President Shelly meets with Council to iron out letter of agreement

and council. be sitting together because that’s “If the expenditures are working together. shared with us, that would be Slim said the issue was bigger good,” he said. than any one person. Chee took a traditional “This isn’t about us. Out there, approach and said the our constituents have given us way must be embraced. He was the responsibility of looking leery about western education out for them. Our president is and asked why traditional values worried. He doesn’t want people took the backseat to the western attacking him,” Slim said. “We way of thinking. need to do this right way to “Who convinced us to be appoint a leader.” President Shelly sat down with members of the 23rd Council educated? We were already President Shelly thanked the at Quality Inn in Window Rock to discuss the presidenecy. The group agreed educated. This (meeting) is a council and said he will be in President Shelly would remain in office. (Photo by Rick Abasta) return to our values,” he said. close communication with them. Basic teachings like listening He said the OPVP spent seven WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.—A up for comments, Tsosie was the to our elders, treating people percent of its FY 2015 budget Jan. 24 meeting between Navajo first to speak. with decency and Navajo for the first quarter and the office Nation President Ben Shelly and “I don’t mind the agreement, kinship are slipping through the would be mindful of spending. members of the 23rd Navajo it captures what we talked cracks, he maintained. “I like what you’re doing: Nation Council at Quality Inn about. I ask the president to “We have a complete coming together like this, resulted in a letter of agreement keep your door open to resolve breakdown of values. When we working together. I like what I that President Shelly remains this problem,” Tsosie said. “In move from Navajo to English hear,” President Shelly said. in office until somebody was defense of the council, we didn’t (language), we lose sight of The agreement stated, “In the elected and installed into office. start this.” that. We become enculturated,” spirit of K’e and in consideration The president signed the He said it was two disgruntled he said. “Let’s honor the Office of the fact that both parties agreement along with delegates former candidates running for of the President. The Legislative believe in a stable Navajo Kee Allen Begay, Seth Damon, the presidency that filed a Branch. The Judicial Branch.” Nation government, the parties Norman Begay, Mel Begay, lawsuit in court that started it. Begay had respecting the agree to following goals: Tom Chee, Amber Crotty, “Council only came in to try president’s office in mind too “The parties agree that Davis Filfred, Tuchoney Slim, and provide a solution,” he said. and questioned why the meeting President Shelly will remain Raymond Smith, Otto Tso, Filfred said the agreement to was taking place. in the Office of the President Leonard Tsosie and Nelson keep President Shelly in office “I don’t like this agreement. until such time that there is an Begay. should be direct and simple. He’s sworn in already. If we election and a President-Elect “What I hear from the people “If we start adding on to it, want the president to respect us, and Vice President-Elect are is, ‘Let’s get the election done.’ it’s only going to make us look then by golly, we got to respect installed in office. We need to continue working bad,” he said. him too. That’s basically what “The parties agree that together to keep the Nation Begay thanked the president Ke’ is. Let president do his job,” the election is of the utmost running,” President Shelly said. for promoting unity and coming Begay said. concern. As such, the parties Speaker Pro Tem Kee Allen to the table to work out the Tso said there are other more will encourage, facilitate and Begay agreed with the president issue of the presidency. He pressing needs by the people that expedite the conduct of an and said both branches need to said the president and former need to be addressed aside from election so as to promote the work together to quickly have council needed to be thanked the presidency. stability of the Navajo Nation. the election resolved. He said for bringing stability back to “People want new homes, Both parties agree to efficiently having leaders sit down and the Nation. firewood and jobs. Hozho’ and work towards an election for the meet to discuss the issues is However, he cautioned against Ke’ are very sacred. We must President and Vice President the way business should be losing track of the budget and have respect for one another,” and to enable that process in conducted. going on a spending spree that he said. “The teachings come whatever way possible.” Once the floor was opened will be questioned by the public from our elders. I’m thankful to -30- Navajo Nation begins drawdown of $1.2 billion Tronox settlement more than a billion dollars, much million to cleanup 50 abandoned more is needed to address the uranium mines on the Navajo 520 abandoned uranium mines Nation. In addition to the U.S. on the Navajo Nation, he added. EPA, other claimants in the “Any funds resulting from case included 22 states, four this lawsuit are welcomed and environmental response trusts, long overdue,” President Shelly and a trust for a number of said. environmental and tort plaintiffs. The claims against Anadarko According to Etsitty, the and Kerr-McGee involved $26.4 million will be wired to cleanup for a number of former the Navajo EPA Hazardous uranium mines and uranium Substances Fund. The fund processing site located in Cove, is authorized by a fund Ariz. and Shiprock, N.M. The management plan that was Navajo Nation Department of approved by the Budget and Justice and Navajo EPA worked Finance Committee and the together to bring the settlement Comprehensive Environmental to a conclusion. Response Compensation and President Shelly became Liability Act, he added. involved with the bankruptcy On Jan. 23, the U.S. EPA case when he was previously issued a news release from serving as vice president. During Region 9 in San Francisco that the previous administration, he stated the Anadarko and Kerr- met with Allison McFarlane, McGee settlement was finalized chairman of the U.S. Nuclear and that funds are to be disbursed Regulatory Commission about for cleanups around the country. prioritizing cleanups on the Jared Blumenfeld, U.S. Nation. EPA Regional Administrator On Jan. 23, 2015, Stephen for the Pacific Southwest, said Etsitty announced that since an communities from the Navajo appeal was not filed with the Nation to Henderson, Nev. are presiding judges, the Navajo finally getting funding needed President Shelly praised the drawdown of more than $1.2 billion for the cleanup Nation would begin receiving to take critical steps toward of 50 abandoned uranium mine sites and a former uranium mill on the Navajo settlement funds in the next cleaning up toxic legacies that Nation. However he said more funds were needed. (Photo by Rick Abasta) several days. Etsitty is the pollute their environment. WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.