Speaker's Report October 19, 2020

The 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL Office of the Speaker

Speaker’s Report October 19, 2020 HONORABLE SETH DAMON, SPEAKER OF THE NAVAJO NATION FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION Contents

Speaker’s Message 1 Reintegration Plan: A path toward personnel safety and continuing services 3 Tribal Consultation: Navajo resources planning during the pandemic 3 Quadrilateral Agreement: Promoting community involvement in renegotiations 3 Cultivating Understanding: Legislative response to hemp production 4 Relocation: Preserving funding and promoting rehabilitation 5 Communication: Agency update teleconferences during the pandemic 5 Situational Awareness: Continuing daily pandemic response reports for leadership 6 Food Distribution: Partnership with Saint Mary’s Food Bank 6 2020 Census: September outreach and staff deployment 6 Veterans: Focusing on helping hands and fiscal transparency 7 Sexual Assault Prevention: Creating pathways for victims and families 8 Diné Relatives: A commitment to those missing and murdered 8 New Mexico: General obligation bond needs Navajo votes 9 Chapter Distribution: Our untapped resource in this pandemic 10 Branch Technology: Identifying opportunities for advancement 10 Virtual Tribute: The 2020 National Navajo Code Talker Day collaborative effort 11 Wildfire Response: Quick action aids in coordination and communication 12 Program Reports 12 Office of Legislative Counsel 12 Office of Navajo Nation Human Rights Commission 14 Office of the Auditor General 15 Office of Navajo Government Development 21 Navajo Election Administration 28 Navajo Nation Ethics and Rules Office 33 Eastern Navajo Land Commission 37 Office of Eastern Navajo Land Commission 37 Navajo Nation Labor Commission 41 Navajo Utah Commission Office 42 Navajo-Hopi Land Commission 45

To my Honorable Colleagues of the 24th Navajo During this pandemic, we stay looking to our Nation Council, front-line heroes who have committed a great deal of their lives to our safety and health. Contained within this report is a survey of the Change continues to approach us, and we are Fourth Quarter of Fiscal Year 2020 of the Navajo blessed to have these protectors, educators, Nation Legislative Branch. It is presented to healers, investigators and many others who risk you with great humility as we continue to face much for our People. the coronavirus pandemic and the great tasks ahead of us. Please join me in expressing a deep appreciation for the collective efforts of our These past three months, we have seen many Nation to remain helpful and hopeful. We look delegates and local leaders rise to the challenge beyond the current moment and see a great of ensuring their communities are protected task in delivering the help and assistance that in whatever way they can. The Office of the the Navajo People need. Speaker has seen these efforts produce hopeful outcomes for families and communities across I am honored and humbled to be your Speaker the Navajo Nation. We have been honored to during this time. It is my prayer that our Nation be a part of that activity through the wide range heals, as we heal, and that we support the of coordination and collaboration activities that lasting good works that will carry us through. we have been entrusted to facilitate.

As we look back and assess the state of the Sincerely, Navajo Nation, we see many local heroes coming forward. We also see those who are no longer with us today, and we grieve together and pray that our Nation becomes stronger Seth Damon, Speaker together. 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL

The Office of the Speaker has embarked on a great effort to support the initiatives of the committees and members of the 24th Navajo Nation Council, both those related to the pandemic and those that existed before the coronavirus. At the same time, our team members continue to go above and beyond to ensure lines of partnership and constructive dialogue stay open. I hope you will join me in commending their dedication to the people of the Great Navajo Nation, and our relatives and colleagues in public service.

NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 Legislative Branch Office of the Speaker initiated of this opportunity to expand response to the a deep cleaning of Legislative public access to Legislative coronavirus pandemic Branch buildings and public Branch discussions, actions, spaces and further mandated votes and more. The Office of the Speaker, programs to establish remote The Office of the Speaker in partnership with and on work plans for employees. became a prime facilitator of behalf of the 24th Navajo This arrangement allowed disseminating time-sensitive Nation Council, has facilitated coordination and facilitation information and exchanges and coordinated a well- functions to continue even with local, state and federal rounded response to the risk throughout the extended leaders and administrators of exposure to the coronavirus. closure of the Legislative throughout the Navajo We immediately began Branch. Through the collective Nation and abroad. Through identifying program funds to efforts of staff, further our weekly teleconference allow our facilities maintenance screening measures were discussions with each of the staff to procure and install implemented and temperature five Navajo Agencies, local protective barriers in public- checks became mandatory Chapter leaders and their interfacing places in Legislative once the equipment was constituents were able to Branch offices. procured. reliably ask questions of their An automatic closure of With those basic measures in public servants. Legislative Branch offices place and with an investment This dedication to supporting and buildings has been in teleconferencing services local leaders and community implemented if and, at times, and video streaming tools, voices is a reflection of the when, notice of potential meetings were facilitated in Navajo Nation Council’s exposure was disclosed to the relative safety from remote persistent presence within the administration. This helped locations with minimal staff communities we represent. ensure our essential staff required on-site. Though council delegates may maintained access to office With the approval of not find themselves engaging resources with confidence that teleconferencing for official in debate and discussion within safe facilities were available. meetings by the 24th Navajo the Navajo Nation Council In the next implementation of Nation Council, the Office of Chamber, their voices are still preventative measures, the the Speaker has made full use counted and honored because they hail from all corners of Diné Bikéyah. We will continue to refine our preventive measures and reintegration plans in order to prepare for the eventual safe return of our colleagues and coworkers. Tribal Consultation: Navajo resources planning during the pandemic On October 1, 2020, the Navajo Nation Council

2 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION passed emergency legislation (Resolution No. CS-75-20) sponsored by Delegate Daniel Tso, requesting the Bureau of Land Management and the Bureau of Indian Affairs to immediately and indefinitely suspend planning activities for an amended resources management plan. The RMPA and associated Programmatic Agreement are two separate documents to which have subsequent results. The RMPA will be utilized as a managing tool that will be implemented if and when it is approved through a record of decision from the BLM and BIA as they are co-lead agencies for this management planning process. A programmatic agreement is an agreement document that confirms there are effects to natural and cultural resources to a proposed management planning area. The Navajo Nation Council affirmed the position that Navajo communities affected by the federal government’s management decisions continue to face within the 24th Navajo Nation territory of tribal nations severe challenges in holding Council confirmed otherwise consult with the tribes or meaningful discussions to with the passage of CS75- nations within the proposed areas that will be affected by 20. The Navajo Nation has area. With planning still this plan. Although the Navajo direct interest in this proposed continuing with the BLM and Nation Heritage and Historic management plan as it serves the BIA, the Navajo Nation Preservation stated they have as a signatory on the PA for Council is now demanding been working on a PA with affects to Navajo resources a meeting with both the the BIA and BLM regarding within the proposed area of Department of Interior, Navajo affects to Navajo Nations the RMPA. Within the federal Nation Council, Navajo natural and cultural resources guidelines in the National Nation Office of the President within the proposed RMPA Historic Preservation Act and Vice-President, Navajo affected areas (Northwest (NHPA)-provides guidance allottees, and both the BIA New Mexico), the leadership that any decision for federal and BLM to further address action within or aboriginal issues of jurisdiction, and the

2 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 3 and NPS further entered into a Bridge Agreement based on the Quadrilateral Agreement, the MOU and the execution of the Concession Contract and Business Site Lease. The imperativeness of the extension request and is to maintain consistency, and to make sure that the Navajo Nation continues to have adequate input and provide technical assistance to the local chapters and communities that are impacted by this agreement. affects to Navajo Nation of this Recreation Area. It also entails In continuing to be pro-active management plan. opportunities of economic on this initiative, a subsequent development within Antelope Quadrilateral task force has been introduced Point Marina, and the Rainbow into legislation sponsored by Agreement: Promoting Bridge Concession Area. Speaker Seth Damon, with community involvement Council Delegate Paul Begay ongoing consultation and input in renegotiations stated, “This legislation from western delegates and is critical for economic local communities. Navajo Nation Council development in the western Resolution No. CS-70-20 to Navajo region.” The region Cultivating request for an extension to the includes traditional Navajo Understanding: termination of a 50-year-old homelands which draw millions Legislative response to Quadrilateral Agreement put of visitors and tourists annually in place in 1970. The council from around the world. hemp production resolution was unanimously In 2003, the Navajo Nation approved on Friday, September 4, 2020, which was sponsored by Delegate Paul Begay. Throughout most of 2020, the Office of the Speaker and western agency delegates have been in teleconference meetings with local chapters and western agency council members. The agreement outlines the preservation of Navajo Nation’s rights, privileges, and remedies available by law with respect to co-management of the Glen Canyon National

4 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION The Bureau of Indian Affairs reported to the Resources and Development Committee on Wednesday, September 2, 2020. The report was an overview of the ramifications of cultivating HEMP on the Navajo Nation and on Navajo farmlands. The information provided was geared to ensure the communities along the San Juan River are well-informed on these ramifications of cultivating as it pertains to the cancellations of permits and subleasing outlined within the federal laws related to HEMP forum concluded with both request immediate transfer on tribal lands. the RDC and BIA outlining of not less than $15 million in Thereafter, on September the Navajo Nation codes and “excess” funds held by ONHIR 11, 2020, a radio forum was laws that are currently in place to the Navajo Rehabilitation conducted with collaboration for regulating farmland and Trust Fund (NRTF) to address with the Resources and agriculture dry land farming current needs of relocatees Development Committee permits. and relocation communities, and that ONHIR should remain to discuss the Navajo Relocation: Preserving Nation’s current policies open for a set period of ten and procedures on Hemp funding and promoting years to oversee a multi- production, which included rehabilitation agency program to redress a partnership with the New adverse impacts of relocation. In partnership with Other items addressed were Mexico State University, for the Navajo Hopi-Land research purposes of the that there should also be a Commission, the Office of the program to rehabilitate areas allocated plot within the Speaker successfully initiated Navajo Products Industry where development has been and established contact frozen for many years. ONHIR, Enterprise. The Bureau of with Senator Tom Udall on Indain Affairs presented on along with the Navajo Nation September 17, 2020 regarding and the following federal types of land use permits, for the Navajo-Hopi Settlement dry land farming, application agencies, should develop a Act of 1974 (“Relocation Act”, multi-agency rehabilitation processes and irrigated Pub. L. 93-531, as amended), farming plot procedures and plan to benefit the relocatees: the predecessor of the Office Interior, Housing and Urban policies. Further, the RDC and of Navajo and Hopi Indian BIA discussed the cancellation Development; Agriculture; Relocation (ONHIR) was Transportation; Environmental of these agriculture land use established to implement permits within farming areas Protection Agency; and a mandatory program of Commerce Department. as it pertains to authority, relocation of Navajo and Hopi probate and what the court ONHIR and each other agency families from land they had would be allocated an average proceedings are pending lived on for generations. cancellation of permits. The of $4 million/year over ten The discussion was to years to implement this plan,

4 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 5 bringing the total cost to $280 million. Finally, it was requested OHNIR work in an organized and coordinated manner to prepare for closure and transition of continuing functions including trust asset management. Communication: Agency update teleconferences during the pandemic During the coronavirus pandemic, the Office of the Speaker continues to identify and implement alternative measures to keep every portion of the Navajo Nation government operating from the 24th Navajo Nation Council to the chapter and community level. The Speaker’s office has responded to community concerns predominantly by listening to Covid-19 updates with local chapter leadership, which has fostered a positive working relationship in battling this pandemic. These weekly meetings allowed for dialogue about the challenges faced by each community facilitated by local leadership and community members. Topics covered by these weekly meetings have included local perspectives and reports from the following entities: the Health Care Command Center, the Navajo Department of Health, Indian Health Services, the Navajo Census, the Navajo Government Election Office, the Department of Dine’ Education, the

6 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION Division of Community Development, the Division of Economic Development, state government updates from Arizona, Utah and New Mexico representatives, Federal government updates, the Division of Public Safety and other Navajo enterprises and organizations. As the Covid-19 national pandemic continues, the Speaker’s Office will continue to partner with our divisions and chapter leadership, in getting out the most up-to-date information concerning the welfare of our This degree of situational practices. During the Covid-19 Navajo Nation. awareness has also propped pandemic, the Navajo Nation The Office of the Speaker up internal information has experienced an immense encourages the Navajo processes and practices. On need for food, water and public to contact their the recommendation of HCOC other necessities, causing the respective Agency legislative staff, Office of the Speaker staff St. Mary’s food distribution representative by calling the have initiated and completed one of the most important Office of the Speaker at (928) ICS-100 and -700 level services offered to our Navajo 871-7160. courses through the Federal communities. With the Navajo Emergency Management Nation’s “shelter at home” Situational Awareness: Agency (FEMA). orders still in effect, it is our Continuing daily These daily updates have priority to promote sustainable pandemic response become an invaluable source options to ensure our safe reports for leadership of factual information and and healthy throughout the assurance. Going forward, we process. The Office of the Office of the Speaker staff will continue to deliver these Speaker has assisted on food have issued more than 200 updates until the command distribution assisted with daily updates with council center dissolves. St. Mary’s food distribution, delegates and other branch including one in Window leaders through participation in Food Distribution: Rock held Sept. 30. This the daily debriefing meetings Partnership with Saint particular distribution served held by the Health Command Mary’s Food Bank an estimated amount 1,000 Operations Center personnel. boxes full of canned foods, These updates provide The Office of the Speaker rice, pasta, beans, packaged leadership with critical has explored methods of meat, frozen meat, and milk to decision making information building connections with Navajo families. with respect to the coronavirus industry partners, like the Saint pandemic. They also offer Mary’s Food Bank, to ensure 2020 Census: a glimpse into the way the food products are delivered September outreach and HCOC is functioning under to Navajo residents while staff deployment the command structure. promoting Covid-19 safety

6 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 7 During the distribution KTNN, KNDN, and KGAK. Each organizations to allot a one- process, the Office of the advertisement was performed hour break in order for all Speaker has also partnered by a different delegate who employees to fill out the 2020 with the Navajo Area Census was recorded in our office and Census. It was a challenging Office to ensure that every provided both Navajo and task, but we are proud of the Navajo citizen is counted English messages to Navajo 6.5% increase in self-response in the 2020 Census. Our residents throughout Arizona, rate that we identified initiatives included weekly New Mexico and Utah. The from our first 2020 Census advertisements in the Office of the Speaker also advertisement in the Navajo Navajo Times and Gallup assisted the Navajo Census Times. Independent that typically Office with the implementation included the current Navajo and advertising of Mobile Veterans: Focusing on Nation self-response rate, Questionnaire Assistance helping hands and fiscal information on how to Units in all 5 Navajo Agencies transparency complete the 2020 Census, where citizens could efficiently and an encouragement to complete a digital self- It has been important, complete the Census by the response questionnaire. especially during the pandemic 2020 deadline. As part of our As part of a final initiative to for the Office of Speaker, initiatives to encourage self- improve self-response rates, on behalf of the Council, to response from the public, the Office of the Speaker maintain its outreach with our the Office of the Speaker imitated a call for all Navajo Navajo veterans. Our veterans has also sponsored 2-minute Government, education, have sacrificed for their Nation radio advertisements on the enterprise and affiliated proudly and continue to lead Covid-19 relief efforts so it has been important for us to support them by ensuring they have all the resources they need. As part of our service to veterans, we are grateful to the combined efforts with veteran service organizations like Fort Veteran, the Mission Flyers, and the Goldwater Foundation, who have also been providing helping hands to our veterans on the Navajo Nation. These organizations, as well as the other non-profit partners in our network, serve veterans at the state and federal level. Over the past quarter, the Council’s intention has mainly been to make sure there is transparency with the Veterans Trust Fund through equitable funding management

