OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT Western Agency Council Report June 19, 2021

100 Parkway Drive, Window Rock, AZ 86515 P.O. Box 7440, Window Rock, AZ 86515 Phone: (928) 871-7000 Web: https://www.opvp.navajo-nsn.gov WELCOME MESSAGE

We are praying for all of our Diné people to remain strong, hopeful, and resilient during these challenging times. While the COVID-19 pandemic reminds us of our shared challenges, it also demonstrates how kinship, resiliency, and compassion connects each of us during difficult times. We must remember that our people have stood against many adversities before, and we can continue to overcome obstacles facing our nation united.

We encourage families to stay within the safety their homes with only their immediate household members. Traditionally, we would gather together with relatives, friends, and community members to share meals and stories, but this year we have to protect our elders and family members with underlying health conditions from any virus infections. Staying home and taking care of our children and elders is the safest preventative measure you can do.

We may miss our relatives and friends, but we must stay vigilant and safe and let it allow us to be thankful for the blessings of our families and well-being. We must remain positive and encourage each other to make tomorrow better than today and to make the future better for our children.

During this time, consider and reflect on how our ancestors led the way forward through the practices of T’áá hwó’ ajít’éego, or self-reliance, K’é, kinship, Tsodizin, prayer, and other principles during hard times. Our values and principles make us people of hope, faith, strength, and compassion. Therefore, we must stand united to combat the modern-day monsters that plague our communities.

With positive thoughts and actions, let us be the people our ancestors and elders need us to be in the time of hardship. They have blessed us with discipline, prayers, and teachings to move forward, and we have all the tools needed to ensure a better future for future generations.

Comfort our people who have experienced loss and pray for our frontline warriors who protect us every day. We have to motivate each other as one people to overcome this pandemic. We can remind each other what we are capable of and restore and heal each other.

We can do this as we stand united because our ancestors have done it before. They have worked hard, sacrificed, and invested in what they believed would make a difference for us. That is who we are as sacred people. We are embedded with discipline, resilience, strength, compassion, and faith. In these moments, we use these sacred teachings to move forward towards a brighter and healthier future. Ahe’hee’

JONATHAN NEZ PRESIDENT NAVAJO NATION VICE PRESIDENT AGENCY REPORT

CONTENT

11 new cases, 29,559 recoveries, and no recent deaths related to COVID-19 4

Navajo Nation receives initial $1.8 billion allocation through the American Rescue Plan Act 5

Nez-Lizer Administration meets with Chapters Regarding Priorities for the American Rescue Plan Act 6

President Nez Pushes For New Era In Tribal Roads And Federal Relations During Meeting With White House Officials 7

Navajo Transit System receive 39 new hybrid buses to provide more transportation services and reduce emissions 8

Local Navajo leaders prioritize infrastructure projects to create long-term benefits using American Rescue Plan Act funds 9

Former Auditor General Elizabeth Begay to serve as Acting Controller 10

President Nez requests special session to consider reopening roads for visitors to allow parks to reopen at 50% capacity 11

Navajo Nation approves Permanent Trust Fund Income five-year expenditure plan to help ensure financial stability and direct services 12

President Nez and Vice President Lizer congratulate 325 Navajo Nation retirees for their dedication and service 13

Navajo Nation implements Stage 1 Fire Restrictions 14

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT (928) 871-7000

JARED TOUCHIN, COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR CRYSTALYNE CURLEY, SR. PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER

Office of the President and Vice President 3 11 NEW CASES, 29,559 RECOVERIES, AND NO RECENT DEATHS RELATED TO COVID-19

On Friday, the Navajo Department of Health, in coordination with the Navajo Epidemiology Center and the Navajo Area Indian Health Service, reported 11 new COVID-19 positive cases for the Navajo Nation and no recent deaths. The total number of deaths is now 1,343 as previously reported. The report indicates that 29,559 individuals have recovered from COVID-19. 278,694 COVID-19 tests have been administered. The total number of positive COVID-19 cases is now 30,959.

Navajo Nation COVID-19 positive cases by Service Unit:

• Chinle Service Unit: 5,623 • Crownpoint Service Unit: 2,976 • Ft. Defiance Service Unit: 3,675 • Gallup Service Unit: 4,906 • Kayenta Service Unit: 2,742 • Shiprock Service Unit: 5,269 • Tuba City Service Unit: 3,758 • Winslow Service Unit: 1,991