— or $26.4 million, which will be executive director of Navajo “After decades of trying The Navajo Nation is finally deposited in the next 10 days. EPA. to avoid their environmental receiving funds from the $5.15 The remaining 40 percent will “I understand the initial responsibilities, Anadarko is billion Anadarko v. Tronox be paid after three months. amount we will receive is $26.4 today paying billions of dollars settlement. According to terms “These funds will go toward million. This is 60 percent of to immediately fund these and of the settlement, the U.S. EPA the cleanup of 50 abandoned the total amount we are set to other critical environmental will receive $985 million for uranium mines on the Navajo receive,” Etsitty said. “The cleanups,” Blumenfeld said. cleanup of 49 sites on the Navajo Nation. On Dec. 12, 2013, we remaining 40 percent will come The cleanup of radioactive Nation. announced that we prevailed in in a few more months to the waste remaining from cold The Navajo Environmental the bankruptcy case involving Nation and U.S. EPA.” war era Kerr-McGee mining Protection Agency is also Anadarko Petroleum and Kerr- Other claimants, including operations will begin later in receiving funding from the McGee Corporation,” said U.S. EPA, will also begin 2015, including the former settlement, a total of $43 million. Navajo Nation President Ben receiving funds from the uranium mill in Shiprock. The initial drawdown from the Shelly. settlement. U.S. EPA is set to settlement will be 60 percent, Although we are receiving receive approximately $600 -30- President Shelly meets with Congressional delegation, discusses ONHIR Affairs for the White House For families that have not Domestic Policy Council been relocated, the tremendous joined the delegation. The needs for infrastructure federal delegation toured the development and roads Nahata Dzil community and continue to dominate. Other families in Jeddito to see the considerations include the firsthand results of relocation. deteriorating school facilities, President Shelly explained in spite of 2004 commitments the countless socio-economic by the federal government to disparities that resulted from replace 14 schools. lack of infrastructure and “The Little Singer economic development. Community School which Before being relocated, many you will see later today, is of the Navajo families were one of the last schools on self-reliant and maintained the 2004 replacement school a healthy lifestyle through construction priority listing,” livestock and farming. President Shelly said. However, relocation has He noted that Navajo disrupted that lifestyle and children learn better when many entered into a modern traditional culture and world that they had no language are supplanted in experience in. their curriculum. “Our history is tied up Although the two-day in the land that you see,” meeting and tour of the Navajo President Shelly said. “The Nation was brief, President relocation of from Shelly strongly advocated land they lived on created for the continued funding of traumatic ripples that continue ONHIR and recommended to disrupt and destroy lives 41 addressing the pitfalls of the years later. accommodation agreement “These people lost their entered into by the Navajo Top, President Shelly reports to the Congressional delegation from Washington, homes, their heritage and their Nation and Hopi Tribe. D.C. that traveled to Ariz. to investigate ONHIR. Bottom, Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick said she understood the native plight. (Photo by Rick Abasta) livelihood,” he added. He also shared issues Still today, many impacting families in the WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.— and Hopi Tribe. families have not received former Bennett Freeze area, On Jan. 24 and 25, Navajo Rep. Ken Calvert (R-Calif.), compensation. Others, mostly where time has stood still Nation President Ben Shelly Rep. Mike Simpson (R-ID), elderly, are forced to go before for more than four decades. met a Congressional delegation Rep. Tom Cole (R-Okla.), Rep. ONHIR in Flagstaff and are Families in the impacted in Window Rock to discuss the Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) often subject to interrogation area continue to live without Office of Navajo Hopi Indian and Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick to establish benefits. Far too running water, roads and Relocation. (D-Ariz.) met with President often, these individuals are substandard housing. Congressional members Shelly and members of the denied benefits and have to “Some families are forced of the U.S. House of 23rd endure a review process to to live in camper shells. I hope Representatives representing to discuss the Office of the overturn the decision. the subcommittee has listened the House Appropriations Inspector General report on “This costly and unjust to our concerns and will Committee and Subcommittees the federal relocation program process puts added stress on provide us with a favorable on the Interior and administered by ONHIR. our people and only increases outcome,” President Shelly Environment traveled to Ariz. Jodi Gillete, Senior Policy the cost of relocation,” said the said. to meet with the Navajo Nation Advisor for Native American president. President Shelly delivers State of the Navajo Nation address in Navajo Highlights spirit of cooperation between Executive and Legislative Branches

