Local Governance Act Certification Achieved by Five Chapters

Local Governance Act certification achieved by five chapters

Navajo Nation Division of Community Development Director Arbin Mitchell said Local Governance Act certification is a boon for chapters, offering authorities like business site leasing, home site leasing, alternative forms of government, local ordinances, and a streamlined expenditure process. Mitchell commended the five chapters receiving LGA certification on July 11. (Photo by Rick Abasta) WINDOW ROCK-It was a good day to be certified. nances, and streamlining expenditure processes. There were five Navajo Nation chapters that received Local Gover- “It gives you that opportunity to go into contract, into sub-grant agree- nance Act certification on July 11, 2011. ments with the Navajo Nation central government,” Mitchell said. “It’s all The 22nd Navajo Nation Council Resources and Development Com- about opportunity and it’s up to you to get it done.” mittee approved the Five Management System policies and procedures for Stanley Yazzie, deputy director for Community Development, agreed Chilchinbeto, Leupp, Teesto, Tiis Tsoh Sikaad, and Tsidii To’ii chapters. with Mitchell and said the opportunities available are contrary to conven- A quorum was reached with Katherine Benally (Chilchinbeto, Den- tional wisdom floating around out there at the chapter level. nehotso and Kayenta), Leonard Pete (Chinle), Roscoe Smith (Crystal, Ft. “I wanted to cover one thing,” Yazzie said, “Some people, even the Defiance, Red Lake and Sawmill), and David Tom (Toadlena-Two Grey delegates, say that when you become certified, you no longer receive help Hills, Red Valley, Tse’alnaozt’ii, Sheep Springs, Beclabito, Gadiiahi- from the Nation. To’koi). Absent were George Apachito (Alamo, Ramah, Tohajiilee) and “Regardless of certification, the Local Governance Support Centers still Leonard Tsosie (Baca-Prewitt, Casamero Lake, Counselor, Littlewater, have the responsibility to assist all of the 110 chapters,” he added. Ojo Encino, Pueblo Pintado, Torreon, Whitehorse Lake). NNDCD worked with the Office of the Auditor General and paid an out- Navajo Nation Division of Community Development Director Arbin side consultant to conduct the FMS reviews, at a cost of $5,000 per chapter. Mitchell said LGA certification is an opportunity for chapters to build Dreams Come True Incorporated of Albuquerque conducted the reviews via their communities. certified public accountant Eliot Stenzel. “When you become certified, you’re given that opportunity to use those Teesto Chapter was the first to become certified on July 11 at the Navajo five manuals out there,” Mitchell said. Nation Council Chambers. He counted off the opportunities available to chapters: business site It’s an honor to come before the newly established Resources and leasing, home site leasing, alternative form of government, local ordi- See LGA on page 8 Message from the NNDCD Director Yá’át’ééh! bers. Read about the Churchrock Welcome to the third issue power line extension and the of the Navajo Nation Division efforts to bring electricity to over of Community Development 100 homeowners in the White newsletter. We had another Cliffs, Sundance, Rehoboth and busy month filled with efforts to Peretti Canyon areas. enhance the authorities of Local Ensuring our Navajo com- Governance Act munities have certified chap- Enhanced 911 ters. service is another Our cover project Com- story on the LGA munity Develop- certification of ment has tackled five chapters alongside the illustrates the Navajo Nation productivity of Telecommunica- chapters adopt- tions Regulatory ing the Five Commission. Management Find out about System policies how the Navajo and procedures. Nation Address- The Navajo Na- ing Author- tion now has a ity continues total of 27 LGA working on certified chapters and we are on rural addressing efforts for the the cusp of certifying six more reservation. chapters in the near future. Finally, we have a piece on Recently, LGA certified the Violence Against Family Act chapters took a leap forward with and the march coordinated by their contracting authorities, as the Navajo Nation Office of the 25 certified chapters signed a First Lady to generate aware- memorandum of understanding ness on this issue plaguing tribal with the Weatherization Assist- communities nationally. We also ance Program to weatherize up have a story on the Department to 10 homes in their respective of Information Technology and chapters. The funds for this effort the vision to unite information are from the American Recovery technology islands created with and Reinvestment Act. the advent of the Internet in the The other side of the coin for 1990s. Navajo chapters is the certifica- It was just another fast-paced tion process for Community month for Community Devel- Land Use Planning. Read about opment, where we continue to the successful CLUP certifica- strive for the promotion of viable tion for LeChee and Kaibeto. communities through Navajo CLUP certification is only one values. We hope you enjoy this component in the development issue and stay tuned for our of a Comprehensive Land Use Navajo Nation Fair edition in Plan, which is the next step for September. chapters developing community Ahe’hee. master plans replete with infrastructure, economic development Arbin Mitchell, Director and housing. Navajo Nation Division of In most land use plans, chap- Community Development ters are focusing on the development of waterlines and power line extensions, to bring utility services to community mem-

