Naat’ájí Nahat’á Hane’ Legislative Branch News 23rd Nation Council Fall Council Session - October 2016

Navajo Nation Council observes Domestic Violence Awareness Month By Crystalyne Curley

During the 2016 Fall Council Session, the 23rd and to promote efforts to end violence. Áłchíní Bíghan, Inc.” Council observed Domestic Violence On the opening day, Council Delegate Amber Applause filled the Council Chambers when Awareness Month by recognizing domestic violence Kanazbah Crotty (Beclabito, Cove, Gadi’i’áhi/To’Koi, the three individuals were recognized for their courage, awareness advocates of “Walking the Healing Path” Red Valley, Tooh Haltsooi, Toadlena/Two Grey Hills, Tsé dedication, and service to provide awareness, preven- and “Amá Dóó Áłchíní Bíghan, Inc.” In observation, the ałnáoz’t’I’í) recognized John L. Tsosie and Ernest Tsosie, tion, and intervention for domestic violence victims and Council members wore purple ribbons, the color of Do- founder and co-founder of “Walking the Healing Path,” survivors. mestic Violence Awareness Month, to raise awareness and Lorena Halwood, executive director of “Amá Dóó “October is an important month to remem-

See “DOMESTIC VIOLENCE”, Page 4 recognizes Grandma Thora Yazzie

By Jolene Holgate

On the second day of the Fall Council Session, but our elders, they’re full of knowledge – they Council Delegate Nathanial Brown invited Grandma are astrologists, medicine women, and medicine Thora Yazzie of Denehotso, to be recognized on behalf men,” said Delegate Brown. of Navajo Nation grandmothers for her service to the He added that Navajo grandparents are Navajo people, by the 23rd Navajo Nation Council. the “silent protectors” that pray for the Nava- Delegate Brown said that every Navajo com- jo people, the land, and over sacred places that munity is “lucky” to have grandmothers like Yazzie, who give strength to Diné Citizens. It is important hold vast amounts of knowledge that is passed down to recognize all Navajo grandmothers, not just from generation to generation. Thora Yazzie, however, she represents them and “She probably has multiple Ph.D.’s. She knows the precious knowledge they hold, and the love how to butcher, is an herbalist, and many multiple they have for the Navajo Nation, said Delegate disciplines of Navajo subjects are in this young lady. Brown. PHOTO: (above) Council Delegate Nathaniel Brown recognizes Grandma Some of us only attain bachelors, masters, or a PH.D., Yazzie, who is originally from Denne- Thora Yazzie from Denehotso for her life-time service and dedication to See “GRANDMA THORA”, Page 2 help the children and people of the Navajo Nation.

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1 GRANDMA THORA / cont. from Page 1 hotso, thanked students from the Naschitti Elementary pass on her traditional knowledge to younger School who performed songs and a puppet show earli- generations. er that morning in the , saying that as Delegate Brown presented a plaque an elder she felt it is important for grandparents to ad- from the Council, explaining that her service vocate to younger generations to learn Navajo cultural to the Navajo people will be remembered, and ways and language. that she represents grandmothers of the Nava- “I am very thankful for our youth. They are our jo Nation who work to educate Diné Citizens on future and it makes me happy hearing them speak and the Navajo way of life. living our culture. I am glad they are speaking the lan- “On behalf of the 23rd Navajo Nation guage, because it tells us how we should be living our Council, we extend our gratitude and appreci- Navajo traditions. Many young people do not speak ation to Shimásání, Thora Yazzie, in recognition Navajo, but it is good to hear them talking in the Nava- of your lifetime service as a community advo- jo language,” said Yazzie. cate, an outstanding educator for our Navajo

Yazzie stressed the importance of Navajo vet- children, and a loving grandmother for the PHOTO: (above) Council Delegate Nathaniel Brown, Grandma Thora erans, who she said protects the Nation and in history, community of Denehotso and the Navajo Na- Yazzie, and family members during the second day of the 2016 Fall Council utilized the Navajo language to win World War II. She tion. We appreciate your endeavors that ben- Session. thank you for your service,” said Delegate Brown. added that Navajo people should be proud of their efit the people of the Navajo Nation through the count- heritage and language, and that she would continue to less years of your teachings, compassion, and love. We Council recognizes Arizona State University’s American Indian Coun- cil for advocating for Indigenous Peoples Day By Crystalyne Curley