for the architecture and design of their new multipurpose building. $5 million was approved for the Nahata Dzil shopping center. Tonalea-Red Lake Chapter was approved for $500,000 for their demolition project. Cameron Chapter received $180,120 to go toward their new multipurpose facility. Navajo Transit System will purchase a new bus with the $600,000 that was approved. And finally, more than $1.5 million was approved for elected officials to receive operating, planning and regular chapter meeting expenses. President Shelly spoke of the repatriation mission to Paris, which was undertaken by Vice President Shelly delivered the State of the Navajo Nation to the 23rd Navajo Nation Council on Monday. He said the only President on Dec. way things get done is by working together and compromising. (Photo by Rick Abasta) 11, 2014. The purpose of the trip WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.— for construction. were not in compliance with was for the return of sacred Yei President Ben Shelly delivered “Several tribal divisions and the Appropriations Act, but we Bi Chei masks that went up for the State of the Navajo Nation departments stepped up to the worked around that to approve auction by a private collector. on Jan. 25, outlining significant plate and housed our displaced the projects because of their Members of the Navajo accomplishments from the past employees until the building importance to their respective Human Rights Commission and quarter and providing a vision could be renovated,” President chapters,” he said. the Navajo Nation Washington for the future. Shelly said. The president also mentioned Office joined the vice president. Flanked by Vice President He noted that the health and that the Appropriations Act Seven masks were purchased Rex Lee Jim and Chief of Staff welfare of tribal employees was states that project funding will at a cost of $9,000 by the Navajo Arbin Mitchell, the president the primary concern and that be approved only if they are delegation before they went delivered his address in Navajo renovations have already begun listed on the five-year CIP plan, on auction. The president said and highlighted the partnership on Administrative Building No. which was recently approved the action sent a message to between the Executive and 2, which was also shutdown due in the summer of 2014 after 14 the world that sacred cultural Legislative Branches that made to black mold infestation. The years of limbo. resources should not be sold the accomplishments possible. president said construction was He said fiscal conservatism and that they violate the human He began with lauding the expected to begin by the spring resulted in a $30 million surplus rights of indigenous people efforts between both branches of 2015. in the UUFB, which was in the around the globe. to fund the remediation of President Shelly said he red by $22 million when the President Shelly said, “We Administration Building No. approved $8.3 million in Shelly-Jim administration took are grateful for the efforts of 1, which reopened in early supplemental funding for office. the U.S. State Department, Jan. Funding came from the chapters on Jan. 6. The approval “I loosened the purse strings,” U.S. Embassy-Paris and the Unreserved, Undesignated came after discussions with his President Shelly said. U.S. Department of Homeland Fund Balance, indirect costs legal counsel and the Office of $500,000 was approved Security for their assistance in and carryover funding, which Management and Budget. for the Oljato Chapter to pay returning these traditional masks totaled more than $5.5 million “Some of these projects professional technical services back to the Navajo Nation. The president also spoke the public health service needs about a Dec. 8, 2014 town hall are met through assessments, meeting in Gallup regarding the policy development and quality Gallup Detoxification Center. He assurance,” he said. said more funding was needed to While changes won’t happen address the alcoholism epidemic overnight, the president said in the city. creation of the first tribally In. June 2013, the former administered Medicaid agency Na’nizhoozhi Center Inc. closed was a possibility, after a recent its doors after providing more feasibility study conducted by than 20 years of service when the U.S. Department of Health funding dried up. Realizing the and Human Services. importance of the facility, the The president also mentioned Navajo Nation invested funding a recent visit by members of the and reopened it as Gallup Detox U.S. Congress to follow up with Center. the Navajo Nation and Hopi President Shelly was flanked by Vice President Rex Lee Jim and Chief of Staff “To date, we have spent more Tribe on report by the Office of Arbin Mitchell during the State of the Navajo Nation address on Monday. (Photo than $1.6 million providing the Inspector General. The report by Rick Abasta) services,” President Shelly was on the status of the federal said. “Despite our partnership relocation program administered with the city, it is not enough to by the Office of Navajo Hopi operate the facility and provide Indian Relocation Program. needed services. President Shelly said the “We are looking at more federal government’s failed than $2 million annually that is relocation program that was needed,” he added. imposed on tribal members The president also mentioned a has resulted in dismal living House bill on Indian Energy that conditions. was introduced during the 113th “We have many families Congress by Congressman Don without running water, electricity Young, chairman of the House and unfinished homes. Others Natural Resources Committee. are still awaiting relocation,” “The bill proposed he said. to streamline the federal The Navajo Nation encouraged bureaucratic process in energy the federal delegation to development for large land base continue funding ONHIR and LoRenzo Bates was nominated and took the oath of office as the Speaker of the tribes,” President Shelly said. provide for adequate benefits 23rd Navajo Nation Council after council delegate Alton Joe Shepherd stepped After passing the House, to all families forced off their aside when votes were knotted at 12-12. (Photo by Rick Abasta) the bill is now at the Senate for ancestral homelands more than deliberation. The Navajo Nation 41 years ago. Washington Office reported that President Shelly concluded the bill would be reintroduced that it is his responsibility to in the 114th Congress. Another ensure continuity of government bill being monitored by the D.C. and direct services to the Navajo office is the Indian Trust Asset people, regardless of the political Reform Act, which proposes climate that exists. authorization of an eight-year “Vice President Jim and I stand trust asset demonstration project prepared to continue providing that would enable tribes to stability for these government develop plans. functions until a new president President Shelly also praised has been elected and installed the enactment of the Navajo into office,” President Shelly Department of Health and said said. it was a major step toward tribal self-determination because it -30- allows the Navajo Nation to regulate healthcare on tribal lands. “Our newly formed Navajo The State of the Navajo Nation, as delivered by Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly, was accepted by the 23rd Navajo Nation Council by a vote of 20-0-4. Department of Health will ensure (Photo by Rick Abasta)