02 DCD - JULY 2011 Church Rock powerline extension Over 100 Navajo families to benefit from efforts of multiple funding sources Divide’s subcontractor start date was on October 25, 2010. Navajo AML Program and Projects Specialist Marietta Jensen said the $300,000 contribution was a part of the Public Facilities Project funding. “We awarded Church Rock Chapter $300,000 for FY 2010,” Jensen said. “They received the PFP award for their claim on uranium mining impact for their chapter.” She said Navajo AML has also provided technical assistance with securing match funding from the State of New Mexico. “The chapter has been very proactive, which is very good. Not too many chapters are that involved,” Jensen said. The biggest hurdle to pass was the right of way granted Bruce Prichard, engineering services supervisor for Continental Divide Electric Cooperative, proudly displays a check in south of Fire Rock Casino, which the amount of $299,742.50 from the Navajo Nation. The second half of the payment will be distributed upon completion of the Church Rock power line extension. (Photo by Rick Abasta) became an issue when New Mex- ico Department of Transportation disapproved of plans for an aerial CHURCH ROCK-Residents with collaboration from Commu- inventory completed by archae- power line crossing Interstate 40. in the Church Rock Chapter nity Housing and Infrastructure ologist Denise Copeland. Jimmy Francis, utility fore- will soon receive an electricity Development, Capital Improve- “Our commitment would have man for Community Develop- service line extension for 107 ment Office, Church Rock Chap- been well over $300,000 because ment Block Grant, said plans families in the communities of ter, Continental Divide Electric that work is expensive,” Begay now are to bore underneath the White Cliff, Sundance, Rehoboth Cooperative, Gallup Joint Utility, said. freeway for the power line exten- and Peretti Canyon. Navajo Abandoned Mine Lands, The CIO assisted Church sion. A total of 27.5 miles of Land Administration, Office of Rock Chapter with writing pro- “The project contract was primary line have been laid by Environmental Health, Bureau posals and completing feasibility extended to September 30, Continental Divide Electric Co- of Indian Affairs, Sacred Wind studies before submission to the 2011,” Francis said. “Power line operative, providing three-phase Communication, Fire Rock State of New Mexico and Navajo construction was completed on power to Fire Rock Casino and Casino, Economic Development AML. July 22, 2011, for primary line single phase electricity to homes and the Eastern Local Govern- “The chapter didn’t have a only.” in the area. ance Support Center. community services coordinator The next project meeting up- Casey Begay, department “Fire Rock paid for the power at the time,” Begay explained. date is scheduled for September manager for Capital Improve- line up to their place. We tapped In August 2008, Crownpoint 13, at Fire Rock Casino, begin- ment Office, estimated the off from their line, going south, BIA granted power line right ning at 10:00 a.m. project has been in development over I-40,” Begay said. of way approval to Continental For more information: for at least 11 years. The CIO contributed Divide. Subsequently the con- www.nndcd.org Everything from checker- $190,000 and Church Rock tract start date was initiated on board land status to inaccurate Chapter contributed $232,000 October 8, 2009 and Continental land withdrawals to simple non- to provide electrical services to cooperation slowed the progress 30 clients. New Mexico Tribal of the project from reaching Infrastructure Funds contributed completion. $300,000 and Navajo AML “There’s over 150 families contributed $300,000 to provide that are being served,” Begay services for 77 clients. said. Begay said CIO’s contribution The power line extension was actually more, when you for Church Rock Chapter was a factor in the free in-kind contri- multi-agency effort, Begay said, bution of the cultural resource

DCD - JULY 2011 03 Local Governance Act certification pays big

Chapter officials from Chilchinbeto chapter proudly display their check for Staff and community members filled the gallery of the Navajo Nation Council $160,000 after receiving Local Governance Act certification by the Resources Chamber. Chilchinbeto, Leupp, Teesto, Tiis Tsoh Sikaad, and Tsidii To’ii (Photo and Development Committee on July 11. (Photo by Rick Abasta) chapters received LGA certification. (Photo by Rick Abasta)

Isabelle Walker, vice president of Bird Springs Chapter, said Local Govern- George Arthur, former council delegate for Tiis Tsoh Sikaad, said it was an ance Act certification was appreciated by her community and she thanked all honor and privilege to be inside the Navajo Nation Council Chamber again. involved in the review and approval of the chapter’s Five Management System Arthur initiated early efforts for LGA certification for the New Mexico chapter. policies and procedures. (Photo by Rick Abasta) (Photo by Rick Abasta)