During the opening day of the 2016 Fall Coun- when Council Delegate Jonathan Perry (Becenti, ples’,” stated Delegate Perry. cil Session, the 23rd Navajo Nation Council recognized Crownpoint, Huerfano, Lake Valley, Nageezi, Nahod- The American Indian Council is one of the sev- the American Indian Council, a student coalition at ishgish, Tse’ii’ahi, Whiterock) recognized American en minority student coalitions that serves as an umbrel- Arizona State University, for their strong advocacy to Indian Council president/facilitator, Megan Tom, and la group for the American Indian student organizations promote the acknowledgement of Indigenous Peoples vice-president/co-facilitator, Thomasina Denetdale, on and strives to unify American Indian students with the Day throughout Arizona State University and the City of the council floor and awarded the students with recog- vision and mission of developing confident leadership Phoenix. nition plaques. skills and abilities. On Sept. 6, ASU approved an ASU senate bill In 2015, the American Indian Council and the “Declaring Indigenous Peoples’ Day gave ASU to recognize Indigenous Peoples Day on all four ASU American Indian student community took the initiative Native students a platform to address their passion campuses. Oct. 5, the Phoenix City Council unanimous- to lead a petition drive and hosted cultural events to and concerns. The declaration would give us the op- ly approved a resolution to officially declare the second raise awareness. The petition was used to create the portunity to educate non-Natives about our way-of-life, Monday of October as Indigenous Peoples Day. ASU Undergraduate Student Government bill, which culture, traditions, and philosophies. The declaration The Council Chamber filled with applause was passed on Sept. 6. would also promote efficient tribal consultation with Furthermore, the American Indian Council tes- non-Native leaders. The effort to recognize this decla- tified on behalf of the American Indian community to ration will also allow us to help and support each other the City of Phoenix Council to support the declara- as Native students,” stated Tom. tion of Indigenous Peoples Day. On Oct. 5, the city “American Indian Council has worked hard to of Phoenix became the largest U.S. city to recognize recognize the declaration. This effort was completed by Indigenous Peoples Day when the city council voted determined students and we will continue to work on 9-0 to recognize the day as an annual city commem- future opportunities,” added Denetdale. oration event. Delegate Perry congratulated the American Indian “The passage of Indigenous Peoples Day is a Council on their outstanding achievement. stepping stone that will promote community aware- “This is a great day to celebrate our youths’ ness and it will continue to build a Native network to dreams and goals. Many of our young educated Na- address issues related to culture preservation, land, vajo students are doing great initiatives at universities. water, and environmental concerns throughout Na- On behalf of the 23rd Navajo Nation Council, I want to tive communities. Indigenous Peoples’ Day also pro- thank our brilliant students,” stated Delegate Perry. PHOTO: (above) Council Delegate Jonathan Perry and ASU Ameri- can Indian Council president Megan Tom and vice president Thom- vides the opportunity to reveal historical truths about asina Denetdale during the opening day of the 2016 Fall Council the genocide and oppression of Indigenous peo- Session.

2 Navajo Nation Council Speaker’s Report Yá’át’ééh and welcome to this edition of On September 20th, members of the Navajo “Naat’ájí Nahat’á Hane’ - Legislative Branch News,” Nation Council and Vice President Jonathan Nez, met which provides an overview of events and legislative with Hopi Tribal Chairman Herman G. Honanie and actions that occurred during the 2016 Fall Council Ses- members of the Hopi Tribal Council to further discuss a sion that began on October 17th and concluded on proposed LCR settlement agreement. October 19th. During the meeting, members of both councils As I stated in my report to the Council during stated that they would remain committed to engaging the session, as the traditional Navajo New Year has be- in fur¬ther discussions in order to reach an agreement gun we must remind ourselves that with the renewal that benefits both tribes, and allows the tribes to pres- of the seasons, the presence of change remains con- ent a unified voice when negotiating with non-Indian stant, and no year is identical to any that have come stakeholders at the state level. before. In fact, as change occurs, new challenges arise Officials from both tribes have met on several and we must meet them with clear understanding and occasions to begin developing the framework to guide fortitude. the ne¬gotiations, however, the September 20th meet- With those integral concepts in mind, the Na- ing marked the first time that members of the current vajo Nation will need to conform and begin shaping our Navajo Nation Council met directly with leadership planning based on developing issues that may impact from the Hopi Tribe on the matter. our Nation and the services we provide to our Navajo In previous meetings, officials determined that people. In recognizing the challenges, the Council will the tribes would proceed with the “Two Nations, One need to begin planning for the Navajo Nation’s finan- Voice” concept, meaning that the Hopi Tribe and the cial future before it potentially becomes a reality. The Navajo Nation would develop terms of an agreement PHOTO: (above) Speaker LoRenzo Bates delivering the Navajo Nation Council Speaker’s Report on the opening day of the 2016 notion of “Nahat’á,” or planning and perseverance, is prior to beginning negotiations at the state level. Fall Council Session. important during this critical time. I informed President Russell Begaye that legislation The future is never certain, and as leaders of would be introduced to establish an official negotiat- diture plan. Under the facilitation from the Office of the Navajo Nation, we need to remain mindful of im- ing team for the Navajo Nation that will include mem- the Speaker and Síhasin Subcommittee chair Coun- pend¬ing issues and continue to work toward com- bers of the Navajo Nation Council. I also requested cil Delegate Leonard Tsosie, the Navajo Tribal Utility pleting the nine priorities that Council was tasked to Pres¬ident Begaye to issue recommendations regard- Authority (NTUA), Indian Health Services (IHS), Water achieve. ing the membership and establishment of the negoti- Management Branch (WMB), Office of the Controller I commend my Council colleagues for their ating team. (OOC), Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and hard work in bringing forth legislations that contribute We have conveyed the need for a settlement the Navajo Department of Justice (NDOJ), collectively to the accomplishment of the nine priorities, such as to members of Congress, and they support the ongo- completed preliminary steps to implement the Water increasing economic development, completing capital ing efforts and have expressed support for such a set- Projects Expenditure Plan. projects, improving water and sanitation services for tlement. The Bulk Water and Wastewater Development Navajo communities, agricultural development, and Officialsfrom both tribes are expected to meet Expenditure Plan legislation includes funds designat- many more. soon to discuss specific terms of a proposed agreement ed for NTUA, pursuant to a loan agreement consistent With the start of the Navajo New Year, I am that would require approvals from both tribal councils with terms set forth in the legislation. A Fund Manage- confident that the 23rd Navajo Nation Council will face and Congress. Moving forward, we will continue meet- ment Plan (“FMP”) is required to administer and ac- the chal¬lenges head-on and we will complete the pri- ing with the Hopi Tribe to reach an agreement that is count for the funds received by NTUA. The FMP can be orities we have set out to do. fair and beneficial for the Navajo Nation. at¬tached or incorporated into the loan agreement. In my report provided on the opening day of As of October 7th, the NTUA loan agreement the Fall Council Session, I provided our Diné Citizens Síhasin Fund Subcommittee is awaiting review by the Navajo Nation Department and Navajo Nation leaders an overview of the progress As you may recall, the 23rd Navajo Nation of Justice. The NTUA Loan Agreement has been sub- and accomplishments of this Council. The following is Council in January approved approximately $180 mil- mitted to the OOC by NTUA, and when an agreement an overview of a few of the issues covered in the report. lion for bulk water projects and water sanitation proj- has been reached between OOC and NTUA, the loan To view the report in its entirety, please visit navajona- ects in many communities throughout the Navajo Na- agreement will be introduced through legislation and tioncouncil.org or contact the Office of the Speaker to tion. $100 million of the overall total is to be leveraged considered for review by the Budget and Finance Com- request a copy. using matching funds, or state funds, or other sources. mittee, who serves as the final authority for the loan The remaining $80 million will be provided to NTUA in agreement. Little Colorado River Water Rights the form of a loan agreement. Since the 23rd Navajo Nation Council has tak- On August 5th, the Budget and Finance Com- Permanent Trust Fund Five-Year Plan en office, Council members have stressed the need to mittee unanimously passed the Water Projects Expen- secure a water rights settlement for the Little Colora- diture Plan. The Síhasin Subcommittee successfully On July 27th, Council Delegate Seth Damon, do River (LCR) as a top priority for each of the Nation’s completed the first phase of the Navajo Nation Water, chair of the Budget and Finance Committee and spon- three branches of government. Wastewater, and SDS Projects/Water Project Expen- sor of Resolution CAP-19-16, invited the Navajo Divi- See “SPEAKERS REPORT”, Page 6