*19 residences with COVID-19 positive cases are not specific Health care facilities across the Navajo Nation enough to place them accurately in a Service Unit. continue to administer COVID-19 vaccines during drive- thru events or by appointment. If you would like to On Friday, the state of reported 364 new receive the vaccine, please contact your health care cases, Utah reported 325, and New Mexico reported 122 provider for more information for your Service Unit. cases. On Friday, the Navajo Department of Health issued “As we continue toward our goal of community Public Health Emergency Order No. 2021-012 lifting the immunity, we must continue to be cautious and to wear masks Navajo Nation’s stay-at-home order and replacing it with in public. We do not want any more of our people to lose their a safer-at-home order. It also allows social gatherings of life to COVID-19, so please be careful and take precautions. 25 or fewer people, in-person trainings and meetings of We wish all of the fathers and grandfathers a very happy 25 or fewer people, traditional ceremonies of 25 or fewer and safe Father’s Day on Sunday, and we ask our people people, outdoor recreational events of 25 or fewer people, to celebrate safely. Please continue to pray for our people churches and other houses of worship at limited capacity, and our frontline workers,” said Vice President Myron Lizer. and drive-thru gatherings up to 100 vehicles. Face masks are required for all gatherings, whether fully vaccinated or not. For more information, including helpful prevention tips, and resources to help stop the spread of COVID-19, “We wish all of our Navajo people a safe and enjoyable visit the Navajo Department of Health’s COVID-19 website: http://www.ndoh.navajo-nsn.gov/COVID-19. For COVID-19 Father’s Day weekend and we strongly urge everyone to related questions and information, call (928) 871-7014. celebrate safely with COVID-19 precautions in place. We are still in the midst of this pandemic and we still have a mask mandate in place for all residents and visitors of the Navajo Nation. We have to get more of our people fully vaccinated before we lift more restrictions, so please encourage your loved ones to get the vaccine if they haven’t already. We are in this together and we have to keep pushing back on this virus together,” said Navajo Nation President .

4 https://www.opvp.navajo-nsn.gov NAVAJO NATION RECEIVES INITIAL $1.8 BILLION ALLOCATION THROUGH THE AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT

The Navajo Nation received notice on May 28th, from • Support public health expenditures, by, for example, funding COVID-19 the U.S. Department of the Treasury, acknowledging receipt mitigation efforts, medical expenses, behavioral healthcare, and certain public health and safety staff of “complete and accurate” information and documentation • Address negative economic impacts caused by the public health that was submitted by the Navajo Nation Washington Office emergency, including economic harms to workers, households, small on May 21, which was used to calculate the allocation of businesses, impacted industries, and the public sector • Replace lost public sector revenue, using this funding to provide funding through the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal government services to the extent of the reduction in revenue Recovery Funds program authorized by the American Rescue experienced due to the pandemic • Provide premium pay for essential workers, offering additional support Plan Act that provides $20 billion for tribes to help recover to those who have and will bear the greatest health risks because of from the devastating impacts of the ongoing COVID-19 their service in critical infrastructure sectors pandemic. Following the notice, the Navajo Nation received • Invest in water, sewer, and broadband infrastructure, making necessary investments to improve access to clean drinking water, support vital its initial funding allocation totaling $1,861,554,458.43. wastewater and stormwater infrastructure, and to expand access to broadband internet “This is the Navajo people’s money and we are obligated to inform the Navajo people every step of the Within these categories of eligible uses, tribal governments have broad flexibility to decide how best to use this funding way throughout this process. These funds must be used to meet the needs of their local communities. Further, in responsibly and transparently to help our people and recognition of the pandemic’s disproportionate public health our Nation recover from the devastating impacts of the and economic impacts in Tribal communities, the following COVID-19 pandemic. We will continue to work together with services are also eligible when provided by a Tribal government: the 24thNavajo Nation Council, Judicial Branch, Divisions, Chapters, and many others to develop plans and introduce • Addressing health disparities and the social determinants of health, including community health workers, public benefits navigators, legislation to allocate the funds to provide relief and assistance remediation of lead paint or other lead hazards, and community violence for our Navajo people and communities,” said President Nez. intervention programs • Building stronger neighborhoods and communities, including supportive housing and other services for individuals experiencing homelessness, The initial $1.8 billion allocation is based on self- development of affordable housing, and housing vouchers and certified Navajo Nation enrollment numbers that reflect counseling close to 400,000 enrolled members, and the Navajo Nation’s • Addressing educational disparities exacerbated by COVID-19, including early learning services, decreasing funding gaps between low- and high- share of $1 billion that is allocated equally among tribes. The poverty districts, and educational services or tutoring for at-risk students remaining 35-percent of the $19 billion will be distributed to • Promoting healthy childhood environments, including childcare, home tribes based on tribal employment data. Tribes have until visiting programs, and enhanced services for child welfare-involved families and foster youth June 21, 2021 to confirm or amend employment numbers. “We have lost 1,318 lives on the Navajo Nation due to “The Navajo Nation for well over the last year has COVID-19. As we move forward with the implementation of faced significant challenges when the COVID-19 Coronavirus, the American Rescue Plan Act funds, we must work together also known as ‘Diko Ntsaaígíí-Náhást’éíts’áadah’ in the in collaboration to ensure the funds are fully accounted Navajo language, hit the Navajo Nation. We lost many of our for and used for the benefit of our Navajo people, frontline loved ones and elders as we struggled through this disease. warriors, and to invest in infrastructure that will continue to bring business development opportunities and increase the These federal funds will be an opportunity to address not only Navajo Nation’s capacity to create jobs for our people that will the needs of the Navajo people today, but to be effective and ensure a legacy of lifestyle improvement for generations to efficient as we build our economy well into the future post come,” said Vice President Myron Lizer. COVID-19. The will take great care to use these funds wisely. Navajo’s future will be brighter and The Navajo Nation will continue to work with the U.S. we will continue to coordinate with county, state and federal Department of the Treasury, the Biden-Harris Administration, officials to monitor the evolving impacts of the coronavirus,” and federal agencies to ensure the successful implementation said Speaker Seth Damon of the 24th Navajo Nation Council. of the American Rescue Plan Act funds. For more information, please visit: https://home.treasury.gov/policy- According to the U.S. Treasury, the funds may be issues/coronavirus/assistance-for-state-local-and-tribal- used for the following: governments/state-and-local-fiscal-recovery-fund/tribal- governments. Office of the President and Vice President 5 NEZ-LIZER ADMINISTRATION MEETS WITH CHAPTERS REGARDING PRIORITIES FOR THE AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT

Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez was joined by After a tribe’s submission is received, it will take Navajo Nation Division of Community Development Executive approximately four to five days for the Treasury Department Director Dr. Pearl Yellowman, Division of Transportation to review and process. The Navajo Nation submitted Executive Director Garret Silversmith, Division of Human its request to the Treasury Department on May 21. Resources Executive Director Dr. Perphelia Fowler, Division of Natural Resources Executive Director Dr. Rudy Shebala, For the remaining $19 billion, 65-percent or $12.35 and Miss Navajo Nation Shaandiin Parrish on Monday, billion of the Treasury’s allocation will be based on self- as he met with chapter officials and local leaders from the certified tribal enrollment numbers that were submitted to the Bureau of Indian Affairs in April 2021. The Navajo communities of Chinle, Kayenta, and Chilchinbeto to discuss Nation submitted updated enrollment information reflecting local priorities in anticipation of receiving funds through close to 400,000 enrolled members of the Navajo Nation on the American Rescue Plan Act in the next several weeks. April 21. The remaining 35-percent, or $6.65 billion, will be distributed to tribes based on tribal employment data. Tribes In April, the Nez-Lizer Administration hosted will have until June 7, 2021 to confirm or amend employment virtual meetings with each of the five Navajo agencies numbers. In mid-June the Treasury will inform tribes of their to layout the process of submitting feasible/construction portion of funding and the anticipated date to receive it. ready project listings to the Division of Community Development to be considered for funding through the Chinle Chapter President Dr. Rosanna Jumbo-Fitch American Rescue Plan Act. All 110 chapters are required to presented several chapter resolutions supporting bathroom submit their proposals through the Division of Community additions for 34 families as the top priority, followed by water Development’s online portal no later than May 31, 2021. line projects and a new warehouse to store PPEs and other essential supplies to help residents. Council Delegate Eugene “Last month, we provided the opportunity for all 110 Tso was also present and spoke about the challenges that Chinle chapters to present their project priorities and now we are residents face on a daily basis due to inadequate infrastructure following up with further discussions with some of the larger populated chapters so that we can present a comprehensive President Nez also met with Kayenta Chapter construction ready listing to the Navajo Nation Council for President Dalton Singer, Kayenta Township Manager Gabriel Yazzie, and Council Delegate Nathaniel Brown consideration. There are many needs in all of our communities in Kayenta, where he received a list of priorities related and the funds that will be coming in from the federal level are to the construction of a new Kayenta Diversion Dam, a not enough to address all of the needs. The priorities will help multi-purpose facility, farmers market, gravel transport to narrow the overall project listing. The majority of the priorities and placement, water lines, power lines, house wiring, received so far are related to infrastructure development broadband infrastructure, water and waste water, heavy related to water, electricity, and roads,” said President Nez. equipment needs, judicial facility, and reimbursement for costs and losses incurred due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The American Rescue Plan Act provides $20 billion for tribes to help recover from the devastating impacts of Chilchinbeto Chapter Vice President Thomas Bradley the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. On May 10, the U.S. stated that water lines, bathroom additions, and house Department of the Treasury issued a letter requiring all tribal wiring for residents are the top three priorities for the governments to submit a request for funding through an American Rescue Plan Act. Chapter Manager Eugene online portal no later than May 24, in order to receive its share Badonie also provided an overview of other chapter projects of $1 billion that will be allocated equally among the tribes. including the development of a new c-store, multi-purpose

6 https://www.opvp.navajo-nsn.gov building, solid waste station, broadband, and others.