Leupp Chapter staff, Resources and Development Committee members, and Johnny Nazie, Speaker of the 22nd Navajo Nation Council, presents a plaque of Local Governance Support Staff clutch the chapter’s check for $160,000 after appreciation to Chilchinbeto Chapter. Chilchinbeto Chapter President Lee J. becoming LGA certified. (Photo by Rick Abasta) Gambler said it was a good day to be certified.. (Photo by Rick Abasta) 04 DCD - JULY 2011 LGA certified chapters execute contracting authority shoulder the bulk of the responsibilities. “Weatherization would handle the big or what I call the heavy lifting,” Lewis said. “The Weatherization Assist- ance Program will perform the procurement. “That puts them on the hook for complying with the code as it exists,” he added. Chavez John, program supervisor for Community Housing and Infrastructure Development, congratulated the certified chapters for attending discussions on the MOU. “You’re paving the way for the rest of the chapters. This is a learning opportunity,” John said. He explained the contracting opportunity with WAP under terms of the MOU would create opportunities for other divisions Navajo Nation Council Delegate Alton Joe Shepherd (Cornfields, Ganado, Jeddito, Kinlichee, Steamboat) listened in on discussions for the memorandum of agreement between the Weatherization Assistance Program and Local Governance and departments in the tribe. Act certified chapters on July 15 at the Navajo Nation Museum and Library. (Photo by Rick Abasta) “It may not be much but you are going to learn big things from it because we are going to WINDOW ROCK-Recently, eligible owner. The home must ment of Justice, said the MOU open up the door for you, using Navajo chapters took a leap for- be substantially complete, mean- is a contract to provide services. this MOU,” John said. ward with their authorities. ing permanent foundation, floor, The DOJ will ensure terms of CHID currently has open Local Governance Act certi- walls, roof, windows, doors and the agreement are met and not grants amounting in excess of fied chapters gathered at the a heating system. hindered by any conflicts of $39 million. Navajo Nation Museum and Community Development interest. For weatherization projects, Library and outlined a new Deputy Director Stanley Yazzie “What I look for as an at- ARRA funded WAP with $9 mil- memorandum of understanding said, “This contracting is an op- torney is are you related by lion, which was separated into with the Weatherization Assist- portunity. We have funds avail- blood or do you have some kind three portions: 10 percent for ad- ance Program on July 15, 2011. able, ARRA money.” of special relationship with the ministrative costs, 10 percent for On April 1, 2009, the WAP Funding was used to provide person,” Lewis said regarding training and technical assistance, received $9 million in funding services before the March 31, hiring practices. and the remaining 80 percent for from the American Recovery 2012 deadline. Under terms of Because the MOU is the first projects. and Reinvestment Act to provide the MOU, each participating of its kind for certified chap- Prior to receiving the ARRA repairs addressing general heat certified chapter could weather- ter, there’s much potential for funding, the WAP was only waste, insulation, storm win- ize up to 10 homes within their contracting opportunities in the funded $200,000 to $300,000 dows and incidental repairs on chapter. future, now that the boilerplate per year. The multi-million dol- the Navajo Nation homes. “This is only contracting. has been developed. lar grant required grant man- The MOU is created between You have the authority to do “Becoming LGA certified agement with new provisions, and entered into by the Navajo ordinances. And then searching doesn’t cut you off. This is the policies and procedures. Nation Division of Community for grants and other funding,” grand misconception with a lot “It’s up to you,” John said. Development and Local Govern- Yazzie said. of the programs,” Lewis said. “How big of a dream, how big of ance Act certified chapters as a He praised the certified Conversely, Lewis said certi- a contract do you want to have cooperative agreement imple- chapters present for the orienta- fication does not relieve chapters with these other programs?” menting the lead agency policy tion and said, “You’re all in one of their responsibilities to the Stanley Pahe, program man- for procurement and project effort and that is to assist the Navajo Nation central govern- ager for the ARRA Weatheriza- management related to construc- Navajo people. ment. tion Assistance Program, said tion projects. “Your presence here is in- “You’ll always be a part of no funds or allocations would be Reducing heating and cooling dicative of your interest to con- the (Navajo) Nation,” Lewis exchanged from the program to costs for a safer energy efficient tinue the work of your chapter,” said. the chapter. home is the goal of the WAP. Yazzie said. He explained DOJ would be “We have processes and pro- The dwelling unit must be Brian Lewis, an attorney ensuring policies and procedures cedures in place,” Pahe said. existing and occupied by an with the Navajo Nation Depart- were fulfilled. The WAP would See WEATHERIZATION/pg 13 DCD - JULY 2011 05 In support of the Violence Against Family Act