3 Council unanimously supports grazing committee members

By Crystalyne Curley

On October 19, during the Fall Council Session included in the annual budget of the Nation and not Several grazing committee members came the 23rd Navajo Nation Council voted 15-0 to approve subject to availability of funds. This would guarantee before the Council’s Naabik’iyátí’ Committee to share Legislation No. 0242-16, which would amend Title 3 compensation to grazing committee members for their their concerns and to ask for the Council’s assistance to section 878 (c) of the Navajo Nation Code if the resolu- work and services every year,” stated Delegate Wither- resolve the issue. tion is signed into law. This portion of the Code refers spoon. “Grazing committee members serve our com- to compensation for Navajo grazing committee mem- The new language reads: munities and provide valuable services year after year,” bers. District grazing committee members attending stated Speaker LoRenzo Bates (Nenahnezad, New- Legislation sponsor Council Delegate Dwight their respective chapter, district and/or agency meet- comb, San Juan, Tiis Tsoh Sikaad, Tse’Daa’Kaan, Upper Witherspoon (Black Mesa, Forest Lake, Hardrock, Pi- ings may be compensated for each meeting wherein Fruitland). “I thank my Council colleagues for support- non, Whippoorwill) stated that the purpose of the official business is conducted, from funds provided an- ing Delegate Witherspoon’s legislation.” amendment would be to provide funds for district graz- nually in the Navajo Nation budget. President Russell Begaye will have ten calendar ing committee members in the Navajo Nation’s Com- The current law states that their compensation days to consider the resolution once it is delivered to prehensive Budget each year. is contingent on the availability of funds, which has of- the Office of the President and Vice President. “The change means the district grazing com- ten led to a lack of compensation for members for long mittee members’ compensation budget should be periods of time. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE / cont. from Page 1 ber and to advocate for families and children who are must continue to work on policies to protect our Navajo from domestic violence is a tough job. Domestic vio- vulnerable to domestic violence. This epidemic is an families and children,” stated Delegate Crotty. lence is a never ending cycle and it hurts emotionally increasing problem within the Nation. As leaders, we Founded in 2003, the “Walking the Healing to see this problem within our Nation. Continue to pray Path” seeks to create solutions and interventions to for families and the children that see this at home. I end domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and want to thank the Council for recognizing this import- violence against women. The organization has com- ant month,” stated Halwood. pleted five awareness walks, a total of over 2,000 miles, Delegate Crotty stated, “On behalf of the 23rd to raise awareness throughout Indian country. Navajo Nation Council, I will continue to stand strong “Domestic violence is a personal issue for me. for our families and children. We need to protect our I see the damage it does to families. As a founder of children from this problem because they are crucial to Walking the Healing Path and as a member to the Ar- our future. As parents and leaders, we must continue to izona’s Governor’s Commission to Prevent Violence show love and respect to our partners and children. We Against Women, I seek to develop legislative and pol- must restore Hózhó.” icy recommendations to prevent violence and expand

PHOTO (above): “Amá Dóó Áłchíní Bíghan, Inc.,” executive di- services for victims,” stated rector Lorena Halwood accepts her recognition for providing ad- John L. Tsosie. vocacy, prevention, intervention, and direct services for domes- Ernest Tsosie added tic violence victims and survivors during the 2016 Fall Council Session on October 17, 2016. that domestic violence is a se- rious issue on the Nation and Navajo fathers need to protect their families and children. “Amá Dóó Áłchíní Bíghan, Inc.” is a non-profit organi- zation and community-based domestic violence and sexual assault crisis intervention pro- gram that provides advocacy, prevention, intervention, and direct care services in Chinle, Arizona. PHOTO (above): “Walking the Healing Path” founder Ernest L. “Taking the role to Tsosie thanked the 23rd Navajo Nation Council for his recogni- protect families and children PHOTO (above): Council Delegate Amber Kanazbah Crotty welcomed members from W.I.C., tion of service and dedication to raise domestic violence aware- John Hopkins Center of American Indian Health, Amá Dóó Áłchíní Bíghan, Inc., NN Division ness during the opening day of the 2016 Fall Council Session on of Behavioral Health, Office of Nation, and concerned Navajo citizens, who are October 17, 2016. advocating on behalf of Domestic Violence Awareness Month to the Navajo Council Chamber.