NAVAJO NATION PRESIDENT BEN SHELLY AND VICE PRESIDENT REX LEE JIM JANUARY 26, 2015 THE STATE OF THE NAVAJO NATION 2015 PAGE 2 2015 WINTER SESSION STATE OF THE NAVAJO NATION PRESIDENT BEN SHELLY AND VICE PRESIDENT REX LEE JIM JANUARY 26, 2015

r. Speaker, members of the 23rd Navajo Nation Council, visitors, and my fellow Navajo Mpeople: Yá’át’ééh! Thank you for joining us today. Let’s welcome our new Navajo Nation Council for the start of the 2015 winter session. These leaders will join the long and distinguished list of leaders that gathered inside this historic chamber to create laws for the Navajo people.

Vice President Jim and I are very honored to join you here today. The Vice President and I are prepared to provide continuity of government.

ADMINISTRATION BUILDING NO. 1 RENOVATIONS We are proud to announce that Administration Building No. 1 is open for business. Many of our displaced tribal employees are now back inside the renovated building and providing direct services to the Navajo people. They have endured many challenges over the past two years, as we worked with the Council to identify funding to begin construction.

Remediation began on Sept. 15, 2011, when black mold was discovered as the cause of the many health issues affecting tribal employees in the building. We had to close the building down immediately to begin remediation. Lack of maintenance resulted in water leaking into the walls and causing black mold.

Several tribal divisions and departments stepped up to the plate and housed our displaced employees until the building could be renovated. Funding from the UUFB, indirect cost and carryover funds were utilized to cover the more than $5.5 million in construction costs. We worked with our legislators in the Council to address this legacy issue that other administrations chose to ignore.

The health and welfare of our tribal employees was the primary concern. Renovations have already begun on Administration Building No. 2 and we anticipate construction to be in full swing by Spring 2015.

APPROVAL OF $8.3 MILLION IN SUPPLEMENTAL FUNDING On Jan. 6, I approved more than $8.3 million in supplemental funding for several chapter JANUARY 26, 2015 NAVAJO NATION PRESIDENT BEN SHELLY AND VICE PRESIDENT REX LEE JIM PAGE 3 THE STATE OF THE NAVAJO NATION 2015 projects. Some of these projects were not in compliance with the Appropriations Act, but we worked around that to approve the projects because of their importance to their respective chapters.

However, we must be clear here: all projects selected for funding must be in compliance with the Appropriations Act. Furthermore, they must also be listed on the five-year CIP plan that was approved last summer after 14 long years of waiting. The more than $30 million that was saved in the UUFB has allowed these supplemental funding requests to be funded.

$500,000 from the UUFB will go to the Oljato Chapter for professional technical services and architecture for the design of the new multipurpose building. $5 million will go to the Nahata Dzil Shopping Center. This was added as an amendment to the legislation. $500,000 will go to the Tonalea-Red Lake Chapter for professional technical services and demolition project.

Cameron Chapter will receive $180,120 from the UUFB for their multipurpose facility. $600,000 will go toward the purchase of a new bus for the Navajo Transit System. Finally, $1,559,250 from the UUFB will provide elected officials operating expenses, planning and regular chapter meetings.

The cost breakdown will provide district grazing officials $877,500. Farm boards will receive $483,750 and the Eastern Land Board will receive $198,000.

RETURN OF SACRED MASKS FROM PARIS On Dec. 11, 2014, Vice President Rex Lee Jim left for Paris, France for the return of Navajo Yei Bi Chei masks that were put up for auction. A private collector put them up for auction through a Paris auction house.

Members of the Navajo Nation Human Rights Commission and a staff member of the Navajo Nation Washington Office joined the vice president for the return of these sacred masks. My staff from the Navajo Historic Preservation Department worked closely with the council’s Sacred Sites Task Force for the return of the masks.

Thankfully, the Navajo delegation was able to purchase the masks outright before they were auctioned. This action sent a message to the world that these sacred cultural resources are not for sale and that they violate the basic human rights of native peoples across the globe. HPD recently held a special blessing ceremony for the masks to bring things back into harmony.

We are grateful for the efforts of the U.S. State Department, U.S. Embassy-Paris, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for their assistance in returning these traditional masks back to the Navajo Nation. NAVAJO NATION PRESIDENT BEN SHELLY AND VICE PRESIDENT REX LEE JIM JANURARY 26, 2015 THE STATE OF THE NAVAJO NATION 2015 PAGE 4 GALLUP DETOXIFICATION CENTER On Dec. 8, 2014, we met with Senator George Munoz and city leaders in Gallup to discuss the epidemic of alcoholism on the streets of the city. Specifically, we talked about the Gallup Detox Center, formerly known as Na’nizhoozhi Center, Inc. In June 2013, funding for NCI dried up and the responsibility to operate the facility fell squarely on the shoulders of the Navajo Nation.

We accepted the responsibility of helping the people suffering from alcoholism and began working with the center through the Navajo Department of Behavioral Services. After more than 20 years of service, NCI closed its doors and we opened the facility, the name changed to Gallup Detoxification Center. To date, we have spent more than $1.6 million providing services.

The city of Gallup contributed $320,000 to DBHS, bumping up the annual operating budget up to $1.6 million. Despite this joint effort, it is not nearly enough to operate the facility and provide needed services, including counseling and rehabilitation. Estimates from DBHS indicate that to provide that level of service, we are looking at more than $2 million annually.

In the late 1980s, I joined the senator’s father, Eddie Munoz, the former mayor of Gallup for his march on Santa Fe. We marched from Gallup to Santa Fe to bring awareness to the alcoholism issue and in the end, $400,000 in seed money was provided by the legislature to conduct a feasibility study for the detox center. Eventually, a $3 million grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation got the facility off the ground.

Today, the Gallup Detox Center averages about 2,400 people per month. We need help to address the revolving door effect for the center. This means medical detox services and increasing the 12-hour hold for clients to 72-hours for protective custody. Other issues include needed repairs for the HVAC system and an increased budget for protective custody, intervention, treatment, medical detox and aftercare treatment.

FEDERAL LEGISLATION During the 113th Congress, Congressman Don Young, Chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, introduced a house bill on Indian energy. The bill proposed to streamline the federal bureaucratic process in energy development on large land base tribes. It passed the House, and was in the Senate for deliberation. The time ran out for the 113th Congress. Our Navajo Nation Washington Office reports that the bill will be reintroduced in the 114th Congress, now under new leadership.

During the 113th Congress, some 142 standalone bills were introduced. Several of them were important to the Navajo Nation, yet the bill we were monitoring was the Indian Trust Asset Reform Act. This bill was introduced in both the House and the Senate. It proposed to JANUARY 26, 2015 NAVAJO NATION PRESIDENT BEN SHELLY AND VICE PRESIDENT REX LEE JIM PAGE 5 THE STATE OF THE NAVAJO NATION 2015 authorize an eight-year trust asset demonstration project to enable tribes to develop plans. It is our understanding that this bill will be reintroduced during this Congress. It is our strong recommendation to support this and the many other proposed bills during this new Congress.