8 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION and supplemental resource provisions. The Office of the Speaker has also worked tirelessly with the Resources and Development to assist Navajo veterans, their spouses, children and widows in securing federal benefits. We also value utilizing our role as the governing body of the Navajo Nation to keep our veterans informed on any legislative activity that may affect them. Part of our support also involves working with the Navajo Area Indian Health Prevention: Creating Nathaniel Brown, and members Service and the U.S. Veterans pathways for victims Paul Begay, Eugene Tso, Vince Administration to coordinate and families James, and Wilson Stewart health care services for Jr. met periodically during the veterans and collect the The Office of the Speaker pandemic via teleconference necessary data to strengthen has worked with Council to continue operations. our advocacy efforts. Delegates in the Sexual Initiatives under the SAP More specifically, our office Assault Prevention (SAP) Subcommittee are aimed at supports and commends the Subcommittee to provide them building resources for victims efforts of Council Delegate support to continue their work of all ages and their families Kee Allen Begay, Jr. and his to prevent sexual violence is a key component in healing determination to bring health during the coronavirus our Nation and will remain care for veterans to the Navajo pandemic. Namely, our office a priority for the Office of Nation. We also appreciate has coordinated strategic the Speaker and the SAP the dedicated support planning sessions, provided Subcommittee into the next and advocacy of Council mechanisms to convene quarter. Delegates in the Health and with national partners, and Locally, the SAP Human services committees developed resources for the Subcommittee works with the including Chairman Daniel SAP Subcommittee to save our criminal justice system to help Tso, Vice-Chairman Carl children and heal our Nation provide welfare checks, multi- Slater, Paul Begay, Pernell from trauma. The Covid-19 disciplinary teams and child Halona, Charlaine Tso, and pandemic has created protective teams to provide Edison Wauneka. We feel additional challenges and trauma informed care. The SAP it is important to honor our sexual assault has increased subcommittee is also taking veterans and to support their with the stay at home order steps to bring tribal, state, and advocacy for increased and compelling SAP Subcommittee federal agencies together to improved services for them operations essential. make sure our youngest victims and their families. The SAP Subcommittee are properly cared for while includes Chairwoman Amber they are in school. Sexual Assault Crotty, Vice Chairman Chairwoman Crotty will

8 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 9 continue working with the Speaker’s Office commends Office of the Speaker to seek Delegate Crotty for her efforts funding for a child advocacy in identifying resources and center that would provide developing mechanisms to trauma informed care wrap help families find their loved around services to any family ones. or victim of crime who may require service. New Mexico: General obligation bond needs Diné Relatives: A Navajo votes commitment to those missing and murdered General Obligation bonds (“GOB”) come before the The Office of the Speaker voters of New Mexico every continues to partner with two years. There are no tax Council Delegate Amber increases associated with Kanazbah Crotty in her efforts GOB. GOB is a proven and to help families of Missing and accepted method of funding Murdered Diné Relatives. Our bricks and mortar projects Office has helped advocate to throughout the state. Through both Congress and the White successful lobbying efforts House over the past couple of by the Office of the Speaker, years while working directly voters will have an opportunity with families impacted by a to vote for several capital loved one who is either missing improvement projects that or has been murdered. She will benefit the citizens of the has recently been working on Navajo Nation. Among other a monthly basis with families projects throughout the state, of missing persons to improve the following projects on the and expand the Navajo Nation Nation have been specifically Amber Alert system. This designated for funding by the system will also provide a tool sale of Bond Issue A, if passed for law enforcement entities to by the voters: track and analyze information • Alamo Senior Center- by creating a data institute, Vehicles $76,000 establishing local protocols • Alamo Senior Center- for search efforts, providing Equipment $36,503 guidance to the Navajo Nation • Baahaali CHP Senior justice system. As such, we Center-Renovation $810,000 hope to continue to facilitate • Baca CHP Senior Center- meetings with the Operation Improvement for Code Lady Justice task force to $22,000 give recommendations for • Chichiltah CHP Senior our federal partners for better Ctr-Improvements for Code coordinated response system $950,000 for generations to come. The • Crownpoint CHP Sr Ctr- Improvement for Code

10 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION Center-Planning $350,000 • Total: $11,951,606.00. If passed, Bond Issue C on the ballot will fund Diné College Shiprock Agricultural Multipurpose Center- Construction for $1,300,000 and Navajo Tech Univ Science & Trades Building Renovation for $1,400,000, for a total of $2,700,000.00. Please encourage your New Mexico constituents to vote YES on the bond questions in this year’s ballot. Branch Technology: Identifying opportunities for advancement The Legislative Branch computer network The purpose and goal of the Information Technology Section is to increase use of technology within the legislative branch and to help make the legislative process more efficient and effective for the Navajo Nation Council and to the public. The IT Section $880,000 • Pueblo Pintado CHP Senior is responsible for technical • Crownpoint CHP Senior Center -Construction support to the voting system Center-Renovation $101,100 $2,800,000 used in the council chambers. • Crystal CHP Senior Center- • Ramah CHP Senior Center The voting system is used Vehicles $50,000 -Construction $380,000 for Naabik’íyáti’ Committee • Manuelito CHP Senior • Red Rock CHP Senior meetings and Navajo Nation Center-Planning $110,000 Center -Construction- Council regular and special • Mariano Lake CHP Senior $1,420,000 sessions. The microphone Center-Construction • Smith Lake CHP Senior system is used for Navajo $1,614,293 Center -Renovation Nation Council sessions, • Mexican Springs CHP $800,000 Naabik’íyáti’ Committee Senior Center-Improvement • Thoreau CHP Senior meetings and committee for Code $213,000 Center-Improvement for meetings that are held in the • Nageezi Senior Center- Code 1,000,000 council chambers. We also Planning $338,710 • Tohatchi CHP Senior have a portable microphone

10 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 11 system and a portable PA system used for Naabik’íyáti’ Committee meetings and Navajo Nation Council sessions that are held off- site. The web streaming of the Navajo Nation Council regular and special sessions and Naabik’íyáti’ Committee meetings has been brought in-house. The streaming is now taking place on Vimeo, YouTube and Facebook. Support to the Navajo Nation Council, Naa’bik’iyati and Standing Committees The IT staff is responsible for technical support to the Navajo Nation Council, Naabik’íyáti’ Committee and the other committees. We also digitally record the Council and Naabik’íyáti’ sessions for archive purposes. We also assist with the equipment for interpreting the meetings from Navajo to English. The IT Section has been providing technical support for the Council, Naabik’íyáti’ Committee and the committees during the meeting notices and agendas, after employees leave and Covid-19 crisis. This includes press releases and legislation transfer of documents from setting up teleconferencing onto the Navajo Nation prior laptops to new laptops. and video conferencing Council website and daily Assistance has been provided meetings from various remote computer support for network for teleconference calls locations. users. and video conference calls to various offices and for Legislative network Legislative network support maintenance committee, sub-committee The IT Section also and other meetings during Other IT duties handled by provides technical support the Covid-19 pandemic crisis. the IT Section staff include to legislative staff, which The Legislative IT staff have day-to-day maintenance and includes the various programs been working both from the support of our servers, various within the legislative branch. office and remotely during printers, wireless networks We also assist in the backup the Covid-19 office shutdown. and access points, posting of and retrieval of documents We have been replacing the

12 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION legislation that are undergoing the 5-day comment period as mandated by Title 2. We are currently expecting to update the appearance of the website with the assistance of the Public Information Section. A website redesign project has begun and is still in progress. Virtual Tribute: The 2020 National Navajo Code Talker Day laptops within the Office of equipment is replaced. Training collaborative eff ort the Speaker and the Office of on cybersecurity will resume Legislative Services, including to Legislative Branch programs The Office of the Speaker the Administration, Legislative once the Stay at Home order observed the Navajo Nation Tracking, Legislative Process, is lifted. Councils first-ever virtual Quality Control/Research National Navajo Code Talker’s Legislative Branch website and the Council Delegates’ Day on Aug. 14, 2020. The Office. The new laptops have During the 4th quarter Navajo Nation has observed the Windows 10 operating of FY 2020, the IT Section Navajo Nation Code Talker system and Microsoft Office has been busy keeping the Day every year since 2005, 2019 Professional as well as website for the 24th Navajo which typically features Symantec EndPoint Protection Nation Council (www. activities, guest speakers, and anti-virus software installed on navajonationcouncil.org) honorary events for the more them. Laptops, workstations updated. The IT Section is than 400 Navajo men who and printers have been setup responsible for updating and served as Code Talkers across as new employees are hired maintaining press releases, the Pacific during World War II. in the various legislative meeting agendas, committee However, the event was programs and as older information and current moved to a virtual platform that included the Navajo Nation Council’s Facebook, Youtube, Vimeo, and other social media platforms. The event featured 29 videos from Council Delegates, Congressional Delegation, military personnel, and other guests who voiced their appreciation for the sacrifices of the Navajo Code Talkers. The videos compiled on the Navajo Nation Council’s media platforms reached as many as 94 thousand viewers and greatly increased the

12 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 13 Navajo Nation Council’s social local community leaders media following by over 2,000 for rendering their skills followers. and service to keep our communities safe from fire. Wildfire Response: Quick action aids in coordination and # communication The Woodsprings 2 fire required a fluid and coordinated response at a local level. Office of the Speaker staff immediately began drawing on local connections to: • Identify an incident command center at Ganado and Window Rock; • Coordinated with Delegate Vince James and Wilson Stewart to keep communities informed of the fire status; • Worked directly with BIA Tribal Liaison Cheryl Curley on fire updates and coordination; • Partnered with the BIA to disseminate critical information quickly. Notably, Delegate James and Delegate Wilson coordinated water donations for those affected or displaced. The Office of the Speaker thanks our staff for providing these functions in addition to the demands of their day-today roles within the Legislative Branch. We also recognize and honor the Southwest Area Incident Management Team 5, BIA Wildland Fire and Aviation Management, Navajo Regional Fire Dispatch and

14 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION Commission, Ethics and Rules the effect of the Navajo Nation Program Office and Office of Legislative President’s Line Veto. Reports Services. This quarter the Office of Legislative Counsel with the SIGNIFICANT Navajo Nation Council and its ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR Standing Committee included 4th QUARTER – FY 2020 priorities of the Navajo Nation The primary statutory Government established by the responsibilities for the Office of three branch agreement aimed Legislative Counsel are to: at strengthening and fostering OFFICE OF Provide legal advice and LEGISLATIVE the Navajo Nation Care Act legislative services to the laws, policies and enduring COUNSEL Navajo Nation Council, relationships to better meet the standing committees, Dana Bobroff needs of the Navajo people commissions, and boards of Chief Legislative Counsel and between the three branch the Navajo Nation Council. [email protected] government. Provide legal advice and P: (928) 871-7166 The Office of Legislative representation to all Legislative F: (928) 871-7576 Counsel staff attorneys all took Branch programs, including the lead on the Conditions of Office of the Speaker, Auditor To provide legal advice Appropriation representations General, Government and legislative services to in a number of areas of Development, Human Rights the Navajo Nation Council, Committee oversight. Commission, Ethics and Rules standing committees, Office of Legislative Counsel Office and Office of Legislative commissions, and boards of continued to provide legal Services. the Navajo Nation Council. guidance and advice to This quarter the major To provide legal advice and various Legislative Branch legislative concerns included representation to all Legislative Sub-Committees, boards, Care Funds legislations, the Branch programs, including task forces, commissions Navajo Nation budget process Office of the Speaker, Auditor and offices at various and the enactment of the General, Government teleconference meeting as Fiscal Year 2021 Navajo Nation Development, Human Rights requested. As such the Title 2 Comprehensive Budget; and Reform, Navajo Sexual Assault

COUNCIL READIES CARES FUND EXPENDITURES FOR WATER, POWER COUNCIL APPROVES $650 MILLION IN IMMEDIATE EXPENDITURES today! LINES, BROADBAND, HEALTHCARE, HARDSHIP ASSISTANCE, OTHERS FOR CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC MITIGATION AND RELIEF NAVAJO NATION SELF-RESPONSE RATE

