrade the entry level rates of pay for three positions: air transportation director, air transportation pilot, and air transportation mechanic/pilot. Our goal is to have air travel operational by the beginning of FY 2022 (October 2021).

5. Hired Fleet Manager - Raymond Holyan and hired Records Supervisor - Marlene Slim.

6. Reactivated limited Navajo Transit Services.

7. Department of Information Technology upgraded, enhanced, and secured backup/recovery/archiving capabilities.

8. Updated all personnel documents: current on all Employee Performance Apprasial Forms and sensitive position declarations.

9. DGS has implemented an internal personnel assessment system.

10. The Employee Housing Program continues to address renovations and repairs for tenants.

11. Fleet Management has taken the initiative of conducting web based training.

12. Division of General Services participated in the OPVP Reservations ARPA orientation meetings.

13. Navajo Transit System installed COVID-19 Safety barriers on all transit buses.

14. DGS procured contract with Adriel Heisey to assist in the reopening of Navajo Air Transportation.

15. Navajo Nation Telecommunications & Utilities performed preventive maintenance on six Radio Frequency Sites.

16. Initiated 164 process to complete procurement for Navajo Transit System's yard asphalt repaving project.

17. ERate Fiber Optics construction to 83 Chapter Library sites and 53 Head Start sites in progress.

18. Division of General Services continues to provide custodial and maintenance services to the Navajo Nation and ensures compliance while the buildings are occupied by Navajo Nation workforce. Also staying in compliance with the Navajo Nation's safety procedures and PPE use during the COVID-19 pandemic.

19. Division of General Services has been practicing in the First and Second Lady's Navajo Trails project.

CHALLENGES

1. The hours become cumulative and must be utilized prior to December 2021 to ensure the Division of General Services continues to provide services. 2. Request for Proposal need to be completed. 3. The Employee Housing Program needs additional funding for renovations and repairs 4. The process of issuing contracts is too cumbersome. 5. Reviewing every quarter and redirecting the funds to other Division of General Services' programs. 6. A Division of General Services specific employee orientation process needs to be developed. 7. Ensuring all buildings are accounted for and it is shared among Divisions dealing with Assets. Information needs to be shared between Insurance Services Department, Facilities Maintenance, and Office of the Controller/Property Management. 80

8. The installation of safety barriers were added cost for the program. 9. DGS had limited staff to ensure the 164 review process for contract. 10. Navajo Nation Telecommunications & Utilities needs additional personnel and funding to continue to address preventive maintenace on all radio frequency sites.

Outreach and Communication

Navajo Division of Public Safety

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

IV. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

V. CHALLENGES

VI. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS

§ Detention Services Adult: 5,573 adult individuals were served this quarter from across the six-adult detention/corrections districts. These individuals received basic hygiene, nutrition and were referred for assessment and intervention services from local resources. 3,049 hours of community services was completed which is required as part of each inmates’ court order. 61 individuals received counseling and there were no group sessions lead by faith-based organizations to address issues of alcohol and substance abuse. The group sessions were cancelled due to the Covid19 and the Shelter In Place Order. Although the Nation is 50% open, all residential treatment and youth services remain closed. § Detention Services Juvenile: 42 youth were served this quarter from across two juvenile detention districts. Due to the Covid19 and the Shelter In Place there were no services provided in the juvenile detention facilities. Most the juveniles were released after their 48 hours of being detained. § Plans for a new Shiprock Judicial Public Safety Center: The NDOC continues to work with Parson’s Project Management in planning for a new Judicial Public Safety Center in Shiprock, New Mexico. The Shiprock Judicial Public Safety designs at 40% complete toward 100% construction documents. These design plans were submitted to Robert Esquerra, Special Agent in Charge (SAC) who refused to accept the designs, stating that he cannot accept on behalf of the Bureau of Indian (BIA), Office of Justice Services (OJS) and the Department of Safety and Risk Management and Construction (DSRMC). The OJS Central Office is responsible for these projects. As a result, the BIA/OJS/DSRMC has not responded to the 20% designs and refuses to take the 40% for review. § Correction Officer Recruitment: The NDOC has started to hire into vacant positions after dealing with the unpaid Special Duty (SDP) and the Hazard pay that remain unpaid. Numerous contacts have been made with the Office of the Controller and finally reviews are taking place. The SDP and the Hazard Pays will be processed under the department’s general funds and the remaining 638 funds under the prime contract. The department received additional funds in the amount of $129,402 which is the remaining base 638 funds for January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021. This modification will be used to bring back 6 Corrections Officer positions that had been frozen due to lack of funds. Three of these positions will be assigned to Kayenta Adult Corrections district and 3 will be assigned to the Chinle Adult Detention districts. These are two corrections facilities hurting for manpower assistance. § GR-60-15-015 CAP: The NDOC submitted its last report in March 16, 2021 the square footage of the Tuba City and Kayenta Corrections facility for non-inmate housing areas was submitted to the NNDOJ Attorneys. A letter was received from the USDOJ/OIG dismissing audit findings numbers 2 and 3 and partially dismissing number 9. The USDOJ 83

recommends that DPS continue to provide support to address the remaining questioned costs associated with recommendation 9. There are 3 sub areas that were identified and the issue still outstanding is the repurposing a portion of the Tuba City 132 bed Correctional facility either as a re-entry program or substance abuse treatment area. The department is working on completing plans to use this area as a re-entry programming area. § New Grant Applications: A proposal to replace the security detention systems has been submitted for funding under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). There are four facilities that were put into operation in March 2016 and December 2016 that need the entire detention systems replaced. The systems are necessary to assist the Corrections Officers to conduct internal and external security of the facility. The heavy winds have taken a toll on the software, and the exterior camera systems and the computers operating the security doors. § The NDOC participated in developing a budget proposal for the ARPA, which will be included in the Navajo Nation’s plans for construction and replacement of Judicial and Public Safety facilities in several locations. The team worked on updating costs for renovation, construction of several new facilities and planning for new public safety substations. This plan will be used during a work session with the Law and Order Committee (LOC) along with other Council Delegates. The proposed funding level as of June 30, 2021, is $475,618,198.00. Projects that are not approved under the Navajo Nation fund management plan for ARPA, projects will be submitted for other funding this year. The next steps include developing a 3-year cost plan and developing talking points as to why these projects are necessary as part of “loss of fiscal” property which is a requirement to use these funds.

3. CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS § Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons – NDCI participated in the development of a new Tribal Communities Response Plan (TCRP) toward the Nation’s concern of addressing missing persons from the Navajo Nation. § 1.2 million dollars supplemental funding was awarded to NDCI for personnel expenses, travel, supplies, lease and rentals, communication and utilities, repairs and maintenance, contractual services, and special transaction. § On June 23, 2021, NDCI, FBI, US Marshals, and County Deputies executed Federal Warrants arrests in Chinle and Window Rock police districts. The combined task group arrested 9 individuals in the Chinle district and 4 individuals in the Window Rock district. Federal charges ranged from probation violation to murder. § NDCI presented to the LOC statistics on Fatal dog attacks across the Navajo Nation with inputs on a crime policy initiative. 2. DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

§ Utilizing the DEM Mass Notification system to send out COVID-19 text messages. § Responding to missing pers cases, located missing elderly man with Dementia, located missing teenager from Sawmill, Az.

3. DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE

§ Awarded 8 million from ARPA via I H S Contract § 3 of 16 ambulances delivered to EMS § IT Consultant for EMS

4. FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICES

§ Continuing Education; Fire Leadership courses, Inspector courses, Instructor courses, Rescue courses, advanced wildland courses are also being scheduled. Continue with Fire Academy training for new recruits. § Window Rock Fire station interior renovations to be completed by September, 2021. § Clean Hands Operation: along with Division of Community Development, distributed 1400 pellets of hand sanitizers. § Fire Academy completed 3-month training; 2 recruits got state certification test results and 1 recruit retesting. 3 out of 8 recruits completed the course.

5. INTERNAL AFFAIRS

§ Technology upgrade (replacing outdated machines). § Direct communication established with accrediting agencies (BIA) on administrative investigation cases.

6. NAVAJO POLICE DEPARTMENT

§ Continue to Recruit quality and first-rate police recruits and police officers for the Navajo police Department (NPD). This is a priority for NPD. § Kayenta Police District has initiated a proactive community outreach team, known as the Community Response Unit (CRU). The initiative is to contact all the surrounding chapters and members to find out what the problem areas are. § Drug enforcement Program was created, which includes the Navajo Police Canine and Drug program: K-9 Officers completed their Apprehension Course, which allows them to conduct patrol work with their assigned canines. § Northern Agency: working on housing agreements for Officers who will be assigned from the graduating class 57. § Continue with sobriety check-points throughout all police districts. § Window Rock Police District is working with Nahatadziil Chapter to establish a police sub-office in the community of Sanders, Az. The plan is to move into a vacant building adjacent to the Senior Center. The establishment of the sub-office will reduce the response time and provide opportunities for more interaction with the remote communities of Window Rock district.

With the current number of police officers in Window Rock District, we plan to start with occupying the sub-office part time. In the future as more police officers are hired, Window Rock District will occupy the sub-office on a more regular basis.

Currently, NPD has obtained finalized agreement with the Chapter which has been reviewed by DOJ. Part of the agreement encompasses the payment of utilities, including gas, electricity, phone lines and internet service. Window Rock District is requesting assistance from the chapter to help pay for these services. The agreement is concurred by all parties, the key to the building was given to NPD. The building will need office furniture, computers and phones. The work order is being worked on for the telephones and internet at this time. The radio has been set up inside the building and a few furniture. It will take time to set up the building to operate efficiently as a police sub-office. The positive aspect of the building is that the interior of the building is in good condition. The exterior has had some yard work and maintenance by the police personnel.

CHALLENGES

DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS

§ The Shiprock Adult detention facility was closed permanently March 19, 2021, after not being able to obtain a sanitation permit. There were a number of deficiencies that could not be addressed which include mold that was found in the boiler room, linear and lateral cracks in various areas of the facility, continuous heating, ventilation and cooling problems, etc. The closure has impacted the local police arrests due to the long transports to the Crownpoint Correctional facility. NDOC has started work on bringing in modular to use as temporary housing in Shiprock, this will take some time and work. All long-term serving inmates are transported to Crownpoint Adult Corrections facility. § The Window Rock Public Safety building has also been recommended for closure since December 2017. Closure has not been executed due to lack of facilities for relocation of the Window Rock detention personnel and inmates. The DPS working group are working on develop plans to relocate services and staff to Ft. Defiance, Az for the headquarters personnel and possibly the WR Detention to Sanders, Az. Both locations will require renovation work to provide adequate office space in Ft. Defiance and to house inmates in Sanders. § Due to closure of the Shiprock DOC, there is constant transports to other detention, districts on the Nation. The Crownpoint Corrections facility personnel are dealing with court hearings for the Shiprock, Crownpoint, Alamo and Tohajiilee Judicial District court hearings for the inmate population situated in the Crownpoint facility. § The NDOC transport van mileages are high due to transport of inmates to other facilities, taking a toll on the wear and tear of the vehicles: the needs of courts at the last-minute issuing orders of release and transports to courts, to have subject in person. 86

§ The NDOC has lost 37 Corrections personnel; 32 Corrections Officer and 5 Corrections Sergeants starting in May 2020 to date of this report. The ones resigning in May to about July 2020 were due to fear of contracting the virus and not wanting to spread to the families. Those who resigned in August 2020 were related to non-payment of the Special Duty Pay and the Hazard Pay. All these personnel were BIA Certified Corrections Officers.

2. DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS

§ NDCI is challenged with Post Mortum Examination expenses utilizing services from the the Office of the Medical Examiner University of New Mexico and the Cocanino Medical Examiner's Office, Flagstaff, Arizona. The Navajo Nation is not allowing NDCI to utilize direct payment for these services anymore as it has historically done, but is instructed to seek contracts with the Medical Examiners Instead. This process has set up barriers to achieving program deliverables. § Annual contract funding of 4.1 million dollars is not enough to effectively achieve program deliverables for NDCI. This is not enough funding to hire additional criminal investigators desparately needed to effectively achieve program deliverables. § Travel restrictions by the Navajo Nation has been a barrier to achieving program outcomes with training. NDCI advance training in investigative skills are only found in distant locations requiring travel to and from locations outside the Navajo Nation. The travel restrictions have handicapped NDCI training required hours to maintaining its annual certifications. § Limited infrastructor on the Navajo Nation is a constant barrier to achieving effective program deliverables. Mostly in communications with police radios, cellullar phones, internet services which are barriers to achieving effective program deliverables. § Crime Laboratory services have backed up in its analysis of evidence submitted by NDCI and the situation has slowed NDCI investigation processes in all cases. NDCI depend on crime laboratory results for leads in investigations and in achieving program deliverables.

3. DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

§ Greatest challenge is to work on a minimal budget. DEM only have 2 fleet vehicles and we respond to the entire Navajo Nation, one vehicle has over 218,819 miles and is a 2007 GMC SUV (needs to be replaced). § No water line and no waste water is hooked up to the existing office. With COVID-19 still around this is a major challenge to mitigate the risks of COVID-19, and staff have 1 unisex bathroom in another building.

4. EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES

§ Human Resources – Recruitment and Retention § EMT Training, Pass/Fail rates

5. FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICES

§ Medical Supplies: the department has very limited to no medical supplies and viral decease protective equipment. Our only resource in Navajo EMS to help with supplies on a daily basis responding to COVID-19 pandemic. § Some financial and Human Resource were made with limited progress.

6. INTERNAL AFFAIRS

§ Lack of records management software for administrative cases (lack of funding). § Unable to attend specialty training for administrative investigations for credit towards law enforcement commissions (travel restriction). § Lack of equipment/technology for old case fies (dating back to 1979) to store (funding.). § Understaffed – reopening causing delays with background requests; investigation is priority.

7. NAVAJO POLICE DEPARTMENT

§ Retain employees § Procurement process delays are challenging for items needed for the police department. § Recruitment efforts. Filling remaining vacant position(s) for support staff section. Engaging and hiring qualified candidates has been a challenge. § Closure of the Shiprock Corrections program still poses a challenge, forcing staff to exercise their discretion to arrest to a very unsafe point. Minus a jail, staff have to make their arrest, process the arrest for medical clearance at the medical center and then transport to Crownpoint, Kayenta, or Chinle. Our I.H.S. partners are limited in their flexibility to expedite medical clearances so it is not uncommon for officers to wait for an hour for a single medical clearance. Once that is completed, the other police districts rarely have relay units available as they are addressing their district calls. The one-way travel time from Shiprock to the alternative booking site is 90 to 120 minutes. Corrections is still not willing to book in the field, wait at the medical center with our arrested offenders or provide relays to the alternative booking sites. Officers and supervisors are still having to determine if officer safety outweighs an arrest and are utilizing release on personal recognizance forms, finding responsible parties to deposit the offender with if it is not a mandatory arrest by Navajo Nation Code, or utilizing alternative dispute resolution techniques to prevent officers from being restrained in the lengthy booking process. Additionally, this is impacting district's operating budget associated with travel and overtime costs. § Police Vehicles: high mileages, malfunction due to extreme heat weather, etc. this causes less vehicles for Officers. § Some districts have challenges with internet infrastructure.

PROJECT #1: Missing Persons Unit – NDCI continues to aggressively work reported missing person on the Navajo Nation, utilizing every available resouces at its disposal.

OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

Navajo Department of Health

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

I. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. Covid-19 Activities: “Five (5) Health Education (HE) offices collaborated with both 638 and I.H.S. at 53 community Covid-19 Vaccination events, where 8,683 vaccines and education were given in these selected communities for both adults and teens; three HE offices assisted with three Community Mitigation, Infection Control and Prevention ZOOM trainings through Part 1 (e.g. Sars-CoV-2, signs and symptoms, transmission, Quarantine & Isolation, and testing), one Part 2 was covered by HE (e.g. mask, social distancing, ventilation & filtration, cleaning and disinfecting, and vaccination), and monitored the Chat Box where questions were addressed. 2. The Navajo Nation Special Diabetes Program designed, implemented, and monitored six community garden projects in Chinle, Crownpoint, Dilkon, Kayenta, Shiprock, and Fort Defiance Services Area. Project participants are learning how to create in ground and raise lasagna beds, transplant seeds, and control pests and weeding. The end result is that participants are increasing their physical activity by going outside to exercise by tending the garden. It also helps them to interact with other peers which improves their mental health. 3. DBMHS continues to provide Navajo Wellness Model sessions via Zoom to promote cultural teachings related to self, environment, roles, and relationships. During the FY2021 3rd Quarter, DBMHS conducted 6 sessions of Navajo Wellness Model via Zoom with a total of 108 participants. The Navajo Wellness Model sessions were provided on DBMHS's Facebook Page 4. Flea markets have reopended and in compliance with the COVID-19 guidelines for temporary vendors. 5. Over the third quarter reporting period, the Navajo Department of Health provided an array of health related services. Specifically NDOH provided an estimated 56,528 prevention education activities associated with elder care, COVID-19 prevention, vaccinations, sexually transmitted infection, individualized health education, nutrition education, and horticulture. The number for screening for cancer, intake for behavioral health services, diabetes and hypertension and assisting with COVID -19 vaccination registered at 8,680. The majority of staff trainings were provided by Division of Behavioral and Mental Health Services, there were approximately 219 staff and community members trained on telehealth, Navajo Wellness Model, Fatherhood is Sacred & Motherhood is Sacred, and opioid prevention. The number of community outreach activities was 37,848 for a variety of health related needs for the Navajo people. In addition, an estimated 459,365 of outreach services were provided via social media to engage Navajo people people in variety of health 95

related topics such as stroke awarenss, arthritis, stress anxiety, child abuse awareness, and traditional practitioner presentations.