NAVAJO DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SIGNED INTO LAW On Nov. 6, 2014, I enacted the Navajo Department of Health Act of 2014 and affirmed the Navajo Nation’s sovereignty in the process. This was a major step toward tribal self- determination because it allows us to regulate healthcare on the Navajo Nation. Many of the 638 contract organizations were against this legislation because it provides the Nation the authority to oversee their programs.

As a sovereign nation, there are certain essential governmental functions that we cannot give away to other sovereigns, entities and organizations. This authority to regulate and monitor healthcare programs within the Navajo Nation’s jurisdiction is one of them. Our newly formed Navajo Department of Health will ensure the public health service needs are met through assessments, policy development and quality assurance.

This is a long-term vision that we have for the Nation and all of these changes will not happen overnight. Instead, we must build capacity and hire new experts in policymaking and rulemaking. For the Navajo people, this means consultations and public hearings to ensure their voice is included in these new policies. We will work with tribal, state and federal healthcare providers to begin our next goal: creation of the first tribally administered Medicaid agency.

A recent study conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services concluded that it is feasible for the Navajo Nation to begin operating its own Medicaid agency. The potential for the future of our healthcare is tremendous, thanks to the enactment of the Navajo Department of Health. A generation from now, our kids will realize the great investment that was made for the future of the Nation.

NAVAJO-HOPI INDIAN RELOCATION OFFICE Over the weekend, we had a historic visit from members of the U.S. Congress, and we are grateful that the House Appropriations Committee Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and related agencies came to the Navajo Nation.

The purpose of their trip was to follow up with the Navajo Nation and Hopi Tribe as to the Office of the Inspector General report that was requested by the subcommittee on the status of the federal relocation program administered by the Office of Navajo Hopi Indian Relocation Program.

Jodi Gillete, Senior Policy Advisor at the White House joined the Congressional delegation. NAVAJO NATION PRESIDENT BEN SHELLY AND VICE PRESIDENT REX LEE JIM JANUARY 26, 2015 THE STATE OF THE NAVAJO NATION 2015 PAGE 6 They toured the Nahata Dzil community and families in Jeddito. The Inspector General has asked for our comments to the recommendation of ONHIR’s fate.

The federal government imposed a failed relocation program that has many of our families still without running water, electricity, and unfinished relocation homes. Meanwhile, many of our families are still waiting relocation. Therefore, the message was that the Navajo Nation urges the subcommittee to continue funding ONHIR and finish providing adequate benefits and relocation to all those families who were forced off their ancestral land more than 41 years ago.

The accommodation agreement was entered into between the Hopi Tribe and Navajo Nation. A federal mediator approved it and the subcommittee also addressed the courts. There are pitfalls relating to the agreement that impact Navajo families who signed it. The agreement ends in the year 2071. There are no accommodations provided for them, their life is substandard, there is no infrastructure, no housing and their main livelihood, their livestock, is impounded without proper notice and due process of law.

Other issues shared with the subcommittee were the ongoing impacts of the Bennett Freeze area. The families impacted live without running water, power lines, or roads. Their homes are substandard. Some are never able to construct a home and instead, are forced to live in camper shells or shacks.

We are hopeful the subcommittee listened to our concerns and will give us favorable feedback.

LOOKING AHEAD As leaders, it is our responsibility to ensure continuity of government and services to the Navajo people, regardless of the political climate that exists. Vice President Jim and I stand prepared to continue providing consistency for these government functions until a new president has been elected and installed into office. We are here for the Navajo people, not for personal self-interests.

With all of the challenges and confusion on when the election will take place and who will be on the ballot, we will continue providing a balance that will keep the Navajo Nation on a direct course for the future. What the Navajo people need is consistency and we are here to provide that support until a successor has been identified.

We appreciate the term of office that we completed by working with our partners on the Navajo Nation Council.

We made our relationship with the tribal legislators of the 22nd Navajo Nation Council strong and one that resulted in progress for the Navajo people. Just as we pledged to do, we JANUARY 26, 2015 NAVAJO NATION PRESIDENT BEN SHELLY AND VICE PRESIDENT REX LEE JIM PAGE 7 THE STATE OF THE NAVAJO NATION 2015 will get through these new challenges facing our Nation and achieve these results through commitment as we uphold the oath of office.

Thank you, 23rd Navajo Nation Council for the opportunity to report on the Executive Branch. Ahe’hee.

OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT THE NAVAJO NATION P.O. BOX 7440 100 PARKWAY WINDOW ROCK, AZ 86515 PHONE: 928-871-7000 FAX: 928-871-4025 WWW.NAVAJOPRESIDENT.ORG President Shelly lauds building renovations, tours facility

In Sept. 2014, President Shelly toured Administration Building No. 1 and pushed for its completion before his term ended. On Jan. 12, this goal was realized. (Photo by Rick Abasta)