A special message comments to: NAVAJO NATION CARES FUND PROPOSED over a 4-day series Committee continued Navajo Nation EXPENDITURES AUTHORIZED FROM $714 MILLION NAVAJO NATION CARES FUND THROUGH expenditure a necessary from Speaker Seth comments@ EXPENDITURES IN LEGISLATION NO. 0144-20 of meetings that to refine Legislation No. Council approves RESOLUTION NO. CJY-67-20 cost in addressing the Damon On May navajo-nsn.gov. began on Jul. 16. 0144-20 on Jul. 28 and Legislation No. Judicial Branch CJN-47-20 coronavirus pandemic. Ofc. of the Controller $9.6M $41M 5, President Trump Please stay “[M]y colleagues approved it with a vote 0144-20, with CJN-46-20 “With each announced during a home, stay safe, $10.5M and I have worked of 22 in favor and 0 amendments The $20M successive amendment Vendor Support $21M press event that the wear your face $62M diligently around opposed. 24th Navajo Nation Navajo Dept. of Health and with the “This is your chance to make sure you Navajo Nation would covering in APPROVED the clock to Council unanimously $75.8M discussions brought JUNE 2020 Navajo Nation be receiving more than public, practice strengthen the Council The 24th approved Friday, Jul. forward by President are counted in the 2020 Census. Every $600 million in federal social distancing language and have Navajo Nation Council 31, a coronavirus Nez and Chief Justice 15.8%*As of 8/9/20 Coronavirus Aid, and let’s beat made additions (COVID-19) relief bill JoAnn Jayne, this Navajo person should be counted! received Legislation No. Navajo Business Water Relief, and Economic COVID-19 $169M that are critical totaling $650,980,101 legislation has become a Hardship Assistance 0144-20 at its special Support Projects Our schools, hospitals, roads, Stimulus (CARES) together. for Navajo People to addressing the session on Jul. 28. in Navajo Nation $60M $130M stronger representation NATIONAL SELF-RESPONSE RATE: 63.3% Act funding. The next Navajo Nation immediate public With amendments, the CARES Funding with of the true needs of the infrastructure - they count on you!” day, May 6, the Navajo health needs more than $75 million Navajo People,” said Council $189.5M proposed legislation Vendors Support The Navajo Nation self-response rate measures how many households that Nation Office of the introduces Water Projects of our Nation. included the following in immediate support $829k Council Delegate Carl have answered the 2020 Census compared to the total number of housing - Council Delegate Edison Wauneka, Vice Chair of the Controller confirmed COVID-19 $32.5M As we prepare updated proposed for the Navajo Nation Roessel Slater, co- units that were mailed or delivered questionnaires on the Navajo Nation. Navajo Business Support NNGE a series of payments response this legislation expenditure plans: Department of Health, Support sponsor of Legislation Navajo Nation Census 2020 Complete Count Commission had been received for Council $130 million for water No. 0144-20. “With Let’s get to a 100% Navajo Nation self-response rate! proposals for $22M 1. Water Projects $24.6M from the federal consideration, I projects, $44 million for nearly three months water projects, Healthcare Facilities Expenditure Plan government totaling power lines urge my colleagues power line projects, $68 Housing Powerline of work sessions, $43.4M $189,505,095 Projects $600,559,530.10. and broadband $69.3M and President million for broadband Projects Naabik’íyáti’ Committee WHY? Solar Electricity Projects Powerline Projects 2. Power $44.2M The total amount the Legislation Nez to push this internet projects and a $33.4M meetings, and hundreds line Projects Navajo Nation has No. 0144-20, $83.2M through with the remaining $330 million of public comments Broadband Projects Expenditure Plan 1. Census data is used to allocate billions of received, to date, equals “Approving and utmost urgency for expenditures that and input, this plan $30.8M $43,370,832 $714,189,631.47. Adopting the Solid Waste Plan so we can finally mitigate the effects of puts forward a strong dollars of federal, state and private funding $62M Approved Broadband On May 7, I had the get relief aid 3. Broadband- the ongoing pandemic Payroll Support position in providing Navajo Nation $650,130,101 Proposed Projects honor of introducing to our Navajo Telecommunication on the Navajo Nation. Program immediate economic Coronavirus $2M Unallocated $68.2M 2. Schools, roads, veterans services, the Navajo Nation Aid, Relief, communities. Projects “On behalf of the $91M relief and strong public CARES Fund Act and Economic Federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Stimulus (CARES) They have waited Expenditure Plan 24th Navajo Nation Solid Waste Projects health protections for healthcare services and numerous other Act Coronavirus Relief Funding A total of $714,189,631.47 in federal Solar Power Projects $24M (Resolution No. CMY- Security (CARES) too long,” said $83,224,989 Council, I am honored our Nation.” funding was received by the Navajo Nation to respond to the coronavirus. $24M resources are determined using Census 44-20) that set in place Act Fund Delegate Crotty. 4. Solid Waste to present this “Every council the framework to get The 24th Navajo Nation Council created the Navajo Nation CARES Fund Council historic $650 million delegate reached data Expenditure on May 15 through Resolution No. CMY-44-20, with the goal of spending Expenditure Plan $1.15M Unallocated the entire amount of Delegate Carl expenditure package beyond their individual Plans for Water funds quickly. The Council approved more than $62 million for hazard $30,773,000 650,980,101 $600 million spent with Roessel Slater that provides for the Navajo Nation Council Authorized Expenditures from Navajo Nation CARES Fund A total of $ regions and came Projects, Power pay for front-line responders, personal protective equipment, facility safety 5. Solar Projects in Navajo Nation CARES Funding was authorized by the 24th Navajo Nation Council on Jul. 31, 2020 through CJY-67-20. 3. Your Census answers are protected and the direct involvement assurance, care packages of food, water and basic necessities, bathroom proposed a further most comprehensive together to understand line Projects Expenditure Plan of our local leaders, additions and upgrades, assistance for healthcare facilities and other amendment immediate relief our moment together, and Electric Project: Expenditure Plan: CJN-47-20, as line-item each other and the cannot be used for law enforcement and Broadband- $69,295,910 internal programs and Telecommunica- immediate COVID-19 response expenditures. for over $69 Navajo People have ever we will look back and $850,000. $24,600,000; vetoed by the Navajo Navajo Nation’s own purposes non-governmental million for received,” said Navajo see the strength it took • Navajo Nation Parks Nation President. experts and partners,” tions Projects” and repair, long range amendments to update 6. Health Care The approved organizations—such the development Nation Council Speaker to move forward.” and Recreation: Those expenditures are said Council Delegate began consideration by water planning, and project exhibits and to Facilities expenditures as non-profits. After and installation of Seth Damon. “Months The approved $828,637; comprised of hazard/ Nathaniel Brown, co- the 24th Navajo Nation assistance to the DWR add expenditures for Expenditure Plan for broadband a mandatory 5-day solar projects to of constant effort by expenditures for • Office of the special duty pay for sponsor of Legislation Council’s HEHSC on buildings and supplies. solar power units. $22,036,016 telecommunications HOW TO ANSWER THE public comment period, provide electricity council delegates, water projects total Controller Quality front-line responders No. 0144-20. “With our Jul. 6. $36,456,395 would 7. Dineh Chamber projects total the legislation was Resources and to underserved division directors, $130,005,095: Assurance Funding: and essential personnel, traditional teachings Health, Education, be allotted for first-year of Commerce $68,224,989: approved by the Law Development communities. The goal program managers, $20,008,798. personal protective in mind, we face the 2020 CENSUS and Human projects for power line $32,500,000 • Department of and Order Committee, Committee (RDC) is to provide power for local Chapter leaders equipment (PPE) coronavirus and learn Services Committee projects. An additional Water Resources: • NTUA Wireless Amendments the Budget and Finance Delegate Crotty over 1,500 homes. 8. Hardship and our expert partners purchases, disinfection the importance of our (HEHSC) Sponsor $158,325,161 would $87,485,860; Projects: included $9,633,863 BY PHONE Committee and the indicated that the “[O]btaining rights- Assistance has gone into this of public offices, care old way of life. Diné Council Delegate be prioritized with • NTUA Wastewater $32,848,207; to support the Judicial Naabik’íyáti’ Committee legislation would of-ways for even simple Expenditure Plan legislation. This was packages of food, water bina’nítin, our Navajo Amber Kanazbah an extension. Power Projects: • Navajo Nation Branch, $75,836,016 by May 15. At a special ensure that Navajo projects in areas where $168,961,759 a collective effort that and basic necessities, teachings, tell us about Provide answers to the questionnaire to a Crotty presented the line projects include, $18,635,000; Department of to support the Navajo session, the 24th communities received power lines may be 9. Parks and brought to the surface telework upgrades for the reverence and proposed legislation, service line extensions/ • Whitehorse Lake– Information Dept. of Health, $60 Census interviewer over the phone using Navajo Nation Council necessary water nearby can still be Recreation all the underlying, government employees, respect for all living which included an agreements, rights-of- Sand Springs Water Technology Projects: million to support approved the Navajo infrastructure through cumbersome due to Expenditure Plan systemic challenges, bathroom additions and things that we are your unique Census ID found on your initial allocation of way, service drop lines, Supply Pipeline: $3,400,000; Navajo businesses and Nation CARES Fund the funding of regional existing regulations $10,462,500 like lack of running upgrades, assistance beginning to rediscover $594,449,922 from house wiring, meter $937,712; • Navajo Technical artisans through the questionnaire. Act on May 19. projects, to ensure that posed by the federal water and access to for Public Law 93-638 and follow again. This the CARES Act for looping, trunk lines, The 24th Navajo • NTUA Cistern University (NTU) Division of Economic These have been people are better able government. This is a electricity, that are healthcare facilities vote is the voice of the water, power line and transmission upgrades Nation Council Systems: Broadband Development, only a few of the actions to maintain a hygienic way around it,” said common throughout and improvements Navajo People, and BY MAIL broadband projects. and more. The must still consider $20,946,523; Development Team: $69,295,910 to support taken by the 24 Council household. Delegate Slater. the Navajo Nation. This to the procurement it will go a very long Division of Community Legislation No. 0144- • Tóhajiilee-ABQ $470,000; NTUA and Native Delegates that represent Initially, $64,226,317 RDC also identified The projects will legislation begins to processing system for way in combating Development (DCD) 20 and have extended Water Supply Line: • NTU Campus Renewables residential Fill out the questionnaire United States Postal the 110 Navajo Nation was designated for agricultural water enable Navajo families directly address those expenditures. the coronavirus and would administer the an invitation to both $2,000,000. Support Projects: solar electricity system Chapters in response first-year water initiatives that promote to better store and obstacles we face, The Navajo Nation anything that might Service mail drop box funds. President Jonathan $7,634,533; installations and to COVID-19. On projects. An additional self-sufficiency and preserve food, heating as Navajo People, in Council has authorized threaten us in the $30,920,636 Nez and Chief Justice The approved • Native Broadcast $33,423,914 to support an individual basis, $291,907,869 would be economic development. of water and use basic protecting the health $713,039,631 in Navajo future.” would be immediately JoAnn Jayne to present expenditures for power Enterprise Support: housing projects in each ONLINE every delegate has prioritized for future RDC will serve as the home appliances. of our own homes and Nation CARES Fund Once Speaker Damon allocated for building proposals to the Council line projects total $393,670; Navajo Nation chapter. prepared care packages, water projects if the legislative oversight This will further help communities.” expenditures in total. certifies Legislation out broadband access as it moves to approve $44,220,832: • Diné College The expenditures conducted no-contact CARES Act deadline committee for CARES families make fewer “Our hope, as The Navajo Nation No. 0144-20, it will be 2020census.gov and telecommunication the funding package. Campus Support: were authorized from deliveries, arranged was extended. The Act funds managed by long-distance supply Navajo leaders, is for • NTUA Power Council deliberated delivered to the Office of capacity. Broadband All CARES Fund- $8,478,579; the Navajo Nation for propane, coal, food, Department of Water the Division of Natural trips into bordertowns the healing of our Line Projects: telephonically for 28 the President and Vice internet access has also related meeting of the • Non-tribal owned CARES Fund, which IN-PERSON INTERVIEW water, hay, feminine Resources (DWR) Resources. and will help lower relatives, our friends, $13,897,562; hours on Legislation President for signature been a major concern 24th Navajo Nation telecommunication is comprised of hygiene products, would be responsible RDC approved the risk of exposure to and our People,” said • NTUA Electrical No. 0144-20. Speaker and enactment, regular for the 24th Navajo Council and the carriers support: $714,189,631 received sewed cloth face masks for implementing Legislation No. 0144- COVID-19. Council Delegate Amber Grid Capacity Damon presided from veto, or line-item 2020 Census takers will follow-up with Nation Council. Proper standing committees is $15,000,000. through the federal and acted as leadership the expenditure 20 on Jul. 9 along During the course of Kanazbah Crotty, Development the Navajo Nation veto. The resolution access will enable more broadcast online and is CARES Act. The households that have not recorded a on behalf of their plan, including any with an amendment the four-day discussion, sponsor of Legislation Projects: Other approved Council Chamber in automatically becomes remote options for available to view on the Navajo Nation CARES community members. grants or contracts for $41 million to additional amendments No. 0144-20. “This $24,747,269; expenditures include: Window Rock. Prior law after ten days of response. Please complete this interview! education, telehealth, Navajo Nation Council’s Fund was previously Our work continues necessary for projects. support a solid waste included separate comprehensive package • Jemez Mountain to the legislation, the receiving it and if no public safety and more. social media websites • Navajo Nation established through as the Dec. 30 deadline There are additional management program, proposals for solid includes the most Electric Coop. Naabik’íyáti’ Committee action was taken. The goal of these on Vimeo, Youtube and EPA Solid Waste Resolution No. CMY- to spend CARES Act projects that would which has been a waste projects, solar essential needs facing Projects: $163,723; conducted more than Discussions of the Language accommodations proposed projects is Facebook. Support Funding: 44-20, as line-item funds grows nearer and be eligible for CARES barrier in combating projects, parks and the Navajo People that • Continental a dozen open work Navajo Nation Council available for each option to address current Legislation of the $23,973,000; vetoed by the Navajo nearer. We invite you Act funds, including COVID-19 in Navajo recreation economic have been exacerbated Divide Electric sessions and follow- are streamed online and infrastructure issues Navajo Nation Council • Navajo Nation Nation President. to continue submitting support for water communities. assistance, hardship by the coronavirus Coop. Projects: up meetings spanning through social media. exacerbated by the can also be accessed Payroll Support The Navajo Nation your public comments haulers, the Gallup Naabik’íyáti’ assistance, health care pandemic. These past $1,062,278; hundreds of hours. Archived videos can COVID-19 pandemic. online through the Funding: Council authorized on legislation through water project, OMB Committee The facilities projects and months have been some • Ramah-Pine Following the federal be found on the Navajo MORE INFORMATION The projects would also Diné Bibeehaz’áanii $90,928,047; prior expenditures the Navajo Nation’s only subsidies, livestock Naabik’íyáti’ Committee Dineh Chamber of of the hardest we have Hill Campus CARES Act and U.S. Nation Council’s Vimeo, help ensure that Navajo Binaaltsoos (DiBB) • Hardships totaling $62,059,530 official commenting windmills repair and began consideration of Commerce economic faced as a Nation. But Electric Projects: Treasury guidelines, Youtube and Facebook 2020census.gov people are protected legislative tracking Assistance: $1,000; through Resolution system, which can be replacements, water Legislation No. 0144- projects. just like our ancestors, $3,500,000; the Navajo Nation websites. from future outbreaks. system: dibb.nnols.org. • Navajo Nation Nos. CJN-46-20 and accessed by emailing well infrastructure 20 expenditure plans The Naabik’íyáti’ we will get through this • Sand Springs South Council considered each or 1-800-923-8282 HEHSC approved ### Gaming Enterprise # www.navajonationcouncil.org — [email protected] www.navajonationcouncil.org — [email protected] PAID FOR BY THE NAVAJO NATION OFFICE OF THE SPEAKER

Answer the 2020 Census! Answer the 2020 Census! Respond to the 2020 Census!

NATIONAL SELF-RESPONSE RATE: 63.8% 18.3% Complete the NAVAJO NATION SELF-RESPONSE RATE 2020 Census online! *As of 8/31/20 www.my2020census.gov

Or by phone at: 16.9% 1-844-330-2020 NAVAJO NATION SELF-RESPONSE RATE *As of 8/16/20 Help shape the Navajo “Shidine’é, this is our chance to be counted! Answering the 2020 Census is an important part of our duty and The Navajo Nation self-response rate measures how many households Nation’s future in as little responsibility to each other. Let’s all take a few minutes to that have answered the 2020 Census compared to the total number of housing units that were mailed or delivered questionnaires on the complete the 2020 Census online, through the phone, by Navajo Nation. as 10 minutes mailing it in or by completing an in-person interview!” 17.6% That’s a 0.7% increase from last week. Let’s get to a - Miss Navajo 2019-2020 Shaandiin Parrish NAVAJO NATION SELF-RESPONSE RATE 100% Navajo Nation self-response rate! *As of 8/24/20 The Navajo Nation self-response rate measures how many households that have answered the T’ÁÁ‘ÁNÍILTSO EVERYONE COUNTS. DINÉ NAALTAHÍGÍÍ TAKING PART IS 2020 Census compared to the total number MORE INFORMATION of housing units that were mailed or delivered The goal of this census is to count questionnaires on the Navajo Nation. 2020census.gov NIHIŁ’ÍÍDÓOLTAH. every living person in the U.S. once, YÉEGO NAASILÁGO DÓÓ YOUR CIVIC DUTY. or 1-800-923-8282 Biniyé diné wóllta’ígíí U.S. biyi’ diné naaldeehígíí only once, and in the right place. Completing the census is required; t’áá ‘ałtso t’áá łáhádi, t’áá łáadádi t’éiyáa We need your help to make sure NÍDEIT’I’. it is a way to participate in our PAID FOR BY THE NAVAJO NATION OFFICE OF THE SPEAKER deiidóotah da’ólta’góne’ haas’íshíí naagháhígi everyone in your community gets Diné nídawóltahgo naaltsoos hazhdiił’įįh éí t’áá democracy and say “I count!” bił ‘íídóoltah. ‘Áłká’adiijah diné kéédahat’íídi counted. íiyisíí bee haz’á. Éí binahjį’ “shídó’ shił ólta’!” ‘ał’ąą ‘ádaat’éhígíí t’áá ałtso bił da’íídóoltah. jiníigo nihinahat’a’ bee atah neilnishgo át’é. YOUR INFORMATION NAVAJO NATION EMERGENCY DINÉ WOLTA’ÍGÍÍ CENSUS DATA ARE NANÍDEIKIDÍGII DOO IS CONFIDENTIAL. MANAGEMENT COMMISSION ‘AŁHIIDZOHGO YÉEGO IMPORTANT. HAIDA BIŁ NÁHODOONÍ Federal law protects your responses. The U.S. Constitution requires a census Your answers can only be used to BÍDZIILGO ‘ÍLÍ. every 10 years. The results are used DA. produce statistics and cannot be U.S. Bee Haz’áanii aláahdi bíhólníihii ts’ídá yee to determine the number of seats Wááshindoon bibeehaz’áanii bee nída’ólta’go used against you by any government ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR COMMISSIONERS has’á neeznáá nínáhahgo diné wólta’doo each state has in Congress, draw nahódíkidgo hojoolne’ígíí baa áháyá. agency or court. ní. Da’óltahdóó bik’ijį’ dayéélta’ii naalkah éí boundaries for voting districts, and Nanídídíkidgo hwíínílne’ígíí éí nída’éélta’go The Navajo Nation Emergency Management Commission’s purpose is to binahjį’ nitsaa hadahwiisdzodéé’ naat’áanii determine how more than $675 dayéélta’ígíí baa hane’ bee na’anish dóó coordinate emergency and disaster relief services by the Navajo Nation and non- haashíí néelt’e’go Naat’áanii bee haz’áanii billion in federal funding is spent in wááshindoon binaanish bił naha’ánídéé’ doo ádeił’íní danilíi doo, áádóó Wááshindoondéé’ communities each year. nik’ijį’ yee nidadoolnish da. tribal entities together with the Navajo Department of Emergency Management. $675 mííltsoh dóó bi’áán béeso nínáhahgo diné kéédahat’íidi ał’ąą ádaat’éhígíí ninádadit’ááh. Six appointments will be made, one HOW TO APPLY Find Navajo language Find Navajo language with technical expertise in each of the following areas: Send resume and letter of interest (LOI) instructions and videos online: instructions and videos online: to: Navajo Nation Office of the Speaker • Civil Defense/Law Enforcement PO Box 3390 https://2020census.gov/nv.html https://2020census.gov/nv.html • First Aid/Health Window Rock, Arizona 86515 • Fire fighting • Environmental Materials may be emailed to: • Broadcast and Print Media [email protected] • Elected Official MORE INFORMATION MORE INFORMATION 2020census.gov 2020census.gov or 1-800-923-8282 or 1-800-923-8282 For more information, call: (928) 871-7160 Materials must be received by the Office of the Speaker by October 2, 2020 at 5 p.m. MDT PAID FOR BY THE NAVAJO NATION OFFICE OF THE SPEAKER PAID FOR BY THE NAVAJO NATION OFFICE OF THE SPEAKER

Prevention, State Task Force, drafting of legislation, attend three (3) days summer session Gaming and Navajo Indian all NNC regular and special on 7/20,7/21 & 7/22, eight (8) Irrigation Project. meetings. This quarter the Budget Hearing and three (3) During this quarter, Office staff attended fourteen (14) of Navajo Nation Council budget of Legislative Counsel the Naabik’íyáti’ Committee session. continued to address all regular/special meetings and Meetings are assigned issues concerning the five (5) NNC special meeting, among the staff for better

16 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION Respond Online: Respond Online: Have you answered the 2020 Census? Timemy2020census.gov is runningmy2020census.gov out to answer the 2020 Census! Answer the “Shi Diné, we have two weeks left to respond, I am encouraging each and every Diné person respond and have your family counted in the 2020 Census. 2020 Census by Your self-response matters because it helps to ensure that your community is represented when it comes time to allocate funding and resources. This count of all people in the country the September 30 happens once every ten years, and we all have to do our part to answer the 2020 Census. The power to brighten the Navajo future is in your hands.”

deadline! - 24th Navajo Nation Council Delegate Amber Kanazbah Crotty

“Shidine’é, it takes no more than 10 minutes on average to complete the 2020 Census! Answer the census today so that we are seen, heard and NAVAJO NATION SELF-RESPONSE RATE counted, T’áá shoodí!”