6. The Foster Grandparent Program under the leadership of the Division of Aging and Long Term Care Support provided 60,598 service hours to children. Volunteers provided 140 student with one-on-one tutoring and mentoring and they assisted teachers during on-line class sessions where approximately 800 students participated. Their services was acknowledged through a Proclamation. 7. The Health Command Operations Center has continued to operate between 5 days weekly this quarter. As of June 30, 2021, there were 247,008 vaccines administered and 118,766 persons are fully vaccinated, and operational at "yellow status" of the reopening plan with a safer at home order. On June 30, 2021, there were 31,004 total confirmed cases, 281,439 total tests completed, 29,615 total recovered, 1,354 total confirmed deaths, and 229,597 negative tests. This quarter service delivery programs (i.e. CHR-Outreach, Navajo Health Education, Navajo Public Health Nursing, Navajo Special Diabetes, and others) have provided support at locations where Navajo Nation vaccinations were administered to people across the Navajo Nation. Fourteen (14) Public Health Emergency Orders in 2021 were issued up to March 31, 2021. FEMA reimbursement and recovery group began with Department of Emergency Management, Division of Community Development, and FEMA. 8. The Office Navajo Uranium Workers Program successfully processed claim compensations totaling $1,057,500.00, which is a 58% increase from the second quarter reporting of $612,500.00 at the end of March 2021. The program continues to assist clients in having their claims considered for compensation. 9. Increase in awards from USDA and Indian Health Service. USDA, FNS, grant for Cash Value Vochers.USDA-Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) National Office granted to the Navajo WIC Nutrition Program $496,239 to increase access to fruits and vegetable benefits for WIC program participants. Currently, participant receive $9 for children and $11 for women, however this grant will temporarily increase their fruits and vegetables benefits to $35 per eligible person. This will be an incentive for families to consume more fruits and vegetables with their meals, thereby promoting health and wellness. Further, U.S. Congress is considering to make this incentive a permanent funding. The Navajo Special Diabetes Program (NSDP) received its Notice of Grant Award (NOGA) for fiscal year 2021 for $3.2 million in May 2021. This NOGA is half of the yearly average funding ,with the remaining half to be awarded in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year. The funding will enable the program to continue to promote healthy lifestyles and mitigate incidence of diabetes among the Navajo population.

10. Navajo Special Diabetes Program (NSDP) reached a total of 1,754 participants whom participated in Diabetes Education, Nutrition Education, and Physical Activity for the Quarter. This includes a total of 158 virtual events throughout the Navajo Nation, with an average of 11.1 participants per event. 11. DBMHS continues to provide crisis response services through the 4 established Crisis Response Teams (CRTs), DBMHS has responded to a total of 74 crisis calls. The CRT partners with local law enforcement and medical facilities to provide emotional support, postvention efforts, resource information, and follow-up while adhering to CDC guidelines. In addition, DBMHS continues to host and participate in the monthly CRT Meetings provide guidance and strengthen team and process with local stakeholders to provide services to those experiencing suicidal ideations, suicide attempt(s), and/or death by suicide. 12. DBMHS sites have remained open during the pandemic to provide minimal services via phone to enrolled clients, and also assisting community members to cope with grief, loss, and other behavioral/mental health needs related to COVID-19. Staff coordinated referrals from local agencies, and referrals to RBHA for inpatient treatment. DBMHS received Zoom licenses, that is HIPAA compliant. DBMHS now has the capability to provide virtual treatment and outreach services. 13. DBMHS continues to host and participate in the Monthly Building Communities of Hope (BCOH) Collaborative Meeting with local CRT teams and stakeholders to coordinate events, efforts, and services for those with suicide ideation, suicide attempts, and death by suicide. DBMHS provided the supplemental presentation to BCOH titled, “Being Resilient and Coping with Stress” to Navajo Nation employees during the New Employee Multi- Service Orientation Training which is conducted once a month to comply with Executive Order No. 001-2019, which was issued by the Office of the President and Vice President. 14. DALTCS Health Services Administrator meets monthly with external funding authorities to review the budget and to receive award alerts. Sound working relationships with external funding authorities are in order to monitor budgets and to plan for relevant funding awards. 15. OOC and OMB will provide training and, if necessary, develop work sessions to discuss with divisions the diversification of funding and 6B Roll-Out Specifics. Navajo WIC Program will identify staff to be trained. 16. The Office of Navajo Uranium Workers (NUWP) successfully worked with 16 Navajo clients who received RECA compensation in a combined dollar amount of $1,057,000.00. 17. DBMHS continues to provide crisis response services through the 4 established Crisis Response Teams (CRTs), DBMHS has responded to a total of 74 crisis calls. The CRTs partner with local law enforcement and medical facilities to provide emotional support,

postvention efforts, resource information, and follow-up while adhering to CDC guidelines. 18. In addition, DBMHS continues to host and participate in the monthly CRT Meetings provide guidance and strengthen team and process with local stakeholders to provide services for those experiencing suicidal ideations, suicide attempt(s), and/or death by suicide. DBMHS Continue to invite and meeting with local public safety entities to coordinate services and address concerns related to service delivery. 19. As research on the options for new office complexes and convention centers is likely to occur in the future. NWICNP want to promote the concept of including and mandating compliance with the Navajo Healthy Start Act of 2008, Section 804(B)(1) to ensure a lactation room is available for working mothers. 20. The New Dawn Program distributed vegetable seeds which were left over and stored to 180 clients in the Chinle and Tuba City Agencies. 21. Six out of seven Navajo Special Diabetes Program services area have created farm or garden projects with their local communities. Each garden/farm project is flourishing with corn, squash, and beans. Plus, a variety of vegetables such as chilies, onion, garlic, carrots, melons, bell peppers, and others. 22. DBMHS SASP Team conducted the Virtual Faith-Based Summit to promote spiritual connections, reinforce identity and belonging, and re-introduce faith to participants.

CHALLENGES

1. During this quarter, limited services were provided due to continued COVID-19 Public Health Orders. Travel to provide services or to handle program related matters were also limited due to the pandemic, this has caused limited response to needs of certain clients. 2. The Navajo Cancer Prevention Program is experiencing challenges with getting supplemental contracts for mobile mammogram done to continue services through June 2021, this has restricted the number of service events. 3. NDOH programs are reporting high job vacancies, in some cases it has caused programs to reclassify positions to have a better recruitment and retention capability. Being understaffed has caused minimal services in areas of need. 4. The Navajo Nation Division of Community Development (DCD) has been working on several modular building procurement projects for NSDP. These projects have been ongoing for 3 years with no tangible results from Division of Community Development, to date. To turnaround process has been delaying NSDP projects to move forward for the past three years. NSDP could be in state of dilemma by reverting a substantial amount of funds which were allocated for these projects. For this reason, DCD needs to re-evaluate

their project proposal, set goals, and communicate with the program to move projects in a timely manner. 5. Documents for processing are submitted to NDPM. Documents reviews are time consumming and often not processed. IMPACT: Unreviewed Personnel Classifications Questionnaires, JVAs, PAFs, and memos are processed late. Often, unprocessed documents impact planning. A recommendation is to process documents in a reasonable amount of time by hiring more people to process documents. 6. DBMHS experiences slow internet in some areas causing delays in presentations. As a result, some presentations were rescheduled. There were several power outages across Western Agency that interfered with scheduled presentations and trainings. 7. Only one staff is covering the entire Navajo Nation by providing permit issuance, enforcement, inspections, follow-up on complaints and doing administrative work. 8. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, having virtual events has been a challenge. A majority of our participants don’t have the technology and high-speed internet access. For this reason, this has affected the communication online and has in some instances prohibited the ability of participants to engage in remote learning. 9. DBMHS continues to work on finalizing the CRT Policy and Procedure, the document was submitted to Department of Justice (DOJ) for review. DOJ returned for corrections, however DOJ cited that crisis response services is not within the scope of work for DBMHS. DBMHS CRT members request to respond to crisis calls with use of the GSA home daily as DBMHS receive calls after-hours, before hours, weekends, and on holidays. 10. The Chinle OTC site needs to undergo several maintenance and improvement projects to transition to a residential facility. The access road at this location will need to be closed off to the public due to privacy guidelines. DBMHS is required by DOJ to work with CPMD on all construction and construction-related projects. This is causing some hinderance for urgent projects. CPMD is non-responsive to numerous inquiries for the status of our application for services. 11. DBMHS has ongoing challenges related to providing the Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) Suicide Prevention training due to constraints with the number of participants and video/audio requirements. Therefore, DBMHS is only providing QPR to programs or groups that can limit the number of participants and that have video/audio capability to attend QPR sessions. This essentially limits the provision of suicide prevention training to Navajo Nation employees as required under the Executive Order No. 001-2019. 12. The timeframe it takes for the review and approval of external contracts is lengthy, in that one fiscal quarter may pass. The State of Arizona sends several amendments to the DALTCS contract throughout the fiscal year; each amendment requires review and

approval via the NN 164 process. The timeframe for reviews need to be shorten for effective contract administration. 13. An immediate challenge still remains in making efforts to encourage Navajo individuals or surviving families of deceased Navajo Uranium miners to re-activate their claim files or follow-up on various claims for possible reconsideration for compensation. This message has been initiated through regional Navajo radio stations. As a result, reactivation of claims files have increased. A 67% increase from the 2nd Quarter in compensation payouts indicative of an increase in claim processing, case file reactivation, and a few new enrollments. 14. DBMHS continues to adhere to CDC and NDOH Public Health Emergency Orders to provide crisis response services, however crisis services are not only limited to individuals experiencing suicide ideation, attempt, or death. In addition, DBMHS are will need policy and procedure to allow Crisis Response Team (CRT) members to use the GSA home daily as DBMHS receive calls after-hours, before hours, weekends, and holidays. 15. Due to impending closure of the Program, no vegetable seeds were reordered for distribution. The Program is getting ready to phase out because there are no more funds to sustain operations. 16. The 2020 pandemic has affected the NSDP goals and objected which result in decrease in our community engagement and outreach activity. 17. Covid-19 travel restrictions continue to present challenges. As an outreach program, the Prevention Specialist and SASP team members want to engage directly with the communities served.

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Navajo Division of Social Services

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

IV. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

V. CHALLENGES

VI. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

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MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. The Navajo Division of Social Services (NDSS) departments and programs received a total amount of $97,045,692 through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021, P.L. 117- 2. Additionally, the NDSS received $3,013,200 from the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, P.L. 116-260. The NDSS is allocated $100,000 in ARPA funding allocation by the Navajo Nation Executive Branch ARPA Team, for which is proposes 3 projects, including an electronic case management and telework determined as "shovel-ready", school clothing and supplies, and campus-style NDSS offices at 6 geographic locations. The Department for Self Reliance (DSR) completed 6 batch runs totaling $3,864,276 in benefit payments that served 2,264 customers in April; 2,161 customers in May; and 2,065 customers in June. The Department of Child Care and Development (DCCD) provided subsidy payments in the amount of $69,858 and collected $3,430 in copayments for 78 children served by 33 independent child care providers. The Navajo Family Assistance Services (NFAS) provided: LIHEAP payments to 107 households for wood and coal to heat their homes in a amount of $61,600; LIHEAP payments were made to vendors totalling $187,017 for 275 households; burial assistance for 504 requests in the total amount of $599,588; and General Assistance payments for 150 individuals in the total amount of $55,158. The Office of the Executive Director provided financial assistance for a total of 99 burial assistance related to COVID-19 deaths with an expenditure of $316,405. These specific requests has greatly decreased. The DSR Education and Career Services (ECS) section served 67 customers through its partnership with 8 different organizations, including: NTUA employing 3 customers as Customer Care Agents; Chinle Chapter employing 29 customers as carpenter, custodian, trash compactor, office aide, assistant project coordinator, electrician, wellness technician, and project supervisor; Southwest Indian Foundation employing 3 custormers as laborer; Dine' Bashas employing 10 customers as store clerks; Utah State University at Blanding enrolling one customer in the heavy equipment operator program and 3 customers enrolled in the CDL program; and the San Juan College enrolled 12 customers in the administrative assistant program and 6 enrolled in the Phlebotomy program. The Training Instructors (TI) provided 187 training sessions for 553 customers. The Employment Development Specialists (EDS) held 78 recruitment sessions for 63 customers. The Pathway to Self Reliance Policy and Federal Data training was attended by 94 and 100 current and new DSR employees, respectively, to be certified or recertified for the Tribal Assistance System case management software. Four new employees completed their introductory onboarding training series. A total of 76 customers graduated from high school, GED program, and college for which the DSR field offices recognized and celebrated their accomplishments by providing certificates, gift baskets, and incentive items.

2. The DCCD received approval from the Motor Vehicle Review Board to purchase 17 3/4 ton pickup trucks which will be assigned to each child care center. DCCD's current fleet

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did not meet the capacity needed to transport heavy items and supplies. The purchase of these trucks will help the field staff in delivering daily child care services.

3. The DCCD's human resource oversight is now able to evaluate/assess employment applications for vacant positions.

4. Program Improvement: A draft Navajo Nation Department of Child Care Policies & Procedures for Family and Children Serevices and Child Care Provider Services was submitted to Navajo Department of Justice (NDOJ) on March 19, 2021 for review. The policy was returned on April 23, 2021 and assigned to one of the Case Work Supervisors on April 26, 2021 to make the necessary corrections. The corrections were made and completed May 18, 2021. The draft policy is currently being reviewed by the DCCD Department Manager III. When completed it will be resubmitted to NDOJ for another review.

5. System Change: A draft Child Care Disaster Plan was submitted to NDOJ on May 3, 2021 for review. The plan was previously reviewed by Dr. Jeffrey Powell and Dr. Benjamin Simms, both pediatricians with the Navajo Area I.H.S. The NDOJ returned the document on May 25, 2021 for corrections. It is currently being reviewed by the DCCD Department Manager III along with the child care center supervisors. When complete, it will be resubmitted to NDOJ for final review.

6. Program Improvement: Regional DCCD Child Care Centers continue to network with community resources and State of Arizona, Quality First Coaching, Health Consultants and Health Nutrition for online training as part of readiness to reopen services. Specific concentration is on mitigating COVID-19 within child care settings through professional development and training on preventioin and signs of symptoms, transmission paths/barrriers, personal protective equipment, cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting facilities.

7. The Department of Family Services (DFS) received about 793 new reports of alleged child and elderly abuse for which field office staff members continue to respond with investigation. Approximately 393 children were reunified with a parent and about 92 children have met permanency with guardianship. Foster care social workers licensed 13 new foster homes of which 8 were kinship homes and 5 regular non-kinship homes. The adoption social worker certified 3 new adoptive homes. The Arizoa Long-Term Care System (ALTCS) provided case management services to 1,473 members, including 1,173 members were in their own homes, 256 members were in nursing homes, 41 members were in assisted living facilities, and 3 members were in acute care facilities. There were approximately 109 adults / elderlies served in DFS's subcontracted adult / nursing home facilities, with an expenditure of $426,627.03. The Shiprock domestic violence shelter provided services to 44 clients involving 225 bed nights.

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8. The NTCCF Outpatient Service Guide has received final approval. The guide was distributed and implemented by the NTCCF Clinical Staff to provide uniformity and guide the delivery of mental health serivces. The NTCCF Re-Opening Plans for the NTCCF Outpatient Services were developed and distributed to staff for implementation. The program continues to comply by all Navajo Department of Health (NDOH) Public Health Emergency Orders in referrence to the COVID-19 Pandemic. The NTCCF Program ordered new computer software and hardware to facilitate the implementation of a new case management system. The new equipment has been received by the program.

9. The Developmental Disability Program (DDP) maintained timeliness according to AHCCCS guidelines at 95% or above. DDP has full access and uploading to OnBase--the paperless case management file database being utilized by case management staff. The SimliGov implementation, fully electronic Planning Document/Assessment to replace the paper version to be fully rolled out in August 2021.

10. Although DCCD is not providing direct child care services due to the closure of the Navajo Nation government since March 2020, child care services were provided by DCCD's independent child care providers. A total of 78 children were served with 33 active providers for this quarter. Regional case work staff ordered supplies for private providers.

11. Thirteen (13) Farmington Department for Self-Reliance (DSR) customers gained employment. Seventy-six (76) DSR customers graduated from high school, college, or received their GED.

12. This statistical report illustrates that NICWAP maintained an average of 424 active cases, involving 816 children. Currently, NICWAP has active cases with 25 states. The highest case load is with the following states: Arizona with 212 cases involving 408 children, New Mexico with 75 cases involving 142 children, Utah with 39 cases involving 83 children, California with 23 cases involving 39 children, Colorado with 19 cases involving 39 children. The NICWAP Social Workers have an average case load of 50 ICWA cases. NICWAP has opened/assigned 50 new ICWA cases. Between April 2021 to June 2021, 437 children are placed in relative kinship homes or reunified with their parent(s) and 20 children are placed in a non-relative, Native American home. NICWAP has 10 ICWA Cases with legal intervention; meaning Navajo Nation is a party to 11 ICWA cases in the following states: Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Texas, and Oregon. NICWAP and NN DOJ AAG LaTonia Johnson have conducted 23 legal case staffing’s on ICWA cases. NICWAP social workers attended 362 court hearings and 182 meetings pertaining an open ICWA case (Team Decision Making Meeting/Family Centered Meeting/Case Staffing/Treatment Team Meeting). NICWAP social workers have conducted 48 home visits with children and families residing on/off the Navajo Nation. NICWAP social workers have completed 3 Relative Home Studies.

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13. Currently, there are 192 cases involving 353 children are awaiting enrollment/eligibility verification/determination from the Navajo Nation Office of Vital Records. These are potential ICWA cases that could be assigned if children meet eligibility for enrollment requirements. Currently, there are 329 children placed in a non-ICWA compliant placement (non-relative, non-Native foster home, treatment foster home, residential facility, and/or group home). There is a shortage of ICWA compliant homes available for placement of minors. Recruitment of Navajo families willing to foster/adopt Navajo children and licensing these homes will help address this high number of children placed in non ICWA compliant homes.

14. A collaboration meeting was held with the State of Arizona Quality First Technical Advisory Providers, with teams represented from Quality First Coach, Mental Health Consultant and Child Care Health Consultant. All DCCD Regional Child Care Center Supervisors and the Regional Casework Supervisors participated.

15. An upcoming action plan set for late July 2021 or early part of August 2021, all DCCD staff will attend training to receive foundational educational information on types of trauma, understanding the impact of trauma in early childhood age group, from birth to five and referral to mental health resources.

16. One (1) DSR customer from the Farmington field office transitioned from the organization, People Assisting The Homeless (PATH) to housing with the assistance of San Juan Partnership. One (1) DSR customer from the Farmington field office transitioned from a domestic violence shelter to housing with the Navajo Housing Authority. Housing Assistance applications from NHA were distributed via email to DSR customers in the Window Rock/Greasewood area for the Pandemic Emergency Assistance initiative.

17. FY21 general wage adjustments have been posted by NNDPM as of 5/21/21.

18. The NICWAP team have been providing critical information of support, awareness & professional knowledge to NN DOJ regarding current legislation. RE: 5th Circuit decision (Brakeen case), NM ICWA legislation and information related to ICWA support to State of Utah.

19. Planning phase of construction of new child care centers in five locations which include Rocksprings, Kayenta, Sanders, Chinle, and Fort Defiance. Construction of new sites will bring job opportunities and provide child care services for families.