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.—A newly improved building together, not against each “Water began to leak into crowd of tribal employees are Division of General other,” President Shelly said. the building and the walls,” and officials gathered on a Services, Finance, Office of He said Operation Breathe the president explained. dreary Monday morning to Management and Budget, Safe began on Sept. 15, 2011 The mildew eventually celebrate the renovations of Department of Personnel and closed the administration resulted in a strong odor that Administration Building No. Management, and Design and building due to black mold gave employees headaches. 1. The cold weather did not Engineering Services. contamination. Employees Something had to be done. deter them from participating President Shelly said the were complaining of Closing the building meant in the celebration held in building’s completion was headaches and other medical employees had to find a white tent outside the the product of cooperation issues. available workspace from building. between the Executive and Personal protective gear other tribal divisions and Thanks to Oakland- Legislative Branches of tribal was required for employees departments. Arviso Construction Co., the government. to retrieve documents and “More than $5 million renovated building is finally “Whoever is taking office equipment that needed to be was spent to remediate the after 28 months of renovation next, I hope you took notes decontaminated. The mold building. Thank you Speaker activities. because this is how you get infestation was the result of Pro Tem Bates and Delegate Housed inside the things done: by working non-maintenance. Hale for securing the funding that made these renovations probably runs close to $10 possible,” President Shelly million,” he said. said. Jonathan Hale, chairman Vice President Rex Lee Jim of the Health, Education and spoke next and provided his Human Services Committee, remarks entirely in Navajo. said Navajo elders would use He said the renovated this building renovation as a building was like your own lesson to learn from. home; it is the center of “We’re at a time when learning and thinking for our buildings are aging and family and the Navajo people. in need of repairs. Our elders “Take good care of (the have always said to us, don’t building). Be responsible for you see the needs of your it. If you see trash, don’t just home? Are you going to fix walk over it, pick it up and it? I’m thankful for your work President Shelly took a tour of the newly renovated administration building, led by Division of General Services director Virgil Brown. dispose of it,” Vice President here,” Hale said. The group stops to take a look at the employee lounge for DGS staff. Jim said. “Talk to each other He said employees had to (Photo by Rick Abasta) and work with each other in endure cramped conditions a good way. Incorporate K’é for the past two years and into your office.” that many complained about He also encouraged illness being spread and other employees to quickly process issues. the requests from the public. “Thank you. Take care of it. “You were all in crowded When this building was first workspaces. You know what constructed, it wasn’t done it’s like to be waiting. For this right. Now it’s up to code and reason, quickly process your has blueprints for the work work for the people,” Vice that was done. Take care of President Jim said. it in case something like this Chief of Staff Arbin happens again 10 years from Mitchell also gave words of now,” Hale said. thanks and encouragement. Virgil Brown, director “We worked very hard for the Division of General Vice President Rex Lee Jim said the new building is like an individual’s home: it is the center for learning and teaching tribal employees and on this building. I would Services, took a lead role clients alike. He challeged employees to process work quickly. (Photo like to thank Design and on the project and directed by Rick Abasta) Engineering Services. Also his crew from Facilities Facilities Maintenance and Maintenance to work with NOSHA,” Mitchell said. DES to complete the work. “Those are a few departments “It was a team effort. That’s that assisted with making this the only was that things get happen. going fast. Administration “It took a lot of money, just Building No. 2 is being built like president said,” he added. right now and it will probably Funds were pooled be finished a lot faster than together from the Unreserved, this one,” Brown said. Undesignated Fund Balance He said it was a long and indirect cost monies. journey that’s finally been Carryover funds were also completed. leveraged to cover the costs of construction. “We’re working on Administration Building One of the biggest additions to the administration building was the spiral No. 2 right now. When you stairway on the eastside of the building, which included elevator access for add these two buildings, it the disabled. More than $5.5 million was invested to repair the building from black mold infestation.. (Photo by Rick Abasta) President Shelly, Vice President Jim take oath of office office. So help me God.” Approval or veto of tribal First Lady Martha Shelly council legislation will continue, held the Bible and witnessed he added, noting that his standing her husband’s historic swearing as president will move forward in ceremony for the second time. with all authorities in place. Navajo Nation Vice President President Shelly’s staff and Rex Lee Jim was next and took cabinet will continue on, if they his oath of office for the second chose to, he said. For those term by swearing on his jish choosing to leave, they will be (medicine bundle), which was replaced with young Navajo held by his mother. professionals. For his future, the “I, Rex Lee Jim, do solemnly president will return to private swear to uphold and abide by business as an entrepreneur. President Shelly takes the oath of office. (Photo by Rick Abasta) the laws of the Navajo Nation Other options included and Treaty of 1868 between the running for state and national WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.— continuity of government until a Navajo Nation and the United leadership. Navajo Nation President Ben new president is elected. States of America; and will “There’s a lot of work to be Shelly and Vice President Rex Chief Justice Herb Yazzie faithfully execute the Office done, the Navajo people need Lee Jim took the oath of office administered the oath of office of the Navajo Nation Vice help,” he said. at noon today and extended their at the Office of the President President, representing the At the conclusion of the presidency. and Vice President. The State Navajo Nation; and will to the ceremony, OPVP staff and The decision to extend the Room was packed with cabinet best of my ability continue to cabinet members convened with term of office for President members, OPVP staff and preserve, protect and defend the president and vice president Shelly came on the heels of a members of the media to witness the laws and government of the at the Navajo Nation Museum to late night negotiation meeting the event. Navajo Nation; and advance the discuss plans moving forward. and subsequent letter of Standing in front of the interests of the Navajo people, For the short time in office, agreement between Executive mahogany Great Seal of the having due regard for the ethical staff must give 110 percent or and Legislative Branches of Navajo Nation, President Shelly duties and responsibilities of the more was the message, in order government. placed his left hand on the Bible office. So help me God.” to complete projects that are still The terms of the agreement and raised his right hand to take Vice President Jim signed in progress. President Shelly state, “In the spirit of K’é his oath of office. the affidavit of certification, told everybody that maintaining and Hózhó the Executive and President Shelly repeated the followed by President Shelly. continuity of government was Legislative leaders have come oath after Chief Justice Yazzie: “We’ll keep it together until the order of the day. together to talk things out in “I, Ben Shelly, do solemnly somebody shows up,” President All of his staff and cabinet resolving a controversy that swear to continue to uphold Shelly said after he signed his members will continue working would impact the stability of and abide by the laws of the name. with the administration until a the Navajo Nation.” Navajo Nation and Treaty Cabinet members and others successor is elected into office. The agreement further of 1868 between the Navajo filed through to congratulate the states that President Shelly Nation and the United States president and vice president. will maintain all power and of America, and will faithfully The event was low key and duties under the provisions execute the Office of the Navajo lasted about 15 minutes. A press of the Navajo Nation Code. Nation President, representing conference followed, where The president will meet with the Navajo Nation, and will to President Shelly spoke about members of the 23rd Navajo the best of my ability continue conducting “business as usual.” Nation Council during the to preserve, protect and defend “The standard functions of winter session to discuss the best the laws and government of the a president’s protocol, we will interests of the Nation moving Navajo Nation, and advance the continue to do that,” he said. “I forward. interests of the Navajo people, will continue to function as a Until then, President Shelly and having due regard for the ethical president, that’s what we agreed Vice President Jim will maintain duties and responsibilities of the to.” Presidential oath of office ceremony changed to noon Tuesday MEDIA ADVISORY