NAVAJO NATION SELF-RESPONSE RATE - 24th Navajo Nation Council Delegate 3 easy ways to Nathaniel Brown self-respond: Answering just 12 questions will help “Self-responding to the 2020 Census is important to us, as a Nation. When a shape the future of the person is identified on the 2020 Census as By Phone Diné, or Navajo, that count is what adds 844-330-2020 Navajo Nation 18.9% up to the total number of Navajo People 20.2% NAVAJO NATION SELF-RESPONSE RATE across the country. Do your part and take *As of 09/21/2020 *As of 9/7/20 a few minutes to answer the 2020 Census by filling out and mailing the form, 19.6% *As of 09/14/2020 calling 1-844-330-2020, completing the Online NATIONAL SELF-RESPONSE RATE Only a few more days remain questionnaire online at my2020census. gov or through an in-person follow up my2020census.gov in the nationwide 2020 Census with a Census worker. Be sure to include count to respond. our elders and children in the 2020 65.9% Census by responding by September 30!” Every household and Navajo By Mail Respond to an in- Mail your paper Respond online: Respond by phone: – 24th Navajo Nation Council Delegate person representative questionnaire my2020census.gov 844-330-2020 person needs to be counted. Raymond Smith, Jr. Fill out and mail the paper questionnaire in the return envelope left at your home Visit 2020census.gov to learn about the 2020 Census! Respond now at: RESPOND BY THE Respond by the my2020census.gov SEPTEMBER 30 DEADLINE! September 30 deadline! PAID FOR BY THE NAVAJO NATION OFFICE OF THE SPEAKER PAID FOR BY THE NAVAJO NATION OFFICE OF THE SPEAKER PAID FOR BY THE NAVAJO NATION OFFICE OF THE SPEAKER

Department of Justice to researching legal issues and NAVAJO NATION CARES FUND avoid duplication of work and teleconference call for Council Hardship Assistance conflicting legal advice and Sessions, standing committee Program opinion. meetings and work sessions. PRE-ANNOUNCEMENT The Navajo Nation CARES Fund Hardship Assistance Program, as Perform all duties and The Chief Legislative Counsel established by the Navajo Nation Council (CJY-67-20), provides direct emergency financial support to enrolled Navajo tribal members of the Navajo Nation who have experienced hardship as a result of the responsibilities in accordance has participated in two of coronavirus pandemic. Hardship assistance will be available to those who complete a paper or online application (to be announced) and with the highest standards of staff meeting conducted by who meet the criteria under a self-certification process. GENERAL INFORMATION legal ethics. the Office of the Speaker. As Each applicant must: Attached is a numerical such most of the discussion 1. Possess a valid Navajo tribal enrollment document. Certificate of Indian Blood (CIB) information is accessible through the Office of Vital breakdown of the Office was preparing for the budget Records and Information: https://www.novri.navajo-nsn.gov/ 2. Complete a hardship assistance application. Applicants must self- certify that a hardship or expense was incurred due to the coronavirus of Legislative Counsel’s session, review of the Navajo pandemic. Under federal law, this is not a stimulus program. 3. Provide accurate contact information. Assistance will be delivered services to the Navajo Nation Nation Summer Session. primarily through printed check mailed to a listed mailing address to reduce fraud. Applicants may reside on or off the Navajo Nation. Eligible applicants who Council, standing committees, turned 18 before March 1, 2020, may apply for up to $1,500 and applicants OLC GOALS AND PRIORITIES who turned 18 after March 1, 2020, may apply for up to $500 in hardship subcommittees, commissions assistance. Dependents, as defined by the IRS, may be included in the FOR 4th QUARTER – FY 2020 parent/guardian’s application. To offset technology access limitations, the Navajo Nation Council has mandated that priority be established for and boards of the Navajo senior citizens, aged 65 or over, those with special needs and those with disabilities. More information to be announced. Nation Council, as well as Hired two positions for Expected application open date: to the Legislative Branch Principal Tribal Court Attorney November 3, 2020 and Senior Tribal Court For more information, email: [email protected]. programs. Public announcement will be shared on local radio, local newspapers, and online. Follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter: Navajo Nation Council. The Office of Legislative Attorney during this quarter. Counsel filled two positions Continue efforts to assist coordination within Office this quarter for the Principal clients in identifying and of Legislative Counsel to Tribal Court Advocate and resolving inefficiencies that allow the Chief Legislative Senior Tribal Court Advocate adversely affect Office of Counsel and attorney staff an and interviewed for the Office Legislative Counsel efforts to opportunity to weigh in on Assistant position. OLC provide services. important issues. continues to provide services The Office of Legislative Coordinate with the include drafting legislations, Counsel led the way in working

16 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 17 through the legal effects of the the supervision and direction Commissioner (Education Care Act funds. This has been of the Speaker of the Navajo sector) an incredible period of time. Nation Council. • Steven A. Darden, Waiting The Office of Legislative Attend legislative strategy Confirmation (Business Counsel staff attorneys meeting with Office of the sector) continue to participate in all of Speaker staff to provide legal • VACANT, Commissioner the teleconference meetings. advice and guidance relative (Law Enforcement sector) Chief Legislative Counsel to setting administrative • Cora Maxx-Phillips, and staff attorneys continue objectives and legislative Waiting Confirmation to provide legal assistance to requirement. (Social Service sector) Navajo Nation Council during The Office of Legislative • VACANT, Commissioner its Summer Session held on Counsel will be developing (At-Large sector) July 20, 21 & 22, 2020. Five (5) recommendation for the Section One: special sessions were held this implementation of the Accomplishments from 4th quarter. comprehensive budget to be Quarter Other related action was considered during the 2020 approving the comprehensive Summer Session of the 24th Reviewed Citizen budget for FY 2021. Navajo Nation Council. Complaints: The Office of Effort was taken to get Navajo Nation Human Rights continued resolution in place. Commission (“Office”) These are just some highlights continues to receive new of the major issues the Navajo complaints during the fourth Nation Council dealt with. quarter. However, due to Covid-19 on the Navajo ISSUES AND OFFICE OF NAVAJO Nation, a majority of the intake RECOMMENDATIONS NATION HUMAN meetings were conducted The most challenging issues RIGHTS COMMISSION by teleconference and the facing Office of Legislative complaints were staffed for Counsel are the increase in Leonard Gorman investigation. meetings, e.g., leadership Executive Director Public Hearing on the meetings, and the increase in leonardgorman@navajo- Mistreatment of Navajo and legislations requests caused nsn.gov Native American Students by the introduction of on-line (928) 871-7436 On the Navajo Nation: filing. https://www.nnhrc.navajo- The Navajo Nation Human Work session to Navajo nsn.gov/ Rights Commission and Nation Council, its standing 2 N.N.C. § 920 and § Navajo Nation Department of committee, legislative branch 921. The Navajo Nation Education (DODE) held one employees on the recently Human Rights Commission (1) zoom public hearings, due funding of the Navajo Nation is established within the to Covid-19, to address the Care Act funds expenditure Legislative Branch to operate mistreatment of Navajo and approved by the Navajo Nation as a clearinghouse entity Native American students on Council. to administratively address the Navajo Nation according The Office of Legislative discriminatory actions against to Naabik’íyáti’k’iyáti’ Council attorneys have citizens of the Navajo Nation, Committee Resolution No. drafted numerous resolutions and to interface with human NABI-87-18. concerning legislative rights organizations. Personal Protective administrative matters under • Dr. Jennifer Denetdale, Equipment: Due to Covid-19,

18 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION the Office purchased personal will reassess the border town nsn.gov protective equipment (“PPE”) policing in light of the national (928) 871-6303 during the fourth quarter in concern on police reform. Due www.navajoauditor.org preparation for the reopening to COVD-19, the Office will be The Office of the Auditor of the Navajo Nation examining the best method to General conducts internal government. Several PPEs conduct the public hearing to audits of Navajo Nation are on back order. The Office ensure the safety of public. programs, departments, anticipates the PPE should be Covid-19 Impacts: This chapters, entities and vendors. ready for delivery/pick-up by Office will assess the financial SUMMARY December 2020. impacts on border towns due 2020 Census Fair: The Rural to the pandemic lockdowns Accomplishments from Utah Project, Navajo Utah imposed by the Navajo Nation FY2020 Fourth Quarter: 7 Commission and Commission government. In addition, this reports held a 2020 U.S. Census Fair Office will communicate and Program/Chapter audits/ and invited San Juan County, coordinate with State, Federal Investigations – 3 Utah Navajo Residents to and United Nation bodies Indian Wells Chapter Special complete their questionnaire on assessing racism post Review online in targeted community Covid-19. Tohatchi Chapter Special areas on the Navajo Nation in Section Three: Issues/ Review Utah. Recommendations Fraud Examination of Voting Rights Issues 6B Rollout: With the move the Facilities Maintenance The Office continues to towards full implementation of Department (CONFIDENTIAL) work on voting rights issues the FMIS system, this Office in Utah’s San Juan County has not met the requirements Follow-up on Corrective and New Mexico. The Office to begin submitting personnel Action Plan Implementation – 4 continues to communicate with and budgetary/fiscal expenses Whitecone Chapter 2nd the County Clerk’s Offices on online. Currently, only one Corrective Action Plan Follow- the importantce of protecting person in the Office has up Review (Sanction Revisit) and advancing Navajo voting completed all the online Teec Nos Pos Chapter 2nd rights such as language trainings that are required to Corrective Action Plan Follow- assistance that is provided by be 6B Rollout Certified. The up Review (Sanction Revisit) law under Section 203 of the remaining staff of the Office Hardrock Chapter Voting Rights Act of 1964. still has several more trainings Corrective Action Plan Follow- to complete. up Review Section Two: Goals for 1st Department of Water Quarter Resources Corrective Action Continue to Receive Plan Follow-up Review Complaints: This Office Goals for FY2021 First will continue to assess and Quarter (planned/ongoing investigate filed complaint projects and activities) by Navajos on or about OFFICE OF THE discrimination and human AUDITOR GENERAL Navajo Head Start rights violations off the Navajo Performance Audit Helen Brown, CFE Nation. Department of Fish and Principal Auditor/Delegated Conduct Public Hearing on Wildlife Performance Audit Auditor General Law Enforcement: This Office Department of Fleet auditorgeneral@navajo-

18 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 19 Management Internal Audit chapter information or other performing special reviews and Office of the Controller consulting services. Requested investigations. FMIS Address Book/Accounts for new laptops from the Audit concerns, findings Payable Duplicate Payment Department of Information and recommendations are Follow-ups Technology as part of the individually presented in Internal Audits of Counselor, CARES Act initiatives; laptops the audit reports and made Red Rock, Torreon/Star Lake are for telecommuting staff. available to the audited and Tolani Lake Chapters Continue to assist the programs’ management, Revisits of sanctioned Administrative Service Centers oversight committees and chapters: Ramah Navajo, on chapter matters; make the Budget and Finance Sawmill and Leupp Chapters recommendations for subject Committee of the Navajo Tohajiilee Chapter matter experts on MIP systems Nation Council for appropriate Corrective Action Plan Follow- and how to enhance internal action. The Office of the up Review controls. Auditor General conducts Available Fund Balances for Working with challenges post audit follow-up reviews 110 Chapters as of June 30, presented by the Covid-19 to ensure that management 2020 pandemic and the Navajo has implemented corrective Outsource more chapter Nation’s priorities involving actions to address reported audits and performance audits the CARES Act funds; most audit findings. Unless restricted of Navajo Nation depts/ programs and chapters are by law or regulation, copies of programs; will need to issue part of these priorities and thus audit reports are available for various request for proposals unavailable for audit purposes. public inspection. to utilize consulting budget PURPOSE OF THE OFFICE PROGRAM Issues/Recommendations The purpose of the Office ACCOMPLISHMENTS Filled vacant Associate of the Auditor General is to Audits and Reviews of Auditor positions (2), new examine and evaluate the Programs/Navajo Nation employees started Oct. 2020; adequacy of management Chapters only Auditor General position and accounting systems, Our audit work in the is vacant, one applicant and procedures, business program performance will need to coordinate with practices and internal controls area includes full scope the Office of the Speaker to including but not limited performance audits, limited convene interview panel. to: 1) conducting financial scope performance audits, Submission of MIP backups related audits of Navajo special reviews/investigations by some Navajo Nation Nation Chapters, entities and and corrective action plan Chapters are taking too long; contractors in accordance (CAP) follow-up reviews. some chapters have not with Government Auditing Our audit work in the chapter consistently provided backups Standards; 2) conducting area includes full scope and/or in the required format for performance audits and limited scope financial related several reporting periods. reviews of Navajo Nation audits, special investigations, Replacement of dated government programs, CAP follow-up reviews, desktops is in progress; the departments, and entities in LGA certification reviews slow process hindered the accordance with Government and continuous monitoring issuance of the Chapter Auditing Standards; 3) and continuous auditing of available funds quarterly providing a wide variety chapters’ accounting systems reports, and curtailed our of consulting services to and bank accounts. ability to meet requests for the Navajo Nation; and 4)

20 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION Completed Audits/Reviews resume applicable audits after completion Audits: the Navajo Nation government Office of the Controller/ Indian Wells Chapter Special reopened. The Delegated Duplicate Payment CAP Review Report no. 20-10 issued Auditor General participated follow-up Report pending Sept. 2020 in various meetings via completion Tohatchi Chapter Special teleconference calls to address Ramah Navajo Chapter 2nd Review Report no. 20-16 issued chapter-related matters, CAP follow-up review/sanction Sept 2020 provide status reports on revisit Planning phase in pending audits/corrective progress CAP Follow-Up Reviews: actions plans, to share audit- Sawmill Chapter 4th CAP Whitecone Chapter 2nd related information, and to follow-up review/sanction Follow-up Review Report no. answer questions. revisit Fieldwork phase in progress 20-11 issued Sept 2020 UPCOMING PLANS/ Leupp Chapter 3rd CAP Teec Nos Pos Chapter 2nd INITIATIVES Follow-up Review Report no. follow-up review/sanction Planned and Ongoing 20-12 issued Sept 2020 revisit Planning phase in Audits/Investigations of Hardrock Chapter Follow-up progress Programs/Chapters Review Report no. 20-14 issued Tohajiilee Chapter CAP follow-up review Planning Sept 2020 Audits: Department of Water phase in progress Navajo Head Start Resources Follow-up Review Performance Audit Report Report no. 20-15 issued Other: pending completion FY2020 3rd quarter Chapter Sept.2020 Department of Fish and Available Funds report Wildlife Performance Audit Planning phase in progress Investigations (Confidential Report pending completion reports): Department of Fleet Fraud examination of Proposed Corrective Action Management Performance Plans under Review Facilities Maintenance Dept. Audit Planning phase in Report no. 20-13 issued Sept. CHAPTERS: PROGRAMS: progress Baca Prewitt Chapter 2020 Counselor Chapter Internal Accounting and Department of Family Services Audit Planning phase in Round Rock Chapter Management Related Non- progress Audit Services Navajo Transit System Red Rock Chapter Internal Red Mesa Chapter Facilities Audit Planning phase in In addition to conducting Maintenance Department progress Lukachukai Chapter audits, we provide non-audit Torreon/Star Lake Chapter services to the Navajo Nation Food Distribution Program Internal Audit Planning phase Standing Rock Chapter Council committees, executive in progress management, and chapters. Nahata Dziil Chapter Tolani Lake Chapter Internal Shonto Chapter During this quarter, the Office Audit Planning phase in of the Auditor General staff progress STAFFING AND VACANCIES was limited in participating in The Office of the Auditor meetings due to the Covid-19 CAP Follow-Up Review: General has a budget for 15 pandemic. Meetings were Office of the Controller/ employees. There are two conducted with clients FMIS Address Book CAP administrative staff members, (chapters and programs) to follow-up Report pending the Auditor General and twelve