WINDOW ROCK-Navajo Nation First Lady Martha Shelly led a “The history of Violence Against Family Act legislation, Title group of supporters who marched against domestic violence on the 17, has been in amendment stage for the past 10 years,” Shelly said. morning of July 20, 2011. “Domestic violence issues have brought us here today.” Shelly organized the march in support of the Violence Against She said advocating for traditional ways of life and restoring tra- Family Act. The Act was created to address the safety and protection ditional teachings will restore peace and harmony within immediate of family members against violence. clans, neighbors and families. The legislation was developed by the Navajo Nation Advi- “Now, I handoff the Violence Against Family Act to honorable sory Council Against Domestic Violence, which is comprised of Katherine Benally and Joshua Butler to ensure the process on the members from the Division of Social Services, Shiprock Battered legislative side for approval,” Shelly said. Families and Homeless Shelter, Judicial Branch, Division of Public Benally said to a lot of people in tribal government, the Violence Safety, and the Public Defender’s Office. Against Family Act is a dangerous document to touch. Supporters marched from the Division of Public Safety to the “Even the Council kept sending it back,” Benally said. Navajo Nation Council Chambers and included legislation co- She challenged her colleagues to approve the Act for immediate sponsors Katherine Benally (Chilchibeto, Dennehotso, Kayenta) and implementation, after more than a decade of indecision. Joshua Butler (To’ Nanees’ Dizi). “We can no longer turn the other cheek because that side is A contingent of 30 marchers carried a variety of signs. “Walk bruised too,” Benally said. “We waited too long for this. Against Domestic Violence” read one sign. “I want to thank Mrs. Genevieve Jackson for Another read “Walk Against Child Support.” “We can no longer her efforts moving this legislation when she was The First Lady carried a sign that read, “Respect a delegate,” she added. Women. Women Are Sacred.” turn the other cheek Jackson was a former council delegate for Upon reaching the chambers, the group gath- Shiprock. ered in front to speak on the issue of violence because that side is Butler said it was a celebration for the against women and family members. bruised too.” Navajo Nation, now that the Act was ready to Lorena Halwood, director of Amá Doo reach the Council floor for approval. Álchíní’ Bighani Incorporated, said it was Stop “I think the days of the 50s and 60s mentality Violence Against Women Day. are long gone,” Butler said. “However, it shouldn’t be just today, it should be every day,” Butler said he was proud to be a co-sponsor of the Act and was Halwood said. confident the legislation will receive approval by the Navajo Nation She encouraged supporters to be proactive and make domestic Council. violence prevention their responsibility by speaking out to bring Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly supports the legislation and awareness. said, “Let’s get this legislation through. It’s long overdue.” First Lady Martha Shelly said she is a wife, mother and grand- Information: mother. www.navajonationcouncil.org

06 DCD - JULY 2011 Navajo Nation Addressing Authority Rural addressing for Navajo communities configured with GIS software

WINDOW ROCK-On July 25, 2011, the 22nd Navajo Na- tion Council Law and Order Committee convened for their regular meeting in the north conference room of the Navajo Nation Council Chambers. The committee received a report from the Navajo Nation Division of Community Devel- opment and the Navajo Nation Telecommunications Regulatory Office on efforts with Enhanced 911 initiatives on the reservation. The initiative first came into light in January 2003, when the former General Services Com- mittee passed resolution for the Navajo Nation to establish E911 for emergency response. “The E911 is a very critical issue for the Navajo people,” said Brian Tagaban, executive director of the NNTRC. The 22nd Navajo Nation Council Law and Order Committee received a report from Navajo Nation Division of Communi- Tagaban said E911 is a proc- ty Development and the Navajo Nation Telecommunications Regulatory Commission on July 25. (Photo by Rick Abasta) ess whereby a caller is able to dial a simple code and receive efforts in 2009, when the Navajo to the chapter by NNAA. Tohajillee currently has E911 emergency response. Nation Addressing Authority “We have LRAC training eve- services after years of develop- “Now, in the age of comput- stepped under the umbrella of ry other Wednesday in our shop,” ment. ers, internet and voice over IP, NNDCD. Baldwin said. “That’s where we “Someone with a landline in the regulatory issues are placing Stanley Yazzie, deputy direc- give them maps, guidance and Tohajiilee, if they dial 911, the a burden on the telecommunica- tor for Community Development, training tools so they can collect call will be picked up in Bernal- tions providers,” he said. said the primary responsibility information for us.” lilo County. That is proof that we In 2005, the GSC established from the division is the develop- The information is deposited can have Enhanced 911 without a an E911 subcommittee consist- ment of rural addressing. into a database named the Master PSAP,” Baldwin said. ing of former council delegates MC Baldwin is the coordina- Street Addressing Guide, which Formulating memorandums of Orlanda Hodges and Danny tor for NNAA and previously is shared with PSAPs outside the understanding with surrounding Simpson. The subcommittee co- worked for “We give them maps, reserva- counties and the Navajo Nation ordinated with the Navajo Nation the NNTU tion, is an intrinsic part of the E911 Telecommunications and Utilities when guidance, and training which process. Through these collabo- on the project. the E911 transmit rative efforts, the NNAA foresees The NNTRC is not authorized project tools so they can collect the calls the successful completion of the to operate any type of operations first took information for us.” to the rural addressing portion of the on telecommunications. Rather, flight. appropri- project. the commission is charged with “We’re using the Geographic ate law enforcement agency or “You can think of the rural ad- the regulation of telecommuni- Information Systems, where you jurisdiction. dressing portion as the horse and cations industry on the Navajo capture spatial information that’s “We’ve launched a web the E911 section as the wagon,” Nation. referenced in such a way that you resource mapping tool for our Baldwin said. The sticky point on the can generate numbers,” Baldwin chapters so that when they’re Information: www.nndcd.org initiative are the public service said. collecting field information, answering points, or lack thereof. Rural addressing efforts in- they can review the data from “The PSAP needs to be a fa- volve coordination with chapters any computer, without having cility or building that is what we via Local Rural Addressing to worry about GIS software,” refer to as ‘hardened,’ or latched Committees, which are in place Baldwin said. into critical events that may dam- at all 110 chapters. The rural addressing is still a age its operation,” Tagaban said. LRAC activities involve the work in progress but one Navajo Community Development collection of field information on community has illustrated the became involved in the E911 a map, with resources provided viability of E911 services.