WHO : President Ben Shelly THE NAVAJO NATION

Vice President Rex Lee Jim THE NAVAJO NATION

Herb Yazzie, Chief Justice THE NAVAJO NATION

WHAT : Presidential Oath of Office

WHERE : Navajo Nation State Room Office of the President and Vice President Window Rock, Ariz.

WHEN : Jan. 13, 2015 12 p.m.

CONTACT : Deswood Tome, Special Advisor to the President Office of the President and Vice President THE NAVAJO NATION Phone: 928-871-7925 Mobile: 505-506-7729 Email: [email protected]

Rick Abasta, Communications Director Office of the President and Vice President THE NAVAJO NATION Phone: 928-871-7884 Mobile: 928-206-8460 Email: [email protected]

The oath of office ceremony has been changed to 12 p.m. due to a statutory requirement that was cited by Chief Justice Herb Yazzie. from the tribal code. A press conference will follow immediately after President Shelly and Vice President Jim have been sworn into office. President Shelly signs into law special run off election, NBOES pardon In other election related news, the Supreme Court vacated a motion filed by the Navajo Department of Justice seeking clarification from the court on the election before Jan. 31, 2015, and additionally, an opinion on whether President Shelly remains as president beyond Jan. 13, 2015. During the late hours of Jan. 9, President Shelly met with the Speaker Pro Tem LoRenzo Bates and members of the Navajo Nation Council, along with attorneys from the DOJ and the chief legislative counsel to fashion an agreement for

On Jan. 10, Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly signed election legislation into law. (Photo by Rick Abasta) the president to remain as president beyond Jan. 13. WINDOW ROCK, we give the thousands of Supreme Court. The agreement will require Ariz.—On the afternoon voters a new opportunity to The legislation sets President Shelly to take an of Jan. 10, Navajo Nation choose their next leaders,” forth a special election oath of office on Tuesday. President Ben Shelly President Shelly said. for June 2015, in which It was agreed by the signed the special run off “There have been too many the 17 candidates who parties that stability is election legislation passed discrepancies over the last were contenders for the important to the functioning on the last day of the year several months. A new 2014 primary election government and to ensure a by the Navajo Nation election will restore some are eligible to reapply as greater sense of continuity. Council into law, as well as hope among the voters and candidates for president. The agreement does a bill that grants a pardon the people that their voice The two candidates with lend opportunity for the to the members of the will be heard.” the highest votes will incoming lawmakers to Navajo Board of Election Believing that individual proceed to a special general introduce legislation that Supervisors who were rights are undeniable, election in Aug. 2015. The would otherwise address stripped of their offices by President Shelly signed legislation calls for the oath the matter of the presidency order of the Navajo Nation legislation CD-81-14 and of office to be administered until an election is held. Supreme Court. pardoned the NBOES to the President-Elect and “It is in the best interest members from sanctions Vice President-Elect on -30- of the Navajo people that imposed upon them by the Sept. 9, 2015.

President Shelly approves $8.3 million in supplemental appropriations

President Shelly let go of the purse strings and approved $8.3 million in supplemental funds. (Photo by Rick Abasta)