20 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 21 auditors. As of the 4th quarter, request for records, inquiries for staff to adhere to for there is only one vacant and meetings are taking longer everyone’s safety while at position which is the Auditor which delays the audits. the office. The additional General. Two Associate Auditor Management not available procedures have to become a positions were filled during to address audit issues new normal. this quarter with one new due to other priorities and Audits are conducted in employee starting on October commitments. For example, we teams so with staff all working 1, 2020 and the remaining have two follow-up reviews for remotely, team members have employee scheduled to start as the Office of the Controller but to share multiple copies of the of October 26, 2020 pending the Controller has been very same files in order to share approval by the Department of busy with other priorities such their audit work; it becomes a Personnel Management. as administering the CARES tedious process to consolidate Act funding. the duplicate files once the CHALLENGES/ Working in a contact-less project is completed. ADAPTATIONS DUE TO Covid-19 PANDEMIC Like many other Navajo Nation departments and programs, our office has been impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. We continue to experience various challenges since the Navajo Nation government reopened and the need to adapt on how we perform audits/reviews as a result of these challenges. Challenges: Inability to meet program performance measures when we cannot conduct audits due to government closure. All audit clients are within the environment with clients; Some staff experienced Executive Branch and staff we are more dependent on laptop issues and our office were placed on administrative emails, teleconference calls, had to rely on the Legislative leave during the closure so our and other digital means of Branch IT staff to help address office was informed no one obtaining information for these issues. was available to assist with audits but internet connectivity Additional procedures had to the audits. Consequently, our can be problematic for some be established to protect office office did not meet established chapters. Some chapters also laptops from computer viruses performance measures. do not have equipment such as due to staff using unsecured Trying to complete audits scanners to provide records in home Wi-Fi networks. that were left unfinished when electronic format. Hiring and training new the government closed and Telecommuting and employees while staff are working with chapters and reintegration plans have added telecommuting. programs who have other more protocols, procedures Staff with health issues or priorities. Responses to our

22 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION have family members with over unsecured internet abuse of the Navajo Nation health issues still have some connections. financial resources. hesitation to returning to the The staff are using other To implement the Budget office full-time. options such as Facetime or and Finance Committee Zoom to communicate with resolution, the chapters Adaptations: colleagues and clients. were directed to submit the Adherence to new office Other ongoing challenges back-up of their accounting protocol required by the CDC have been: a) the lack of a data on or by the 15th of the guidelines to ensure everyone’s permanent Auditor General month following the end of safety with regards to the is requiring the Delegated the quarter. However, several Covid-19 pandemic has been Auditor General to continue chapters are consistently late time-consuming and stressful to split duties between in submitting their accounting at times. Staff understands that completing/supervising data. To address the untimely new procedures add time to program audits and overseeing submission, we recommend their daily tasks but necessary. operations of the department, two options: Staff were assigned to two and b) the process to replace All chapters to use the teams to work alternating dated laptops was slow and private cloud service for their schedules and adapted to work lengthy only to be denied by financial accounting systems. both in the office and at home. the Office of the Controller The cloud service will better Audit work is being due to insufficient funding safeguard the chapters performed remotely so at the end of the fiscal year; accounting system and that requires staff to obtain as an alternative solution, facilitate the timely access of information/records in we submitted a request for the chapters accounting data. electronic format; these files laptops to the Department of However, the cloud service have to be scanned to ensure Information Technology as part is contingent upon sufficient they are free of potential of the CARES Act initiatives for internet connectivity at the computer viruses and to telecommuting Navajo Nation chapter houses but due to protect laptops. employees. poor information technology Staff communication with infrastructure, this would be a MAJOR ISSUES AND the office is mostly done with long-term solution. RECOMMENDATIONS emails; staff had to learn and Remote access connection implement a time reporting The Budget and Finance between the Office of the process via emails to report Committee Resolution BFJA- Auditor General and the their clock in/out times. 05-12 directed all chapters to Navajo Nation chapters via The office had to acquire a grant the Office of the Auditor their MIP accounting systems. conference line with an access General read-only or view- The connection would require code to allow auditors to only access to their financial establishing a process for communicate with each other accounting systems and accessing the remote systems, as team members and with related bank accounts. The an agreement between the clients. view-only access will facilitate Auditor General and chapters The office is exploring the the continuous monitoring to permit the remote access, option of acquiring a Drop-Box and auditing of the chapters’ sufficient internet connectivity, service to allow audit clients financial resources. Continuous and availability of the remote to upload their files for audit monitoring and auditing will systems to be accessed at the purposes via a website; this better enable the Office of the scheduled times. would eliminate the need for Auditor General to prevent In addition, the preparation clients to email their records and mitigate fraud, waste and

22 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 23 of the quarterly reports of within the Administrative Quarter: the 110 chapters available Service Centers in order to The Commission passed fund balances is a tedious provide technical assistance Resolution No. CNGD-0701- and time-consuming process to the chapters. This would 20: an action to support that currently involves three alleviate the need for chapters Navajo Nation Council auditors. The numbers of hours to seek assistance from outside Legislation 0153-20: an spent on compiling these consultants which can become action relating to Budget reports makes up one-fourth costly. and Finance, Law and Order, of the total annual budgeted Lastly, our office is working Naabik’íyáti’k’íyáti’ Committee hours for the assigned with the Wells Fargo Bank and Navajo Nation Council; auditors; in other words, these to address our chapter bank amending 2 N.N.C § 164(a)(17) hours are not spent directly on account access credentials; to include the budget line- conducting audits. We offer the they have not been restored item veto authority language following recommendations after the cyber-attack on approved by Navajo voters to facilitate more efficient our computer network in through initiative election in reporting: November 2019. Wells Fargo 2009 As of this report, we Bank manages the bank The Commission passed understand all 110 chapters accounts for a majority of the Resolution No. CNGD-0702- will eventually be using the Navajo Nation Chapters. There 20: an action to direct the MIP accounting system. If so, is also an issue of bank service office of Navajo Government we recommend that all 110 fees incurred by our office for Development to prudently chapters be required to use our monthly retrieval of bank research the Navajo Nation a standard chart of accounts statements and canceled President and Vice-President for their accounting systems. checks; these fees are being salary pursuant to 2 N.N.C By standardizing the chart of subsidized by some chapters, § 1008 for possible salary accounts, our office would be as Office of the Auditor increase consideration via more efficient in compiling the General discovered. We are a referendum measure and Chapter fund balances for our working with Wells Fargo Bank report research findings to the quarterly reporting. Currently, to address this issue and may Commission within 30 days there are several chapters that result in reimbursement to the The Commission passed use different charts and as a chapters. Resolution No. CNGD-0205- result, we have to manually 20: an action to approve convert their financial data to amendments to the Rules of make it consistent with the Procedure for the Commission other chapters. This conversion on Navajo Government is tedious but necessary in Development order to provide reliable OFFICE OF NAVAJO The Commission passed reports. GOVERNMENT Resolution No. CNGD-0802- In addition, with all 110 20: an action to recommend to Navajo Nation chapters using DEVELOPMENT the Navajo Nation Council and the MIP accounting system, we Edward Dee the Navajo Board of Election recommend that the Division Executive Director Supervisors to approve and of Community Development [email protected] authorize a referendum invest resources in creating P: (928) 871-6378 measure at the Navajo Subject Matter Experts on Nation General Election on Section One: the MIP accounting software whether the Navajo Chapter Accomplishments from 4th

24 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION Government should be subject Naabik’íyáti’k’íyáti’ Committee experienced infrequent legal to reform and the Navajo Nation support and service for the The Commission passed Council; Confirming the past four years as it relates to Resolution No. CNGD-0902- Appointment of Mr. Harrison government reform counsels. 20: an action to recommend Tsosie to the Commission The office does get limited to the 24th Navajo Nation on Navajo Government support from the Office of Council and the Navajo Development for a Term of Two Legislative Counsel. To that Board of Election Supervisors Years as the Representative for end, the Office will again to approve and authorize a the Judicial Branch. submit another Request for referendum ballot measure to The Office will monitor Proposals for professional legal the Navajo people to approve Legislation No. 0243-20: services. a salary adjustment for the An Act Relating to Law and Purpose & Authority Navajo Nation President and Order, Naabik’íyáti’k’íyáti’ Vice-President during the and Navajo Nation Council; 2 N.N.C. Article 3. 2020 Navajo Nation General Amending 2 N.N.C. §§ 970- Commission on Navajo Election. 978, Commission on Navajo Government Development & The Office did not directly Government Development Office of Navajo Government interact with the public during and the Office of Navajo Development the Covid-19 pandemic Government Development. The Commission on Navajo government closure and there The ONGD staff has Government Development were also no direct services partnered with Diné Policy (CNGD) is a special entity to chapter officials, delegates, Institute to conduct a Covid-19 created by the Navajo and other elected officials. Navajo Nation Chapter Nation Council with quasi- government research project independent authority to Section Two: Goals for 1st to analyze Chapter and Local accomplish the Council’s Quarter in FY2021: Government response to the project of instituting reforms The Commission and Office pandemic. necessary to ensure an will continue to work with accountable and responsible Honorable Delegate Eugene Section Three: Issues/ government. The purpose of Tso in his effort to explore Recommendations: the Commission and Office Navajo central government The Office and Commission is to review and evaluate all reform establishing are concerned to find four aspects of existing government the Naabik’íyáti’k’íyáti’ government reform resolutions structure of the Navajo Committee of One; except for recommending referendum Nation including laws, rules Naabik’íyáti’k’íyáti’ Committee questions that were submitted and regulations, practices, authorizes, waiving standing to the Office of Legislative functions, goals and objectives committee authorities in the Counsel were not introduced of the central government; and Navajo Nation Code, including as legislation in time for the to develop recommendations committee authorities at 2 November 3, 2020 General and proposals for alternative N.N.C. §§ 102, 106, 164, 167, 169, Election. forms of government, including 180, 181, 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, The Commission may chapter governments for 187, 188, 189, 190, 191, 192, 222, have to consider an action consideration and possible 285,(b)(6), 300 – 302, 400 – to request for a 2021 Special adoption by the Navajo People 403, 505-503, 600 – 603 Election to move forward through a referendum vote. The Office will monitor with government reform The Office of Government Legislation No. 0231-20: referendums. Development (ONGD) was An Action Relating to The Commission has established for the purpose

24 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 25 of assisting the Commission July 22, 1994, the Navajo the Commission on Navajo on Navajo Government Nation Council passed Government Development was Development by making legislation to amend the 1989 abolished. recommendations for reform Title 2 Amendments pertaining SC-CV-02-10: Shirley v. that are necessary to ensure an to the Commission on Navajo Morgan accountable and responsible Government Development. government and conduct The proposed amendments July 16, 2010, the Navajo long range comprehensive changed the membership of Nation Supreme Court planning, evaluation, and the Commission by replacing issued an Opinion and development of goals to the ONGD Director with a Order to invalidate the enhance a government that representative from the N.N. Navajo Nation Council’s accommodates the Navajo Women’s Commission. legislation on the Navajo People. It is charged with The 1994 amendments Government Development encouraging the Navajo titled “Plan of Operation” also Act of 2007, which abolished People’s involvement changed the scope of work the Commission on Navajo promoting their general for the Commission to focus Government Development. welfare, ensuring government on working with the local The Court stated the accountability, integrity, justice chapter governments and local following: “The Commission and domestic order. It also communities as a community on Government Development charged with developing empowerment initiative to (“Commission”) and the proposals for alternative forms explore alternative forms of Office of Navajo Government of chapter government and chapter governments Development (“Office”) are empowerment. the sole entities established CO-37-07: Navajo according to the wishes History Government Development of the People… Therefore, Act of 2007 the dissolution of the CD–68-89: Title 2 of the October 17, 2007, the Commission and changes Navajo Nation Code Navajo Nation Council made to the powers of the In 1989, the Navajo Nation passed legislation to abolish Office by enactment of CO- Council passed Title 2 the Commission on Navajo 37-07 (Navajo Government amendments creating the Government Development and Development Act of 2007) on Commission on Navajo to place the Office of Navajo October 17, 2007 cannot stand. Government Development Government Development The Court made it clear to and the Office of Navajo under the supervision of the Navajo Nation Council Government Development the Navajo Nation Council for them to immediately with quasi-independent Speakers office. President restore the Commission authority to accomplish the Joe Shirley Jr., vetoed this and Office according to the Council’s project of instituting legislation. original terms in the Title 2 reforms necessary to ensure an December 19, 2007, the Amendments of 1989, along accountable and responsible Navajo Nation Council through with proper funding. The power government. a special council session of government reform and CJY-65-94: Amending voted on resolution CD- their choice of government Plan of Operation for the 47-07 to override President are up to the People to decide Commission on Navajo Shirley’s veto of the Navajo through the Commission and Government Development in Government Development Office. Title 2. Act of 2007. The override At the initial meeting of the was successful and therefore, three Branch Chiefs during the

26 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION FY 2012 Budget development VACANT Chapter to update community process, Speaker Johnny Naize Tauve Begaye GIS data for the District 6 requested a substantial budget Wanda Nelson Master land Use Initiative. to fully fund the Commission Executive Director 7/15/20 – Assisted Baahaali on Navajo Government Policy Analyst Chapter to update community Development and the Office Policy Analyst GIS data for the District 6 on Navajo Government Senior Planner Master land Use Initiative. Development as stated and in Administrative Assistant 7/16/20 – Assisted Tse Lichii accordance with the Supreme Senior Office Specialist Chapter to update community Court Order. President Ben GIS data for the District 6 Accomplishments Shelley supported this by not Master land Use Initiative. line item vetoing this budget In addition to the on-going 7/16/20 – Assisted Manuelito request in an amount of research and daily tasks of Chapter to update community $998,661. the ONGD operation, the GIS data for the District 6 following is an outline of the Master land Use Initiative. Reconvening of the most current accomplishments 7/20/20 – Assisted ASU Commission on Navajo for the Fourth Quarter of FY GIS Master’s program with Government Development 2020: presentation on the District 6 On November 9, 2011, Program Performance Master Land Use Initiative and the Commission on Navajo Criteria Goal Statements Navajo Land status. Government Development 8/6/20 – Assisted Manuelito held a historic meeting by Sustainability Initiatives in 12 Domains Chapter with printing maps of reconvening a quorum and areas identified for economic calling an official meeting development using data from to order. The Commission Goal: 2 Actual: 2 The CNGD worked with the District 6 Master Land Use reaffirmed Ms. Bessie Tsosie Initiative. as the Chairperson with Ms. Council Delegate Jamie Mae Horseman as the Vice- Henio to develop legislation Chairperson. to incorporate Sustainability Government Reform principles and guidelines in Initiatives Office of Navajo Government Navajo Nation government. Development Staff Proposed legislation is under Goal: 2 Actual: 3 The ONGD has attempted to legal review. fill the Senior Planner position The CNGD passed The CNGD is working but there were few applicants resolution CNGD-0301-20 with Council Delegate Jamie and after conducting to promote Navajo Cultural Henio to amend 11 N.N.C. interviews there was no Sustainability. The resolution § 404, initiatives by petition selection. This position will be specifically requests Navajo of registered voters. The reclassified pursuant to Navajo spiritual consideration and current language requires Nation Personnel Policies and intervention in the wake of the that petition initiatives require Procedures due to a material Covid-19 pandemic. signatures equal to 15% of all and permanent change in the Technical Assistance and registered Navajo voters at duties and responsibilities of Empowerment the time the petition is filed. the position. Goal: 5 Actual: 6 The Commission would like to Edward K. Dee change this requirement to 15% E.J. John 7/15/20 – Assisted Chichiltah of voters in the last general DeWayne Crank election to give petition