20. Eagle Sun Project: Vendor has made assessment of all child care centers and case work offices for the fiber optic project/refit equipment installations. In addition, Eagle Sun is also tasked with completing the installation of TAS software.

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CHALLENGES

1. The Navajo Nation Office of the Controller (OOC) lack of staff impacts the DSR's services. The OOC needs to be fully staffed so that payments and other financial documents are processed timely and do not get delayed. Some payment inquiries to the OOC Purchasing Section have gone unresponsive, and is damaging the DSR's business relationship with vendors, which leads to delayed services and communications with DSR customers. The DSR ECS cannot reach as many customers that do not have internet/virtual forum accessibility. This hindrance slows the goal of families to achieve self-sustainment. The referrals of DSR customers are not where we would like them to be because of low attendance caused by COVID-19 restrictions, which is a barrier on customers and causing them to not want to attend training. Customers are still experiencing fear of returning to work, completing approved work activities, and resuming in-person school due to COVID- 19 pandemic. Outside resources on the Navajo Nation such as Navajo Nation, Child Support Enforcement, Navajo Housing Authority and numerous school entities need to improve on the turnaround time for completing verification documents for customers. Customers are expressing additional barriers imposed on them by these outside entities such as the time to complete a verification form, office closures, limited staff, incorrectly completing the forms, and those with transportation barriers having to make multiple trips/multiple phone calls to check on the status of such verification forms.

2. The Navajo Nation Indirect Cost (IDC) Rate (18.7%): In a recent audit, DCCD was cited for exceeding the allowable 15% administrative cap set by the funding source. It is impossible to apply the 15% of federal funds for administration activities when all of the funds are being applied to IDC at 18.7%. To date, DCCD continues to work on a solution with the audit team, Office of the Controller, Office of Management & Budget, and the NDOJ. Navajo Nation Property: The turnaround time for Navajo Nation Proprety to tag equipment takes six months to a year. A solution could be for property management to train departments to receive and tag their own assets, and submit reports to Navajo Nation Property. This will eliminate the wait period and workload for Navajo Nation Property.Office of the Controller made a change to have department's amend Purchase Orders for small differences. The OOC takes too much time to process the amendment causing departmental Purchase requisitions to pile up at Purchasing just to increase a line and department's are being assessed with late charges. The impact of COVID-19 pandemic delayed contractual services such as installation of Fiber Optic at many Regional Child Care Centers and Casework Offices, these work activities finally resumed; however, the interruption impacted the child care centers ability to function effectively and efficiently.

3. The Navajo Indian Child Welfare Act Program (NICWAP) team have been providing critical information of support, awareness and professional knowledge to NDOJ regarding current legislation. RE: 5th Circuit decision (Brakeen case), New Mexico ICWA legislation and information related to ICWA support to State of Utah. NICWAP team have increased numbers in participation in State Court Hearings, Q1=314, Q2=333, Q3=362. This team 113

adheres to the six different time zones, outside NN business hours and with their dedication they attend hearings and staffing during days they are on leave. Relative placements remain consistent, which is very positive. It would be great if NICWAP could further reinforce these placements by providing any emergency assistance and continued support to families. The NICWA team have remained consistently dedicated to their caseload with minimal to no interruptions in services. They are knowledgeable, dedicated advocates to their clients and will go above and beyond to ensure services are met

4. The vandalism of the NTCCF offices is very disheartening. The office in Chinle have been subjected to weekly break-in. The office in Shiprock have also be broken into at least once a month and the Tuba City Office has also been broken into less frequent. NTCCF staff have to take valuable equipment and supplies home for safe keeping. The NTCCF Program faces challenges in the recruitment and hiring of licensed clinical staff. When positions are vacant, it is challenging to recruit and hire staff when there is no housing available. The NTCCF Program is challenged with recruiting and hiring professional staff when local mental health entities offer higher salaries and better fringe benefits. The Navajo Nation pay scale is very low and professional staff look to the Nation as a training ground for other facilities which pay higher salaries. The NTCCF Program professional staff must attend specialized clinical training to deliver the most up to date and effective treatment services to children and families. It is very important and challenging to seek training for our clinical staff to maintain their licenses. They must receive proper training to fulfill their hours to maintain their professional licenses.

5. Foster / Adopt and parent skill trainings continue to be on hold due to the pandemic. The Navajo Nation needs a larger domestic violence shelter to accommodate more people who are seeking crisis shelter services. District courts are still behind on setting court hearings and issuing Orders to address child welfare dependency cases. The delays have caused and continue to cause delays in children being reunified with a parent or permanently placed in a relative home for guardianship. There is no law enforcement officers assigned to the Tohajiilee community, so field office staff are reporting to child abuse / neglect calls without law enforcement officers. Processing of PCQs, advertising positions, employment applications remain slow with Department of Personnel Management.

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Navajo Division of Transportation

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

I. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

116

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. Completed N27/N7/N105 New Highway in Nazlini/Chinle, AZ.

2. Completion of McKinley County Road 9, Rock Springs, NM and McKinley County Blue Medicine Well Road, Baahaali, NM road improvement projects in June of 2021.

3. N5113 Beclabito - placement of asphalt millings for 2.5 miles with soil stabilizer.

4. N6730 Tolani Lake - low water crossing using cable concrete.

5. Navajo DOT submitted the 2021 Inventory Update Deliverables for the National Tribal Transportation Facility Inventory (NTTFI). The submittal of routes is based on the 25 CFR Part 170, which Navajo DOT is mandated to maintain.

CHALLENGES

1. Timely reviews and approvals from Navajo Nation and BIA regulatory agencies of environmental documents for road improvement projects.

2. Timely reviews and approvals from Navajo Nation and BIA of right-of-way documents for road improvement projects.

3. Timely reviews and approvals from Office of the Controller for consultant and contractor invoices.

4. Hiring of Employees: Slow processes in the submission of Job Vacancy Announcements to Department of Personnel Management. Additionally, slow recruitment for employees due to existing salary schedueles.

5. Water for construction of projects is difficult to attain. Water must be transported to project locations which is costly, timely, and affects project progress.

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Navajo Gaming Regulatory Office

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

I. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

120

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. The 2021 amended Arizona State-Tribal Gaming Compact was signed by the state of AZ on April 15, 2021. Several Compact appendices (A, F (1-9), J, L, and Poker MOU) were executed between the Navajo Nation and the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) on June 18, 2021. There are still several remaining appendices that are currently being negotiated between the ADG and the Arizona Tribal Regulatory Subcommittee. The Navajo Department of Justice and NNGRO outside attorney continue to participate in the subcommittee meetings.

2. Two (2) of the four (4) Navajo Casinos gaming floor have continued to be open at the Northern Edge and Fire Rock Navajo Casinos, but only at a 50% capacity and to Navajo Nation residents and tribal members as of April 2021 (Public Health Order 2021-009). NNGRO staff have reported no major issues and continue to monitor compliance with the Navajo Nation Public Health Orders. The Gaming Facility Licenses for the Twin Arrows Navajo Casino and the Flowing Water Navajo Casino have been renewed for another year. Although both facilitie are currently closed to the public, gaming machines and other gaming eqiupment continue to be on site.

3. All NNGRO desktop computers, 55 total, have been upgraded to Windows 10 operating system. This was accomplished by replacing all the Dell desktop computer's hard drive with new updated SSD's with faster processors and expanded storage. This saved the program funds by not having to replace 55 computers.

4. The Slot Compliance Department within NNGRO has been reorganized to ensure daily supervision and streamlined communications between the Enforcement Department and slot compliance. Local supervision and oversight will allow the Enforcement Manager to be aware of all changes and projects affecting the slot compliance section of the Casino Operation.

5. The NNGRO had over 100 outstanding employee performance apprasial forms (EPAF) in May 2021 and have completed nearly 85% and will have all staff's EPAFs caught up by the end of July 30, 2021. This will allow staff to obtain step increases who have continued to be a step A since they have began employement with NNGRO several years ago. In addition, it will allow all staff who perform outstanding work to received a step increase.

CHALLENGES

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A. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the FY 2022 funding for the NNGRO will be affected. The Gaming Development Fund (GDF), also known as "Slot Leases", is the transfer agreement between several southern Arizona Tribes and the Navajo Nation on its allotted slot machine per the State-Tribal Gaming Compact. However, since many of the Tribal Casinos were temporarily closed in Arizona throughout 2020, the Tribes who were in a transfer agreement with the Navajo Nation were not able to pay their leases and it has stagnant the GDF balance. The current unaudited balance is stated to be around $3 million. The GDF funds roughly 95% of NNGRO's total annual budget. This past FY 2021, NNGRO received their funding by quarters in the first two quarters of the FY and received half a year budget in March for April to September 2021. The total personnel cost to fully fund all positions including fringe benefits is $6,600,000 and reoccurring program operation costs of approximately $680,000, this does not include travel expenses or supplies. In FY 2021 NNGRO received a total allocation of $7,095,507, however we did not fund any vacant position until July 01, 2021 and have begun advertising and hiring, this will increase our personnel cost. We will need to seek other funding options as the GDF is predicted to deplete in the next several years.

B. Beginning in 2019, the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have revised and implemented new procedures and protection protocols on the use and dissemination of Criminal History Record Information (CHRI) requested by all Tribal Gaming Regualtory Authority (TGRA) entities. In January 2021, the NNGRO has been learning more about the new updates and has begun implementing the new requirements which include having to upgrade and purchase new network equipment, computer and software which has become very expensive. We will have to separate our Main Office network because we have the licensing and administration department in the Window Rock, AZ office.

C. The Executive Director (ED) position became vacant on April 30, 2021 and continues to be vacant. The position had been advertised via the Department of Personnel website several times in April, May and June, however, no applications were received from DPM, therefore the position has been advertised as "open until filled". The Deputy Executive Director (DED) has been been delegated since April 30, 2021. She is currently performing her regular DED duties and the ED duties.

D. The Navajo Nation Tribal Gaming Regulations have not been updated after the passage of the revised Navajo Nation Gaming Ordinance Amendment Act of 2018, which was

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approved by the NIGC in June 2019. According the amended Gaming Ordinance, additional regulations will need to be developed related to "small bingo games and raffle" and "internet gaming". This project will be a coordinated between NNGRO, NNGE, NDOJ and NNC and will be a large project to complete. With the newly amended Arizona Tribal Gaming Compact, a complete update can be completed.

E. We have experiencing long delays with the Department of Personnel Management (DPM) due their staff shortage. The processing of personnel action forms (PAF)s and other prutientn documents are taking longer and have affected the starting date of several new hire employees and staff who have been promoted within NNGRO.

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Navajo Nation Department of Justice

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

I. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

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MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. NHLSP client prevails in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. On May 26, 2021, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in favor of a Navajo Hopi Legal Services Program (NHLSP) client, a Navajo applicant for relocation assistance benefits, in her lawsuit against the Office of Navajo and Hopi Indian Relocation (ONHIR), the independent agency created to carry out the relocation of thousands of Navajos and provide them with relocation or replacement home benefits. ONHIR denied benefits to the Navajo client and a federal district court upheld that decision. However, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals reversed the denial which means the Navajo client will receive the relocation assistance benefits she is entitled to. The client applied for relocation benefits on August 31, 2010 and has waited over a decade for this positive result. DOJ’s Susan Eastman, Principal Attorney and NHLSP Director, and outside counsel Barry Paisner of the Hinkle Shanor LLP represented the client in this matter. 2. OIG Audit of USDOJ grants to NDOC. On June 24, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice provided written confirmation that it had fully closed two additional audit findings related to two USDOJ ARRA grants to the Nation for correctional facilities. This means that 8 of the 9 audit findings are fully resolved. The letter from USDOJ also confirmed the closure of $11M for the remaining audit finding. All issues pertaining to the Kayenta facility are now fully closed. $20M in costs for the Tuba City facility remain open, and DOJ continues to work with USDOJ and the Bureau of Justice Assistance to fully close the final finding. DOJ’s outside counsel Susan Allan and Jeffrey Holth from the Jacobson Law Firm have greatly assisted OAG and HSGU with this important matter. 3. Ninth Circuit Water Rights Victory for the Navajo Nation. On April 28, 2021, the 9th Circuit issued an opinion that allows the Nation’s breach of trust claims to proceed against the Department of Interior related to the Nation’s water rights and DOI’s management of the Colorado River. In its reversal, the 9th Circuit determined that the Nation had identified provisions in its treaties with the U.S. and related statutes and executive orders establishing the Navajo Reservation that give rise to enforceable trust duty by the U.S. to protect the water resources of the Nation. We will wait to see how the new federal administration will proceed, but DOJ is incredibly proud of our Water Rights Unit for this tremendous victory that benefits the Nation and all of Indian Country. 4. Several Navajo DOJ lawyers/attorney candidates sworn into the NNBA. On June 10, 2021, DOJ’s DesiRae Deschine (HSGU), Naomie Droll (ECDU), Cynthia Freeman (CU), and Jordan Oglesby (ECDU), all of whom are Navajo law school graduates, were sworn into the Navajo Nation Bar Association after successfully passing the Navajo Nation bar exam in March. DOJ is proud of these young Navajo women and their accomplishments.

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5. CAP 24-21 is enacted into law. On May 7, 2021, President Nez and Vice President Lizer signed CAP 24-21 was enacted into law, establishing a fund for the benefit of the Judicial Branch from the proceeds of the Navajo Nation v. Department of Interior litigation, and significantly for DOJ, provides for reimbursement to the Fixed Cost Litigation (FCL) Account for the costs of the litigation as well as other litigation. For the Navajo Nation v. Department of Interior litigation, the FCL will recoup approximately$833,000. This is essentially a refund of attorney’s fees paid from the FCL for litigation and provides resources for DOJ to utilize to meet the legal needs of the Nation. DOJ acknowledges and appreciates OPVP’s support of this important legislation.

CHALLENGES

1. U.S. Supreme Court decides CARES Act litigation in favor of ANCs. On June 25, 2021, the Supreme Court issued a 6-3 ruling in Chehalis et al. v. Yellen in favor of the Alaska Native Corporations (“ANCs”). The Court held that ANCs are “Indian tribes” under Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (“ISDA”) and are therefore eligible for funding under Title V of the CARES Act. That means none of the $533M that Treasury allocated to ANCs will come to the Nation or to any other tribe. Unlike the CARES Act funding, there will not be an issue with ANCs and ARPA funding. ARPA did not use the ISDA definition and instead expressly says “Federally recognized tribes.” DOJ’s litigation unit handled this matter.

2. Office of the Prosecutor (OTP) office space/repair. As described in several past DOJ quarterly reports, OTP does not have a Dilkon office for the 2 staff members assigned to Dilkon, and the current office space in Shiprock is insufficient for 6 staff members. Additionally, other OTP district offices require structural repairs, including basic plumbing, to make these offices functional for staff. Installation of load bearing walls to provide physical barriers between visitors, guests and staff are also needed in some offices to ensure employee safety. The prosecutor’s office in Window Rock also has a dilapidated storage trailer that requires sensitive disposal due to environmental health concerns. These needs pre-date the COVID-19 pandemic, and they have become more urgent during the pandemic, but have not yet been addressed due to lack of funding. DOJ has internally requested ARPA funds to address these needs, and also request that any discussions regarding planning and construction of additional criminal justice facilities include the OTP. To date, Public Safety and Judicial plan these facilities without OTP input or OTP space considerations.

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3. OTP prosecutors. This quarter, two (2) career prosecutors have retired and another prosecutor left OTP for another position, resulting in a total of six (6) vacant prosecutor positions. Historically, these positions have been difficult to fill, including the Chief Prosecutor position, and it often takes months, if not years, to fill. In the interim, remaining prosecutors assume additional responsibility for extended periods of time without additional compensation, which contributes to low morale. DOJ has advised OPVP and the Law & Order Committee of its recommended amendments to the Chief Prosecutor statute and Delegate Eugene Tso will sponsor legislation to amend the statute. The hope is that removing dated statutory requirements in the Chief Prosecutor statute will result in expanding the pool of qualified applicants and the ability to hire a permanent Chief Prosecutor. OAG also asks OPVP to ensure full funding for OTP’s FY22 budgetary needs.

4. DPM hiring delays. In anticipation of hiring several Navajo law school graduates in May, DOJ advised the Department of Personnel Management (DPM) of its intentions and requested DPM’s assistance to expedite the hiring process. However, despite having applied as early as April 28, only 1 of the 4 Navajo law school graduates have started work at DOJ as of June 30. While we understand that DPM is understaffed and that some DPM employees may be telecommuting, is frustrating not to receive timely responses to our hiring inquiries and lengthy delays processing paperwork. The lengthy amount of time to complete hiring is also discouraging for qualified Navajo applicants who want to work for the Nation but may be hired quickly elsewhere.

5. DOJ office space. As described above, DOJ has been attempting to hire new legal staff, and when they begin work and when other DOJ staff who have been telecommuting return to DOJ offices, there will be insufficient office space in the Butler Building and the Old BIA Club building to accommodate all DOJ staff. To address its lack of office space in the past, DOJ has converted a conference room and a break room and has cleared out storage space to create office space. DOJ is now exploring options for additional office space, including an inquiry to the Division of General Services about available office space, specifically BIE’s wing of the Old BIA Club building. Though not an immediate solution, DOJ recently provided a letter of support to the Nation’s Water Management Branch to support its efforts to secure ARPA funds for construction of a building to house the Water Management Branch, the Water Rights Commission, and DOJ’s Water Rights Unit.

OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

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Navajo Nation Division of Natural Resources

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

II. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

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MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Division/Department Name: Division of Natural Resources (DNR)

The DNR is comprised of the following twelve (12) departments: 1. Abandoned Mine Lands Reclamation 7. Navajo Land Department 2. Agriculture Department 8. Minerals Department 3. Fish & Wildlife Department 9. Navajo Nation Museum 4. Forestry Department 10. Parks & Recreation Department 5. General Land Development Department 11. Department of Resource Enforcement 6. Heritage & Historic Preservation Department 12. Department of Water Resources

Navajo Land Department (NLD): a. Title and Land Acquisition Program, completed 2 group tours, 6 inspections/assessments, and 1 inspection with an appraiser. b. Title Section, appealed 8 petitions for protesting values with McKinley County and all were either granted exemptions and/or changes to the values. Most importantly, exemptions were granted to 2 Indian Allotment parcels and 1 New Mexico (NM) patent parcel that were being taxed. This is a savings of $2,500 taken off the tax roll. c. Worked on agreement with Tuba City Chapter on new office space for Western Agency Land Office. d. GIS Section/NLTDS purchased a new server which was installed and has several share drives that need some cleaning up. This provides NLD more storage, data backup, data management, overall improvements for staff internally. e. Served 1,973 clients with information for homesites; provided 760 applications and approved 139 homesite leases. f. Electronic review and process for homesite leases and allow those without homesite lease to begin the process and could be added to projects for water and electric. g. GIS Section/NLTDS is still able to help HCOC, IHS, NNPD, FBI, NNCI, NHA, OPVP, and NTUA throughout the pandemic with maps, data as well for the Dine’ people. 2. Parks & Recreation Department (P&R) is working with Youth Empowerment Services for youth hiking and biking activities on the reservation, not limited to tribal parks. Bikes are also repaired and distributed to young people.