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.—On Shopping Center project. The professional technical services because it does not mention the Jan. 6, Navajo Nation President president had reservations and demolition project. President bus purchase, but OMB will Ben Shelly met with the Office about signing the legislation Shelly approved this project, but apply an administrative fix. of Management and Budget because the two projects are again, it is not listed on the five- President Shelly also approved to discuss council resolutions not listed in the five-year Capital year CIP. The project, however, Legislation No. CD-73-14 for requesting supplemental Improvement Plan. is also listed on the five-year $1,559,250 from the UUFB appropriations amounting to The Appropriations Act Economic Development Plan. for elected officials operating more than $8.3 million. states, “All budget requests for “I’ve worked with the council expenses, planning and regular “It’s important that we ensure capital improvements shall be on approving these projects, chapter meetings. The funds funding for these projects are in compliance with an adopted but they need to ensure their will be distributed to the elected in line with the Navajo Nation Capital Improvement Plan and legislation is in compliance with officials as follows: Appropriations Act,” President shall not be approved unless in the law for any future legislation,” The district grazing officials Shelly said. “We have more than compliance with the plan.” President Shelly said. will receive $877,500. The farm $30 million in the UUFB right The legislation was originally Legislation No. CD-69-14 was boards will receive $483,750. now, but we must be prudent only for the Oljato Chapter, but also approved by the president The Eastern Navajo Land Board with those funds.” the shopping center was added and allows Cameron Chapter to will receive $198,000. President Shelly signed as an amendment. receive $180,120 from the UUFB “During this administration, CD-71-14, which provides “I compromised and signed for their multipurpose facility. we have held tight to the Nation’s $500,000 from the Unreserved, this legislation because the The project is on the five-year purse strings to ensure the Undesignated Fund Balance for shopping center project is shovel- CIP and is in compliance with UUFB was maintained above Oljato Chapter. The funds will ready and listed on the five-year the Appropriations Act. the minimum balance allowed,” be for professional technical Economic Development Plan,” Resolution No. CD-72-14 was President Shelly said. “Today, services and architecture and President Shelly said. approved for $600,00 from the we have let go of the purse design for the chapter’s new Resolution No. CD-75-14 UUFB for the purchase of a new strings to approve these projects multipurpose building. was also signed for approval of bus for Navajo Transit System. for the people.” The same bill provides $5 $500,000 from the UUFB for The president had a small concern million to the Nahata Dzil Tonalea-Red Lake Chapter’s with the proposal summary -30- President Shelly vetoes amending fluency requirements for election code The amendments included change of legislative oversight to Resources and Development Committee, purpose of farm boards, duties and responsibilities of officers, meetings, powers, accountability and compensation. Legislation No. CD-68-14 was also signed into law by President Shelly and established the Sihasin Fund for the $554 million settlement. Establishment, purpose, investment, definitions, expenditure, annual audit report and expenses of the Sihasin Fund were outlined in the legislation. “The Navajo people can rest easy knowing that the $554 million from the trust settlement is properly accounted for and audited through the Sihasin Fund,” President Shelly said. President Shelly said the Navajo people must be involved in the decision making process whether or not to eliminate the “This is the Navajo people’s Navajo language fluency requirements for candidates running for president. (Photo by Rick Abasta) money and they deserve to know what it’s spent on. WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.—On people are divided and we need of Elections Supervisors to Such transparency in New Year’s Eve, Navajo Nation their participation in this decision eliminate filing fees for elective government has been a hallmark President Ben Shelly vetoed CD- that will affect the generations positions filled by appointment. of this administration and we 79-14, a Navajo Nation Council to come.” Currently, filing fees by will continue to keep the Navajo resolution to amend the Navajo He said piecemeal changes to language fluency requirements the Election Code in the form of for Office of the President and council resolutions and Supreme “The people are divided and we need Vice President. Court opinions will not suffice. A their participation in this decision that The council attempted to major overhaul is need to ensure pass a similar legislation in Oct. clear, concise and fair laws, he will affect the generations to come.” 2013, which was also vetoed by noted, adding that such important President Shelly, who favored change can only be done through candidates are submitted people informed,” he added. a referendum vote brought a referendum vote of the Navajo when they file their candidacy before the Navajo people for people. application. The filing fees are -30- amending the language. He said “It’s the people’s right to non-refundable. a thoughtful and deliberative determine this, not myself, the “For an appointment to fill an conversation needed to occur Council or the courts,” President unexpired term, the applicable with the Navajo people before Shelly said. filing fee shall not be required,” changing the qualifications for The same day, President Shelly was the amendment to the code. tribal leadership. also signed into law three bills. President Shelly also signed “This conversation has yet to Legislation no. CD-64-14 CD-76-14 into law and enacted occur and, as such, my feelings was for amendments to Title 11 the amendments to the Navajo on the matter have not changed,” of the Navajo Nation Code by Nation Farm Board plan of President Shelly said. “The authorizing the Navajo Board operation. President Shelly approves FTA grant and purchase of allotment land tasked with providing sale price of $128,000. financial and technical The Navajo Land assistance to local public Acquisition Trust Fund will transit systems. With cover the purchase price headquarters in Washington, of the land, which will be D.C. and 10 regional utilized for the development offices, the FTA oversees of residential subdivisions, public transportation mutual help housing, home including buses, subways, site leasing and community light rain, commuter rail, development purposes for monorail, passenger ferry the Ramah Chapter. boats, trolleys, inclined “I hereby execute railways and other modes the real estate purchase of transportation. agreement on behalf of the President Shelly signed and approved two bills before the end of The resolution was Navajo Nation for purchase 2014. The first legislation was to accept a $166,000 grant award approved by a vote of of lands held by the Roy for the Navajo Transit System. The second bill was to purchase 18-0 by the Navajo Nation Chap Martinez allotment,” individual allotment land in Ramah. (Photo by Rick Abasta) Council on Dec. 23. Speaker President Shelly said. “The Pro Tem LoRenzo Bates Navajo Nation will utilize WINDOW ROCK, Shelly said. “I applaud signed the resolution on this land to build homes for Ariz.—On Dec. 30, 2014, their tenacity in seeking Dec. 29 before sending it to those living in the Ramah Navajo Nation President funds outside the Nation the Office of the President Chapter boundaries.” Ben Shelly enacted two to continue their mission of and Vice President. The Navajo Nation bills to provide funding to public transportation. Legislation No. CD- Council approved the the Navajo Transit System “I hereby sign into law 67-14 was for approval of legislation by a vote of and approval of purchasing the foregoing legislation, purchasing of individual 18-0 on Dec. 23 and was individual allotment land. pursuant to 2 NNC allotment land for 160 signed by Speaker Pro Tem Legislation No. CD- Subsection 1005 (C) acres located within the Bates on Dec. 29 before it 65-14 was for approval (10), on this 30th day of Ramah Chapter by Roy reached President Shelly’s of the $166,000 grant to December 2014,” he added. Chap Martinez. The cost desk for approval. the Navajo Transit System The FTA awarded the of the purchase, including from the Federal Transit Navajo Transit System the closing costs, amounted to -30- Administration for public grant award of $166,000 on $128,000. transportation operation. Jan. 8, 2013. The maximum Martinez made contact Also included was approval rate of 10 percent was with the BIA Southwest of the indirect cost rate of levied on the FTA, which Regional Estate Office and 10 percent. waived the Navajo Nation expressed his decision to “The Navajo Transit indirect cost rate of 16.95 sell his allotment to the System continues to percent. Navajo Nation. On Sept. provide important services The FTA is an agency 24, 2013, Martinez agreed to the Navajo people, that of the U.S. Department to the purchase price of of mobility,” President of Transportation that is $800 per acre for a total