4 Navajo Nation Council approves funding for the 2016 Navajo Nation Chapter General Elections By Jared Touchin

On Oct. 19 during the final day of the Fall election after the Nov. 8 general election to fill the va- the election and therefore line item vetoed the funds in Council Session, the 23rd Navajo Nation Council ap- cancies. the Comprehensive Budget. proved approximately $510,000 from the Navajo Na- In September, the Council approved the “That tells me that the president did not read tion’s Unreserved, Undesignated Fund Balance for the FY2017 Comprehensive Budget, which included fund- the budget,” stated Budget and Finance Committee Navajo Election Administration to hold chapter elec- ing for the election from the Unreserved, Undesignated chair Council Delegate Seth Damon (Bááháálí, Chich- tions on Nov. 8. Fund Balance. However, President Russell Begaye used iltah, , Tsé Lichíí’, Rock Springs, Tsayatoh). Council Delegate Lee Jack, Sr. (Dilkon, Grease- his line-item veto authority to deny the funding for the “This shouldn’t have been line item vetoed.” wood Springs, Indian Wells, Teesto, Whitecone) was the election based on the incorrect notion that the funds At the conclusion of Wednesday’s discussion, primary sponsor of the legislation, however co-spon- would come from the budget of the Office of the Pres- Council members voted 13-2 to approve Legislation sor Council Delegate Herman Daniels, Jr. (Shonto, ident and Vice President. No. 0362-16. The resolution was delivered to the Of- Naa’tsis’Áán, Oljato, Ts’ah Bii Kin) presented the leg- “This is amendment No. 16 by the Navajo Na- fice of the President and Vice President on Thursday. islation to Council along with NEA director Edison tion Council that moves funding from OPVP to the Elec- President Begaye will have until 5:00 p.m. on Oct. 30 Wauneka. tion Office,” wrote President Begaye in his veto mes- to consider the resolution. Wauneka stated that the funds would be used sage in reference to his reasoning for denying the funds primarily for the cost of printing ballots and the cost for the upcoming election. of paying for poll officials. He added that there remain On Wednesday, Wauneka confirmed that he approximately 70 chapter positions that no one has ap- had spoken with OPVP and they had been under the plied for, which will likely result in the need for a special notion that the funding was being taken from OPVP for Chinle Nursing Home voted down, citing need for comprehen- sive planning By Jolene Holgate

The 23rd Navajo Nation Council debated Leg- land. but I would put my record up of helping elders against islation No. 0324-16 on the third day of the Fall Council “The intention is to build a better facility so we any of you,” said Delegate Tsosie. Session, which sought to approve matching funds in can get our elders to come back to the Navajo Nation. In addition to the Síhasin Fund Subcommittee the amount of $8 million from the Síhasin Fund to aid in If this were being built in Tuba City, I would support it. not vetting the proposal, Delegate Tsosie stated that completing the proposed Chinle Nursing Home. If it were being built in , I would support it. I the allocation by NHA was not NAHASDA funds, rather According to the legislation, in Dec. 2015 the support the Chinle facility. Why? Because the land is it came from the rent and house payments made to Navajo Housing Authority awarded the Navajoland there, the design is in place, the $21 million is in place, NHA by its Navajo customers, and stressed that those Nursing Home, Inc. approximately $21.5 million to and all it needs is the $8 million,” said Delegate Pete. payments are not meant for projects like the proposed plan, design, and construct a new nursing home, which Delegate Pete added that the nursing home nursing home. funds nearly 75-percent of the entire project’s planning would not just serve Navajo elderly, but it also would Council Delegate Edmund Yazzie expressed and construction costs. The proposed allocation of $8 provide care services for individuals with severe physi- concern regarding the Central Navajo Agency being million from the Síhasin Fund would fund the remaining cal disabilities who need 24-hour assistance. the only area that would receive a nursing home, and 25-percent to complete the care center. In opposition of the legislation, Council Del- suggested to Council members to include funding to It states that the existing nursing home was egate Leonard Tsosie said the Síhasin Fund Subcom- develop plans to construct nursing homes in each Na- constructed in 1968 and holds 79 beds, but does not mittee, who oversees funding proposals that seek to vajo agency. meet the Center for Medicare/Medicaid Services fed- utilize the fund, did not vet the proposal for the nursing “My thoughts, since we are going into the Síha- eral requirements and is fined annually for the lack of home. sin Fund, is that it’s for everyone’s use – for the Nation’s compliance. The proposed new nursing center would “We are setting a dangerous precedent of ig- use. We can open the centers in each agency,” said hold up to 120 beds and would be a three-story build- noring the subcommittee, whose direction we gave to Delegate Yazzie. ing with updated technological capabilities. set up a process. So we have a couple of delegates In support of the legislation, Council Delegate Council Delegate Leonard Pete, legislation telling us, ‘the heck with the process, we’ll just push this Jonathan Hale said the proposed Chinle nursing home co-sponsor, said the nursing home facility would allow through because nobody is going to vote no, because does not only benefit the area, but it is open to all Na- Navajo elders and families throughout the Navajo Na- this is for our elders.’ I intend to vote against this. You vajo citizens throughout the Navajo Nation that prefer tion to be cared for near their home areas on Navajo might label me as being anti-elder, well then so be it, their family members are provided treatment and care See “NURSING HOME”, Page 7

5 Emergency legislation to address public safety response systems referred back to Council’s standing committees By Jolene Holgate