DCD - JULY 2011 07 LGA chapter certification empower Navajo communities Continued from front page said. “It was a major undertaking Development Committee of the at the local level and I’m proud of 22nd Navajo Nation Council,” that accomplishment.” said council delegate Elmer Be- By a vote of 3-0, Tsidii To’ii gay. Chapter became LGA certified. Begay said Teesto met the safe- Tiis Tsoh Sikaad brought sup- guard of property and provided porters with them from New financial reporting compliance Mexico, including reigning 2011- with applicable laws and regula- 2012 Miss Tiis Tsoh Sikaad, Gav- tions. elita Bitsui. Navajo Nation Auditor Gen- Council delegate LoRenzo eral Elizabeth Begay concurred Bates was thankful. and said the purpose of her review “On behalf of Tiis Tsoh Sikaad, was to determine whether the we appreciate this opportunity to chapter’s financial transactions come before you today for this are authorized, valid and properly very honorable, well-thought out, Lee Gambler, president of Chilchinbeto Chapter, said the community is happy recorded to permit the preparation and featured event for Tiis Tsoh to receive LGA certification after 16 years of development. (Photo by Rick of accurate financial statements Sikaad,” Bates said. Abasta) and other financial reports. Bates gave thanks and appreci- “Therefore, in accordance with ation and said the previous coun- gust. sponsored Chilchinbeto Chapter the authorities vested in the Of- cil delegate, George Arthur, was The public comment period for certification. fice of the Auditor General, we also a major contributor to the took place during the same time Speaking in Navajo, Benally recommend to this committee, chapter’s certification success. and by January 2011, the three- said, “We usually hear that there the Resources and Development Arthur was afforded an oppor- month review was completed by is no work coming from the Lo- Committee, to approve the Teesto tunity to speak. the Auditor General. cal Governance Support Centers. Chapter for governance certifica- “For 20 years, I’ve been com- “On April 14, the compliance Today is proof of otherwise.” tion,” Begay said. ing in here and doing business review was very favorable and Benally thanked the previous The chapter also received the on behalf of Tiis Tsoh Sikaad,” that is what we brought before delegates for their work in bring- blessing of the Ft. Defiance Local Arthur said. “It is an honor to you,” Phelps said. ing the chapter closer to certifi- Governance Support Center. be here today and I give a lot of Regina Allison, senior pro- cation and said the standardized Cecelia Largo-Nez, senior pro- credit to our leadership and the gram and projects specialist for FMS manual helped the chapter grams and projects specialist for local people of Tiis Tsoh Sikaad. Western LGSC, said her staff is achieve its goal of certification. the Ft. Defiance LGSC, said, “I “I appreciate the opportunity. charged with the responsibility of “Moving forward, we will work do fully recommend for Teesto to I’m humbled by being in these preparing chapters. hard together,” Benally said. get certified.” chambers,” he added. “I have a wonderful account- Lee Gambler, chapter presi- Teesto Chapter was certified by Roger Joe, senior program and ing staff and they have worked dent, said it was a long road and a vote of 3-0. projects specialist for Northern very hard with the Leupp Chapter a long struggle to get the FMS to- Tsidii To’ii Chapter Vice Presi- LGSC, gave his approval for cer- in providing technical assistance, gether for certification. dent Isabelle Walker was thank- tification. administrative support,” Allison “It’s been almost 16 years that ful for the opportunity to become “They’ve done a remarkable said. “I do also want to say con- I have been in office and I already certified. job. From our standpoint, we is- gratulations to the Leupp Chapter said one day soon, we will have “We are very thankful to all the sued a letter of assurance and for their tireless efforts to reach this chapter Five Management people who spent their time pre- they are ready to be certified,” this point.” System in place,” Gambler said. paring and reviewing our docu- Joe said. Leupp Chapter President “I think this is really going to help ments,” Walker said. By a vote of 3-0, Tiis Tsoh Thomas Cody was elated and op- us, the community. Chapter secretary-treasurer Sikaad was certified. timistic about the future. “I am going to say again that Mitzi Begay said the Tsidii To’ii Delegate Walter Phelps said “I think our community really this is a good day to be certified,” Chapter maintained contact he was happy and thrilled to be supports us in what we’re trying he added. with the Western LGSC through before the Resources and Devel- to do,” Cody said. Chilchinbeto was certified by a emails, phone calls and visits. opment Committee with Leupp He said the community’s land vote of 3-0. “I’d like to thank the LGSC Chapter. use planning is in place and they The certified chapters all re- office and their team members. “I just want to share that this are now looking toward Commu- ceived a check for $160,000 and They worked very hard with our work, the Five Management Sys- nity Land Use Planning certifica- instructions on how to budget the chapter coordinator and office tem, started many years ago,” tion. funds. There is currently 27 LGA specialist,” Begay said. Phelps said. “It dates several “I just want to say give us the certified chapters on the Navajo Delegate Roscoe Smith was years back, to 2006.” chance to grow our community,” Nation. appreciative during the report. He said the chapter received Cody said. Information: www.nndcd.org “I want to express my appre- the financial system in June 2010, Leupp Chapter was certified by ciation to the chapter officials and which was reviewed a couple a vote of 3-0. the LGSC administration,” Smith months later by the LGSC in Au- Delegate Katherine Benally