“We appreciate the efforts of all chapters to compile their priorities and submit them before the May 30 deadline. We have so many needs in our communities, but water, electricity, broadband, and capital projects are the most common. As we move forward through this process, we must continue to work together and support one another and keep in mind that we want these funds to provide long-term benefits for our people. I also thank our Division Directors for working with chapters and many others to move us forward,” stated Vice President Lizer.

The Nez-Lizer Administration will continue to meet with chapters and to provide support for the submis- sion of chapter priorities related to the American Rescue Plan Act. Chapters are encouraged to visit the Division of Community Development website for more information about submitting proposals: https://www.nndcd.org.

PRESIDENT NEZ PUSHES FOR NEW ERA IN TRIBAL ROADS AND FEDERAL RELATIONS DURING MEETING WITH WHITE HOUSE OFFICIALS

On May 19, Navajo Nation President Jonathan recommends seven specific federal policy changes to Nez met virtually with officials from the White House improve the Navajo Nation’s transportation system. to propose federal policy changes needed to allow the In total, there are currently 14,167 miles of Navajo Nation do what needs to be done to improve road roadway within the Navajo Nation, which includes nearly maintenance and construction across the Navajo Nation. 9,400 miles of earthen roads, 1,700 miles of paved highways, approximately 179 bridges, and five airports. Looking at Navajo roads through the lens of job creation, The Navajo Area BIA owns 42-percent of the roads, the President Nez spoke of how federal red tape delays Navajo Nation owns 34-percent, the state of Arizona owns 12-percent, and respective counties own 12-percent. infrastructure improvements and deters investments in the Navajo Nation, slows the process of creating The white paper puts forth seven requests for jobs and access to broadband, clean water, electricity, federal agencies, the White House, and other education, and other infrastructure needed to support federal government offices including: Navajo families, facilities, communities and businesses. • Resolve conflicts in agency authority and jurisdictions in order to protect our people, the environment, and indigenous cultural resources. • Harmonize agency guidance with federal law to make Diné roads safe. “Investors and entrepreneurs regularly present initiatives in • Provide flexibility to the Tribal Priority Allocations (TPA) that the BIA uses the hopes of creating jobs on the Navajo Nation, but soon for road maintenance so that TPA funds may also be used to fund tribal roads. leave due to poor infrastructure. Our lack of navigable roads • Ensure agency practices are consistent with policies to make the Navajo deters economic opportunities. Roads are the key to job road system equitable. • Protect the integrity of tribal roads funds so that they do not subsidize creation and we need certain policy changes to help advance non-tribal roads. new road projects and improve the overall transportation • Recognize that tribal bridges and roads present different exigencies of circumstance that require complimentary, not competitive funding system on the Navajo Nation,” said President Nez. sources. • Promote tribal sovereignty by retroceding Secretarial approval over tribes who have demonstrated their own capacity for federal regulatory In April, President Nez also met with U.S. Sec. of compliance. Transportation Pete Buttigieg and U.S. Deputy Asst. President Nez concluded his remarks by stating to the federal Sec. for Tribal Affairs Arlando Teller to present the officials, “I have identified for you today a few systemic Nez-Lizer Administration’s transportation white problems in tribal transportation that are the low hanging fruit paper titled, “Diné Atiin Bahane: Navajo Road — the problems within your reach to solve. It is important for Emergence,” which details specific challenges andyou to hear from a cross section of Indian Country. Indian successes related to recent transportation projects and Country is comprised of diverse tribes that vary in size,

Office of the President and Vice President 7 culture, topography and economies. Rest assured that tribal leaders like me and other large land-based tribes stand ready to partner with you to ensure that every dollar you invest in tribal roads can create new tribal jobs. The time is long overdue for the federal government to move beyond its colonial policies and practices that make nation building on tribal lands.”

In previous meetings with federal officials, President Nez has stated that the Navajo Nation has built up its capacity over many years to administer its own transportation programs, to fulfill our self-governance agreement with the U.S. Depart- ment of Transportation, and to put forth specific policy changes that would deliver a safer and more efficient transportation system that supports economic opportunities, emergency response services, access to education, and enhance the Navajo Nation’s overall ability to be more self-sufficient in the long-term.

The Diné Atiin Bahane: Navajo Road Emergence white paper is available online at: https://www.opvp.navajo-nsn. gov/News-Media/Latest-News.