During the third day of the Fall Council Session, isfied. “I would say this issue should be debated here Council members considered Legislation No. 0370-16, “If we are ready to vote without an expenditure on the floor and give Council the opportunity to hear an emergency legislation to appropriate approximately plan, to me, it’s like we just throw money at the issue to the data, and give yourself time to really sink in the dire $3.8 million from the Síhasin Fund to the Navajo Nation solve the problem. There certainly is a need for money, nature that our people have out there, whether they Division of Public Safety’s Department of Emergency but for these particular amounts, there are questions are on the roads, at home, at the schools, or in their Management, to fund Emergency 911, Amber Alert, that need to be discussed. There could be grants that communities,” said Delegate Crotty. “As we allow days and Rural Addressing systems throughout the Navajo can cover these amounts,” said Delegate Witherspoon. and hours to pass by, we are doing a disservice to our Nation. He added that allowing the standing commit- community members.” According to the legislation, nearly $2 million tees to consider the legislation would garner support Delegate Crotty added that the standing com- would be allocated to the E-911 system, $850,000 to for the initiative and committees would be afforded the mittees are authorized by the Navajo Nation Council implement the Amber Alert system, and $1 million to opportunity to provide input on the emergency sys- and are able to discuss the emergency legislation with- go toward the Rural Addressing system. tems and funding. out having it referred back, which would cause delay to Council Delegate Kee Allen Begay, Jr., sponsor In support of the referral recommendation, the process of implementing the emergency response of the emergency legislation, said it was imperative to Council Delegate Leonard Tsosie said it was important systems. implement the emergency response systems as soon for the standing committees to discuss the legislation Council Delegate Raymond Smith, Jr. remind- as possible to ensure the safety of Navajo citizens and in order to identify other alternative forms of funding. ed Council members that the emergency legislation improve emergency response times. “The way I look at this is that this is not an was added onto the agenda by a vote of the Council “What we are requesting is just the tip of the emergency. Not acting on it—the sky will not fall. I on the opening day of the Fall Council Session. iceberg of a situation that we have at the NNDPS. This think there is dishonesty with this legislation. There has “I think it’s imperative that we keep this on is to protect the Navajo people and children who are been money in the form of grants that was given to the agenda, debate it, and vote upon it. The money is vulnerable. This is to fully implement the entire plan on the NNDPS,” said Delegate Tsosie. “In fact, take the there,” said Delegate Smith. “It is time to talk about it the Navajo Nation,” said Delegate Begay. “It will notify emergency clause off and refer it back to the commit- now and that’s our job as council delegates, to consid- citizens with Amber Alerts and any other emergency tees and let them go vet it to get the answers to those er these emergencies. We really need this Amber Alert information that is important to disseminate publicly.” important questions.” system, and our public safety personnel have been ad- Delegate Begay added that the funding would Delegate Tsosie said it was important for the vocating for this initiative for quite some time now.” also be utilized to purchase hardware equipment and Navajo Nation to also reach out to county, state, and At the closing of the discussion, Delegate Crot- computer software to send notifications out to the Na- federal agencies, who may provide funding and re- ty questioned the status of the legislation if it were to vajo Nation, as well as to other governmental agencies source assistance for the systems. be referred back to the standing committees. The Of- that aid in the Nation’s emergency response efforts, Council Delegate Amber Kanazbah Crotty dis- fice of Legislative Counsel advised Delegate Crotty that such as surrounding counties and states. agreed with the referral amendment and argued that the legislation would still be deemed as an emergency. Council Delegate Dwight Witherspoon made the purpose of the emergency legislation is to debate it Council members voted 10-9 to refer Legislation No. a recommendation to Council members to refer the on the Council floor, in which all members have the op- 0370-16 back to the Council’s standing committees for emergency legislation back to the Council’s standing portunity to ask critical questions regarding the funding further consideration. committees to ensure fiscal responsibility has been sat- for the emergency systems. SPEAKER’S REPORT / cont. from Page 3 sion of Economic Development, Water Management ter, Shonto Retail and Hotel, Eastern Agency Economic requested for each of the projects. The WMB previous- Branch, Navajo Tribal Utility Authority, Shonto Econom- Development Projects, Indian Wells Economic Devel- ly established a FMP for similar projects funded by the ic Development, Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise, opment Projects, Central Agency Economic Develop- Síhasin Fund. Office of Management and Budget, and Office of the ment projects, Newcomb Shopping Center, Navajo With the assistance of OMB and OOC, the Controller to discuss the implementation of the Five- adminis¬tration office buildings, Many Farms Agricul- projects will be set up through the Financial Manage- Year Per¬manent Trust Fund (“Five-Year Plan”) dis- tural Project, Northern Agency Agricultural Project, and ment In¬formation System (FMIS) database. A meeting bursement. Tsaile/ Wheatfields Agricultural Project. to follow-up on the status of the development of the Many of the Projects funded through the Five- Council Delegates Tom Chee and Dwight FMP is scheduled for November 6th. Year Plan contribute to economic development, water Witherspoon, both members of the Budget and Fi- devel¬opment, community development, and agri- nance Com¬mittee, assisted BFC chair Delegate Da- culture. The projects include: Ganado Shopping Cen- mon in providing feedback to each of the funded en- ter, Naha¬tadzil Shopping Center, Shonto C-Store, tities during a meeting on August 14th regarding the Shiprock Hotel and Restaurant, Dennehotso Retail Cen- Five-Year Plan. A Fund Management Plan (“FMP”) was