2. Abandoned Mine Lands Reclamation Department (AML): a. In April, 2 AML’s job vacancy were filled for the Department Manager III and the Network Specialist; AML/UMTRA site tours for the 2 staff was conducted to help them understand the work Navajo AML has accomplished. b. Reauthorization of AML Fee Collection, May 26, the U.S. House of Representatives, Natural Resources Committee held a hearing on the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act 131

(SMCRA) of 1988 Reauthorization (H.R. 1734) and the RECLAIM Act (H.R. 1733), as well as, other upcoming legislation. In addition, the House of Natural Resources Committee passed 3 critical pieces of AML legislation, H.R. 1733 and H.R. 1734 that passed by voice vote. Lastly, is H.R. 1146 called, the Community Reclamation Partnerships Act that passed by unanimous consent. The bills are now poised for action by the full House of Representatives. How and when that will happen remains unknown at this time. The National Association of Abandoned Mine Lands Programs (NAAMLP) and Interstate Mining Compact Commission (IMCC) suspects the bills may be attached to another "must-pass" piece of legislation, as opposed to being put as independent bills. NAAMLP and IMCC will be monitoring the Senate for actions on the three AML bills. The H.R. 1733 and H.R. 1734 are beneficial to the Navajo Nation, AML program. These were recommended for Committee approval. c. Uranium Mill Tailings Remedial Action (UMTRA) Projects, May 11 and 12, AML coordinated with Navajo Nation Departments to participate in the Mexican Hat Partnership Collaboration meeting with DOE-LM and U.S. Army Corp of Engineers. Also, on June 8-9, completed the Annual Long-Term Surveillance & Maintenance (LTSM) inspections for Shiprock and Tuba City, Uranium Mill Tailings Radiation Control Act (UMTRCA) sites. In addition, there was inspections done on the Shiprock UMTRCA evaporation pond liner June 17-21. d. AML Economic Revitalization Program, Former Pilot Project: A new project called the Coal Mine Canyon Maintenance Project and Park is undergoing the procurement process of the Cultural Resources Inventory Report and Biological Evaluation Report service. There was a Pre-Price Quote meeting and Project site tour on June 8. In addition, Tuba City AML staff has been meeting with prospective partners; Coalmine Chapter, Navajo Nation Parks and Recreation Department, and Navajo Department of Transportation. e. AML Projects, submitted 2 projects to the NAAMLP, Hardrock AML Awards program and the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation Enforcement (OSMRE) AML Award. AMLhose the Nenahnezad and Cove Mesa II Projects. 3. General Land Development Department (GLDD): 164 Project Reconciliation onto the Navajo Nation System for Eastern Agency 87 done, Fort Defiance Agency 93 processing, Northern Agency 73 pending, Western Agency 79 done, total 332; and April 2021, obtain 2 consent form signature for Tohatchi and June 2021, 7 consent form for Sanostee 2, LeChee 4, Bodaway Gap 1.

4. Heritage & Historic Preservation Department (HHPD): a. HHPD Cultural Resources Compliance Section (CRCS) reviewed and issued archaeological clearance for approximately 623 undertakings throughout the Navajo Nation. Archaeological reports covered a variety of projects such as homesite/residential leases, powerlines, waterlines, roads, etc. In addition to the Section 106 actions on the Nation, also consulted with federal and state agencies, municipalities, and other entities off reservation. HHPD responded to approximatley 191 such requests this quarter. b. GIS Section continues to improve NNHHPD services providing IT support as well upkeep of NihiDatabase as needed. Staff provided minor IT assistance to staff and created locational data during the shutdown. Other accomplishments included; continued with plotting and 132

digitizing of mapped sites (currently 8,500+). Additionally, GIS continues to create shapefiles for the GIS Database for all documented archaeological sites. The new and creative processes HHPD are creating using GIS technology will streamline HHPD’s processes to create a safe working environment for staff, and allow for remote access to HHPD records by contractors. c. HHPD received additional funding under the ‘638 contract with the Navajo Regional BIA for an additional archaeologist to review incoming reports for compliance review. The new staff will improve HHPD turnaround time for report review and compliance, and also monitor and implement compliance agreements with the BIA and other federal agencies. 5. Minerals Department: a. Completed Amendment 2 to Navajo Nation Oil & Gas Company’s (NNOGC) Professional Services Agreement (PSA), and also completed the Term Extension for NNOGC’s Desert Creek Operating Agreement. This will allow NNOGC to move forward with oil and gas exploration and production projects. These projects will bring additional needed revenue to the Navajo Nation. b. Reviewed 2 APD (Application for Permit to Drill) requests for Tacitus, LLC (Tacitus) to determine regulatory compliance then submitted for 164 review. The APDs completed the 164 review, which will allow Tacitus to move forward with drilling 2 new oil and gas wells in the Tocito Dome field. The 2 additional wells, Navajo Tribal N1A and Navajo Tribal U12A, should enhance Tacitus’ ability to produce helium and thereby increase royalty revenue to the Nation. c. Completed 4 MOAs for Paradox Resources which have completed the 164 review and currently at OPVP for review and approval. The MOAs give Paradox the right to perform technical analyses on several gas pipelines to determine repairs and/or capital improvements needed. Each of the pipeline segments connect and provide a route to the Lisbon Gas Plant in Utah. The Lisbon Gas Plant can process the Nation’s conventional and helium gas. Without processing, the gas produced must be flared. The MOAs are in place as department work on the Rights-of-Ways (ROW) for the subject pipeline segments. d. Tall Dune Resources purchased the Ismay field wells from Citation and put in place a $500,000 bond to allow them to move forward with work on the wells. Tall Dune is also interested in helium exploration and they have submitted a proposal which is under consideration by the Minerals Department. 6. Parks & Recreation Department (P&R): a. Applied for NRPA Grant in partnership with Youth Empowerment Services (YES) and was awarded a grant from the National Recreation and Parks Association, $466,000 to establish a program called Dine’ Trails. The project will result in improvement and establishment of a trails network in the western agency. b. Completed LCR road improvement, access roads to 2 of the viewpoints were graded and covered with gravel to accommodate visitors to the parks with improved access to the viewpoints. 7. Forestry Department: a. The Navajo Forestry Department continued to work with the NTUA, in completing and processing Timber Cutting Permits for short line powerline extension and fiber optic projects on the Navajo Nation. Information was gathered and submitted to the BIA, Navajo Region for 133

final approval. Invoices were also submitted to NTUA regarding the stumpage payments for the trees that were being removed from these project areas. These projects, once permitted, allowed for construction to begin as part of NTUA's process of serving members of the Navajo Nation with electrical lines. A total of 24 Timber Cutting Permits were issued for powerline construction activities. b. Continued discussions regarding the forest carbon initiative with Navajo Nation officials. This initiative will look to create revenue and potential jobs for the Nation, as well as be used to promote forest management on and for the Navajo forest. An agreement was developed, with the assistance of outside legal counsel, for this project. The agreement has completed the 164 Review and will now await draft legislation for committee and Navajo Nation Council consideration for approval. c. Approval, from the BIA, was granted to initiate to conduct forest thinning operations south of the Summit on 190 acres of forest lands. Thinning operations was initiated and is approximately 40% complete, with the removal of smaller trees. d. Contract was issued to a consultant to assist the Department in the development of an environmental document for the Navajo Forestlands Integrated Resources Management Plan. A contract modification was also completed to extend the contract until December 31, 2021. e. Department reinitiated its pole-marking program so that interested individuals are able to harvest and construct log cabins or hogans for themselves. During this quarter, 14 individuals have had pole-sized trees marked for them. A total of 840 pole-sized trees have been marked. f. Department in coordination with the BIA, Navajo Region, Branch of Wildland Fire and Aviation Management recommended Stage II Fire Restrictions for the Navajo Nation, due to the high temperatures, windy conditions and no precipitation. 8. Navajo Nation Museum: a. Navajo Nation Museum proudly hosted First Lady Dr. Jill Biden during her visit to the Navajo Nation. During this time, the Museum staff partnered directly with the United States Secret Service to serve as cultural ambassadors of the Navajo people. b. Hosted a 5-day testing event for students of the Arizona Virtual Academy for Learning. This was one of the Museum’s first official gatherings since the total shutdown in 2020. c. Aided Navajo Nation Trails Initiative & Gallup Ancestral Lands program to repair stairs that were vandalized. Attention in this matter was brought forward by Delegate Otto Tso. The repairs took approximately 7 days to complete. The repaired stairs now provide for a safer trail for the public and more resistant to vandalism. d. Museum archives worked with Sacks Tierney P.A. of Scottsdale Arizona to provide photos as supporting evidence in regard to litigation for the Navajo Water Rights to the Little Colorado River and the Little Colorado River watershed. e. Navajo Nation Museum coordinated with Ms. Santee Lewis, Executive Director at the Navajo Washington Office, the Welcoming and Introduction of First Lady Dr. Jill Biden’s address during her speech at the Window Rock Tribal Park as part of her visit to Window Rock, Arizona. f. Navajo Nation made a 3-year loan agreement of a Chief Mariano Blanket NTM-1967-10 to the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs. The blanket is dated to roughly the mid-

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1860s. This loan will be part of a newly renovated Long Walk exhibit at the Fort Sumner Museum in Bosque Redondo. g. Complete inventory of pre-Navajo artifacts held in an off-site collections area was performed then items were transferred to Navajo Nation Historic and Heritage Preservation Department for permanent keeping. h. Coordinated with Lowell observatory in Flagstaff Arizona to install 6 meteor tracking cameras to find and study meteorites. This program is becoming a country wide initiative. i. Staff and Director of the Museum worked with a University of California Graduate Student on a research project regarding the possibilities, programs and options to develop a digital storage and searchable data base for archival materials and information for the Navajo Nation Museum. j. Hosted a Navajo Ceremony for 3 governmental branches that include, Judicial, Executive and Legislative for the protection and well-being of the Navajo people. k. The Navajo Nation Museum has been fortunate to receive a plastic full skeleton cast of a 16 foot long and 7 foot tall juvenile Tyrannosaurus which was found mostly intact near Bisti, New Mexico. The completeness and young age make this a rare and significant donation to the Museum. 9. Department of Water Resources (DWR): a. Provided technical support for New Mexico Capital Outlay awards for Pueblo Pintado Sewer Lagoon Construct, $100,000; To’hajiilee Chapter Waterline Construct, $200,000; Thoreau Chapter Regional SCADA System Construct, $200,000; Crystal Chapter Green Knoll Split Mesa Water System Construct, $200,000; Little Water Chapter Regional Beacon Bisti Water System Construct ($26,200.00); Huerfano Chapter Water System Improve, $200,000; Lake Valley Chapter Water System Improve, $157,000; F3203 Alamo Chapter Water Wells Construct, $150,000. b. For the San Juan Irrigation Rehabilitation in New Mexico, the BIA Navajo Regional Office approved the request for $7,873,959 and the remaining amount of $2,608,000 for the current Subpart J on April 1, 2021. The Subpart J Modification No. 3 was finalized on April 29, 2021 by the BIA and the Navajo Nation. The total amount for the Subpart J Construction Contract is now $14,050,000. c. Repaired and maintained 91 pieces of equipment used for drilling, construction, repair and maintenance purposes. Transported 82 heavy equipment, construction materials, and supplies including diesel fuel to project sites and field offices at Many Farms, Cameron, Bodaway Gap, Farmington, Leupp, Black Falls, Tonalea, Albuquerque, Gallup, Shiprock, Chinle, Dilkon, Tuba City, Pueblo Pintado, Teec Nos Pos, Crownpoint, Canoncito, Coppermine, Ganado, Red Lake, Coalmine Mesa, and Fort Defiance Chapter areas. d. Helium Lateral of San Juan Irrigation Project, commissioning of the pipe was completed on April 21, 2021 with minor issues at the outlet. Irrigation water will be provided to this area of Shiprock once again in more than 15 years. e. Provide technical support for ongoing Little Colorado River Basin of Arizona and Upper Colorado River Basin of Arizona water rights settlement discussions in coordination with Navajo Department of Justice (DOJ). Provide technical support for ongoing Rio San Jose and

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Zuni River Basin water rights settlement negotiations in coordination with Navajo Department of Justice. 10. Navajo Nation Department of Agriculture (NNDA): a. Range and Farm Management 1) Through communication with District Grazing and the Major Irrigation Farm Board, the Extension Agents increased participation in the RDC Leadership Meetings concerning Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) Funding Plan, Burial Regulations, Drought, Animal Control, ARPA, Livestock Reduction, and DNR reporting. 2) Staff work to keep agriculture elected officials contact information updated in order to be able to respond quickly when needed. In addition, staff are working to document which officials have received their COVID-9 vaccination so NNDA can communicate established safe work environment during meetings and trainings. 3) February 12, 2021, RDC passed Legislation No. 0021-21 approving $4 million AIF Fund expenditure for livestock feed to all chapters. NNDA is not part of the management process to expend as the funds are to be provided to the Division of Community Development (DCD) to disburse to the 110 Chapters. NNDA drafted a “Livestock Hay/Feed Distribution Guideline” in April 2021 and shared with DCD and the agricultural elected officials. NNDA also encouraged DCD to expend funds according to the funding source during several teleconference meetings. To date unfortunately the funds have not been provided to the chapters to help them manage severe drought conditions. 4) Staff paid out $232,282.50 for 887 submitted General Claim Forms for 329 District Grazing Committee members. 5) March 15, 2021 second Chapter election, the MIFB had 6 vacancies, 4 were elected, 2 vacancies remain. DGC had several vacancies, now there remains one vacancy due to a resignation the first week of June 2021. b. Veterinary Management 1) Adjusted and mitigated intake and discharge protocols for Dik’oos Ntsaigii-19. Extra precautions have been taken with PPE and handling patients/clients. Veterinary Management has continued to operate under safe and efficient manner to help the Navajo people. 2) Mobile Unit interact and help when needed at Tse Bonito Clinic and satellite clinics to provide veterinary services. The staff has been using this time for mobile veterinary services preparation and planning for the upcoming year to ensure quality services. c. Range and Eastern Land Management 1) Secured and installed first windmill to solar conversions on Eli Smith Ranch with partnership of Navajo Department of Water Resources (DWR). 2) Secured additional big bale hay for the remainder of tribal ranchers who did not receive assistance with the first distribution of hay. 3) Created closer partnership with Branch Manager of DWR on water projects. 4) Created new solar powered water pumping plant plans with 5 ranch lessees with contractor. 5) Paid County Property Taxes for Yavapai, Navajo, Coconino, San Juan, Rio Arriba, Socorro, and Bernalillo.

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6) Big Boquillas Ranch installed a new half-million gallon water storage tank with partnership of USDA-NRCS EQIP program. 7) Actively participating in administration and management of the AIF and the Pasture Range and Forage Program. d. Equine Rescue 1) Work with chapters to generate updated Equine Rescue Resolution with 10-day posted notice prior to conducting an Equine Rescue Activity. 2) Maintain a safe environment at every location for local activity, abiding by CDC Guidelines. 3) Identify the right buyer to purchase horses on immediate notice and must buy all animals. 7. Department of Resource Enforcement (DRE): a. Livestock/Equine seizures: Rangers responded to Stray Animals around residence and ROW on highly traveled roadways. Central District Rangers have responded to Stray Animals reports from residents claiming horse or cattle constantly coming to their residence and causing damage to fencing, barns and other property. These Stray Animals are trying to access a food source or water. Rangers have responded to 5 requests throughout the central part of the Navajo Nation, seized 10 horses and 1 bull. b. ROW Removals: Rangers on daily patrols encounter livestock and equine roaming or grazing in the roadways ROW. Responding ranger assesses location of the ROW and sets a course of action to capture the Livestock or Equine. All while observing the safety of the passing motorist and the livestock and equine being captured. These horses and cattle are seized for the safety of the motorists on the roadways. Central District Rangers have encountered 34 incidents of livestock and equine being within ROW; removed 108 horses and 18 cattle. Livestock in the ROW is a continuous problem within the Central and Eastern Districts. ROW fences are left open, broken when vehicle accidents occur, cut by individuals, cattle guards are full of debris and need cleaning, sand dunes have occurred and allow access to allow livestock into the right of ways. The majority of fences are in need of repair on Tribal and State Highways. c. Dogs Killing Livestock: Central District Rangers responded to 5 reports of dogs attacking and killing livestock. The majority of incidents reported the dogs belong to a neighbor or family member. The dogs doing the attacking and killing are usually pit-bull or German Shepard cross breeds. Ranger completes investigation and determines the suspected dogs belong to neighboring residence or family member; Livestock owner does not want to take any legal action and wants the Ranger to have the dog owners or an Animal Control Officer remove the dog out of the area. They fear their neighbor or family member will retaliate against them. d. Investigate Livestock death: Central District Rangers responded to 7 incidents related to livestock deaths. In most incidents, it occurred weeks or months ago. The owner would find their livestock dead out on the range; which the livestock was missing for several weeks or months and was never reported missing to DNR Central Dispatch. The livestock owner would accuse neighbors for the death of the livestock. In other incidents, death of the livestock is undetermined. e. Navajo Gallup Water Supply Project (NGWSP): Rangers have provided law enforcement presence regarding individuals protesting the construction of the NGWSP near Littlewater, 137

New Mexico. Later, a request came through the Navajo Department of Water Resources (DWR) to assist with maintaining security for the Project construction along eastern side of New Mexico State Highway #491. The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) and Southland Holding Construction Company had been approached by a resident of the area who had been very aggressive and vocal in opposing the construction of water pipeline in this area. The complaining party initially complained that the construction was damaging their livestock grazing area. Then changed the focus that the construction impinged upon their lands because this particular land was sacred and is used for Navajo Traditional Ceremonial purposes. The complaining party sought to have the pipeline re-routed away from the area. Meanwhile, DWR and Heritage and Historic Preservation Department (HHPD) advised there were no violations and all permits were in place. During this time construction survey markers were being removed and individuals from outside the area were being influenced to protest the construction. Others began flying a drone near the construction site. DRE continued to communicate and coordinate with the supervisors of the pipeline construction to maintain a law enforcement and security presence to facilitate continued construction to move forward without any further delays. Also, DRE was requested to provide safety for waterline workers south of White Rock, NM. There a family is protesting the construction of the waterline stating they did not provide their consent for the construction. This incident resulted in a member of the family brandishing a weapon at the construction workers. DRE was on scene and able to retrieve the weapon. Navajo Police were called to provide assistance. The individual causing the threat was not apprehended at the scene. The waterline project has since been shut down due to the incident. a. COVID-19 Continue to provide Informational literature to the public on the COVID-19 pandemic: Rangers are interacting with the Navajo Nation public on a daily basis regarding the public's health and well-being associated with the pandemic, handouts are distributed as well as verbal instructions The primary focus is on preventing and containing the spread of the virus that is also shared with state travelers across the Navajo Nation and at tourist sites although there is a travel restriction. b. Land Disputes: Requests for service are becoming more common since the pandemic is decreasing. Families and siblings are disputing over land that was passed down from generation to generation by word-of-mouth from grandparents to parents to children. 1) April 3, 2021, Ranger Begaye responded to a Land Dispute in Tohatchi from the Crownpoint Police Department about a man threatening a young man while searching the area for his livestock. This case is an ongoing case since 1970, land users would respect the land and their neighbors and all of the sudden, the dispute over land or water emerges once again. The man’s parents had filed a complaint to the Department of Agriculture and the District 14 Grazing Committee. 2) April 5, 2021, Ranger Begaye responded to a Pinedale land dispute about a neighbor constructing a barb wire fence near his residence. The land status within this area was unclear therefore the complaining party was referred to file a complaint with the NLD.