08 DCD - JULY 2011 LeChee and Kaibeto attain community land use certification

Legislation sponsor Katherine Benally (Chilchinbeto, Dennehotso, Kayenta) listens to questions from members of the Resources and Development Committee. Former Navajo Nation President and Kaibeto Chapter President Kelsey Begaye listens to concerns about the chapter’s Community Land Use Plan on July 26. (Photo by Rick Abasta) WINDOW ROCK-Planning for the orderly growth and devel- included in the plan. opment of Navajo communities is the purpose behind Community Wilfred Lane, community services coordinator, said LeChee’s Land Use Planning efforts, said Arbin Mitchell, director of Navajo CLUP was developed according to guidelines provided by the Nation Division of Community Development. former Transportation and Community Development Committee of On July 26, 2011, the 22nd Navajo Nation Council Resources the Navajo Nation Council. and Development Committee certified the land use plans of LeChee Public hearings were held to provide community education, as- Chapter and Kaibeto Chapter. sessments, prioritizing, and vision for the future of LeChee. “We are working with Navajo chapters to grow their communi- “We would hold meetings and everybody would discuss these ties for the future generations” Mitchell said. “There are now 95 See COMMUNITY on page 11 chapters that are CLUP certified.” Legislation sponsor Katherine Benally (Chilchinbeto, Dennehot- so, Kayenta) said the community land use planning documents were Empowering Navajo chapters compiled by the communities. “Moving forward, we have planned for the community of LeChee with this document,” Benally said. Preliminary efforts with the land use plan began in 1993, when Cornoyer-Hedrick worked with LeChee to sketch out early plans. The Phoenix-based company laid the foundation for what would later be built upon by Randall Ewers and Associates, and Irene Ogata. Utilizing the consultant services of outside architects and plan- ners provided education to community members on the development of their chapter. Irene Nez-Whitekiller, president of LeChee Chapter, said the CLUP document began in 1997. “This Community Land Use Plan wasn’t just talked about or planned on recently. This all started back in 1997,” Whitekiller said. Community members from LeChee gathered during CLUP Navajo Nation Division of Community Development Director Arbin committee meetings and voiced their need for development like a Mitchell signs the historic memorandum of understanding between the convenience store, laundromat, trailer court and housing complex. Weatherization Assistance Program and LGA certified chapters. (Photo by Rick Abasta) Practical considerations like a cemetery and post office were also