26 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 27 initiatives a better chance to Partnership and 7/9/20 – Budget & Finance reach Navajo voters. Proposed Collaboration Committee special meeting legislation is undergoing legal in Window Rock, AZ via review. Goal: 1 Actual: 4 teleconference. The CNGD submitted a 7/16/20 – Naabik’íyáti’k’íyáti’ recommendation to the 24th The ONGD is currently Committee special meeting Navajo Nation Council and collaborating on the following in Window Rock, AZ via the Navajo Board of Election projects: teleconference. Supervisors to approve a 7/18/20 – Naabik’íyáti’k’íyáti’ referendum question asking Genetics Policy Committee special meeting the Navajo People if they wish Development Working Group in Window Rock, AZ via to see major Chapter and local to develop a Navajo Nation teleconference. government reform. genetic research policy. 7/19/20 – Naabik’íyáti’k’íyáti’ Arizona State University and Committee special meeting The CNGD submitted a District 6 Chapters to develop in Window Rock, AZ via recommendation to the 24th a District 6 Regional Land Use teleconference. Navajo Nation Council and Initiative. 7/24/20 – Budget & Finance the Navajo Board of Election Arizona State University Committee special meeting Supervisors to approve a to study the effects of in Window Rock, AZ via referendum question asking establishing utility scale teleconference. the Navajo People to approve renewable energy projects on 7/28/20 – Navajo Nation a salary increase for the Navajo the Navajo Nation. Council special session Nation President and Vice- Developing Navajo in Window Rock, AZ via President according to Inflation Government reform teleconference. rates based on the National referendum initiatives along 7/30/20 – Navajo Nation Consumer Price Index. with the Navajo Election Council special session Administration and Board of in Window Rock, AZ via teleconference. Public Outreach Election Supervisors. 8/5/20 – Resources & Development Committee Goal: 4 Actual: 2 Other Meetings regular meeting in Window Rock, AZ via teleconference. There have been no in- Navajo Nation Council and 8/13/20 – Naabik’íyáti’k’íyáti’ person presentations to the Committee Meetings Committee regular meeting public due to the Covid-19 7/1/20 – Navajo Nation in Window Rock, AZ via pandemic and branch Council special session teleconference. closure; however, ONGD in Window Rock, AZ via 8/17/20 – Title II Reform Commissioners and staff have teleconference. Subcommittee Special called in on Agency Council 7/8/20 – Resources & Meeting in Window Rock, AZ teleconferences. Development Committee via teleconference. regular meeting in Window 8/18/20 – Budget & Finance A total of 7 calls were made Rock, AZ via teleconference. Committee regular meeting to Eastern Navajo Agency, 7/9/20 – Naabik’íyáti’k’íyáti’ in Window Rock, AZ via Northern Navajo Agency, and Committee special meeting teleconference. Western Navajo Agency. in Window Rock, AZ via 8/24/20 – 8/28/20 – Budget teleconference. oversight hearings in Window

28 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION Rock, AZ via teleconference. teleconference. 8/31/20 - Naabik’íyáti’k’íyáti’ Other Representatives Committee budget oversight (Pursuant to 2 N.N.C. § 972) Administrative Meetings/ hearing in Window Rock, AZ Philmer Bluehouse, Work Sessions/Trainings via teleconference. PRACTIONER OF NATIVE 9/3/20 – 9/11/20 – Navajo HEALING ARTS Nation Fiscal Year 2021 7/6/20 – Legislative Branch Ramona Begay, WOMEN’S Comprehensive Budget manager’s meeting in Window COMMISSION Hearing in Window Rock, AZ Rock, AZ via teleconference. Lorencita Willie, DINE via teleconference. 6/29/20 – ONGD property COLLEGE 9/16/20 – Health, Education fencing meeting, AZ via Crystal Cree, HEALTH, and Human Services teleconference. EDUCATION & HUMAN Committee regular meeting 9/10/20 – Meeting with SERVICES COMMITTEE in Window Rock, AZ via Navajo Board of Election teleconference. Supervisors in Window Rock, The Commission and Office 9/17/20 – Budget & Finance AZ via teleconference. are working with the Navajo Committee special meeting 9/25/20 – Navajo Nation Nation Office of the President in Window Rock, AZ via Privacy Act Training in Window and Vice-President to seek a teleconference. Rock, AZ via teleconference. new nominee to serve on the 9/17/20 - Naabik’íyáti’k’íyáti’ 9/25/20 – District 6 Master Commission as the Executive Committee special meeting Land Use Initiative Project Branch representative. in Window Rock, AZ via meeting in Window Rock, AZ The Office of the Chief teleconference. via teleconference. Justice of the Navajo Nation 9/18/20 - Naabik’íyáti’k’íyáti’ has nominated Harrison Committee special meeting Commission Membership Tsosie as their representative in Window Rock, AZ via to the Commission through teleconference. Agency Representatives Legislation No. 0231-20 and is 9/21/20 - Naabik’íyáti’k’íyáti’ JoAnn Dedman, CENTRAL sponsored by Delegate Otto Committee special meeting AGENCY Tso (To’ Nanees Dizi.) This in Window Rock, AZ via Anselm Morgan , EASTERN legislation is scheduled to teleconference. AGENCY be heard in the Naa’bik’íyáti’ 9/21/20 – 9/23/20 – Navajo Shawnevan Dale, FT. Committee on Thursday, Nation Council budget session DEFIANCE AGENCY October 10, 2020. in Window Rock, AZ via Kenneth Maryboy, FY 2020 Fourth Quarter teleconference. NORTHERN AGENCY Budget Information 9/24/20 – Naabik’íyáti’k’íyáti’ Emmett Kerley, WESTERN The following table illustrates Committee special meeting NAVAJO AGENCY in Window Rock, AZ via the approved FY 2020 budget and the FY 2020 fourth quarter teleconference. Navajo Nation Government 9/25/20 – Navajo Nation actual expenditures, revised – Branch Representatives budget, remaining budget Council budget session VACANT, EXECUTIVE in Window Rock, AZ via available and percentage of BRANCH budget used: teleconference. VACANT , JUDICIAL 9/30/20 – Navajo Nation BRANCH Account Original Council special session Larry Rodgers, LEGISLATIVE in Window Rock, AZ via Budget Revised Budget BRANCH Actuals Budget Available

28 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 29 Projected Expended % pandemic which severely limits 0153-20: AN ACTION the ONGD’s ability to carry- RELATING TO BUDGET 2001 Personnel Expenses out major reform initiatives. AND FINANCE, LAW AND 468,449 476,754 These initiatives will be re- ORDER, NAABI COMMITTEE 346,775 129,979 73% visited when government AND NAVAJO NATION 3000 Travel Expenses operations are restored to full COUNCIL; AMENDING 30,901 42,570 40,317 2,253 capacity. 2 N.N.C § 164(A)(17) TO 95% However, four reform INCLUDE THE BUDGET 3500 Meeting Expenses referendum question LINE-ITEM VETO AUTHORITY 16,000 16,000 10,659 5,341 recommendations have been LANGUAGE APPROVED BY 67% submitted to the Navajo NAVAJO VOTERS THROUGH 4000 Supplies 14,500 Nation Council and the Navajo INITIATIVE ELECTION IN 56,797 24,615 32,182 43% Board of Election Supervisors 2009 5000 Lease and Rental for their approval. The first Resolution No. CNGD- 10,008 10,008 1,574 8,434 is a referendum question 0702-20: AN ACTION TO 16% asking the Navajo People if DIRECT THE OFFICE OF 5500 Communications and they want their Chapters and NAVAJO GOVERNMENT Utilities 17,000 17,000 local government to undergo DEVELOPMENT TO 14,389 2,611 85% major reform or remain in PRUDENTLY RESEARCH 6000 Repairs and their current form. The second THE NAVAJO NATION Maintenance 30,073 9,000 question asks the Navajo PRESIDENT AND VICE- 605 8,395 6% People to approve a salary PRESIDENT SALARY 6500 Contractual Services increase for the Navajo Nation PURSUANT TO 2 N.N.C § 6,000 70,535 70,535 President and Vice-President. 1008 FOR POSSIBLE SALARY 0% The Commission recommends INCREASE CONSIDERATION 7000 Special Transaction a new salary of $108,560 per VIA A REFERENDUM 15,375 26,313 17,404 8,909 year for the Navajo Nation MEASURE AND REPORT 66% President and $88,620 for the RESEARCH FINDINGS TO 9000 Capital Outlay Navajo Nation Vice-President THE COMMISSION WITHIN 17,000 17,000 9,949 7,051 based on inflation rates from 30 DAYS 59% 1989 when the current salaries Resolution No. CNGD- were determined. The third 0801-20: AN ACTION TO TOTAL EXPENSES is a referendum question RESCIND RESOLUTION NO. $625,306 $741,977 to increase the Navajo CNGD-0203-20: AN ACTION $466,287 $275,690 Nation Council from 24 to TO RECOMMEND TO THE 63% 48 members. The fourth is a NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL referendum question whether AND THE NAVAJO BOARD 2020 Proposed Government the 2009 Initiative Petition that OF ELECTION SUPERVISORS Reform Referendum authorized the Navajo Nation TO APPROVE AND Measures president line item veto should AUTHORIZE A REFERENDUM The Commission took action be amended. MEASURE AT THE NAVAJO to suspend reform initiatives on NATION PRIMARY ELECTION Commission Resolutions the formal adoption of three- ON WHETHER THE NAVAJO branch government, and the Resolution No. CNGD- CHAPTER GOVERNMENT Navajo Nation Constitution. 0701-20: AN ACTION TO SHOULD BE SUBJECT TO This decision was made in SUPPORT NAVAJO NATION REFORM light of the ongoing Covid-19 COUNCIL LEGISLATION

30 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION Resolution No. CNGD- ADJUSTMENT FOR THE operate at full capacity. 0802-20: AN ACTION TO NAVAJO NATION PRESIDENT The next regularly scheduled RECOMMEND TO THE AND VICE-PRESIDENT meeting of the Commission NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL DURING THE 2020 on Navajo Government AND THE NAVAJO BOARD NAVAJO NATION GENERAL Development will take place OF ELECTION SUPERVISORS ELECTION on Friday October 16, 2020 at TO APPROVE AND 1:00 PM via teleconference, Future Activities AUTHORIZE A REFERENDUM and; the post-Navajo Nation MEASURE AT THE NAVAJO Continue meeting FY 2020 Council Fall Session next NATION GENERAL Form 2 Performance Criteria meeting for the Commission ELECTION ON WHETHER Goals. on Navajo Government THE NAVAJO CHAPTER The ONGD will be Development is scheduled for GOVERNMENT SHOULD BE working with the Division of Friday, November 20, 2020 at SUBJECT TO REFORM Community Development 1:00 PM, via teleconference. Resolution No. CNGD- and Administrative Service 0803-20: AN ACTION TO Center to explore a more SUSPEND EFFORTS TO hand-on assistance to Navajo ENACT GOVERNMENT chapters while also exploring REFORM INITIATIVES government reform. Pursuant to the Commission IN COMMISSION NAVAJO ELECTION RESOLUTION(S) CNGD- 1994 Plan of Operation 0902-19, CNGD-0102-20, amendments, provide ADMINISTRATION technical assistance to the CNGD-0202-20 UNTIL THE Rodriquez Morris, Interim 110 local governments on NEGATIVE IMPACTS OF Executive Director local governance issues, i.e., THE Covid-19 PANDEMIC [email protected] quorum requirement, AFOG, SUBSIDE TO ALLOW FOR (928) 871-6367 NORMAL NAVAJO NATION ordinances, LGA certification, GOVERNMENT OPERATION Community land use plan. Section One: Resolution No. CNGD- The CNGD will continue Accomplishments during 4th 0205-20: AN ACTION TO to develop recommendations Quarter in FY’2020 APPROVE AMENDMENTS TO for reform at all levels of The Navajo Election THE RULES OF PROCEDURE government in order to Administration (NEA) FOR THE COMMISSION ON develop a comprehensive continued to operate with NAVAJO GOVERNMENT system of government for the minimal staffing since April DEVELOPMENT Navajo People. 19, 2020 when Mr. Rodriquez Resolution No. CNGD- The ONGD will continue Morris, Legislative Staff 0902-20: AN ACTION TO to work with our partners as Assistant/Interim Executive RECOMMEND TO THE 24th well as form new partnerships Director was temporarily NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL to pursue government reform assigned to the NEA from the AND THE NAVAJO BOARD initiatives to benefit the Navajo Navajo Nation Office of the OF ELECTION SUPERVISORS People. Speaker. TO APPROVE AND The ONGD will continue to Election Board members AUTHORIZE A REFERENDUM provide the support the CNGD conducted five (5) regular BALLOT MEASURE TO and work to fulfill and maintain telephonic meetings THE NAVAJO PEOPLE a full commission membership There are 113,631 registered TO APPROVE A SALARY in order to ensure that the Navajo voters within the five Commission continues to (5) Navajo Nation Agencies.

30 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 31 The NEA completed open Section Three: Issues/ about the tribal election filing for candidates from July Recommendations process and coordinates voter 28, 2020 to August 10, 2020 Continue work to upgrade registration drives. and for the 2nd time from all computer system and The NEA coordinates August 26, 2020 to August 31, launch new voter registration election activities with 2020. data base by the 2nd and 3rd counties, states and the federal The NEA collected Quarter FY2021. government, particularly in approximately $171,200.00 in Fill all open vacant positions areas having significant Navajo filing fees from candidate for by the end of 1st Quarter residents. the 2020 Chapter Election. FY2021. The NEA provides staff The NEA computer system To complete an after action support to the Navajo Board upgrade in ongoing and plans report on the 2020 Chapter of Election Supervisors in its to initiate upgrade the Voter Election for the NBOES and rule-making functions and Registration Data Base in the for the Office of the Speaker to the development of policy 1st Quarter of FY2021 and improve planning for the next recommendations regarding through the 4th Quarter of election cycle. elections. FY2021. The NEA provides voter Navajo Election education and assistance to Section Two: Goals for 1st Administration & Navajo other entities as requested, Quarter in FY’2021 Election Administration such as schools, boards, Will see that 2020 Election commissions and organizations Purpose of the Office proceed on November 3, 2020. whose goals may include To ensure that the 2020 The Navajo Election policy changes for voters. Chapter Election be completed Administration (NEA) provides safely with the deployment of election-related services to The Election Board Personal Protective Equipment the Navajo People on and off members consist of the in response to the COVID19. the Navajo Nation. It conducts following members: Initiate amendments to the primary, general elections • Melvin Harrison, Fort Navajo Election Code and every two years, for both the Defiance Agency, Rules & Regulations for the Presidential and Chapter Chairperson Elections Administration via Elections. It also conducts • Raymond Maxx, NBOES work sessions. special, recall and referendum Western Agency, Vice The NEA will continue elections. Chairperson collaborate with the States of The NEA declares vacancies • Shirlee A. Bedonie, New Mexico, Arizona and Utah occurring between major Western Agency, for the 2020 Election to ensure elections, conducts special Member that polling sites are available elections or arranges • Jackie Burbank, Chinle for Navajo voters, that Navajo appointments for such Agency, Member Tribal Members have access to vacancies; it further certifies • Mae Gilene Begay, voter registration sites. candidates and schedules Chinle Agency, Member Assist the Department of the administration of oaths of • Alberto Peshlakai, Dine Education (DODE) to office. Fort Defiance Agency, amend the Election Code for The NEA, with the support, Member School Board Background guidance and direction of • Watona Kellywood, Checks by initiating NBOES the Navajo Board of Election Shiprock Agency, work session in the 1st Quarter Supervisors (NBOES), Member of FY2021. provides public information • Wilbert Foster, Shiprock

32 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION Agency, Member August 24, 2020 • Hurley Benally, Eastern 4. NBOES Regular Meeting: Fort Defiance Agency Agency, Member September 10, 2020 Chapters • Arlene Nakai Brown, 5. NBOES Regular Meeting: 1-Rough Rock Community Eastern Agency, Member September 23, 2020 School Board Summary of Significant Navajo Board of Election Nahata Dziil Accomplishments in the Supervisors Resolutions 1-Pine Springs Day School Fourth Quarter of Fiscal Year During this reporting Board 2020 period, the following five (5) resolutions were considered Navajo Board of Election Tohatchi and passed by the Navajo Supervisors Meetings 1-Ch’ooshgai Community Board of Election Supervisors: School Board The Navajo Board of Resolution No: Date: Election Supervisors has two Resolution Title/Topic (2) regular meetings a month. Oak Springs The meetings are held on the Vacant Positions 1-District Grazing Committee second and fourth Thursday Following is the list of Navajo Member of each month. The meetings Nation Chapter positions are normally conducted at that are vacant. The Navajo Crystal the Navajo Nation Quality Inn Election Administration does 1-Chapter President Business Complex Conference not receive funding from the Room 107, however due to Navajo Nation Council for NORTHERN AGENCY the COVID19 pandemic the conducting special elections. NBOES has been meeting via Aneth teleconference. The Election CHINLE AGENCY 1-Farm Board Board also convened special meetings in this 4th Quarter Many Farms WESTERN NAVAJO to address election matters 2-Farm Board Member AGENCY affected by the COVID19 pandemic. All meetings are Hardrock To Nanees Dizi Local open to the public and the 1-Rocky Ridge Boarding Government agendas for the meetings are School Board 1-Kinlani Bordertown made available to the general Dormitory, School Board public via mass email and the EASTERN NAVAJO Legislative Branch Website. AGENCY County/State Activities The meetings are advertised in the local radio station for the Alamo The Navajo Election general public. 1- Alamo Community School Administration continues to During this reporting period, Board work with counties and states the Election Board held the Crownpoint within the jurisdiction of the following duly called meetings: 1- Crownpoint Community Navajo Nation in ensuring 1. NBOES Regular Meeting: School Board participation of Navajo voters. July 9, 2020 Nahodishgish The Election Administration 2. NBOES Regular Meeting: 1-Secretary/Treasurer works with 11 counties and August 13, 2020 3 states to provide election 3. NBOES Regular Meeting: FORT DEFIANCE AGENCY related services to the Navajo