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3) April 16, 2021, Ranger Begaye responded to a Lake Valley land dispute. Community members were complaining about a livestock owner not properly carrying for his livestock and allows them to roam throughout their community. Ranger contacted the livestock owner and informed about the complaints and for him to closely watch his livestock. The livestock owner agreed to keep his livestock away from his neighbors. 4) On April 27, 2021 Ranger Begaye responded to a Rock Springs access road closure to a residence. This is an ongoing case, DRE responded to this in March 2020. The land dispute is on an allotment and the complaining party does not have the proper residential document and therefore referred back to the BIA. 5) May 9, 2021, Ranger Sgt. Billy responded to a Land Dispute call in Breadsprings involving several family members where a sibling had applied for a Fee Land Permit and was awarded portion of the land to graze livestock that the mother once leased from the BIA. Throughout the years other siblings had established residence through approved Homesite Leases within the Fee Land boundary. Farmlands were also established and fenced off and used by other siblings. The Fee Land permit holder now decides to reclaim the entire fee land for their benefit. This case will be monitored. a. Submitted Position Classification Questionnaires (PCQ) to the Department of Personnel Management (DPM) to review the pay scale and job duties of the Ranger and Ranger Sergeant Classifications. DPM provided a report to RDC on May 12, 2021 stating they would have a finalized class specification within 15 days however DRE has not received notice from DPM. b. Seeking to purchase new department side arms for staff. These items have not been replaced since the 1990’s. DRE is working with vendors to complete the purchase and also trading in old firearms to reduce the overall price of the new side arms. c. Submitted Hazard Pay documents to the Office of the Controller (OOC) to compensate staff for working during the Navajo Nation Government closure. 1) November 18, 2021, Payroll provided a copy of the DPM’s Hazard Pay Policy and Guidelines. 2) December 1, 2021, Payroll provided new 80 hour Overtime Form to be utilized for Hazard Pay. 3) On March 25, 2021, DRE submitted the Navajo Nation Overtime Authorization Form to be paid for Hazard Pay related to Non-Exempt employees. The DPM Hazard Pay Procedures was submitted to our office via email by Payroll on November 18, 2021. Then on December 1, 2020 Payroll also provided DRE with the new 80 hour Overtime Form to be utilized for hazard pay – overtime .5, hazard pay – overtime 1.5 and holiday pay. 4) The Hazard Pay forms were returned to DRE on April 27, 2021 unprocessed by OOC/General Accounting with an attached routing slip requiring: a) Exceeds 5% limitation of salary; b) Justification of work performed required;

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c) Timesheet – PPE; d) Use the backpay form; e) Call me after reviewing worksheet. f) Attached was a memorandum dated January 15, 2021 from the Chief of Staff with subject: Special and Hazard Duty Pay Submissions - The following sections were highlighted on the memorandum “Hazard Duty Pay: Again, it is important to keep in mind not to exceed the 5% of employee’s annual salary. Further,” 5) A 4-page worksheet showing the actual hours that were submitted on the 80 hour Overtime Form that Payroll instructed Departments to utilize for Hazard Pay. The worksheet showed the amounts to be compensated for each Ranger and Ranger Sergeant for their hours worked at the .5 and 1.5 rate pursuant to the Department of Personnel Management Policies. General Accounting personnel then also provided an amount showing the 5% limit per the Chief of Staff’s memorandum. 6) DRE requested clarification form DPM, Department Manager regarding the policy DPM sent out regarding Hazard Pay dated November 17, 2020. Several email correspondences were sent back and forth between DRE and DPM. In the end, DPM stated DRE would not be using the DPM guidelines dated November 17, 2020. To follow the memorandum from the Chief of Staff dated January 15, 2021. a) March 25, 2021, received email from DNR staff related to guidelines for the payment of Hazard Pay to Exempt Employees. DRE was informed to utilize the payroll backpay request form. No further instructions were provided for Non-Exempt employees. b) April 28, 2021, DRE sent an email to division administration to inquire about the DPM Policy on Hazard Pay and the Chief of Staff memorandum dated January 15, 2021. An inquiry was made as to why DRE submitted a budget to the Navajo Nation Council for hazard pay approval pursuant to the DPM Guidelines if DRE was following the January 15, 2021 Chief of Staff memorandum? No response was received. c) May 3, 2021, DRE submitted an email to Accounts Payable requesting the Business Unit line item number to utilize to pay Non-Exempt employees a lump sum payment as OOC and DPM were referring to follow the memorandum signed by the Chief of Staff. In the FY 2021 Budget Manual there is no line item to utilize for a lump sum payment for Non-Exempt employees. There was no response from General Accounting on the request. d) May 10, 2021, Budget Transfer submitted to OOC for 5% payment Hazard Pay payment for Non-Exempt employees. e) May 19, 2021, DRE resubmitted the Hazard Pay for Non-Exempt employees to General Accounting based upon the guidelines in the January 15, 2021 memorandum from the Chief of Staff. DRE utilized the Navajo Nation Payroll Backpay Request Form.

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f) May 24, 2021 Darlene James of General Accounting once again returned the Hazard Pay forms for the Non-Exempt employees and the routing slip stated: - Justification of work performed required - Timesheet – PPE 11-8 to 2/7/21 - Object Code – Missing g) May 28, 2021, email sent to division administration regarding OOC returning hazard pay for non-exempt employees with no response. h) June 18, 2021, memorandum was received via email regarding Special Hazard Pay and Special Duty Pay Deadline. 6) c. Predator Damage: Most livestock owners say livestock is their livelihood, their main source of income and it creates harmony within their family for years to come and it will be passed on to the next generation. All of this can change in one night, by one dog or by a pack of dogs or a predator such as mountain lion or a bear. 1) May 19, 2021, Ranger Sgt. Billy responded to a Thoreau dog killing 13 sheep and severely injuring 17 other sheep in a well-structured corral. The perpetrator was a black adult pit bull dog, since the sheep owner shot and kill the dog inside his corral, the owner of the pit bull was never identified. Other dogs returned the following night to the corral, the sheep owner again shot and killed 2 other dogs near the sheep corral. The remaining dogs dispersed in various directions into the dark. The neighbor was contacted and asked if he owns pit-bull dogs and responded be saying that he never owned any vicious dogs. There is a NHA housing nearby, dogs from around the area gather and roam in packs. 2) May 20, 2021, Ranger Lapahie responded to Red Valley where 3 lambs killed by a mountain lion. Ranger met with the owner and seen the mountain lion tracks, searched the wooded and forest area and did not see any other tracks. A trapper was contacted with the Department of Fish and Wildlife to set up traps, the case was referred to the Department of Fish and Wildlife. d. Dogs killing livestock: Central District Rangers responded to 5 reports of dogs attacking and killing livestock. 1) April 7, 2021, Ranger Sergeant Milford checked into allegations of an Illegal Burial in the Klagetoh area. Upon meeting with District Grazing Officer and Chapter Services Coordinator (CSC) and visiting the burial site. It was determined that a burial occurred at a private burial plot and not within the Klagetoh Community Cemetery. f.

8. Fish & Wildlife Department (F&W): a. Accomplishment 1 – Colorado Ranch Enterprise Support; F&W hosted members of the Navajo Nation Council and the Vice President’s Office at the Wolf Springs Ranch and Boyer Ranch on 2 occasions during the 3rd Quarter. Members of the Resources and Development Committee, the Budget and Finance Committee, and Navajo Nation Vice President Myron 141

Lizer attended tours hosted by the Department. The purpose of the tours and subsequent discussions were to educate and inform the attendees the goals of the ranches, the Enterprise, the revenues being generated, future plans and challenges the Enterprise is facing in managing these properties, including drought impacts. As a result, both Committees unanimously endorsed the need for the Enterprise to secure emergency funding for ranch operations. An emergency funding request is currently in the 164 Review Process for Navajo Nation Council action. b. Accomplishment 2 – 2021/2022 Big Game Hunt Permit Draw; F&W personnel began the big game hunt application processing during the Quarter. Hunt applications were screened for accuracy and eligibility, and entered into the Department’s hunt database in preparation for the hunt draw. For the 2021/2022 Fall Hunts, 3,227 applications were received and processed and 3,674 applicants applied for at least one big game hunt. The hunt draw took place June 28-29, 2021 and preparations are now being made to sell leftover permits beginning Saturday, July 10, 2021. c. Accomplishment 3 – American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA); F&W prepared funding proposals for funding consideration under the ARPA requesting funding of $16,365,258 for construction of new animal shelters in each Agency, improvements to Wheatfields Lake Recreation Area, infrastructure development at the Navajo Nation Zoo and Native Plants Program, project review functions for ARPA and CARES projects, and upgrades to hardware for Central Dispatch Unit and Colorado Ranch Enterprise improvements. d. Accomplishment 4 – Animal Removals In Communities; the Animal Control Program completed an animal sweep within the community of Sundance, New Mexico, June 15, 2021. A total of 47 animal control violations were issued to dog owners for violations to animal control laws. Another 25 dogs were picked up and impounded. Animal Control Laws were provided to dog owners in the Sundance community. e. Accomplishment 5 – External Funding Awards; F&W was successful in receiving external funding of $223,710 from BIA for youth employment, Conservation Law Enforcement, Invasive Species and Chronic Wasting Disease monitoring in big game populations. Additionally, the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) awarded $495,000 to fund improvements to the NAPI native fish rearing facilities.

CHALLENGES

NLD: a. NLD have not paid the annual BLM grazing lease for 2 years (2020 & 2021). NLD have been waiting to meet with BLM to go over the lease and verify the fees that NLD has been paying year to year. NLD is requesting for verification on what is in the lease. This grazing lease should be appropriately coordinated with Department of Agriculture or Eastern Navajo Land Commission. Total amount in delinquent is $116,500. b. With the Covid-19 Pandemic the department safety precautions were in place in order to open the office back to the public. All duties and responsibility are handled electrically and 142

automated All contacts with the public, clients and entities are handle with telephone, emails and text. c. Funding for the Navajo Nation System is delinquent one year. In order to get current, 2 years of payment needs to be made which NLD does not have. GIS Section/NLTDS is set back when the system is not paid for and support not available until payment is made. 2. AML: a. Navajo Nation Executive Order confining traveling off the Navajo Nation, and consultants coming into the Navajo Nation is hindering projects. For example, several activities have been impacted such as our partnerships with DOE-LM, U.S. EPA, and environmental consultants for National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) compliance. b. Budget compilation and coordination through the Nation 164 Review Process has been difficult with signatures and reviews taking a long duration of time. c. While adjusting to the new norm, reliable internet connectivity and computer hardware to conduct virtual meetings has been challenging for AML locations, as well as for partners. Frontier Communications limited band width creates a challenge for virtual meetings. While also trying to conduct meetings, it is difficult to purchase platforms that can accommodate virtual meetings. d. With time constraints and uncertainty of the Senate and Representatives floor, Navajo AML is also preparing Letters of Support from AML department, and will be requested support from the Office of Navajo Nation President and Vice President. 3. GLDD: a. Need to establish the One-Stop Shop to continue to streamline the right-of-way process b. Need all Executive Reviewers to complete reviews and approvals electronically on Navajo System c. Departments are still holding reviews too long. Some packets are pending review over 44 days 4. HHPD continously work to improve its 30-day turnaround time in reviewing incoming archaeological reports. Occasionally, reports submitted to HHPD are not up to professional report standards and are returned to the sponsors or their contractors for revisions, which prolongs the review process. After NNHHPD's review, the compliance forms and archaeological reports for rights-of-ways, or leases are submitted to the BIA/NRO for their concurrence. Their review usually takes up 30-days or less. HHPD currently employs 2 archaeologists who review incoming reports. 5. P&R: a. The continuation of the closure of tribal parks is having great impact to the revenue generation at the parks. This fiscal year there has been no revenues collected which will impact future allocations to the Parks & Recreation Department and its Navajo Tribal Parks. b. Lack of qualified applicants for vacant positions. These positions are needed to collect fees, provide security and maintain the parks. This has been a problem since the Parks were closed in March 2020 due to the pandemic. c. Delays in the processing of contracts due to inconsistent application or interpretation of policies from OOC, OMB and OCG. Contracts have to be revised each time an issue is brought up by reviewers. 6. Forestry Department: 143

a. Frequent number of permits that were being requested and the timelines that these projects were to be permitted for. A majority of the NTUA projects were funded through the CARES Act funds; therefore, permits needed to be developed and submitted to the BIA for approval, before the projects could be implemented. b. With the partial closure of the Navajo Nation government operations, communicating with other Navajo Nation offices became difficult, as most staff were teleworking. This hindered procurement processes as well as other needed approval processes. c. Challenges with the forest thinning activity have been the hiring of temporary staff to assist the Department with completing this project and ensuring that COVID-19 requirements were followed, for the safety of the staff. Weather and road conditions continued to be a challenge, as accessibility into the project area was not feasible. d. With departments working with altered work schedules, communicating with other Navajo Nation offices has become challenging, as most staff are teleworking. This has hindered procurement processes as well as other needed approval processes. 7. Navajo Nation Museum: a. Lack of a custodial staff has left considerable strain on the Museum staff which is limited in numbers. This shortage has caused the rest of the staff to perform several extra duties beyond their usual obligations on a daily basis. b. COVID-19 related restrictions on non-Navajo and non-Local visitors to the Navajo Nation has had a very negative affect to tourism and ultimately the Navajo Nation Museum and its Gift Shop which has resulted in a major loss of revenue. The limited occupancy has left it extremely difficult to provide the public with Cultural, Language, History and Lifeway educational opportunities. c. Existing security system is quickly becoming obsolete. The current equipment is so old in fact that if it were to fail it would not be possible to repair or replace its components. The only option would be to completely replace the current system at a cost of $30,000 to $50,000 which is not within the budget. A working and dependable security system is absolutely necessary for the protection of historic and cultural treasures of the Navajo people housed in the Navajo Nation Museum. 8. DWR: a. Awaiting a response from Office of Controller (OOC) to pre-pay for critical equipment for operations for almost 2 months. b. Equipment used for drilling, construction, rehabilitation, repair and maintenance of water wells, windmills, earthen dams, storage tanks, waterlines, irrigation canals, diversions, ditches, drainages, siphons, gates, pumps are very old/obsolete. Equipment needs a capital outlay replacement. The availability of equipment continues to go down due to breakdowns, non-availability of parts and downtime is increasing. c. Inadequate manpower, supplies and materials for construction, repair and maintenance is resulting into safety issues and declining direct services to our Navajo people at chapter/community level. Need additional manpower to address the safety issue and workload. d. Funds are badly needed to replace main DWR/TCOB warehouse and field offices/shop buildings. e. Lack of understanding and slow procurement process from the Navajo Nation Office of Controller and Department of Personnel Management (DPM) regarding hiring of qualified staff. Shortage of staff has a continuing impact on Department’s ability to do projects, public outreach and compliance activities. 144

f. Lack of funds for staff development, training and safety. Additional funds are needed. g. Addressing these critical issues will enhance direct services at chapter/community level for continuing self-sufficiency of our Navajo ranchers and farmers and will also directly improve socio economic conditions throughout the Navajo Reservation. 9. NNDA: a. Range and Farm Management 1) Agriculture elected are facing numerous challenges: a) Officials beginning to conduct in-person meetings for dispute mediations. Some districts are challenging with keep audience to 25 or less. b) 2020 Livestock Inventory Self-Tally count numbers are expected to decrease. c) Several DGC and MIFB positions were filled during the March 16, 2021 election however 2 recent resignations resulted in 1 MIFB and 1 DGC vacancy. d) Grazing and Land Use Permits (LUP) are on administrative hold due to compliance issues related to NEPA and BRCF. e) Range difficulties surface based on grazing permits and land use rights that is misinterpreted as ownership of Navajo trust land. There are complaints submitted pitting family against family members and relatives. 2) NPL heirship for grazing permits is in a stalemate due to: a) Newly elected officials are not being transferred information from the non-returning officials; b) Orientation of the complicated NPL grazing issuance process is on hold due to the pandemic; c) Difference in opinion of BIA and Navajo Nation processing of heirship process; d) In addition, the 10 sheep units is not supported and does not wish to move with enforcement of trespass of livestock nor issuance of new grazing permits due to outcry from the Navajo people on NPL. 3) Water availability for livestock is lessening with the continuing drought causing NTUA to limit water access. NTUA has targeted those hauling water for livestock as draining community water levels. Recent requests for horse removal are increasing, within 2 weeks over 200 horses were removed from Whitecone and Birdsprings. Horses are already congregating around broken windmills, earth tanks are drying out and the forage is gone. Livestock are forced to graze in the right-of-way (ROW) causing human safety problems. NNDA removed over 100 livestock from the ROW this year alone. The lack of forage is also causing a nutritional compromise thus decreasing livestock market value. Unfortunately, producers are reluctant to reduce or properly manage, or sell their livestock. b. Veterinary Management 1) It is a huge challenge to operate at normal levels during a pandemic. Staff are following Dik’oos Nstaigii-19 which limits capacity and elevates maintenance levels, PPE, disinfection, phone communication and limited direct contact with clients. 2) There is only 1 Veterinarian for all satellite clinics and subprograms, 6 entities are under 1 Veterinarian. Program funding reduction limits the clinics as there are less permanent positions as numerous positions are abolished. The program is operating with limited staff.