NAVAJO TRANSIT SYSTEM RECEIVE 39 NEW HYBRID BUSES TO PROVIDE MORE TRANSPORTATION SERVICES AND REDUCE EMISSIONS

Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice the Navajo Nation on Monday, June 7. Bus fare will be waived President Myron Lizer were joined by Navajo Nation Division during the COVID-19 pandemic and seats will be limited due of General Services Executive Director Tom Platero, Navajo to the COVID-19 protocols. Transit System Manager Marcus Tulley and transit staff members at Navajo Veterans Memorial Park in Window Rock, The hybrid buses save fuel and reduce emissions Ariz. on Thursday, to mark the arrival of 39 new hybrid buses through regenerative braking. Electric motors make it easier to the Navajo Nation. In 2020, the Navajo Transit System was for the bus operators to control the buses. Each bus is also awarded a $6 million grant to acquire the new hybrid buses handicap accessible. through the Federal Transit Administration and in partnership with the New Mexico Department of Transportation. “It’s wonderful to see our Nation taking gradual steps to reopen our Nation while encouraging our people to “This is symbolic of the resilience and will of the continue taking precautions to stay safe and healthy. The staff Navajo people during the COVID-19 pandemic to overcome is excited to begin transporting passengers once again. Many the challenges we have faced and move forward together. It of our people rely on the Navajo Transit System for work, serves to not only benefit our communities, but to instill more school, essential services and items, and much more so this hope and pride in our people. The additional hybrid buses will certainly be very beneficial for all of our communities,” will allow Navajo Transit System to continue providing safe said Vice President Lizer. and reliable public transportation for Navajo elders, students, employees, and families. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, According to Navajo Transit System Manager their services were paused for the safety of staff members Marcus Tulley, transit services will have soft reopening and the general public. The Navajo Transit team will soon routes beginning June 7. All passengers must adhere to all resume their services and incorporate the new buses in COVID-19 preventative guidelines, such as wearing a face their daily routes to help with the overflow of commuters mask and practicing social distancing. Additional routes will due to lower capacity levels on the buses to promote social be available after July 6. distancing. Increasing the accessibility to services provides the need for health care, education, employment, recreation, For more information regarding available bus routes entertainment, and essential shopping and family errands,” or questions regarding the new COVID-19 safety protocols, said President Nez. contact (928) 729 – 4002 or visit navajotransit.navajo-nsn. gov. Navajo Transit System will begin transit services on

8 https://www.opvp.navajo-nsn.gov LOCAL NAVAJO LEADERS PRIORITIZE INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS TO CREATE LONG-TERM BENEFITS USING AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT FUNDS Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez, Vice President Myron Lizer, and Division Directors under the Nez-Lizer Administration continue to meet with leaders and officials from Navajo Nation chapters to hear the needs and priorities of their communities regarding the COVID-19 recovery efforts under the American Rescue Plan Act. On May 28, the Navajo Nation received its initial funding allocation from the American Rescue Plan Act totaling over $1.8 billion.

In April, the Nez-Lizer Administration also hosted virtual meetings with each of the five Navajo agencies to layout the process of submitting feasible/ construction ready project listings to the Division of Community Development to be considered for funding through the American Rescue Plan Act. All 110 chapters are required to submit their proposals through the Division of Community Development’s online portal by this week.

“This is the Navajo people’s money and that’s why Dilkon, Crownpoint, Tohatchi, Mexican Springs, Naschitti, we, along with Division Directors and Navajo Police Chief Bahastl’a’a’, Coyote Canyon, Thoreau, St. Michaels, Shiprock, Phillip Francisco, are going out to the communities to listen and Aneth and plans to meet with more. The Division of to the recovery needs related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Community Development has also invited members of the 24th Our administration has also developed a comprehensive Navajo Nation Council to the meetings as well. project listing that includes over 9,000 projects at a cost of “We appreciate all of the local leaders who put forth over $20 billion, so it’s clear that $1.8 billion will not meet the voice of the people as well as our Division Directors, all of the Nation’s priorities, but we have to do our best to Police Chief Francisco, and all of the employees who are leverage the funds to implement changes and improvements. committed to hearing from the communities. Generations The Navajo Nation has never received this amount of from now, our people are going to look back on this funding from the federal level at one time – this is possibly opportunity and ask what we accomplished. We are striving a once in a lifetime opportunity for our Nation to create to provide long-term improvements and benefits that will help changes and benefits for future generations. The common to empower our people and communities for generations priorities that we are hearing from the community level down the road. We also thank the 24th Navajo Nation include bathroom additions, rural addressing needs, water Council for all of the work they are doing and for taking the and power lines, warehouses to store supplies, broadband time to meet with us as well,” said Vice President Lizer. coverage, public safety, housing needs, waste management, The American Rescue Plan Act provides $20 billion road improvements, drought mitigation,” said President Nez. for tribes to help recover from the devastating impacts of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The Nez-Lizer Administration During the meetings, President Nez also will continue to meet with community leaders. Chapters are recommended that some of the funds from the American encouraged to visit the Division of Community Development Rescue Plan Act be used to complete projects that were website for more information about submitting proposals: previously funded through the Navajo Nation’s Síhasin Fund https://www.nndcd.org. in order to save for future needs.