6 Council honors Navajo officer and criminal investigator

By Crystalyne Curley

On the second day of the Fall Council Session, made NNDPS a successful division,” stated Delegate the 23rd Navajo Nation Council recognized Navajo Na- Yazzie. tion police lieutenant Dempsey Harvey of the Chinle Lt. Dempsey Harvey has served as a police officer for Police District and Navajo Nation criminal investigator 23 years and currently serves with the Chinle Police Alvernon Tsosie for their dedication, courage, and ser- District. vice in providing for the safety and protection of the “I am truly grateful for Council’s recognition. Navajo Nation. I volunteer many hours to keep our communities safe Law and Order Committee chair Council Del- and I am happy that the Council Delegates recognize egate Edmund Yazzie (Churchrock, Iyanbito, Mariano my dedication and hard work. I took an oath to pro- Lake, Pinedale, Smith Lake, Thoreau) said Navajo po- vide accountability, innovation, prevention, and pro- lice officers should be appreciated for the services they tection for the Nation. This recognition from Council provide to keep families, children, and communities means a lot to me and my family and I will continue safe. to help my people,” added Lt. Harvey. “Our Navajo police officers are not recog- Criminal Investigator Alvernon Tsosie accept- nized everyday for their hard work and long hours they ed the recognition award on behalf of his staff that work. I appreciate Lt. Harvey and Mr. Tsosie’s sacrifice works vigorously to manage and conduct criminal in- and courage for keeping our families and communities vestigations on the Nation. safe. They have been working for NNDPS for many “I am grateful to accept this recognition for years and they continue to improve our public safety myself and my team. Public safety can’t be achieved within the Nation. Their expertise and abilities have with one person. It’s a team effort to get the job PHOTO (above): Navajo Nation Lt. Dempsey Harvey expresses his done everyday. We work hard together appreciation for his recognition as a officer as a team to keep our communities safe,” during the secong day of the 2016 Fall Council Session. stated Tsosie. “On behalf of the Law and Order Committee, we will continue to work with NNDPS and support Navajo officers. Re- cently, the LOC approved pay raises for the police officers and that is a start to honor our police officers because they work long hours to keep everyone safe. Thank you to all of our Navajo police men and women,” said Delegate Yazzie.

PHOTO (above): Navajo Nation Criminal Investigator Alvernon Tsosie ac- PHOTO (above): Navajo Nation Lt. Dempsey Harvey accepts recog- cepts recognition plaque from the Law and Order Committee during the sec- nition from the Law and Order Committee during the secong day of ond day of the 2016 Fall Council Session. the 2016 Fall Council Session. NURSING HOME / cont. from Page 5 on Navajo land. A directive was recommended by Council Del- Council Delegate Nelson S. BeGaye explained “If you want this opportunity in your agency, egate Seth Damon, who suggested that the Division that the Chinle Nursing Home would still be construct- then it is the community’s responsibility to plan for de- of Economic Development work with the Navajo Area ed with 90 beds. Had the $8 million been approved, velopment, land withdrawals, clearances, etc.,” said Agency on Aging to develop nursing home proposals the facility would have accommodated 120 beds. Delegate Hale. “The current facility is dilapidated and in each agency to be proposed to the Síhasin Fund has asbestos, and they need to get the building in or- Subcommittee. der and up to code,” said Delegate Hale. Council members voted 15-4 to pass the direc- He added that the facility would contribute to tive. community and economic development in providing At the conclusion of the discussion, Council increased employment opportunities, and would en- members voted 14-6 on Legislation No. 0324-16, which courage Navajo medical student graduates to come failed to pass because the bill required two-thirds or 16 home and work at the nursing home facility. votes.

7 Picture Highlights of the 2016 Fall Council Session

PHOTO (above): On the opening day of the 2016 Fall Council Session, Tse Dzil Color Guard and Thoreau Color PHOTO (above): During the opening day of the 2016 Fall Council Session, 2016 - 2017 Miss Navajo Nation Ronda Guard conducted the Posting of the Colors. Joe sang the National Anthem in the Navajo language.

PHOTO (above): Council Delegate Jonathan Hale welcomed the Navajo government class from Miyamura High PHOTO (above): On the second day of the 2016 Fall Session, students from Naschitti Elementary School sung School to the Navajo Nation Council Chamber Navajo songs for the 23rd Navajo Nation Council.

PHOTO (above): On the second day of the 2016 Fall Council Session, Naschitti Elementary School students per- PHOTO (above): On the second day of the 2016 Fall Council Session, New Mexico State Legislator Sharon Clah- formed a puppet show in the Navajo language for the 23rd Navajo Nation Council. chischilliage delivered a report to the 23rd Navajo Nation Council.

8 23rd Navajo Nation Council Standing Committees, Subcommittees, Task Forces, and Commissions Council Standing Committees

Budget and Finance Health, Education, and Human Services Law and Order Committee Resources and Development Committee Committee Committee Edmund Yazzie (Chair) Seth Damon (Chair) Jonathan L. Hale (Chair) Raymond Smith, Jr. (Vice Chair) Alton Joe Shepherd (Chair) Dwight Witherspoon (Vice Chair) Norman M. Begay (Vice Chair) Kee Allen Begay, Jr. Benjamin L. Bennett (Vice Chair) Tom T. Chee Nathaniel Brown Otto Tso Davis Filfred Lee Jack, Sr. Nelson S. BeGaye Herman Daniels, Jr. Walter Phelps Tuchoney Slim, Jr. Amber Kanazbah Crotty Leonard H. Pete Leonard Tsosie Peterson Yazzie Jonathan Perry

Subcommittees and Task Forces

Naabik’iyátí’ Committee’s Naabik’iyátí’ Committee’s Naabik’iyátí’ Committee’s Naabik’iyátí’ Committee’s Sacred Sites Task Force Arizona Gaming Subcommittee Title II Reform Subcommittee Síhasin Fund Subcommittee

LoRenzo Bates Alton Joe Shepherd Alton Joe Shepherd Leonard Tsosie Davis Filfred Jonathan L. Hale Norman M. Begay Nelson S. BeGaye Jonathan L. Hale Tuchoney Slim, Jr. Tom T. Chee Kee Allen Begay, Jr. Jonathan Perry Otto Tso Amber Kanazbah Crotty Nathaniel Brown Otto Tso Dwight Witherspoon Seth Damon Tom T. Chee Dwight Witherspoon Davis Filfred Seth Damon Jonathan Perry Davis Filfred Tuchoney Slim, Jr. Lee Jack, Sr. Otto Tso Jonathan Perry Naabik’iyátí’ Committee’s Naabik’iyátí’ Committee’s Walter Phelps State Task Force Sexual Assault Prevention Subcommittee Otto Tso Peterson Yazzie Kee Allen Begay, Jr. Amber Kanazbah Crotty Nathaniel Brown Jonathan L. Hale Tom T. Chee Jonathan Perry Seth Damon Otto Tso Herman Daniels, Jr. Dwight Witherspoon Davis Filfred Jonathan L. Hale Walter Phelps Peterson Yazzie