DCD - JULY 2011 09 Unifying information technology islands is the goal costs from exorbitant consulta- integrates people, processes and tion fees and email networks that technology to increase the effi- are divided from NNDIT. ciency of Navajo Nation services. “Some divisions and de- Staying abreast of innovations partments are already jumping in the industry is the key and the onboard and we really appreciate NNDIT datacenter is prime. that,” he said. “What we’ve done is create a NNDIT will integrate with virtual environment. And in that the new fiber optic line being environment, we’ve basically installed by Navajo Tribal Utility configured a Navajo Nation IT Authority for a lightening fast cloud,” Skow said. connection. Cloud computing allows ac- The department has a staff of cess to computer resources like 23 and plans are underway to add data and software via computer more personnel to serve the needs network, as opposed to a local Navajo Nation Department of Information Technology Manger Harold Skow of the tribe. computer. Using the cloud pro- said the department is working to dissolve separate information technology “DIT serves the whole Navajo vides secure access to all applica- islands existing in Navajo Nation tribal government. (Photo by Rick Abasta) Nation government,” Skow said. tions and data from any network “We do technology in a holistic device. WINDOW ROCK-No man is after the previous system crashed manner.” Skow said the department an island. in November 2010. Facilitating support services loaded a new Microsoft Ex- The Navajo Nation Depart- The exchange server provides for the department are the admin- change 2010 server in the cloud. ment of Information Technology email services, Skow said, and istrative, network, desktop, devel- “It has a redundant environ- recognized that truth long ago new features for tribal employees, opment, and software sections. ment, where it’s fail safe and very and has been working to elimi- like calendar sharing and integra- Each section handles duties secure,” Skow said. “It’s a very nate fragmentation in communi- tion with Macintosh computers. such as administrative functions, complex environment right now. cations within the tribal network. “There are different ways web helpdesk, email, PC instal- The datacenter’s complexity Separate information technol- of setting it up and there’s a lot lations, maintenance, developing includes seven terabyte storage ogy islands within the govern- of good functionality in there,” websites and web applications. area network drives and a pro- ment results in waste, according Skow said. Since 1992, the NNDIT posed 60-terabyte SAN drive, to to Harold Skow, department “Our current President Ben has been responsible for using increase the cloud’s capacity. manager for NNDIT. Shelly, his platform is to have one technology to control the flow “I think there’s still a lot of Effective and immediate IT for the Navajo Nation. He’s of information between chapters misconception about technology contact between these technology been moving along and we’ve and the central government, after and the use of it in our govern- islands is the primary concern. been following his lead,” he said. resolution CJY-34-92 was passed ment,” Skow said. “Most of our A decade from now, Skow All Navajo Nation divisions by the Navajo Nation Council. leaders tend to see the IT solution foresees the Navajo Nation oper- and departments should be using The department was formerly only as email. ating in a paperless environment. the integrated network infrastruc- known as Computer Services “They don’t see the capacity The Shelly-Jim Administra- ture from NNDIT, he said. and became established as the of what IT can do, especially in tion view the same reality and In the past, dependence on NNDIT in 2003. the wireless environment,” he is working with the NNDIT to outside vendors from surrounding The mission of the department added. provide the reach to contact all urban centers led to the evolution is to provide an environment that tribal employees at once. of the IT islands, splintering the Navajo Nation Vice President tribal structure. Many divisions Rex Lee Jim said unifying the IT and departments have outside islands is paramount. websites and email service, often “The primary objective is to at a significant cost, he noted. unify all IT islands, in case of “Now, we’re trying to bring an emergency or public safety them back together. The IT issue,” Jim said. islands were here before I came The department’s new Micro- to work for the Navajo Nation,” soft Exchange server is a step in Skow said. the right direction. NNDIT is currently develop- Jim said, “With this new ing a Navajo Nation IT govern- system, the Shelly-Jim Adminis- ance law that will be presented to tration can send out an email and the Navajo Nation Council. his message can reach over 8,000 “Once the council adopts employees at once.” the law, it will be the law of the NNDIT recently migrated land,” Skow said. from an obsolete email server to Having one IT platform for Alex Yazzie, web developer for NNDIT, spends his day utilizing software like the updated MS Exchange 2010, the Navajo Nation will eliminate DreamWeaver to build websites for Navajo Nation divisions, departments, and programs. (Photo by Rick Abasta) 10 DCD - JULY 2011 Community Land Use Planning aimed at job creation Continued from page 9 issues. That’s how this document came to be,” Lane said. The land carrying capacity was studied, along with open space, residential and commercial areas, economic development, and the thoroughfare for streets and roads. “We are thankful and we will begin to implement this land use plan for the chapter,” Lane said. Sarah Dale, chapter secretary and CLUP committee member, said the community supports the renewal for the lease by Navajo Generating Station, especially since so many community members work there. “Some of our Navajo Nation tribal members from across the reservation work (at NGS). They get a lot of job skills,” James said. LeChee Chapter Vice Presi- dent Yvonne Bigman agreed. Kaibeto Chapter Vice President Ernest Goatson said the chapter will develop a 3x3-mile community planning area, with “We support Navajo Generat- further planning to expand it to a 6x6-mile tract in the future. Job creation and the evolution of small businesses was instrumental in Kaibeto’s Community Land Use Plan. (Photo by Rick Abasta) ing Station. I worked there for 25 years and retired from there,” businesses and employment op- behind the plan was to create jobs where commitments were made Bigman said. “This is a historical portunities. for community members and to for power line, waterline and moment for us as chapter officials “Small businesses are the bring economic opportunity for sanitation. to come before you.” backbone of the whole Navajo Kaibeto. The Arizona Department of The LeChee Chapter CLUP Nation and the United States,” “We need to give something Transportation was consulted was approved by a vote of 3-0. Begaye said. “Orderly growth to our children to work with,” for right of way permits, along Katherine Benally was also and infrastructure development Fowler said. with the Bureau of Indian Affairs the sponsor for the Kaibeto was planned.” Ernest Goatson, vice president Roads Department. CLUP. The first community store in for Kaibeto Chapter, said there “We want to grow, expand,” “This is another one of the Kaibeto was opened in 1912, are nine major projects that have Goatson said. “We’re looking to community land use plans that followed by the first BIA school been identified for development develop a laundromat, fast food, we’re seeking your support for opening in 1937. The first Bureau in the next five years. convenience store, auto parts, the community of Kaibeto,” of Indian Affairs elementary An 80-acre commercial mul- towing center, and self-storage. Benally said. school opened for the community tipurpose building tops the list, “Another good resource is the Kaibeto Chapter President in 1965. followed by eight and 10-acre tourism,” he added. Kelsey Begaye spoke in Navajo Navajo Housing Authority business site leasing. A solid The Kaibeto Chapter moved and said the community has fol- built 10 homes in Kaibeto in waste transfer station and recy- steadily through the planning lowed lead- 1970, which cling center is also planned, along process, utilizing the market- ership and “We need to give was fol- with a 120-acre industrial site. ability studies from the Tuba City planning to lowed by the A public safety complex is also Economic Development Commit- this point something to our construction planned, plus a 12-acre senior tee to hit the ground running. and is thank- of Highway independent living center. Round- The chapter is also planning to ful for the children to work 98 in 1972. ing out the development projects become a satellite school of the opportunity The 1980s are a 1.8-acre flea market, five- Page School District, providing of certifica- with,” Fowler said. brought acre one stop tribal building and a educational services for Kaibeto, tion. housing one-acre feed store lease. Navajo Mountain, Inscription “Looking back, it’s been over communities, churches and a new Land was identified for the House and Shonto. six years now that we’ve really IHS clinic. nine major projects, followed by The Resources and Develop- started working on this plan,” Franklin Fowler, CLUP com- the completion of archaeological ment Committee approved the Begaye said. mittee chairman, said, “Every- and environmental surveys by JJ CLUP for Kaibeto by a vote of He said the community was body played a role in developing Clacs. 3-0. involved with CLUP meetings, this.” The chapter also met with Information: www.nndcd.org emphasizing the need for small Fowler said the purpose Navajo Tribal Utility Authority, DCD - JULY 2011 11 LGA certified chapters launch tribal contracting