As of Friday, the Nez-Lizer Administration has met with officials from Kayenta, Chilchinbeto, Tuba City, Chinle,

Office of the President and Vice President 9 FORMER AUDITOR GENERAL ELIZABETH BEGAY TO SERVE AS ACTING CONTROLLER

On May 20, Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer appointed Elizabeth Begay, former Navajo Nation Auditor General, to serve as the acting Controller for the Navajo Nation until a new Controller is appointed and confirmed. Former Controller Pearline Kirk was removed on Wednesday by a vote of the Navajo Nation Council.

Begay served as the Auditor General from 2007 until her retirement in 2018. She is a Certified Internal Auditor and a Certified Fraud Examiner. She began her service with the Navajo Nation in 1989 with the Division of Economic Development, and later served as a minerals auditor for the Minerals Audit Department before joining the Office of the Auditor General in 1991. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Commerce with a major in Economics and also studied Accounting at U.C. Berkeley.

“Elizabeth Begay has extensive experience and knowledge through her nearly 30 years of previous work for the Navajo Nation. As the former Auditor General, she upcoming budget season and with the anticipated American demonstrated great work ethic and promoted accountability Rescue Plan Act funds. We thank her and her family for related to audit findings and financial management. Her answering the call to duty once again for the Navajo people,” professionalism and commitment to serving the Navajo Vice President Lizer said. people will contribute greatly to the Office of the Controller and provide fiduciary stability for the Nation. With her Begay will assume her new role on Friday, May appointment, the functions and duties of the Office of the 21. The appointment of the acting Controller is subject Controller will continue for the benefit of the Navajo Nation. to the consent of the Budget and Finance Committee. We also assure our financial partners that the Navajo Once a new Controller is appointed, the appointment will Nation’s financial system and controls are stable and be subject to confirmation by the Navajo Nation Council. continue to function without interruption,” said President Nez.

Begay is originally from the Philippines. For nearly 30 years, she has been married to Calvin Begay, a member of the Navajo Nation, who is originally from Naschitti, N.M. Together, they have three children and six grandchildren.

“I’m humbled and I thank President Nez and Vice President Lizer for their confidence in me to serve as the acting Controller. I will do my best to serve to the full extent of my ability. I am looking forward to the challenge and will do my very best,” said Begay.

“We are confident that Elizabeth Begay will provide the guidance and expertise to ensure the daily operations of the Office of the Controller and as we proceed into the

10 https://www.opvp.navajo-nsn.gov PRESIDENT NEZ REQUESTS SPECIAL SESSION TO CONSIDER REOPENING ROADS FOR VISITORS TO ALLOW PARKS TO REOPEN AT 50% CAPACITY Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Nez also noted that in some cases, people President Myron Lizer are requesting the 24th Navajo who caught the virus are dealing with the long-term physical Nation Council to hold a special session to consider and mental health effects and are often referred to as “long rescinding Resolution CMA-16-20, which was approved haulers” due to the lengthy recovery time and lingering health by the Council in March 2020 and closed all Navajo Nation conditions. Vaccination rates are high on the Navajo Nation, roads to visitors and tourists. Rescinding the resolution but children 11 years and under are not yet vaccinated because will allow the Navajo Department of Health to proceed with the Federal Drug Administration has yet to authorize a vaccine issuing a new public health emergency order to reopen for younger children. He added that meeting a 70-percent herd Navajo Nation parks at 50-percent capacity, in accordance immunity level will allow the Navajo Nation to reopen more. with gating measures from the Department of Health. In response to concerns from Navajo business The request for the special session was issued in a owners who are requesting parks to reopen to draw in tourists, letter addressed to Speaker Seth Damon on Friday, in which President Nez said that the 50-percent capacity level is a President Nez and Vice President Lizer outlined their reasons reasonable compromise that will be revisited based on the for vetoing Resolution CJN-33-21, which was approved by the current “Yellow Status” gating criteria and measures from the Council on June 3 to allow parks to reopen at 100-percent Navajo Department of Health. They also stated that they would capacity despite growing concerns regarding overcrowding support business relief assistance under the American Rescue at many national parks across the country and mounting Plan Act as another option to help Navajo business owners to concerns over the growing spread of the Delta variant. recover from the economic impacts caused by the pandemic.