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3) Chinle Veterinary Clinic needs a licensed veterinarian; preferably with mixed-animal practice experience. The clinic, while still serviceable to meet client needs and staff, is prone to flooding as it was built at ground-level. Each flood damages the floor tiles and the walls which promotes mold/mildew. The building needs to be rebuilt. 4) Shiprock Veterinary Clinic does not have a full time Senior Extension Agent. Clinic staff travel 100+ miles, 1-way, to provide veterinary services to ensure pets receive basic care needs. 5) Mobile Unit is unable to go out into the rural areas to provide veterinary services in areas with little to no veterinary services due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 6) Operation Puppy Rescue is experiencing an influx of surrenders. The increase placed a strain on limited staff and facilities and is due to the closure of the Navajo Nation Animal Control Program. The vehicle that purchased by the program to transport the surrenders is inoperable with an estimated repair cost of $6,000. The program is in dire need of an off road truck to transport the surrenders. The program is also in dire need of building repairs and modifications to ensure safety of surrendered animals. c. Equine Rescue 1) Making sure Chapters and District Grazing Officials have an updated Resolution in place and a 10-day notice posted prior to conducting an Equine Rescue Activity. 2) Maintaining a safe environment at every location, abiding by CDC Guidelines. 3) Identifying the right buyer to purchases horses on an immediate notice, where they must buy all animals.

10. DRE: a. Limited manpower to keep a 24-hour 7-days a week watch of the Nation’s 27,000 square miles. b. Chapter’s Burial Policy is a part of the Chapters Land Use Management Plan, which have yet to be officially approved and given the NLD Burial Policy yet to be codified it leaves no option for prosecution or enforcement. c. Need law enforcement and security presence daily for projects like the NGWSP where residents are opposed to projects. d. Notice of a request for assistance for these types of operation come at the very last minute. e. It is difficult to respond to calls for service when livestock theft or missing livestock are not reported to Central Dispatch. DRE receives complaints Rangers are not following up on requests for assistance, however, if reports are not called in to the Central Dispatch there is no record of the request for service. Once a complaint is reported to Central Dispatch it can then be tracked and a Ranger can be dispatched to the complainant’s location. If individuals are sending requests for service to grazing officials via text or email the requests are not being tracked. There is a delay in the response time. The public needs to be educated to call in to Division of Natural Resources (DNR) Central Dispatch at 928-871-6491 or 871-7041. 11. F&W: a. Challenge 1 – Natural Heritage Program (NHP) lost 2 permanent, full-time positions during the 2nd Quarter due to funding shortfalls in the NHP 638 Contract. A remedy was found to fund the 2 positions using an AIF allocation awarded to the Department in 2018 but not used. This allocation would have avoided the layoffs and it would provide much needed operational 146

support to NHP but OMB advised the Program it needed RDC approval to amend the AIF scope of work. The Department issued layoff notices to 2 employees, effective on March 12, 2021. The AIF proposal completed the 164 Review Process and is awaiting Committee assignment. b. Challenge 2 – Like many DNR Programs, the Department required staff to work through the government shut-down during the Pandemic to keep Department operations functioning and to provide limited services. Requests for Hazard Duty pay for the time that they were on-duty were prepared and submitted each pay period, and funds were transferred to the appropriate accounts to cover those payments. However, to date, staff have received very little of the amount owed to them through Hazard Pay payments. And Holiday Pay payments are months behind as well. Numerous calls and emails to Accounts Payable and Payroll to understand the issue have gone unanswered. A request was sent to upper management within the Office of the Controller (OOC) and has resulted in OOC agreeing to begin processing Hazard Pay requests. However, F&W is having to re-submit Hazard Pay Forms for personnel and these forms have previously been sent in. This is time consuming and due to additional priorities; the Department is struggling to compile the information along with copies of the original forms. c. Challenge 3 – Wildlife Biologist completed the first biological review for reissuing a grazing permit in almost 3 years and the Biological Resource Clearance Form (BRCF) recommended a large reduction in Sheep Units Year Long (SUYL). The recommended reduction in sheep units was based on the biological assessment, livestock tally counts, vegetation studies and the conservation plan submitted by BIA. Upon submitting the completed BRCF to BIA, NNDFW was advised a permit could not be issued with a SUYL based on a quantitative assessment of forage availability found within the individual Conservation Plan, using data collected within their District Vegetation Study. The Navajo Nation Reservation Grazing Handbook and Livestock Laws limits the reduction to a 10 minimum SUYL. However, many of the grazing areas have poor range conditions (i.e., insufficient forage) and cannot accommodate the recommended SUYL recommended by BIA. In spite of the reduction limit in the Grazing Handbook and Livestock Law, the Department is standing by its recommendations.

AML: 164 signature and review period are very difficult to work with and needs to be streamlined. 2. P&R has not been notified of its recommended budget level for FY 2022 from the Office of the Controller. 3. Navajo Nation Museum maintaining and rationing of disinfecting supplies in order to provide a safe and healthy working environment in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19. 4. NNDA: a. Controller’s Office procurement process needs attention. b. FMIS was supposed to be a fast process but it hinders processes at this time. 5. DRE:

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a. An issue faced each time DRE is making a purchase it is a requirement the Office Supply Center sign off on the purchase order. This delays the purchase of the equipment, in this case firearms. This is a cumbersome process. b. DRE has been trying to work with Navajo Nation Property to obtain titles to ATV’s and snowmobile that were traded in for new equipment. Property does not have the original titles to the equipment and do not know where the titles are and are having to re-order them. DRE property clerk advised Property on how to obtain the titles. Nine titles are needed from Property. c) Hazard Pay has not been paid out to DRE staff who were required to work during the COVID-19 Navajo Nation Government Shutdown. 6. F&W: Natural Heritage Program lost 2 permanent, full-time positions during the 2nd Quarter due to funding shortfalls in the NHP 638 Contract. A remedy was found to fund the 2 positions using an AIF allocation awarded to the Department in 2018 but not used. This allocation would have avoided the layoffs and it would provide much needed operational support to NHP but OMB advised the Program it needed RDC approval to amend the AIF scope of work. The Department issued layoff notices to 2 employees, effective on March 12, 2021 and preparations are being made to present amendments to the AIF award to the RDC in the 4th Quarter.

Project #1: NLD: Navajo Nation Washington Office purchase was officially closed on March 25, 2021 with Logan Title. The Nation now owns the property at 11 D Street SE in Washington D.C. Project #2: NLD: Appraisal of the Gallup Land Partners property has stalled due to the selected appraiser not agreeing to the liability insurance requirement by Navajo Nation Risk Management. Project #3: NLD: Chaves Ranch appraisal is in its final stage; NLD should have an appraisal report soon. Project #4: NLD: Identified an appraiser for the Gallup Land Partners lands. Project #5: NLD: Inspected the old Houck T.P. property for acquisition. Project #6: AML: SMCRA Reauthorization has to be reauthorized to continue collection of AML fee, for Navajo AML to continue working the abandoned mine lands. AML is tracking progress and providing feeds to Navajo AML on the status. Project #7: AML: American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds has project development and management to aid in the Division of Natural Resource’s critical projects to expend the ARP funds. Project #8: P&R was allocated $828,637 from the CARES fund for economic assistance to small businesses impacted by the pandemic. Of this amount, the department expended approximately $354,372.99 leaving a balance reverted to Hardship Fund of $474,264, subject to final audit. The reallocation of the funds has been completed as well as the expenditures of the allocated funds. There have been no continued efforts using CARES funds but the department continues to provide assistance to families with groceries, water and hay with its own funds. Project #9: P&R assisted in distribution and collection of Hardship Fund applications at the Tribal Parks and submitted to Controller’s Office. Assistance was also provided making available wifi so applicants could file electronically. The acceptance and processing of hardship applications has been completed. The project has ended. 148

Project #10: Navajo Nation Museum maintaining a safe environment for the public and staff members during the phased re-opening the past few months. It is important to encourage all occupants of the Museum to remain vigilant during this re-opening. Project #11: Navajo Nation Museum applied for a grant through the Institute of Museums and Library Sciences. This grant is funded through the CARE ACT of the federal government of the United States. Project #12: Utah Water Rights Settlement Agreement implementation team is established. Bureau of Reclamation working to schedule a meeting in April 2021 with the Federal, State, and Navajo Teams to discuss the next steps in implementing the Navajo Utah Water Rights Settlement. Navajo Nation team members include: Jonathan Nez, President; Paulson Chaco, Chief of Staff; Milton Bluehouse, OPVP; Christopher Bahe, OPVP; James Davis, OPVP; Shaun Sells, OPVP; Levon Henry, OPVP Legal; Stacy Allison, OPVP Legal; Michelle Yazzie, Navajo DOJ; Daniel Moquin, Navajo DOJ; Lisa Yellow Eagle, Navajo DOJ; Robert Kirk, NDWR; Jason John, NDWR; and Crystal Tulley-Cordova, NDWR. Next steps of team are to conform the Settlement Agreement with the approved Congressional legislation and to work on updating the potential projects to be funded. Project 13: DRE, April 22, 2021, assisted Navajo Police Department with Operation Blue Star held in Window Rock, Arizona. The operation was completed without any incidents. Project #14: F&W: Natural Heritage Program submitted a funding proposal to expand the Environmental Review function. The proposal, which totaled $205,415, and was to be incorporated into the Division of Community Development’s $7 million funding package for Siihasiin funding. Project #15: F&W: Biological Review/Compliance for NTUA’s Light Up Navajo Projects, NTUA cancelled the Light Up Navajo initiative due to the COVID 19 Pandemic. However, approximately 24 Biological Resource Compliance Forms were completed prior to NTUA cancelling the initiative.

OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

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Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

I. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

156

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. Northeast Church Rock Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency Superfund program submitted over 279 comments for the NRC Draft EIS in May 2021. Navajo Nation President Nez requested a time extension on the Draft EIS comment period and NRC approved extension to 10/31/2021. 2. RAID - Grant Extension to April 27. 2022. Received New Mexico Environmental Department Cabinet Secretary signature for Grant No. RAID-FY21-01. Received the Transmittal from OMB on new BU# K2113016 date 5/12/21.RAID Grant allows for illegal dump and tire abatement projects. 3. April 2-21, provided draft narrative, including previous Navajo Testimony for development of Navajo Nation position regarding methane. 4. Completed comments on US DOE American Indian Policy, Nuclear Regulatory Comment on Notification of Radioactive Material Shipments, Title V operating permit for the Transwestern Pipeline Company, L.L.C., U.S. Army Corps. of Engineers Tribal Consultation, etc. 5. Submitted FY 2022 CWA PPG to USEPA on June 15,2021. The grant has federal amount of $950,000 and $50,000 cash match. This grant will fund the operation of the WQ/NPDES Program. 6. The UST and Leaking UST federally funded programs were able to secure the service contracts that will "drawdown" the funds in the grant to show that the programs are making progress. The services are to help the programs to be self sustaining by improving the internal network structure and equipment capabilities. These improvements require service contracts that comply with the procurement code and the 164 review. Finally, with the services rendered from the vendors, the program can continue to provide services to the Navajo Nation public. 7. The FY 2022 US EPA Brownfields Assessment Competitive Grant was won for the Navajo Forest Producers Industries (NFPI) site. A contractor, Stantec, will be awarded a contract to execute the grant workplan. The grant is for $350,000. 8. The Superfund entered into a contract with ABT Associates whom will conduct a Natural Resources Damamges Pre-Assessment on a number of orphan abandoned uranium mines. The contract is for a two-year period. Funding was obtained from the Phase II Settlement from the US Department of Justice. 9. Air & Toxics Department submitted the FY 2022 Section 105 grant application to US EPA on June 11, 2021 via grants.gov. The grant is for continuation of the air monitoring section

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of the Air Quality Control Program. And received a Notice of Award for the Multipurpose Grant on June 4, 2021 from USEPA. The total award is $72,200. The grant will be used to upgrade the PM2.5 air samplers including the collocated sampler at Nazlini site and install a Wi-Fi on the meteorological tower for real-time data upload.

CHALLENGES

1. Covid Pandemic is still causing problems with community outreach, inspections, and communication issues across the Navajo EPA. Delays and impacts from Covid closures forces programs to move some FY21 work plan activities into FY 22.

2. Hiring and filling vacant positions is still a challenge. Currently waiting on responses on Department of Personnel Management on requests for advertisement, PCQs, and applications.

3. Slow processing of documents through the Navajo Nation government administration process. Examples include contracts for analytical lab for WQ monitoring, contract for San Juan River fish tissue study, and joint funding agreement with USGS for SJR waterdhed metal source tracking study.

4. Navajo Structures Radiological Surveys Backlog. Navajo Superfund staff conducted preliminary assessments of homes (which could potentially possess radioactive contamination) in 2014 to which all home assessment packets were sent to USEPA. In 2016, USEPA and Navajo Superfund staff completed full assessments. To this day, the team has not completed the reports to return to residents. This is because there are questions concerning the homesite surveys. EPA and Navajo Superfund (the team) are working through the questions and notification letters will be generated to let the residents know their packets will be forthcoming.

OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

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Navajo Nation Telecommunications Regulatory Commission

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

I. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

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MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. Comments submitted to FCC from President Nez and NNTRC to address gap in (WEA)Wireless Emergency Alerts. We are working to close the gap to ensure everyone cellphone on Navajo Nation will be able to receive these alerts. The first WEA sent out in April of 2020, marked the first WEA message Navajo Nation Emergency Management sent out. This also provided us with feedback that required action with FCC. iPhones were one of the major phones identified that did not receive the message. We also corrected a matter with a regional service provider who has technical issues between their hardware and FEMA. The message sent out confirmed that this issue was corrected. This project is one of the many Nez-Lizer Nahata priorities. The community and public safety wanted to ensure this service is working with all cellular service providers within the Navajo Nation. With collaboration with regional service providers and FCC, we hope to close the final gap by year end of 2021. 2. Navajo Nation E-Rate Consortium awarded funding $14 million for Phase II of E-Rate project. The Navajo Nation E-Rate Consortium consist of three team members: Pearl Lee with NNTU, Brent Nelson with DoDE, and Norbert Nez with DCD. This project was another Nez-Lizer Nahata priority. The community voiced that they needed internet access at all communities including Chapter Houses. This is a milestone as this will provide fiber infrastructure throughout the Navajo Nation, while providing Navajo Nation members the ability visits their local Chapter House to access the internet for free at the chapter library. NNTRC have collaborated this project since the beginning of the Nez-Lizer administration. 3. 2.5 GHz application was submitted to FCC however there was challenges that required to be cured. We provided an updated shapefile to the FCC and are awaiting to be awarded the spectrum license. Other tribes have been awarded their spectrum license, there is a specific reason Navajo Nation have not been awarded yet. On February 11th, 2020, President Nez with Delegate Pernell Halona and Delegate Raymond Smith met with FCC officials to voice their concerns about checkerboard territory, specifically in the Eastern agency. The primary concern during that time is it will be impossible to engineer a wireless network and not allow the signal to propagate into these checkerboard territories. This is the reason for the delay as we working to utilize the chapter boundaries as justification for a better coverage map for the spectrum license. We look forward to reporting Navajo Nation has been awarded the spectrum license in the near future. 4. Colloboration with Navajo Land Deparment, General Land Development Department, and Vertical Bridge, led to the recovery of $796,000 in unpaid leases from one service provider. 162

As this colloboration moves to finalizing the invetory of all towers and collocations, this will provide a better invoicing and accounting for tower leases within the Navajo Nation. This project was supported by President Nez and Chairman Rick Nez. 5. Townhall with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairwoman Rosenworsel for public awareness event for the Emergency Broadband Benefit. This was a collaborative event with President Nez and NNTRC Chairman Arvin Trujillo.

CHALLENGES 1. Right of Ways is the current challenge to rapidly deploy fiber for the E-Rate Project and other fiber related projects.

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Navajo Nation Veterans Administration

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

I. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

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MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. The NNVA has, under contract with a Priority 1 Navajo-owned firm, begun the construction of a model home for the new modern octagon design for homes on the Navajo Nation. The ground breaking was held on June 15, 2021, and in attendance were the Navajo Nation President and Vice President, the NNVA Executive Director, President of the Sparrow Group, leadership of the Carpenters Union, as well as Delegates Ray Smith, Jr, and Carl Slater. The build location is in Tse Bonito, adjacent to the NNVA Central Office. It is estimated to be completed in the next 60 days. The contractor is utilizing this opportunity to work out specific build processes. Future homes will take less time under the refined process.

2. The NNVA has in place a contract, with a Priority 1 Navajo-owned firm, to address the remaining audit findings from the 2017 Veterans Housing Program audit. Construction issues remain from the original builds that have resulted in structural failures that must be addressed to make the homes safe. There are 148 total homes built by the program that are in the process of being assessed for the work that must be done to close out the findings.

3. Construction Drawings for the 2, 3, 4, & 5 bedroom modern octagon homes are complete.

4. Model home is currently under construction.

CHALLENGES

1. Challenges going forward remain the availability of sufficient fundng to build enough homes to meet the need for housing. Current funding is limited to a 2% set-aside of the Navajo Nation revenues each fiscal year. Inclusion into the IHP for future years, and subsequent approval by HUD, will permit the approval of sub-recipient agreements between the NNVA and NHA (or the TDHE). ARPA has the potential to provide a significant amount of funding to address the veterans housing needs.

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Navajo Nation Washington Office

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

I. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

166

MAJOR CHALLENGES

1. Visit of Honorable Council Delegate Key Allen Begay -- On Wednesday, June 23, the Navajo Nation Washington Office received Navajo Nation Council Delegate, Kee Allen Begay, Jr. (Tachee/Blue Gap, Many Farms, Nazlini, Tselani/Cottonwood, Low Mountain). NNWO had less than 48 hours to prepare for Delegate Begay’s visit, the purpose of which was to attend in-person meetings with U.S. Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Congressman Tom O’Halleran (D-AZ-01). Delegate Begay also met with staff members representing the Offices of Representatives Raul Grijalva (D-AZ-03), Chair of the House Natural Resources Committee; Teresa Leger Fernandez (D-NM-03), Chair of the Subcommittee for Indigenous Peoples of the United States; Senator Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ); the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs; and the Office of Deputy Assistant Secretary for Tribal Affairs for the US Department of Transportation. NNWO Executive Director Santee Lewis and NNWO staff prepared briefing packets for the meetings and attended with Delegate Begay. Issues discussed included upgrades of Hopi Route 60 (H60) and Highway 91, a potential U.S. Postal Office in Many Farms, AZ, irrigation and broadband infrastructure, and uranium cleanup in the Blue Gap/Tachee sites.