32 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 33 people. The primary barrier and State County Election government locations for such is the COVID19 pandemic Offices to prepare for the 2020 services. which affected communication General Election. to ensure that polling sites Navajo Nation Voter would be open and reduction NM Counties Registration Totals Summary as in recruitment of poll workers of August 3, 2020 due to fears of the COVID19 San Juan, McKinley, Socorro virus. The NEA, the Navajo and Sandoval Counties are Chinle Agency: 15,395 Nation Department of Justice working with the New Mexico Eastern Agency: 27,645 and the Division Community Navajo Chapters in making Ft. Defiance Agency: 27,469 Development have been all chapters are adequately Northern Agency: 22,837 collaborating with NM, AZ supplied and prepared for Western Agency: 20,285 and UT state officials to voting with PPEs, barriers and Total: 113,631 make contacts with the local safety measures for the 2020 governments to open poll sites Election. We have biweekly Navajo Nation Voter and to recruit for poll workers. meetings with the Navajo Registration Database (VRDB) We also have been looking at Nation Department of Justice, alternative venues for some the Division of Community The Voter Registration Data communities and alternative Development and State Base software is outdated and methods of voting for the County Election Offices to running in Window2003 and Navajo Nation membership for prepare for the 2020 General is thus vulnerable to online the 2020 Election. Election. viruses and may be easily compromised. To protect the UT San Juan County Voter Registration data base directives have been made to move the data This case with San Juan The Election Administration base offline and to procure a County is ongoing as in is continuously training voter new data base within the 1st correcting the San Juan registrars and conducting and 2nd Quarter of FY2021. County Utah Office to work voter registration. Many The NEA is working with the better with the Navajo People Navajo voters obtain voter Automated Election Services, in San Juan County Utah. registration for reasons other a longstanding partner of than for voting purposes. the NEA, to preserve the AZ Counties Some register to vote to seek voter data base and possibly some type of assistance, i.e. archive and move the data Apache, Navajo, and scholarships through the base into Window2010. The Coconino County are working chapter or veterans programs. office computer systems are with Arizona Navajo Chapters A recommendation is to being upgraded to make this in making all chapters are have employees or officials transition possible and to adequately supplied and at the chapter level become acquire and deploy a new prepared for voting with PPEs, certified voter registrars to voter registration data base. barriers and safety measures accommodate the registration This project will proceed into for the 2020 Election. We have requests. Voter registration at FY2021. biweekly meetings with the the chapter level will provide Navajo Nation Department local members a service closer Election’s Equipment of Justice, the Division of to home rather than traveling upgrade Community Development to the Agency or Central

34 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION Navajo Election adequately. Then in 1994, the Election Administration needs to The Navajo Election Administration has upgraded upgrade its computers Administration annual the voting equipment to the and office equipment. The allocations need to be second generation voting administration will launch addressed to allow for funding machines by purchasing new computer workstation to to cover all operational Optech IIIP Eagle. The Optech achieve optimum operation expense to include equipment IIIP Eagles are now over 25 levels. The NEA will seek out and data base maintenance years old and the Election funding from the COVID19 and upgrades annually for Administration looking to enter emergency funding to achieve maintain optimum operation into a new agreement to sell this goal. levels from year to year and the current voting machines election cycle to election in use and enter into a rental Budget cycle. agreement to rent voting The primary and general machines as renting machines The budget for FY21 has elections, referendums, are would be cost effective for the not been approved and the special elections are not are Navajo Nation as opposed to NEA and NBOES continues part of annual allocations for owning machines. The cost to operate on a continuing NEA and thus requires for to own, maintain and repair resolution for the 1st Quarter supplement budget requests to voting machines is costly and of FY202. Budget projection the Navajo Nation Council at thus also does not provide the for allocation were made from each special election or regular Navajo Nation with the latest prior allocations which were election cycle. in voting platforms available not adequate and realistic The total underfunding to the states. The current to cover the administration for the NEA from FY2014 to machines have obsolete parts operation, elections and for FY2019 was $1,522,301.90 and software which have been equipment upgrades. which caused the NEA to discontinued and is becoming have limited budgets that only more expensive to replace covered operations expenses and/or service. All options Concerns and and election expenses. There for renting/lease agreements Recommendations was inadequate funding to will be considered and thus Navajo Nation Voter maintain office equipment a should be completed by Registration Database and the voter registration data FY2021 3rd Quarter. (VRDB) base. The upgrades will ensure Needs to be updated to that the Navajo Nation is able The Interim Executive accommodate the needs to continue its services for the Director has been assigned to for election services for Navajo Nation Tribal Members the NEA since April 19, 2020 the Navajo Nation. Will and will also ensure that the and is tasked with ensuring seek additional fund via the Navajo Nation will be enable that the 2020 Election COVID19 emergency fund secure and voting platforms occurs in accordance with to accomplish this goal. May similar to State and National Navajo Nation law and that also look for state and federal election processes. consideration are made to ensure that the all safety grants for FY2021. Voting Equipment measures, policies and NEA and NBOES Funding The Navajo Election procedures are adhered to for The Navajo Election Administration purchased NEA staff, volunteers and the Administration is not funded the Optech IIIP optical scan general public safety during voting equipment in 1987.

34 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 35 the COVID19 pandemic. PO Box 1925, Crownpoint, NAVAJO NATION Operations assessments New Mexico 87313 ETHICS AND RULES have been completed and Tele: 505/786-2263 OFFICE recommendations and plans Fax: 505/786-2364 have been implemented as Toll Free: 1-888-508-6870 Kandis Martine, Executive of June 30, 2020 and will Director continue for this election cycle. CHINLE AGENCY kandismartine@navajo-nsn. The Interim Executive Director ELECTION OFFICE gov will continue to work the NEA Double Wide Mobile Office P: (928) 871-6369 staff, the NBOES, the Office Southwest of the Chinle www.nnethicsrules.navajo- of the Speaker and all Navajo Chapter House nsn.gov Nation Departments on behalf PO Box 649, Chinle, Arizona LOCJA-02-13. Monitor of the Navajo Nation. 86505 and enforce compliance with Tele: 928/674-2551 the Navajo Nation Ethics in Office Contact Information Fax: 928/674-2552 Government Law and other • Navajo Election Toll Free: 1-866-387-9352 applicable Laws of the Navajo Administration Nation. • Navajo Nation Quality NORTHERN AGENCY Inn Business Complex Accomplishments – 4th ELECTION OFFICE Quarter Suite 212 Navajo Nation Office • PO Box 3449 Building #80 The vacant Ethics • Window Rock, AZ 86515 South of East 7-2-11 Store Investigator position was • Telephone Number: PO Box 4050, Shiprock, New filled and an individual started 928/871-6367 Mexico 87420 working in September. The • Facsimile Number: Tele: 505/368-1332 Presenting Officer position 928/871-7344 Fax: 505/368-1510 is still vacant but being • Email Address: Toll Free: 1-866-659-5842 advertised as open until filled. navajoelections@navajo- Director and investigators nsn.gov have been assisting • Website Address: www. WESTERN AGENCY with orientating the new navajoelections.navajo- ELECTION OFFICE investigator. nsn.gov Navajo Nation Building TD The Ethics Investigators 15-074 were reassessed to determine FORT DEFIANCE AGENCY Southeast of the Tuba City qualifications based on ELECTION OFFICE Community Center reclassification of position Navajo Nation Quality Inn 4 Trailers East of the last quarter. All were deemed Business Complex Suite 202 Industrial Laundry qualified and are now at a Window Rock, Arizona 86515 PO Box 1596, Tuba City, higher pay grade. Tele: 928/871-6881 Arizona 86504 This quarter implemented Fax: 928-871-7344 Tele: 928/283-3220 Phase I of ERO’s Reintegration Toll Free: 1-866-800-4988 Fax: 928/283-3219 Plan, which has included staff Toll Free: 1-888-508-4970 returning to the office on a part EASTERN AGENCY time basis, as well as, having ELECTION OFFICE the office open to the public Old Crownpoint Public on certain days. Safety Building A lot of the quarter was Building Number 2652 devoted to reviewing

36 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION adjudicated ERO cases, to within the reservation officials and employees of staffing with Investigators boundaries. Will continue to the Navajo Nation to comply and deciding which cases to use available resources. with the highest standards initiate order to show causes Not sure if it’s because of ethical conduct to sustain or other steps to enforce the of the pandemic but very the authority vested in them judgement. few requests for ethics as a matter of public trust ERO staff completed a presentations at this time. We and policy. The office was number of ethics clearances. have offered to provide the created under the Ethics in presentation remotely and will Government Law and was Goals for 1st Quarter, FY2021 continue to make that offer. expanded to incorporate Continue to take Ethics the Standards of Conduct CONTACT INFORMATION Intakes on elected and for Navajo Elected Officials, appointed officials and Navajo Nation Ethics and ERC-08-001. Further, in employees of the Navajo Rules Office, Dept. #85 2005, the Council passed Nation and complete Ethics P.O. Box 5490 the Garnishment Act and Clearances for candidacies, SW Morgan Blvd (Building the Navajo Nation Supreme business loans, veteran’s loans #2526) Court followed in June 2013 and the Navajo Nation Office Window Rock, Arizona to adopt the Garnishment of Background Investigations. 86515 Rules to implement the 2005 Continue to review Phone (928) 871-6369 Garnishment Law in the Navajo adjudicated ethics complaints Fax (928) 871-7168 Nation District Courts. This to file Orders to Show Cause OFFICE STAFF allows for the Navajo Nation with OHA and eligible cases to implement the process as for garnishment pursuant to 2 • Kandis Martine, Executive Director a remedy for the collection N.N.C. § 3800 et seq. in the of judgments issued by the Window Rock District Court. • VACANT, Ethics Presenting Officer Office of Hearing and Appeals Continue working on and the former judgments clearing out old files because • Lewnell Harrison, Ethics Investigator issued by the Ethics and Rules they are taking up so much Committee. These laws were space in the office. • Mona Waquiu, Ethics Investigator enacted to protect the Navajo Continue Ethics in Nation people from wrongful Government Law/Standards of • Geneva Benally, Ethics Investigator governmental decisions, Conduct training for Chapters, including conduct and action School Boards, and other NN • Dempsey Harvey, Ethics Investigator resulting from undue influence Departments, when able. or conflicts of interest. The • Henrietta Wauneka, Senior Issues/Recommendations Office Specialist Ethics in Government Law defines the standards of Currently having issues with • Amber Sandoval, Office being able to make contact Aide ethical conduct for Navajo with individuals concerning elected officials, appointees PURPOSE investigations and for and employees by authorizing restitution payments due to The Navajo Nation Ethics the enforcement of the the pandemic. Fieldwork is still and Rules Office was Government in Ethics Law and hampered by the pandemic established to enforce the the Standards of Conduct as but investigators are beginning Ethics in Government Law, 2 enacted by the Navajo Nation to venture out in the field more, N.N.C. §§ 3741-3793, and to Council. which right now is limited educate and inform the public SIGNIFICANT ACTIVITIES

36 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 37 AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS by phone or email but have Sept. 14, 2020, forwarded The vacant Ethics been slowly returning to the letter of closure to complaining Investigator position was field, which is limited to the party regarding ERO-09-2020. filled and an individual started reservation boundaries. Some Sept. 21, 2020, traveled to working in September. The of the activity: Indian Wells, AZ along with Investigator Harvey regarding Presenting Officer position Investigator – Geneva ERO-74-2019, contact was is still vacant but being Benally: advertised as open until filled. made with respondent. Jul. 6, 2020, reviewed case Sept. 22, 2020, traveled The Director and files at home. Attempted investigators have been to Shiprock along with to contact respondents/ Investigators Harrison and assisting the new investigator complainants and parties with how the office functions Harvey regarding ERO-03- involved in cases; no response 2020. and with investigating ethics was received. Worked on 3rd intakes. Sept. 23, 2020, met Quarterly report. with Director Martine and The Ethics Investigators Jul. 7, 2020, reviewed case were reassessed to determine Respondent in ERO-74- ERO-09-20 at home. 2019 concerning Informal qualifications based on Jul. 20, 2020, attempted to reclassification of position Settlement Agreement. contact complaining party Sept. 25, 2020, attended last quarter. All were deemed regarding ERO-09-20. Left qualified and are now at a Privacy Act mandatory training voice message for CP to at ERO Office. higher pay grade. contact ERO. This quarter implemented Jul. 24, 2020, contacted and Investigator – Mona Phase I of ERO’s Reintegration spoke to complaining party Waquiu: Plan, which has included staff regarding ERO-09-20. Aug. 10, 2020, ERO Staff returning to the office on a part Aug. 10, 2020, attended Meeting. Phase I return to time basis, as well as, having ERO staff meeting. Phase 1 office on limited basis. the office open to the public opening 2 1/2 days in the office Aug. 18, 2020, completed on certain days. and office open Monday/ 1 telephonic investigative A lot of the quarter was Wednesday to the public. interview regarding ERO-10- devoted to reviewing Aug. 12, 2020, follow up 2020. adjudicated ERO cases, made with complaining party Aug. 20, 2020, ERO Case staffing with Investigators and regarding ERO-09-20. Staffing. deciding which cases to initiate Aug. 17, 2020, forwarded a Sept. 04, 2020, completed order to show causes or other letter to respondent regarding 1 in person investigative steps to enforce the judgment. ERO-74-2019. interview at ERO Conference ERO staff completed a Aug. 20, 2020, attended case Room regarding ERO-10-2020. number of ethics clearances. staffing with Director Martine Sept. 11, 2020, completed Meetings/Investigative Field at ERO conference room. 2 telephonic investigative Work/Investigations Aug. 30, 2020, conducted interview’s regading ERO-13- Field work was limited a telephonic interview with 2020. complaining party regarding this quarter due to Covid-19 Investigator – Lewnell ERO-09-20. and staff have been working Harrison: Sept. 10, 2020, completed remotely. The investigators Jul. 22, 2020, Ethics have been doing their best Case Investigative Report and Presentation for contacting individuals either staffed with Director Martine regarding ERO-09-2020. Telecommunication Regulatory

38 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION Commission via WebEx. regarding ERO-074-2020. Total: 576 clearances Aug. 10, 2020, First day back Sept. 22, 2020 – Review at Ethics and Rules Office. OHA-ER-006-16 for Ethics Intakes & Case Aug. 20, 2020, Case staffing. information. Review Letter for Management Aug. 21, 2020, Interview restitution payment OHA- with E. Grey regarding OHA- ER-0006-16. Travel with New Intakes: 19 ERO-17-18 via telephone. Investigator Harrison and Cases closed: 14 Sept. 14, 2020, New Benally to Shiprock ERO-030- Investigator, Dempsey Harvey 2020. Received information Restitution collected first day with ERO. from Police Command Post. July 2020: $625 Sept. 18, 2020, met with Leo Sept. 23, 2020 –Issue Letter August 2020: $1,635 Watchman, Roxy June, Sgt. R. to Respondent regarding ERO- September 2020: $550 Jim and Kim Johnson with NN 041-2020. Total: $2,810 Agriculture concerning ERO- Sept. 24, 2020 – Assigned 030-2020. Intake ERO-036-2020. Issue Office Consults: 3 consults Sept. 22, 2020, Field Letter to witness regarding Telephonic Consults: 11 investigation Shiprock, NM ERO-041-2020. Issue Letter to consults regarding ERO-030-2020. witness regarding ERO-041- Sept. 29, 2020, Meeting with 2020. Issue Letter to witness Investigations the Department of Agriculture regarding ERO-041-2020. Issue regarding ERO-030-2020. Letter to witness regarding Interview/Consults ERO-041-2020. Lewnell Harrison: 2 Investigator – Dempsey Sept. 25, 2020 – Attend Mona Waquiu: 1 Harvey: Privacy Act Training. Geneva Benally: - Sept. 14, 2020 – First day Sept. 28, 2020 – Prepare Dempsey Harvey: - of work. Greeted Personnel. questions for interview of Brief orientation and received Complainant regarding ERO- Cases assigned manuals for review. 041-2020. Lewnell Harrison: 2 Sept. 15, 2020 – Advised to Sept. 29, 2020 – Telephone Mona Waquiu: 4 assist Investigator Harrison Interview Complainant in ERO- Geneva Benally: 1 with ERO-030-2020. Review 041-2020. Telephone Consult Dempsey Harvey: 2 publications on Respondent. with individual regarding ERO- ERO PRESENTATIONS Sept. 16, 2020 – Assigned 041-2020. Complete Interview Intake ERO-041-2020. Document for Complainant in One Presentation for Sept. 17, 2020 – Received ERO-041-2020. Telecommunication Regulatory two folders to review from Sept. 30, 2020 – Received Commission via WebEx. Investigator Benally, examples. and Reviewed Written PLANS FOR FY2021 1st Sept. 18, 2020 – Received Statement from Respondent in QUARTER binder to review from ERO-041-2020. Updates and Investigator Waquiu, Review Hire for vacant Presenting briefing regarding ERO-030- Officer position. information on a Respondent. 2020 by Investigator Harrison. Received ERO-074-2019 to Continue working towards review. Ethics Clearances establishing a more efficient Sept. 21, 2020 – Issued Letter office procedure regarding to individual regarding ERO- July 2020: 124 case management, including 041-2020. Assisted Investigator August 2020: 305 appropriate retention timelines. Benally in Indian Wells September 2020: 147 Recommence working and