“The health and safety of our Navajo people has “We understand the struggles and challenges that been the number one priority throughout the COVID-19 Navajo business owners are facing because of the pandemic. pandemic. Based on the data and recommendations of our With this approach and if we receive the support of the public health experts, we feel that opening parks to everyone Council to rescind CMA-16-20, then we take measured steps at 50-percent capacity is feasible. That will allow us to monitor to reopen parks to our people and visitors. This could happen the impacts of reopening parks at limited capacity and in the next few days if our request for a special session is consider gradually increasing that capacity level from there. moved forward. We know the Council members have the We have to be very careful because we still have variants best intentions for our people and businesses and we ask in our communities. If we allow visitors into our Nation at for their support of this proposal,” said Vice President Lizer. 100-percent, we don’t know where they are coming from and if they are fully vaccinated, but our mask mandate will help to On Friday, the Navajo Department of Health issued keep people safe. By reopening through a new public health Public Health Emergency Order No. 2021-012 lifting the order, it allows our public health experts to continue the mask Navajo Nation’s stay-at-home order and replacing it with mandate for all Navajo Nation residents and visitors. It will be a safer-at-home order. It also allows social gatherings of incumbent upon the park owners and operators to ensure that 25 or fewer people, in-person trainings and meetings of all park visitors, tourists, and employees adhere to all public 25 or fewer people, traditional ceremonies of 25 or fewer health orders that are in effect and provide testing and other people, outdoor recreational events of 25 or fewer people, precautionary measures for workers,” said President Nez. churches and other houses of worship at limited capacity, and drive-thru gatherings up to 100 vehicles. Face masks are This week, the Centers for Disease Control and required for all gatherings, whether fully vaccinated or not. Prevention designated the COVID-19 Delta strain, also known as B.1.617.2, as a ‘variant of concern’ due to its growing spread around the world and in the United States. Researchers suggest that the Delta variant, which was first identified in the country of India, is even more transmissible and may cause more severe illness than other variants. Currently, the Navajo Nation has no confirmed cases of the Delta variant, but it has been identified in many areas including the city of Tucson, Ariz.

Office of the President and Vice President 11 NAVAJO NATION APPROVES PERMANENT TRUST FUND INCOME FIVE-YEAR EXPENDITURE PLAN TO HELP ENSURE FINANCIAL STABILITY AND DIRECT SERVICES Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez, First Lady ago by our former leaders for this exact purpose. Their Phefelia Nez, and Vice President Myron Lizer were joined by foresight and vision prepared us for this time when we would members of the 24th Navajo Nation Council as Resolution see declining revenues. With the previous five-year plan CAP-30-21 was signed into law on Friday, approving the that led to the development of shopping centers and travel Permanent Trust Fund Income five-year expenditure plan, centers in Nahata Dziil, Burnside, Shonto, Dennehotso and which allocates up to $40 million on an annual basis for other areas, we have created new jobs and revenue that are the next five years for the Navajo Nation’s Comprehensive contributing to our Nation as well,” said Vice President Lizer. Budget to provide more financial stability and maintain direct services. The funds will come from the annual interest earned The Nez-Lizer Administration will continue to work from the trust fund principal – not the Permanent Trust Fund with Divisions and the Council’s Standing Committees to principal, which would require a public referendum to use. prepare for the upcoming FY2022 Comprehensive Budget session. The event was live-streamed on the Nez-Lizer Council Delegates Raymond Smith, Jr., Elmer P. Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/NezLizer2018. Begay, and Otto Tso were also in attendance for the signing of the resolution to offer their support for the initiative. The legislation was approved by the 24th Navajo Nation Council by a vote of 20-2 on April 20.

During the State of the Navajo Nation Address on April 19, President Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer requested support for the legislation. They also thanked Council Delegate Jamie Henio, Chair of the Budget and Finance Committee, for sponsoring the legislation and co-sponsors Edison Wauneka and Jimmy Yellowhair.

“With the closure of the Navajo Generating Station and Kayenta Mine along with declining coal revenues, we have experienced a decrease in projected revenues. Working together with the Council, we’ve developed this new five-year plan to help cover direct services and provide for financial stability for the next five years. Speaker Damon, when he was the former Chair of the Budget and Finance Committee and when I was the Vice President, and I worked together to put together the first five-year plan that led to the completion of several economic development projects. With the latest five-year plan, we are focusing on the financial stability for the entire Navajo Nation and the delivery of services that provide assistance to our elders, youth, disabled, and many others,” said President Nez.

According to the resolution, up to $40 million from the annual income interest earned from the Permanent Trust Fund principal will be allocated for the Navajo Nation’s Comprehensive Budget for fiscal years 2022-2026. If the annual income interest exceeds $40 million, the excess funds shall become available to fund additional needs.

“The Permanent Trust Fund was established decades

12 https://www.opvp.navajo-nsn.gov PRESIDENT NEZ AND VICE PRESIDENT LIZER CONGRATULATE 325 NAVAJO NATION RETIREES FOR THEIR DEDICATION AND SERVICE Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez, First Lady Phefelia Nez, and Vice President Myron Lizer were joined by 24th Navajo Nation Council Delegate Jamie Henio, Navajo Nation Division of Human Resources Executive Director Dr. Perphelia Fowler, Miss Navajo Nation Shaandiin Parrish, and Retirement Plan Administrator Andrea Holmes to recognize and congratulate retirees during a virtual celebration that was live-streamed by the Navajo Nation TV & Film Office on the Nez-Lizer Facebook page and YouTube channel on Friday.