Left, Steamboat Chapter President Andrew Simpson signs the MOU. Right, Newcomb Chapter President Donna Benally signs. (Photos by Rick Abasta)

Dilkon Chapter President Felix Tsinijinnie signs the MOU, along with Littlewa- ter Chapter President Thomas Barbone. (Photo by Rick Abasta)

Hoskie Bryant, Naschitti Chapter President, signs the MOU with the Weath- erization Assistance Program on July 15. Right, Cornfields Chapter President Jimmy Taliman, Sr. also signs the MOU. (Photo by Rick Abasta) Community Housing and Infrastructure Development Department Manager Chavez John said certified chapters now have a boilerplate to execute contracting authorities with tribal departments. (Photo by Rick Abasta)

Left, Chilchinbeto Chapter President Lee Gambler joins the list of MOU sign- ers, along with Chinle Chapter President Leo R. Begay. (Photo by Rick Abasta)

White Rock Chapter President Lucinda Henry signs the MOU. Right, Two Grey This Weatherization Assistance Program staffer demonstrates the utilization of Hills Chapter President Stanley Hardy also signs. (Photo by Rick Abasta) thermal imaging equipment to detect heat loss. (Photo by Rick Abasta)

12 DCD - JULY 2011 Weatherization MOU Continued from page 5 test levels of carbon monoxide Church Rock Power Line There’s currently a workforce from wood and coal stoves, and of over 70 crewmembers in all inspect for propane leaks in the five agencies, averaging 15-18 kitchen. staff per agency. The weatheriza- “We will also provide techni- tion projects are only “patch and cal assistance for weatheriza- seal jobs,” not to be confused tion measures, final inspections, with renovations, remodeling, priority listings, use of equip- and rehab jobs, he underscored. ment, listing of duties for lead Weatherization personnel man, confidentiality and records will assist certified chapters with management,” Pahe said. new employee orientation at the Under terms of the agreement, chapters, reviewing the scope of four carpenters will take three “The weatherization projects After 11 years of development and numerous setbacks, the Church are only patch and seal jobs, not Rock power line extension is finally taking shape for residents of Sun- dance, Rehoboth and Peretti Canyon. The multi-agency project will to be confused with renovations, be completed by September 30, 2011. (Photo by Rick Abasta) remodeling and rehab jobs.” work, construction safety train- days to weatherize a client’s ing, material listing orientation, home, with 10 home weatheriza- unauthorized work, blower door tion projects per certified chapter. testing, and the pre and post- Specific details on the MOU testing. will be discussed August 11-12 “Energy auditors are available in room 7103 at San Juan Col- at each agency. They measure the lege. Community Development square footage, height of your is currently working with the house, the outside wind. They Navajo Nation Department of will walk throughout the home Personnel Management to train and develop the scope of work,” certified chapter staff on provid- Pahe explained. ing personnel assessments at the Utilizing high tech tools like chapter. thermal imaging equipment, Information: www.nndcd.org the energy auditors will inspect Continental Divide Electric Cooperative, Incorporated utlized 35, insulation, windows, doors, and 40 and 45-foot poles, insulator string, ground, arrestors, anchors, con- ductors and restake center line to lay 27.5 miles of primary line for weather stripping. They will also the Church Rock power line project. (Photo by Rick Abasta)

Proud new homeowner

Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly presents a certificate of Church Rock Chapter residents living in the Rehoboth, Sundance, home ownership to Eunice Wauneka on July 21 in Ft. Defiance. and old Zuni Drive-In areas will receive electricity soon. Residents in Community Development Director Arbin Mitchell and BIA head the more remote area of Peretti Canyon are also scheduled to enjoy Sharon Pinto look on at the presentation. (Photo by Rick Abasta) the amenities of electricity. (Photo by Rick Abasta)

DCD - JULY 2011 13