Commissions

Eastern Navajo Land Commission Navajo-Hopi Land Commission Utah Navajo Commission Leonard Tsosie Walter Phelps Nathaniel Brown Norman M. Begay Kee Allen Begay, Jr. Herman Daniels, Jr. Seth Damon Lee Jack, Sr. Davis Filfred Jonathan Perry Alton Joe Shepherd Edmund Yazzie Tuchoney Slim, Jr. Raymond Smith, Jr. Otto Tso Dwight Witherspoon

For more information on meeting dates, times, and locations, as well as legislations and news, please visit: www.navajonationcouncil.org

9 2016 Fall Council Session Legislation Results

*Chaired the discussion - Only votes in the event of a tie

LEGISLATION 0324-16 LEGISLATION 0338-16 LEGISLATION 0370-16 LEGISLATION 0369-16 LEGISLATION 0227-16

Adopting the Síhasin Fund Adopting the Síhasin Fund Na- Appropriating $3,800,000 from Appropriating $5,000,000 Amending the Navajo Nation Chinle Nursing Home Commu- vajo Community Development the Síhasin Fund to the Division ($1,000,000 for each agen- Code at 5 N.N.C. § 204(A), nity Development & Housing Financial Institution Economic of Public Safety Department of cy) from the Síhasin Fund to the Navajo Business Opportu- Expediture Plan Pursuant to Development Expenditure Plan Emergency Management for the Community Housing and nity Act to classify the Navajo CD-68-14 and 12 N.N.C. § § Pursuant to CD-68-14 and 12 the Emergency 911 System, Infrastructure Development De- Engineering and Construction 2501-2508 N.N.C § § 2501-2508 the Amber Alert System for the partment to address the House Authority as a priority one Nava- Rural Address System Burn-Out situations throughout jo Nation owned business the Navajo Nation, and waiving 12 N.N.C. § § 820(I) and 860(C) relating to the Capital Improve- ment Process

PRIMARY SPONSOR PRIMARY SPONSOR PRIMARY SPONSOR PRIMARY SPONSOR PRIMARY SPONSOR Jonathan L. Hale Leonard Tsosie Kee Allen Begay, Jr. Kee Allen Begay, Jr. Jonathan L. Hale

ACTION: FAILED ACTION: FAILED ACTION: REFERRED to the ACTION: FAILED ACTION: PASSED (Required 2/3 or 16 supporting (Required 2/3 or 16 supporting Standing Committees (Required 2/3 or 16 supporting votes from Council) votes from Council) votes from Council) YEA (10): YEA (10): Kee Allen Begay, Jr. YEA (14): YEA (15): Benjamin L. Bennett YEA (8): Norman M. Begay Kee Allen Begay, Jr. Nelson S. BeGaye Tom Chee Kee Allen Begay, Jr. Nelson S. BeGaye Norman M. Begay Norman M. Begay Seth Damon Norman M. Begay Nathaniel Brown Nelson S. BeGaye Benjamin L. Bennett Herman Daniels, Jr. Nathaniel Brown Herman Daniels, Jr. Nathaniel Brown Nathaniel Brown Leonard H. Pete Amber Kanazbah Crotty Jonathan L. Hale Amber Kanazbah Crotty Tom Chee Tuchoney Slim, Jr. Jonathan L. Hale Alton Joe Shepherd Seth Damon Seth Damon Leonard Tsosie Jonathan Perry Tuchoney Slim, Jr. Jonathan L. Hale Herman Daniels, Jr. Dwight Witherspoon Raymond Smith, Jr. Raymond Smith, Jr. Jonathan Perry Lee Jack, Sr. Edmund Yazzie Edmund Yazzie Dwight Witherspoon Leonard H. Pete Jonathan Perry Peterson Yazzie Alton Joe Shepherd Tuchoney Slim, Jr. NAY (10): NAY (7): Tuchoney Slim, Jr. Otto Tso NAY (9): Nelson S. BeGaye Benjamin L. Bennett Raymond Smith, Jr. Leonard Tsosie Kee Allen Begay, Jr. Benjamin L. Bennett Tom Chee Dwight Witherspoon Dwight Witherspoon Norman M. Begay Tom Chee Amber Kanazbah Crotty Peterson Yazzie Edmund Yazzie Nelson S. BeGaye Seth Damon Seth Damon Peterson Yazzie Nathaniel Brown Herman Daniels, Jr. Jonathan Perry NAY (6): Amber Kanazbah Crotty Alton Joe Shepherd Leonard Tsosie Tom Chee NAY (5): Jonathan L. Hale Tuchoney Slim, Jr. Edmund Yazzie Herman Daniels, Jr. Kee Allen Begay, Jr. Jonathan Perry Leonard Tsosie Lee Jack, Sr. Amber Kanazbah Crotty Alton Joe Shepherd Dwight Witherspoon Otto Tso Jonathan L. Hale Raymond Smith, Jr. Peterson Yazzie NOT VOTING (7): Leonard Tsosie Leonard H. Pete *Speaker LoRenzo Bates Edmund Yazzie Raymond Smith, Jr. NOT VOTING (5): NOT VOTING (6): Davis Filfred *Speaker LoRenzo Bates *Speaker LoRenzo Bates Lee Jack, Sr. NOT VOTING (4): NOT VOTING (4): Davis Filfred Davis Filfred Leonard H. Pete *Speaker LoRenzo Bates *Speaker LoRenzo Bates Lee Jack, Sr. Lee Jack, Sr. Walter Phelps Benjamin L. Bennett Davis Filfred Walter Phelps Leonard H. Pete Otto Tso Davis Filfred Walter Phelps Otto Tso Walter Phelps Peterson Yazzie Walter Phelps Alton Joe Shepherd Otto Tso