The event, hosted by the Navajo Nation Department of Retirement Services, recognized a total of 325 retirees for the years 2019 and 2020. In 2019, 187 employees retired, and in 2020, 138 employees retired from the Navajo Nation or other affiliated entities. The Navajo Nation also honored the 16 retirees who passed away from 2019 and 2020 and offered condolences to their families.

“Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we were not able and Navajo OSHA Program Supervisor Walter Hudson to celebrate their accomplishments in-person. However, provided the benediction. we are here today virtually to celebrate and recognize their many years of service and their immeasurable dedication to “For some, retirement can mean finding a new the Navajo Nation. Thank you, Ahe’hee’, for your dedication, purpose in life or renewing past hobbies or activities. Many compassion, and commitment. Each of you did not give up retirees will find new work, tasks, and responsibilities at and demonstrated strength and resilience for the younger home with family and friends. Work will continue at home generations. Each of you helped many Navajo elders and with family, livestock, and gardening, and we wish you families through critical thinking, comfort, and productivity. the best with your new journey. Thank you, and may God We pray for your new journey, and congratulations to you and bless you and your loved ones and continue to provide your families. We also honor and remember those who have new opportunities in life,” said Vice President Lizer. passed on – we thank their families, friends, and colleagues and offer our thoughts and prayers,” said President Nez. The Navajo Nation Virtual Retiree Celebration can be found online at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ “On behalf of the Office of the First Lady and UCaVvBu3N9P0O70X7S58yQ8Q/featured. Second Lady, we congratulate the retirees. Retirement marks the start of a new phase of life when you no longer need to show up at the office every day. Now, they will have more time for their children, grandchildren, livestock, gardening, volunteering, and to continue to make positive changes. So many of you are role models within your families and communities, and we hope you will continue to pass along your teachings,” said First Lady Nez.

Retirees were recognized based on their years of service that included 10 – 19 years of service, 20 - 29 years of service, 30 - 34 years of service, and 35 years or more. Arnold Chee served as the emcee, the invocation was conducted by Division of Human Resources Administrative Services Officer Lorraine Tabaha,

Office of the President and Vice President 13 NAVAJO NATION IMPLEMENTS STAGE 1 FIRE RESTRICTIONS

Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice (NNEPA) through a Navajo Nation EPA Burn Registration, five President Myron Lizer finalized an executive order on (5) days prior to the ceremony. Monday, implementing Stage 1 Fire Restrictions that outline prohibitions to help protect against more wildfires. To obtain a Burn Registration, please contact Navajo Nation The Navajo Nation has already experienced several fires EPA Air Quality at (928) 729-4246. Mail: NN Air Quality, PO this year that have threatened homes, farms, wildlife, Box 529, Fort Defiance, Arizona 86504, Fax (928) 729-4323 and other areas. The public is encouraged to report any or email [email protected]. wildfires to the BIA Fire Dispatch at (928) 729-2307. C. Persons with a written permit/bonding/license that “Everyone has a responsibility to use extreme specifically authorizes the otherwise prohibited act. caution and to abide by the fire restrictions that are now in place to protect our lands and communities and to help D. Persons conducting activities in those designated areas prevent the loss of wildlife and human life. The Navajo where the activity is specifically authorized by written posted Nation has already had several wildfires in recent weeks notice. that could’ve caused much more damage if it weren’t for the quick and collaborative response of our first responders from E. Any federal, state, or local officer or member of an various agencies. Please take the time to read the Stage 1 organized rescue or firefighting force in the performance of fire restrictions, let your family members and friends know, an official duty. and continue to be very cautious,” said President Nez. F. The implementation of low complexity prescribed fire which Executive Order No. 005-2021 states that the following are meets prescriptions approved by the Agency Administrator prohibited across the Navajo Nation: under an approved Burn Plan.

A. Possession, manufacturing, sale or use of fireworks “Be responsible, take precautions, and plan ahead. or other pyrotechnic device pursuant to 17 N.N.C. §2733 Another cause of fire stems from people who burn household trash out in the open. Burning trash in the open is a very B. Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, dangerous practice and can easily lead to a huge fire. We charcoal, coal; except campfires and charcoal to be used want our people to enjoy the outdoors, but we all have a role in developed sites where fire rings or grills are provided in protecting our lands and preventing wildfires. Please be safe and adhere to the fire restrictions,” said Vice President C. Using a firearm and incendiary devices, without a valid permit Lizer.

The following activities must use extreme caution: Executive Order No. 005-2021 is effective immediately and shall remain in effect until this order is rescinded or amended. A. Smoking, which is recommended only in permitted Any person or parties found guilty of violating the fire areas, within an enclosed vehicle, traditional and ceremonial restrictions may be fined up to $5,000 or provide restitution. uses, and while stopped in an area at least six feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.

The following activities are permitted:

A. Propane, gas or other petroleum-fueled stoves will be allowed for livestock branding.

B. Ceremonial fires, properly registered and permitted by the Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency

14 https://www.opvp.navajo-nsn.gov Office of the President and Vice President 15