2. Since the beginning of April of 2021, NNWO has worked directly or in consort with NNWO consultants to prepare for and respond to consultations with the Department of Health and Human Services (Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA) Program ARPA), Office of Community Services (OCS), Office of Management and Budget (OMB), Social Security Administration/Dept. of Veterans Affairs/ Small Business/ Treasury (joint consultation), National Endowment for the Arts, Department of Justice (Consultation on Strengthening our Nation-to-Nation Relationship with Tribes and DOJ Consultation Policy), Department of Energy (consultation policy), Multi-Agency Tribal Leaders Consultation (Appalachian Regional Commission, Council on Environmental Quality, Export-Import Bank of the United States, Inter-American Foundation, International Development Finance Corporation, National Capital Planning Commission, Office of Science and Technology Policy, Peace Corps, U.S. Trade and Development Agency (joint consultations), US Dept. of Treasury (homeowners assistance), US Dept. of Commerce (consultation policy), USDA (Rural Development, broadband, loans and grants), HHS/IHS (HIV and pandemic), Treasury Tribal Advisory Committee (tribal recommendations regarding Tribal Welfare Exclusion Act), Bureau of Indian Education (STEP and ARP), Dpartment of Veterans Affairs (documentation for identification to access VA services), EPA (toxic substances) and myriad Federal agencies. In all, since the last Quarterly Report, NNWO has engaged in approximately 43 consultations with Federal entities requiring research., coordination, drafting of talking points, and follow up activities.

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3. Distribution of American Rescue Plan (ARP) Funding -- NNWO has worked extensively to prepare the Navajo Nation on each step of the process to receive funds provided by the American Rescue Plan including preparing recommendations for the distribution formula for the $20 billion set aside for tribal governments, reporting on and presenting U.S. Department of Treasury guidelines inlcluding participating in Agency meetings, establishing Navajo Nation's account with Treasury, compiling enrollment and employment data for submission to the Treasury portal; and participate in planning meetings to evaluate projects for ARPA compliance.

4. Meetings and Listening Sessions - NNWO has worked with WR-based counterparts and/or prepared for and attended numerous meetings and listening sessions. These include a listening session to seek input and feedback on the Center for Indigenous Innovation and Health Equity (CIIHE) and numerous Congressional meetings.

5. Visit of Jill Biden to Navajo Nation (FLOTUS) – When the White House reached out to NNWO Executive Director Santee Lewis inquiring whether the Nation was positioned to receive Dr. Jill Biden on April 22nd and 23rd, NNWO engaged immediately with FLOTUS staff to ensure that coordination with Navajo Nation Offices. NNWO worked extensively to assemble a safe and meaningful visit that included representation of Mrs. Nez, Delegate Amber Kanazbah Crotty, educators, school board members, and business owners. This was the first visit by a FLOTUS since Hillary Clinton visited the Nation in the Nineties. Dr. Biden addressed concerns regarding MMIP, education, youth issues—and she also expressed appreciation for front-line health care providers on the Navajo Nation.

6. Training – The Navajo Nation Washington Office is engaged in a program to become more effective and efficient and to further punctuate our role as a significant asset to the Navajo Nation through a process of evaluating and prioritizing issues and streamlining processes so that we can continually provide high-quality advocacy that can be measured. We engaged Villanova University’s Executive MBA program and are a client of theirs to receive consultation services from a team to help us better understand a complex problem or opportunity we face. We’ve been working with Villanova since late September, but findings from interviews and evaluations were just presented in December. We are now in the phase of attempting to implement recommendations. We expect Villanova to continue to work with us into early Spring, 2021. 7. Election and Transition Support – NNWO monitored the election extensively, particularly in House and Senate races and immediately reached out to all candidates thanking those who lost their bid for re-election and welcoming those who prevailed. NNWO also engaged in a process to develop a document for the Biden/Harris Transition Team citing Navajo Nation priorities. 168

8. COVID-19 Support – The NNWO continues to monitor funding and policy issues as they pertain to the COVID-19 pandemic. Most significantly is the Omnibus package— Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2020. In addition to benefits available for all eligible Americans are several bills that impact Indian Country. Periodic briefings and materials have been shared and dispatched to Navajo leadership and other critical stakeholders. 9. Navajo Utah Water Rights Settlement - With the guidance and support of NNDOJ’s Stanley Pollack and outside counsel (BFHS), we were able to work with Navajo and Congressional leadership to secure the passage of NUWRSA. This historic milestone and achievement could not have been possible without the determination and commitment of our entire team.

10. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland’s Visit to Bears Ears – NNWO coordinated newly-confirmed Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland’s visit to Bears Ears National Monument with staff from the NNDOJ on April 8, 2021. NNWO staff attended DC-based planning meetings with DOI staff and significantly prepared and distributed media responses to national and international news outlets. As the initiatives toward expansion and protection of this sacred site has morphed from a local concern to a possible legislative remedy, NNWO continues to engage with the Five Tribe Coalition and the Utah Delegation to find a permanent solution. 11. Diné Atiin Bahane: Navajo Road Emergence (Transportation White Paper) - NNWO Executive Director Santee Lewis oversaw the completion of the Diné Atiin Bahane, personally investing over 80 hours to edit, revise, and distribute the finalized document. The response to the Transportation White Paper has been impressive. NNWO and Director Lewis have engaged in encouraging conversations that have triggered calls from leadership including Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs Nominee Bryan Newland, and the House Committtee of Natural Resources, Subcommittee of Indigenous Peoples, Chairwoman Teresa Leger Fernandez, and others.

12. New Staff - In May of this year NNWO welcomed Ms. Marlena Forster. Marlena is Tsi’naajinii (Black Streak Forest People), Bilagáana bashichíín. Áshįįhí’ (The Salt Clan) dashicheii, Bilagáana dashinalí as our long-awaited Administrative Assistant. Having grown up in the Sanders/Klagetoh area, Marlena developed a strong passion for community and a love for learning. Those passions drove her to teach English Language Arts at the middle school level in her hometown. Since moving to Washington DC, Marlena has advocated for organization that implement suicide prevention and drug awareness programs into K-12 schools. Marlena’s contributions to NNWO have already made an impact and we support her wishes to make an impact on policy regarding the representation of Native Americans in educational materials and media. Marlena holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from Northern Arizona University, and is continuing her education at Drake University, studying Communications, Public Affairs, and Advocacy.

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13. Intern - We also acquired a summer intern through the The Fund for American Studies (TFAS) Summer (Internship) Programs. Jacob O’Donnell is a rising senior at Western Washington University majoring in Environmental Policy and Journalism with a focus in Public Relations. As a student, Jacob participated with recognition on the Western Washington University Debate Team, worked with other students to lobby for higher education bills at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia, and completed a two-month service-learning partnership with the Pacific Northwest Trails Association where he produced outreach materials such as blog posts, an FAQ, and various social media content. Not a newcomer to Indian Country, Jacob he has a strong interest in supporting cultural survival and strengthening tribal sovereignty. He worked with the Lummi Nation on land use policies during a clean energy policy and communications internship with the nonprofit Re Sources for Sustainable Communities. He also volunteered with the Sacred Road mission to help build houses and provide childcare for neglected and abused children on the Yakama Nation. NNWO is thrilled to host a summer intern despite the impact of COVID-19.

CHALLENGES

1. Acquiring connectivity at the future NNWO Headquarters - After the purchase of 11 D St SE, we had a representative from Comcast visit 11D and give recommendations on how to make sure that all of the property has internet coverage. Despite numerous visits by Comcast technical staff--many of which resulted in no-shows, installation of incorrect equipment, and valuable time wasted as having to wait hours for technical support to arrive impedes productivity. NNWO is almost entirely dependent on the Internet to complete our mission. There is little that can be accomplished without it. After five missed appointments and continued problems with communication, we are exploring other services that will be able provide the internet and phone services for 11D. 2. Setting up 11 D St SE - While the staff at NNWO is excited and enthusiastic about the new property at D Street, often they have had to reach beyond the scope of their prescribed functions to engage in activities that are best served by competent professional tradespersons, i.e., painters, landscapers, etc. It is challenging to do the core legislative work and take time to serve as tradespersons at the same time. Moreover, managing the purchase and "renovation" of D Street has fallen largely on the Executive Director, which has made it challenging to accomplish all of the other tasks, including serving financial, legislative, and other functions. It might be worth exploring the temporary acquisition of a project manager while the building is readied for full occupancy by NNWO staff. 3. NNWO continues to be short staffed. NNWO submitted Vacancy Announcments to DPM but due to staffing issues at DPM, they are not processed in a timely manner, resulting in

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advertising and hiring delays. Staff are exhausted from the extra work needing to be done but are persistent. Similarly, management is unable to carve out time to plan or further develop internal processes and procedures at NNWO. At present time we are sans a G & L who could specifically address infrastructure issues, a communications officer, and an Administrative Services Officer. Moreover, the Deputy Executive Director has been out of the office since the end of March 2021. Since mid-June 2021, she has rejoined our office on a part-time basis, working 12 hours each week. The expectation is that she will return to full-time work by the end of summer. 4. No P-Card, no experienced or well-trained financial staff. Staff have had to complete ordinary work at a much slower pace due to having to carry out various administrative tasks on their own. Moreover, staff must purchase items to conduct their work which strains their personal finances. This has included postage for sending equipment to Window Rock, cleaning supplies, paper towels, etc. NNWO is still slowly navigating the procurement process; however, this remains a significant hurdle because staff continue to lack training and effective assistance from Window Rock, which impedes our ability to fully carry out our mission and function. 5. Staff Burnout - Staff continue to experience fatigue, exhaustion, and stress. NNWO staff rarely work 8 hours and regularly work through lunches, work overtime, and rarely take breaks. We have attempted to hold a staff retreat to address work/life balance, streamline processes, draft standard operating procedures, and boost employee morale, but we have neither the ability to pay for it or the time to engage.

Project # 1: ARP Support Working Group - Attend workgroup meetings weekly. Provide reports and progress on various components/updates of ARP. Project # 2: Hayoolkaal Workgroup / Navajo Economic Stimulus Team / Economic Recovery Workgroup – Participate in meetings as scheduled. Provide recommendations when needed to advance opportunities or ideas for the benefit of the Navajo people.

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Navajo-Hopi Land Commission Office

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

I. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

173

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Navajo Thaw Regional Recovery Plan

To develop and implement ten Chapter Recovery Plans and one Navajo Thaw Regional Plan to address the impacts of the Bennett Freeze and Forced Relocation. The Community and Economic Development Plans will create a sustainable economic future while providing funding for priority housing, economic development, community development and infrastructure projects.

The activities being performed by the Native Builders Team for the Navajo Hopi Land Commission Office (NHLCO) can be categorized three ways: 1) Ten Chapter Recovery Plans, 2) the Navajo Thaw Regional Recovery Plan, and 3) Implementation of all Planning Activities.

Ten Chapter Recovery Plans: All the work to complete the ten Navajo Thaw Chapter Recovery Plans was completed prior to October 1, 2020. Each of the plans, however, remain “open” to additional feedback and input by Chapter Officials and Chapter Steering Committee Members. The status for each of the Chapter Recovery Plans and the efforts by the Chapters are summarized in the dashboard below.

Navajo Thaw Project Dashboard Feedback Plan Steering Navajo Priority

Submission Adoption Committee Roundtable Project Bodaway Gap In Progress In Progress In Progress In Progress In Progress Cameron In Progress In Progress Complete In Progress Complete Coalmine Complete Complete Complete Complete Pending Canyon Coppermine Complete Complete Complete Complete Complete Kaibeto Complete Complete Complete Complete Complete Leupp In Progress In Progress Complete In Progress In Progress Tolani Lake In Progress In Progress Complete Complete Pending Tonalea (Red In Progress In Progress In Progress In Progress In Progress Lake) Tuba City Pending Pending Pending Pending Pending Nahata Dziil Complete Complete Complete Complete Complete

The Navajo Thaw Support Team conducted Orientation Sessions for all of the Chapters so that

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new Chapter Officials are familiar with their plans; plan feedback has been solicited.

REGIONAL RECOVERY PLAN The Navajo Thaw Regional Recovery Plan was completed in the summer of 2020 and is poised for implementation. The plan calls for a $4 billion investment in three phases over ten years to address the Bennett Freeze and Forced Relocation eras of Navajo Nation/US history.

The Regional Recovery Plan is posted on the www.navajothaw.com website and is available for review and download. In addition, the plan has been presented to Navajo Nation Officials as well as Members of Congress and/or their representatives.

Phase One of the Recovery Plan calls for a $200 million investment over 2021-2022. The Support Team is formulating a Fund Management Proposal for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for Phase One.

The Navajo Hopi Land Commission (NHLC) unanimously approved two resolutions associated with the Navajo Thaw Regional Recovery Plan. The first resolution supported projects in the Former Bennett Freeze Area. The second resolution supported projects at Nahata Dziil.

IMPLEMENTATION OF ALL PLANS Implementation of the Regional Plan and the ten Chapter Recovery Plans is underway.

The Navajo Thaw Support Team is asking each of the ten participating Chapters to pass a resolution to identify a project for implementation. Although the pandemic has disrupted such Chapter-based decision making for most of the Chapters, the Support Team has been able to identify projects for implementation through grant writing and project advocacy. A summary of projects and efforts underway is provided below.

Tolani Lake Enterprises (TLE) Covid Relief Project The Navajo Thaw Support Team collaborated with TLE and local advocates for food and water security to secure $3.46 million from the Navajo CARES Act Fund for the development of:

1) 10 wells that have been completed serving four Navajo Thaw Chapters, 2) 94 water catchment systems have been installed in 29 communities, 3) 232 water filtration systems have been provided to families in 31 communities, 4) six Hoop Houses have been built to distribute food to families in need across the region, 5) five water delivery trucks have been purchased to deliver water to remote, and 6) comprehensive drinking water analysis has been conducted for 16 identified water sources.

The project has been a significant success, and a request is being made to the Nez-Lizer Administration and the Navajo Nation Council to extend this project into 2021 given that Congress has extended the CARES Act funding. The continuation of these projects is being positioned for ARPA funding as well. 175

Business Assistance for Navajo Entrepreneurs (BANE) Project The Navajo Thaw Support Team successfully applied for a $150,000 USDA Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) grant in collaboration with Moonshot at NACET. This project is assisting Navajo businesses and entrepreneurs with business planning and entrepreneurial support services. Given the impacts of the pandemic, the first phase of the project is to create a videotaped curriculum of programming.

Envision Cameron Project The Navajo Thaw Support Team successfully applied for a $215,000 federal grant award through USDA Rural Development to establish the Envision Cameron project. This project consists of placemaking and planning activities to create a vision for the future of Cameron extending through 2070. A major focus for Cameron will be the planning and development for new housing in the immediate term. The project builds upon some of the planning expertise completed on the Navajo Nation by Swaback Partners, an architectural and placemaking firm.

CHOICE Humanitarian Relief Effort CHOICE Humanitarian, an international non-profit, has teamed up with the Navajo Thaw to deliver food and household supplies directly to the doors of the people in the Navajo Thaw Region—all 10 Chapters. They see this as the first of a long-term commitment to bring Relief/Resiliency/Enterprise to the region. The Navajo Thaw has invited CHOICE Humanitarian to plan a significant administrative and outreach role for the continued implementation of the Regional Recovery Plan.

Technical Amendments The effort to advance the Navajo Technical Amendments Act (NTAA) predates the development and activities of the Navajo Thaw. With the Navajo Thaw Regional Recovery Plan calling for: 1) $4 billion, ten-year, three-phased investment in the Navajo Thaw Region and 2) the Repurposing of ONHIR, it is timely to support the proposed language to help implement the Regional Plan. An Update on Native Builders LLC With the passing of Thomas Tso on January 22, 2021, Tom’s youngest son, Travis, has assumed the leadership role as President of Native Builders LLC. Updated documentation with the Navajo Nation and the State of Arizona has been completed in order that the company can continue to support the Navajo Thaw and other projects at the Navajo Nation. New Chapter Officials Highly Engaged with Navajo Thaw The Navajo Thaw Support Team has been very pleased with the engagement of new Chapter Officials throughout the Navajo Thaw Region. While new Chapter Officials are learning the basics of Chapter operations, they are finding that the Navajo Thaw serves to provide additional capacity for their top community and economic development priorities. The Navajo Thaw coordinated the Navajo Thaw President’s Huddle that brought together representatives of nine of the ten Chapters over the weekend of May 15 and May 16 in Flagstaff. 176

The result was listening to Chapter Officials, especially related to the forthcoming ARPA Fund Management Plan. Navajo Thaw Technical Team The purpose of the Technical Team is to provide the technical capacity so that the plans developed by our contractor, Native Builders LLC, would be implemented. In January/February of 2020, once again the NHLCO was informed by NHA that “the purpose of these funds managed by NHA is for the Navajo Thaw.” The funds now managed by NHA were transferred to NHLCO several years ago but then were transferred back to NHA. NHLCO is now ready for the utilization of these funds, and the NHLCO is requesting that the original transfer from NHA be re-established so funding can be utilized for the Navajo Thaw project as agreed upon. ARPA Request The Navajo Thaw is collaborating with the NHLCO to develop a Fund Management Proposal for ARPA funding. The focus will be on new housing and improved telecommunications capacity throughout the Former Bennett Freeze area portion of the Navajo Thaw Region. In addition, efforts to support infrastructure development associated with the Pinta Project at Nahata Dziil is a priority. 2. Bisti Solar Project: Ø Developer NEXTERA submitted the next RFP to PNM on July 2, 2021. Ø NEXTERA is was sent a letter issued by the Navajo Land Department to show the property selected for this project is pending approval of the land withdrawal process.

3. Technical Amendments: Ø Navajo-Hopi Land Commission approved the final draft which was sent to Representative Tom O’Halleran’s Office to be reviewed by him and his staff. The reviewed draft has been sent back to Navajo for additional comments.