10 2016 Fall Council Session Legislation Results

*Chaired the discussion - Only votes in the event of a tie

LEGISLATION 0257-16 LEGISLATION 0242-16 LEGISLATION 0287-16 LEGISLATION 0290-16 LEGISLATION 0362-16

Confirming nomination of Ms. Amending 3 N.N.C. § 878(C) Amending CAP-26-16 by Establishing the Navajo Nation Approving Supplemental Charlotte Begay to Commission approving sixty (60) additional Permanent Trust Fund Five- Funding from the Unreserved, on Navajo Government Devel- days for Navajo Partitioned Year Contingency Fund for Undesignated Fund Balance opment Land Chapters to make pro- the purpose of maintaining a in the amount of $510,616 to posed alignments for range reserve of monies designated the Navajo Election Adminis- units from the Permanent Trust Fund tration Income Five-Year Expenditure Plan

PRIMARY SPONSOR PRIMARY SPONSOR PRIMARY SPONSOR PRIMARY SPONSOR Jonathan L. Hale Dwight Witherspoon Dwight Witherspoon PRIMARY SPONSOR Lee Jack, Sr. Dwight Witherspoon ACTION: PASSED ACTION: PASSED ACTION: PASSED ACTION: PASSED ACTION: PASSED YEA (17): YEA (15): YEA (16): YEA (13): Kee Allen Begay, Jr. Kee Allen Begay, Jr. Kee Allen Begay, Jr. YEA (13): Kee Allen Begay, Jr. Norman M. Begay Norman M. Begay Norman M. Begay Kee Allen Begay, Jr. Norman M. Begay Nelson S. BeGaye Nelson S. BeGaye Nelson S. BeGaye Norman M. Begay Nelson S. BeGaye Benjamin L. Bennett Benjamin L. Bennett Benjamin L. Bennett Nelson S. BeGaye Benjamin L. Bennett Nathaniel Brown Nathaniel Brown Nathaniel Brown Benjamin L. Bennett Tom Chee Tom Chee Tom Chee Tom Chee Tom Chee Amber Kanazbah Crotty Amber Kanazbah Crotty Amber Kanazbah Crotty Amber Kanazbah Crotty Seth Damon Herman Daniels, Jr. Seth Damon Seth Damon Seth Damon Herman Daniels, Jr. Jonathan Perry Herman Daniels, Jr. Herman Daniels, Jr. Herman Daniels, Jr. Jonathan Perry Alton Joe Shepherd Jonathan L. Hale Jonathan Perry Jonathan Perry Alton Joe Shepherd Tuchoney Slim, Jr. Jonathan Perry Alton Joe Shepherd Alton Joe Shepherd Tuchoney Slim, Jr. Leonard Tsosie Alton Joe Shepherd Tuchoney Slim, Jr. Tuchoney Slim, Jr. Leonard Tsosie Dwight Witherspoon Tuchoney Slim, Jr. Leonard Tsosie Raymond Smith, Jr. Dwight Witherspoon Edmund Yazzie Raymond Smith, Jr. Dwight Witherspoon Leonard Tsosie Edmund Yazzie Leonard Tsosie Edmund Yazzie Dwight Witherspoon NAY (2): Dwight Witherspoon Edmund Yazzie NAY (2): Seth Damon Edmund Yazzie NAY (0): Amber Kanazbah Crotty Nathaniel Brown NAY (0): Nathaniel Brown NAY (0): NOT VOTING (9): NOT VOTING (9): *Speaker LoRenzo Bates NOT VOTING (8): NOT VOTING (9): *Speaker LoRenzo Bates NOT VOTING (7): Davis Filfred *Speaker LoRenzo Bates *Speaker LoRenzo Bates Davis Filfred *Speaker LoRenzo Bates Jonathan L. Hale Davis Filfred Davis Filfred Jonathan L. Hale Davis Filfred Lee Jack, Sr. Jonathan L. Hale Jonathan L. Hale Lee Jack, Sr. Lee Jack, Sr. Leonard H. Pete Lee Jack, Sr. Lee Jack, Sr. Leonard H. Pete Leonard H. Pete Walter Phelps Leonard H. Pete Leonard H. Pete Walter Phelps Walter Phelps Raymond Smith, Jr. Walter Phelps Walter Phelps Raymond Smith, Jr. Otto Tso Otto Tso Otto Tso Raymond Smith, Jr. Otto Tso Peterson Yazzie Peterson Yazzie Peterson Yazzie Otto Tso Peterson Yazzie Peterson Yazzie

11 2016 Navajo Nation Fairs Picture Highlights

PHOTO (above): Council Delegate Edmund Yazzie at the Eastern Navajo Fair Parade on July 23, 2016. PHOTO (above): Council Delegate Amber Kanazbah Crotty (left) with Miss Indian New Mexico State University LaniRae Padilla at the Eastern Navajo Fair Parade on July 23, 2016.

PHOTO (above): Speaker LoRenzo Bates hands out items during the 70th Annual Navajo Nation Fair Parade in PHOTO (above): Council Delegate Otto Tso during the 70th Annual Navajo Nation Fair Parade in Window Rock, Window Rock, Arizona on September 10, 2016. Arizona on September 10, 2016.

PHOTO (above): Children participating in Zumba dancing inside the 23rd Navajo Nation Council tent during the PHOTO (above): Council Delegate Lee Jack, Sr., Council Delegate Tuchoney Slim, Jr., Council Delegate Walter 70th Annual Navajo Nation Fair “Ashkii Happy Kids Day” on September 8, 2015. Phelps during the Western Navajo Agency Fair in Tuba City, Arizona on October 15, 2016.

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