4. De-selection and Re-selection of BLM Lands: Ø Public Law 116-9 John Dingell, Jr., Conservation Management, and Recreation Act was signed into law on March 12, 2019 which cancelled (de-selected) 4234 +/- GIS Acres of land within the Paragon Ranch area of San Juan County in New Mexico. Ø This ACT cancelled (de-selected) lands that were selected by the Navajo Nation to be conveyed to Trust status under the Navajo and Hopi Land Settlement Act of 1974, as amended. Ø The de-selected lands were selected but never conveyed to Trust because they were cover by Preference Right Land Applications (PRLAs). Ø The Navajo Nation has seven (7) years after the enactment of this Act, no later than March 11, 2026, to re-select lands. Ø The Navajo-Hopi Land Commission Office met with Farmington BLM field office on the acreage and boundaries.

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Ø BLM would like the Navajo Nation agree on the acreage before initiating the appraisal of the cancelled (de-selected) lands. The re-selection of lands will be value for value based on the appraisal. Deselection/Reselection of Lands NHLCO met with Navajo Land Department to review acreages calculated by BLM. Navajo Nation needs to agree with the acreage and inform BLM. BLM will then advertise for an appraisal of deselected lands. Navaj Nation will reselect lands based on value for value.

5. Escrow Funds of Former Bennett Freeze Area (FBFA Chapters) Ø NHLCO Staff completed third round of FBFA Chapters orientation for the new chapter officials and staff. Eight of the nine chapters have been orientated. Ø Currently, Kaibeto, Tonalea, To Naness Dizi, and Leupp have Managers and/or CSCs. Tolani Lake, Coalmine Canyon, Cameron, Bodaway/Gap and Coppermine have no Managers and/or CSCs, which makes expending the funds more challenging.

6. Navajo Rehabilitation Trust Fund Ø Resolutions are being prepared for NHLC to address the NRTF balances. Eliminating the negative balances, closing completed projects and preserving the project that are still active. Ø NHLCO Staff were informed by OMB that certain transactions can be achieved by memorandum or letter to address the remaining balances in certain projects. Any action to be taken will also be relayed to the NHLC Chair and members. Ø A meeting is scheduled with the acting Controller on Friday, July 9, 2021, to reconcile balances for the NRTF.

7. Hopi Partitioned Land

Ø NHLCO has been in communication with outside Counsel on issues relating to HPL residents. (1) HPL homesites needs to be reconfigured to accommodate houses that sits on Hopi land without a lease. (2) Clarify implementation of Accommodation Agreement to relinquish one homesite and reassign to a different homesite. (3) Resolve grazing permit issue. (4) Consult with HPL Voice of the People (VOP) for projects to benefit HPL residents using American Rescue Plan Act.

8. Dine’ Relocatee Fund Administrative Rules and Procedures

Ø The Draft policy is still awaiting approval by the NHLC. A request for a draw down and assign a business unit number for disbursement needs to be initiated.

CHALLENGES 178

1. Navajo Thaw Regional Recover Plan Ø Native Builders’ Contract requires a modification due to the passing of the President for Native Builders, LLC 2. Bisti Solar Project Ø Needs a new Project Manager through the Division of Natural Resources. 3. Technical Amendments Ø Initiate education and lobbying efforts in Washington, DC with the U.S. Congress and the White House. 4. De-selection and Re-selection of BLM Lands Ø Navajo Land Department review de-selected acres and concur with BLM calculations. Ø Upon concurrence of the BLM calculations by Navajo Nation, BLM will initiate the appraisal of the de-selected lands. 5. Escrow Funds of Former Bennett Freeze Area (FBFA Chapters) Ø Capacity of the FBFA chapters is limited; in terms of selecting clients and providing management plans in a timely manner. Ø Chapters lack funding to hire skilled-laborers; i.e., experienced carpenters Ø Procuring quotes for materials is a lengthy process. 6. Navajo Rehabilitation Trust Fund Ø Reconciling NRTF balances with Office of the Controller. 7. Dine’ Relocatee Fund Policy Ø NHLC approval of the Policies and Procedures for Dine’ Relocatee Fund Policy. Ø Identifying funds to implement the Policy.

Project # 1: Shonto Hotel Ø AIA Contract for Developer/Contractor is near completion. Construction should commence in July 2021. Project # 2: Housing Manufacturing Plant/Facilities Ø Kerley Valley Site is stalled; looking at alternate sites.

OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

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Office of Hearing and Appeals

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

I. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

185

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. The Office of Hearings and Appeals is ready to forward the updated Policies and Procedures to the Navajo Nation Bar Association and Department of Justice for review to be presented to The Law-and-Order Committee.

2. Office of Hearing and appeals (OHA) only worked with families when Hearing Officers hear d Child Support cases. OHA no longer works with Child Support and the Hearing Officer is contracted thru The Program.

3. We have a budget that is given to OHA yearly that we can work with in certain areas and there are areas that we need to utilize but at a standstill.

CHALLENGES

1. Spending of funding. OHA is in dire need of updating office equipment, computers, recording equipment that is used daily in the program. The program is not able to purchase due to only one individual that has any FMIS training.

2. The hearing room is not set up for in person hearing, barriers have been requested for but there are no plexiglass panels available to be installed by facilities management.

3. We do not have the staff that can assist in making the input or purchases required by OOP. We need assistance in getting additional help from others that makes it possible for OHA to utilize funding.

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Office of Management and Budget

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

I. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

187

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. US Treasury CARES Act. All Business Units with balances were reallocated to hardship Assistance account K201520. K201520 has an overall budget of $361,508,513.34 and current available balance of $42,022,829.64.

2. USDOJ Grants. Due to Audit Report # GR-60-15-015 of September, 2015, conducted by Office of Inspector General (OIG) the Navajo Nation was put on "high risk" and several USDOJ grants had frozen accounts, however, as of June 2021 the "frozen" status has been lifted but the Nation has not received a Grant Adjustment Notice. USDOJ Grants/Findings. The Nation received notice that all "findings" with Kayenta facility are now closed with no word how this affects future funding; however $20 million is still in question due to finding #9 for Tuba City facility. Further, USDOJ is using a new data base called "Just Grants", this is to ensure the Nation complies with USDOJ grant requirements. As of June 2021 all responsible parties, i.e., Division Directors, Program Managers and those monitoring USDOJ grants are registered in Just Grants and have been submitting their reports and applications as required.

3. P.L. 93-638 BIA Contracts. The Nation submitted the FY 2021 budget proposal and the Annual Funding Agreements, all BIA '638 contracts have been awarded during the second quarter.

4. Indirect Cost (IDC) FY 2021 Proposal. OMB, OOC and NDOJ has been meeting and submitted a "draft" proposal to MGT Consulting (Bret Schlyer) on April, 2021. In June, 2021, Mr. Schlyer informed OMB-CGS that a "determined" IDC rate proposal is in place. CGS (OMB) will continue to work with the consultant to finalize the ICRP.

5. The Management & Policy Section (MPS) of OMB completed the FY 21 second quarter Program Performance Reports, Legislative Concerns Reports, and the Plans of Operation Reports in May, 2021, and these reports were distributed and share with all Navajo programs.

6. Improve Financial Processes. The Dine' Bi Beso Ba Ahoolya Task Force was named to help with this initiative. Due to the pandemic the Task Force has not met for some time. Nevertheless, the Permanent Fund 5-Year Plan was developed and enacted resulting in $40 million in funding income for the FY 22 General Fund budget.

7. Improve External Funds Compliance. OMB has drafted improved measures in the FY 22 Budget Instructions Manual and continues to work on the overall Navajo Nation Budget Policies. 188

CHALLENGES

1. P.L. 93-638 IHS Contract Support Funds. Awhile back the Nation received a letter from IHS regarding over payment of CSC funds in the amount of $1,714,857. The NN DOJ and OMB-CGS continues to work with outside Counsel to address the CSC issue. More details were reported during last quarter. No update(s) during this quarter.

2. 164 Review Process. This Navajo Nation has not addressed this and no resolution regarding the issues with 164 Document Review. Last January 2021 word was "the Nation is currently developing a process". More details were reported during last quarter. No update(s) for the second and third quarters

3. P.L. 93-638 IIHS Contractd Programs BU Closeouts. HEHSC directed NN IHS programs to reduce the huge amount of business units and to began to zero-out contracts. No updates during this quarter. However, last quarter CGS and NN IHS contracted programs have started to reconcile amounts and move forward on how to carry forward funding. This effort was halted during to the Covid-19 Pandemic.

4. During the fourth quarter, OMB will be inundated with the Navajo Nation FY 2022 budget process and development, including the oversight budget hearings, Budget and Finance budget hearing, and eventually the Navajo Nation Council. This year, the Nation is slightly behind schedule but making progress, unlike FY 21 budget development when OMB and the Nation had to "squash" time to implement the budget due to the pandemic. In fact, the result was a Continuing Resolution budget.

5. The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) is enacted by the federal government. More than $1.8 billion will be administered by the Navajo Nation. This is a signficant amount and job for the next three years.

6. The pandemic restrictions, i.e., stay home, no travel, distance requirements, etc., does not allow for fact-to-face group meetings which is crucial for this type of work. Nonethless the work will continue.

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Office of Miss Navajo Nation

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

I. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

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MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. The Office of Miss Navajo Nation hired Mrs. Shoanyah Karlsson for the vacant Office Specialist position, which has been vacant since March 26, 2021. OMNN interviewed over twenty (20) individuals for several days before selecting Mrs. Karlsson. She is transferring from the Office of the Controller. She came with power user status relevant to Financial Management Information System (FMIS).

2. The Office of Miss Navajo Nation continues working with Navajo Department of Justice (NDOJ) to established the current Miss Navajo Nation Logo or Decal for an exclusive Copyright for our office. NDOJ has submitted US Trademark registration forms of the current Miss Navajo Nation Logo or Decal with U.S. Trademark Registry. The Logo/Decal is still being analyzed with search results Nation-wide and International. NDOJ informed it would take approximately 2-3 weeks to complete the official registry. This is highly significant because a trademark logo sets the foundation for product sales of goods & services to general consumers.

3. The Office of Miss Navajo Nation recruited four (4) Pageant Committee Members for the virtual 2021 Annual Miss Navajo Nation Pageant. OMNN has received $15,000.00 budget towards the 2021 Miss Navajo Nation Pageant from the Office of the President and Vice President.

4. The Office of Miss Navajo Nation secured funding of $7,500.00 for Miss Navajo Nation to design a New Crown for the 2021 Virtual Miss Navajo Nation Pageant. Miss Navajo Nation has elected to work with a renown jeweler, Mr. Matthew Charley from Vanderwagon, New Mexico on the New Crown Design. Miss Navajo Nation has met with Mr. Charley to review the schematic design details for New Crown. This project will also be televised and livestreamed on Miss Navajo Nation's Facebook and Public Broadcasting Services ("PBS") and its network affiliations national and international. The New Crown will be delivered on Friday, August 20, 2021.

5. Program Improvement: The Office of Miss Navajo Nation were assigned three (3) summer youth employees from Fort Defiance Chapter House with start date of June 14, 2021 and ending on July 19, 2021. Program Supervisor requested email accounts and provided orientation on email and developing correspondence. Student are responsible for managing Miss Navajo Nation's incoming initiation received by email. They are assisting our office with updating all of Miss Navajo Nation's invitations that was backlog from March 28, 2021 to current date on calendaring system. They are initiating 191

follow-up calls with event coordinators, and scheduling training or tours. They've updated the Miss Navajo Nation's display case.

6. Program Accomplishment: The Office of Miss Navajo Nation recruited the four (4) Pageant Committee Members for the virtual 2021 Annual Miss Navajo Nation Pageant. Committee members are responsible for recruiting Judges, Entertainers, and volunteers for their competition categories. OMNN is concentrating on recruiting of pageant contestants and fund solicitations with Navajo Nation Enterprises and local businesses. Miss Navajo Nation is completed distribution to 110 Chapters, and Navajo Nation Enterprises.

CHALLENGES

1. The Office of Miss Navajo Nation needs additional funding for the remainder of fiscal year 2021, for Program Operations, Miss Navajo Nation Projects that in progress, and the virtual 2021 Annual Miss Navajo Nation Pageant activities. Additional funding would significantly aided our office in meeting the reigning Miss Navajo Nation's platform goals and initiatives, and procurement of office operating supplies, and promotional materials for the pageant.

PROJECT #1: Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer established the Diné Nihik’éí Nihíí’ Násdlįį’ Work Group to provide guidance to Navajo Nation entities on the increasing number of cases of missing Navajo people, murders, domestic violence, suicide rates, and other related social ills. Miss Navajo Nation Shaandiin Parrish was appointed to the work group on October 27, 2020 and has provided her insight as a Navajo woman in the millennial generation, a former college student, a former Arizona ambassador, and in her current role as the ambassador of the Navajo Nation. Miss Navajo Nation Shaandiin Parrish also brings a unique perspective on these topics because she has prior work experience with the legislative and executive branches of the Arizona government, and she has a degree in political science from Arizona State University.

OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

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Office of Navajo Public Defender

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

I. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

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MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Duties:

Provide criminal defense representation to indigent clients, adults and children, in 13 district/family courts plus the Supreme Court. Clients include at risk youthful offenders, adults suffering from addictions, mental illness, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), traumatic brain injury, domestic violence and the like. Work diligently to assist the clients and sometimes their families to obtain treatment, counseling services, etc.

Work Performed:

The above duties were performed up until offices were closed March 16, 2020. However, at present, Practitioners participate telephonically to represent clients in arraignments, motion and bail hearings, and federal detainer hearings.

ONPD staff represented one (1) individual in the Navajo Nation Supreme Court. Cases was dismissed due to the district court granting relief requested by public defender motions.

ONPD staff have participated by telephone only with no in-person hearings, i.e., trials until the courts are set up to ensure the safety of attendees. insufficient attorney/advocate staffing; very few approved positions. The number of attorney/advocates to address needs are insufficient given the increases in staffing for police officers and prosecutors.

CHALLENGES

The number one major challenge is the lack of sufficient staffing, besides the Director, there are only 3 attorneys and 2 court advocates, to serve clients with diligent and quality service in a timely manner. The program has been advertising through DPM for a Senior Attorney and a Senior Tribal Court Advocate. Recruitment of professional legal staff is a major challenge throughout the tribal government not just ONPD.

Cases have been continued because of the Covid-19 shut down and inability to meet with or represent clients in their hearings. Clients are also remaining at home during this period. Three (3) positions are vacant at present with only five (5) full time practitioners who work in

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fourteen (14) courts across the Navajo Nation. Because of the shutdown, there are some courts who have continued cases and there is also a limited number of prosecutors who are handling cases by phone. Public Defender staff have provided contact information to court staff and are also working part time in the office. Work at home is very limited and is only approved for professional staff.

A major challenge is insufficient staffing and office space to provide public defender services in every district similar to Prosecution. This has been ongoing since this program was established.

ONPD clients are having difficulty obtaining mental evaluations and counseling from Behavioral Health Services. Residential treatment can sometimes be obtained off reservation depending on availability and assistance from Behavioral Health and Probation Services.

Evaluation for competency which are required for some clients are not available from Indian Health Service.

Bureaucratic policies and regulations in other departments sometimes create obstacles in achieving the work required to represent our clients. Some of these obstacles are unnecessary.

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Office of the Navajo Tax Commission

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

I. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

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MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. ONTC collected over $34 million in tax revenue during the 3rd Quarter of FY 2021 exceeding the projection.

2. The ONTC General Fund Tax Revenue Projection for FY 2022 submitted to the Office of the Controller has been accepted and approved by the Budget & Finance Committee.

3. Executive Director and Audit staff completed the 6B Rollout training and certification.

4. Amendment to the Uniform Tax Administration Statute submitted to legislation sponsor 3rd Quarter.

5. Promoted the Senior Tax Compliance Officer to the Principal Accountant.

CHALLENGES

1. Health Command Office Center (HCOC) and NN travel restrictions is impacting the Office of the Navajo Tax Commission (ONTC) Audit Department from performing scheduled audits for FY 2021 due to COVID-19.

2. ONTC during the 2nd Quarter of FY 2021 had three staff resigning. One of the positions is filled with a promotion and therefore there is still three vacant positions.

3. Executive Director and Senior Minerals Assessment Specialist will be taking the Enhanced Retirement Program offered by the Navajo Nation. With these two staff retiring, there will be a significant loss of historical knowledge.

4. The Navajo Tax Commission currently does not have a quorum. Pursuant to this concern, OPVP has made two appointments, but the legislation has not been drafted or put in the comment period. ONTC understands that there is a backlog at the Office of Legislative Counsel on legislations that need to be drafted.

Project #1: Executive Branch Strategic Session in December 2019, teams were created and Executive Director was assigned to the Finance Work Group. Only one meeting was held in January 2020. No meetings held during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Project #2: Executive Director is assigned to the Economic Recovery Work Group created in August 2020 to address getting ecomomic activities getting back to somewhat of a normal state. Work group has been meeting weekly by WebEx starting in September 2020 to current.

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Office of the Controller

SUMMER COUNCIL SESSION 2021

I. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

II. CHALLENGES

III. OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATION

201

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. OOC timely submitted CARES Fund quarterly expenditure report to the US Treasury on 04/12/2021 for the 01/01/2021-03/31/2021 disbursements. The next quarterly reporting deadline is 07/12/2021. Overall, $672,210,254 of the $714,189,631 CARES funds have been expended, leaving a remaining balance of $41,979,377. On June 30, 2021, the 24th Navajo Nation Council passed resolution CJN-35-21 enacting the Navajo Nation Cares Fund Phase II Hardship Assistance Expenditure Plan to be funded by the $41,979,377 remaining balance of the CARES Fund. The CARES Fund Phase II Hardship Assistance will give financial assistance to enrolled members of the Navajo Nation who were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic but have not previously received Hardship Assistance funds. OOC is tasked to directly manage and administer the CARES Fund Phase II Hardship Assistance. On July 2, 2021, the Navajo Nation President signed into law the CARES Fund Phase II Hardship Assistance.

2. OOC has provided and will continue to provide the financial status report on the CARES funds until the Fund is fully expended to the Office of the President/Vice President and Navajo Nation Council.

3. OOC continues to assist with the FY2020 Single Audit. The Navajo Nation audited financial statement and single audit report is anticipated to be completed by August 31, 2021.

4. OOC has determined that the income available from the Permanent Trust Fund for FY2022 is $40,000,000.

5. OOC has compiled the Fringe schedule, financials for bond covenants and completed budget items and revenue projections for the special revenue and proprietary funds.

CHALLENGES

1. Limited staff to review and process the hazard pay and special duty pay requests that were resubmitted by Navajo Nation programs and departments.

2. Recruiting qualified applicants to fill the 20 vacant positions within OOC.

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3. Recruiting temporary workers, reviewing applications and disbursing checks for the anticipated 92,000 enrolled Navajos needing financial assistance under the CARES Fund Phase II Hardship Assistance.

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