38 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 39 collaborating with the Division has had on ERO is the inability orders to show cause with of Community Development, of the investigators to do OHA. Administrative Services fieldwork. Since investigators Centers, Navajo Nation were not able to physically Department of Justice, Navajo meet with people a lot of Elections Administration, the fieldwork changed to and Office of Government interacting with people over Development in providing the phone and/or email. EASTERN NAVAJO consultations for local However, for investigative governments (110 chapters). work interacting remotely is LAND COMMISSION When able, recommence the not ideal because observing CF-2-80, CAP-11-08. The Ethics in Government Law/ a person’s facial expressions Navajo Nation Council Standards of Conduct training or physical behavior is part of established and amended for Chapters, School Boards, the interview. In addition, if a the plan of operation for and other NN Departments, person doesn’t want to talk, the Eastern Navajo Land including monthly training for they can just ignore the call Commission (ENLC) to: newly hired employees with or hang up. With the offices advocate Land consolidation; the NN Staff Development and reopening, the investigators develop, effectuate, and secure Training Center. are beginning to conduct more territorial jurisdiction through Work cooperatively with fieldwork but it is limited to appropriate legislations; other NN departments, the only the reservation right now. advocate for individual rights Public Integrity Task Force, FBI, The office has also adapted on BLM/State lands; Plan for or Office of Inspector General to being open to the public mitigate the impact of energy and Internal Revenue Service only on certain days and by development; coordinate land- on various task forces and appointment. This has helped related matters with inter- and workgroups that concern the with being able to accept intra-governmental entities; public trust to more effectively Intakes in person but ERO identify and coordinate hold individuals accountable also created a general email lands for acquisition; provide for violations of the Ethics in account, which is available to recommendation/guidance Government Law. accept Intakes by email. regarding expenditures of Continue to take Ethics ERO has also been impacted the Navajo Nation Land intakes on elected and by the number of ethics Acquisition Trust Fund; provide appointed officials and presentations we have been land information to Eastern employees of the Navajo able to provide. We have Navajo Agency entities; plan Nation and complete Ethics received limited requests for legislation for Navajo/Federal/ Clearances for candidacies, presentations, although we State land related initiatives; business loans, veteran’s loans have made it clear we are still take steps towards reservation and the Navajo Nation Office able to provide presentations boundary legislation. of Background Investigations. remotely. This has impacted File Order to Show Causes our performance criteria for with OHA and eligible cases the last two quarters. for garnishment pursuant to 2 OHA filings were limited due N.N.C. § 3800 et seq. in the to OHA being closed. With Window Rock District Court. Executive Branch reopening more focus will be made on OFFICE OF EASTERN Covid-19 filing ethics complaints and NAVAJO LAND The biggest impact Covid-19

40 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION COMMISSION order took effect March Director provided a 19th. During this pandemic- teleconference report on IGRAP-64-04, NABIO-58-13. cautionary period certain work Saturday, September 5th to Office of Eastern Navajo activities were suspended, the NIIP Sub-Committee Land Commission was set with minimal work devoted regarding the separation of up to assist the Commission to key projects as reported the NELI project from NIIP. and which Plan of Operation below. The Commission Since 2012, the NELI-NIIP was amended to work commenced meetings upon was being proposed as a joint on resolving land issues; approval of the Navajo Nation project. Under the 24th NNC, mitigating energy development Council allowing boards the project was separated impacts; coordinating with and commissions to meet based on the notion that other government and private telephonically. as a joint project, the NELI interests; and informing 2. Staffing and Consultation: side remain dormant, and Eastern Navajo Agency In the 164 Review process also based on information communities regarding are contract extensions for provided by the Navajo Nation land matters; researching both the Frye Law Firm in Washington Office that U. S. and studying Commission Albuquerque, NM and the House Representative Ben initiatives; support the POWERS group in Washington, Lujan prefer the NIIP Project operation of the Commission. DC. not be made part of the NELI II. Summary of Staffing: Ms. Bernadine proposal since resolving NIIP Accomplishments during the Blackie was finally hired into had many complicated issues. reported Quarter the Statistics Technician In addition to the report, the 1. Commission Meetings: position at the end of August. NIIP Subcommittee discussed Given the pandemic, the NIIP further rather than the During the subject quarter, Navajo Nation government new steps for NELI. exercised at great deal of the Commission convened ORGANIZATION & discretion in closing down three regular meetings and two COMMISSION PURPOSES - governmental operations special meetings, specifically FY 2020 on the following dates: except those essential services. Despite that the ENLC may Commissioners not be considered an essential • Edmund Yazzie, August 07, 2020 – Regular Chairperson Meeting operation, the Commission continued and insisted on • Mark Freeland, Vice- August 21, 2020 – Special Chairperson Meeting make some progress despite the shutdown. With the • Seth Damon, Member August 28, 2020 – Regular • Jamie Henio, Member Meeting demand load, it was necessary to pursue the hiring for this • Daniel Tso, Member September 18, 2020 – • Danny Simpson, Member Regular Meeting position. September 23, 2020 – 3. Project Activities: EASTERN NAVAJO LAND Special Meeting NELI Project: Any further COMMISSION work on this project by the PO Box 1950 All these meetings were Commission awaits new Crownpoint, New Mexico held by telecommunication leadership in Washington, 87313 due to the continuing especially with the New presence of the Coronavirus. Mexico congressional Tel: (505) 786-2430 The initial work-from-home delegation. The Executive Fax: (505) 786-2434

40 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 41 regarding Federal and New below. The Commission Office Location Mexico legislations working commenced meetings upon Rooms 149-152 East Wing cooperatively with appropriate approval of the Navajo Nation Empowerment Center Navajo Nation Council Council allowing boards Navajo Technical University standing committees; and commissions to meet Crownpoint, NM Taking steps in securing telephonically. reservation boundary Purposes of the Eastern Staffing and Consultation: legislation inclusive of Navajo Land Commission checkerboard area for In the 164 Review process The purposes (simplified, recognition as Navajo Indian are contract extensions for otherwise see 2 NNC § 861 Reservation; and both the Frye Law Firm in_ et seq.) of the Commission Obtaining formal protection Albuquerque, NM and the include: of Navajo cultural, religious or POWERS group in Washington, Advocating and initiating historic sites near the Eastern DC. land acquisition towards Navajo Agency. Staffing: Ms. Bernadine the Eastern Navajo land Blackie was finally hired into consolidation plan; THE FOURTH QUARTERLY the Statistics Technician Providing technical support REPORT - FY 2020 position at the end of August. to Navajo Nation in securing Given the pandemic, the Summary of Accomplishments administrative and regulatory Navajo Nation government during the reported Quarter jurisdiction; exercised at great deal of Advocating rights of During the subject quarter, discretion in closing down individual occupants on BLM the Commission convened governmental operations and State lands; three regular meetings and two except those essential services. Assisting in implementing special meetings, specifically Despite that the ENLC may NNC-enacted land acquisition on the following dates: not be considered an essential and consolidation activities in 1. August 07, 2020 - operation, the Commission Eastern Navajo; Regular Meeting continued and insisted on Coordinating planning/ 2. August 21, 2020 - Special make some progress despite mitigating impact of energy Meeting the shutdown. With the development in Eastern 3. August 28, 2020 - demand load, it was necessary Navajo; Regular Meeting to pursue the hiring for this Coordinating Navajo Nation 4. September 18, position. land-related work with Federal, 2020-Regular Meeting Project Activities: State, local authorities; 5. September 23, 2020 - Identifying certain lands, i.e., Special Meeting NELI Project: Any further private, beneficial to Navajo All these meetings were work on this project by the Nation and engaging talks for held by telecommunication Commission awaits new acquisition; due to the continuing leadership in Washington, Providing recommendati ons presence of the Coronavirus. especially with the New to the Navajo Nation Council The initial work-from-home Mexico congressional concerning expenditures of the order took effect March delegation. The Executive Navajo Land Acquisition Fund 191 • During this pandemic- Director provided a in respect to Eastern Navajo; cautionary period certain work teleconference report on Planning and initiating activities were suspended, Saturday, September 5th to legislative strategies beneficial with minimal work devoted the Naabik’íyáti’ NIIP Sub- to the Navajo Nation to key projects as reported Committee regarding the

42 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION separation of the NELI project Round II. The database will be been re-contacting outside from NIIP. Since 2012, the transferred to ENLC through entities and informing them NELI-NIIP was being proposed the ENA BIA. The new data that ENLC has resumed the as a joint project. Under the will be used to produce a office tasks and projects. The 24th NNC, the project was follow-up “Results” report, GIS Technician will continue to separated based on the notion or 2nd Edition of the original catch up on projects that have that as a joint project, the 2016 report. Chapter CLUPCs, been idle since the start of the NELI side remain dormant, various Chapters, and the pandemic, and will continue and also based on information Eastern Navajo Joint Land to address Commission provided by the Navajo Nation have expressed interests in the needs, as well as working with Washington Office that U. S. updated information. community members in the House Representative Ben future to address their needs Statistical Research and GIS Lujan prefer the NIIP Project pertaining to information and Mapping: not be made part of the NEU mapping needs. The detail proposal since resolving NIIP ArcGIS Map Request maps associated with the had many complicated issues. -Mapping Projects this planned informational booklet In addition to the report, the Quarter: for the NELI Project will also be NIIP Subcommittee discussed The GIS Tech_ did not resumed. NIIP further rather than the produce any maps this quarter. Land Statistical Technician new steps for NELI. The GIS Technician, due to work: Old Fort Wingate: With a the Covid-19 Pandemic, has fuller staff, the office will pursue been limited in the capacity The Land Statistical a plan to establish a Shashbito of duties to be performed Technician was newly hired Redevelopment Taskforce that for the Eastern Navajo Land on August 24th. Her initial will be responsible for creating Commission. work was to compile all a master plan for the old Fort For the month of July and related materials for reading Wingate School compound August, the GIS Technician and understanding of the and an area of nearly 500 was not able to access the “Shashbito Redevelopment acres. The new Stat Technician work computer, as sensitive Project”, which is to plan and will research documents, materials are stored on the set up a Taskforce to prepare drafting a plan of operation, respective work computer, it a master plan for the old, draft a Commission resolution, was not feasible for the GIS abandoned Fort Wingate and follow up on related Technician to access any school compound. The site Navajo Nation legislation. content pertaining to mapping, is considered historic so The Taskforce should take or other sensitive documents the study will identify those two years to accomplish its from home. buildings that are proposed to objectives in creating the For the month of September, be saved from demolition and Master Plan. As a budget will the work schedule resumed project plans for future uses. be needed, the project will on a 50% basis, the GIS Several of the old buildings not be started until funded, Technician has since been will be designated as historic hopefully sometimes in 2021. working on data pertaining properties and restored to Navajo Land Buy-Back to the Navajo Land Buy Back the appropriate times of (LBBP) Program-II: The Federal Program for the preparation history and to provide public LBBP for Indian Nations has of the sales results report education on the history of completed the sales data for information distribution Fort Wingate and nearby for the 2019 Navajo Nation purposes. During the last area. In addition to the BIA’s month, the GIS Technician has plan for demolition of non-

42 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 43 selected buildings for historic land division, Commission Anslem Bitsoi, Executive purpose or future use, all activities, and current depot Director saved buildings would be land statuses. There is anslembitsoi@navajo-nsn. gutted for decontamination interest in using potential gov and removal of asbestos. locations on the property for (928) 871-6805 The three area chapters of an oil transfer and delivery 15 N.N.C. et seq. The Navajo Church Rock, Bahaal,ii} a n operation making use of a Nation Labor Commission ffy anbito have expressed rail road spur. Determinants (“Commission”) was interest in the project. The would include rail access established by Title 15 of the chapters’ participation will potential, integrity of rail itself Navajo Nation Code as a promote renovation of certain and when it is rehabilitated, quasi-judicial hearing body building for social and human and fundamentally first when pursuant to the NPEA to services programs. The non- the land is transferred to hear all formal complaints to profit organization “The Old the Navajo Nation. Nine (9) protect all substantial rights Fort Wingate Taskforce” parcels have been transferred of all Navajo and Non-Navajo proposes to turn a the set- from the US Department of individuals who are employed. aside land and old compound Defense to the Department • Nona Lou Etsitty, into a Nation Historic Park of the Interior, but no Chairperson or Monument. This taskforce communication has been made • VACANT, Vice-Chair has received support from on the transfer of respective • VACANT, Secretary the ENLC, the Resources and parcels to the Navajo Nation • Loretta J. Danzuka, Development Committee, and or the Zuni Pueblo. Member the Naabik’íyáti’ Committee. As a new appointee to • Casey Watchman, Certain area entities, the Commission on Navajo Member including the City· of Gallup, Government Development, • Victoria A. Dixon, have indorsed the historic the Executive Director has Legislative Reporter preservation efforts as well. attended about 10 regular and • Leffew R. Denny, Office special meetings since January. Specialist Other Meetings: Administrative Meetings Planned Activities in the Next Accomplishments from 4th The Executive Director Quarter quarter of FY 2020: attended but not all the Meetings/Events: Efficient use of allocated scheduled monthly Program Regular Commission Mtg funds, NNLC held (06) Directors’. Other meetings (Telecomm) NN Council evidentiary hearings. attended by the Executive Winter Session (Telecomm) NNLC and program timely Director: The Joint Eastern Regular Commission Mtg processed three (03) appealed Navajo Land Board held its (WR) NNLC cases to Navajo Nation meeting (September 11th) Regular Commission Mtg Supreme Court. at the Crownpoint Chapter (WR) NNLC program timely House where members were processed twelve (16) formally updated on ENLC projects, filed complaint. much the same but condensed NNLC timely adjudicated as reported in this quarterly (06) NPEA cases. report. The Director held a NNLC and program timely meeting with ENA RBDO NAVAJO NATION closed and issued (24) staff to provide an over of continuance orders due to the Fort Wingate Army Depot LABOR COMMISSION closure.

44 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NNLC & program timely Navajo Nation Presidential forms, FAQ, presentations, issued and mailed five hundred appointment. Vacancy been report, etc.) (200) subpoenas and notice advertised. Contact with counsels & of hearings & NNLC Rules NNLC will continue to parties by telephone and email by certified mail, first class, expedite office renovation & facsimile and email to counsels funding Summary of effects of of record or parties Lack of sanitation supplies Coronavirus Pandemic: NNLC will continue to re; Covid-19 issues Closure of office; compliance adjudicate seventy (103) Partial Closure of NN due of health guidelines, purchase pending NPEA cases Covid-19 of need supplies, sanitation NNLC program made three Unable to continue supplies, sanitation of incoming (03) audio copies at parties’ employment of temp workers documents by mail & person, request Section Two: Goals for renovation of office space and Section Two: Committee / 1 st Quarter of FY 2021: hearing room. Lack of hearings Commission /board actions NN Presidential and HEHS pursuant to NPEA, filing of for the quarter of FY2020: appointment of NNLC formal complaints. membership per CJY- 42-16. Seven (7) NNLC Difficulty in meeting health Continue to refer candidate(s) Deliberative Session by guidelines with limited financial to appointing authority. teleconference to address resources and system. Efficient use of allocated pending motions of pending funds and timely processed NNLC cases of NPEA. appealed NNLC case(s) Section Three: Meeting dates NNLC & program will timely and times: adjudicate NPEA cases 1. August 10, 2020 at 9am NNLC & program will timely 2. August 17, 2020 at 9am NAVAJO UTAH process formally filed NPEA 3. August ZS, 2020 at 9am COMMISSION OFFICE complaint(s) and/or petition(s) 4. September 02, 2020 at NNLC & program will timely 9am Clarence Rockwell, issue and close out NPEA 5. September 10, 2020 at Executive Director cases 9am [email protected] NNLC & program will 6. September 22, 2020 at (435) 651-3508 continue review and amend 9am IGRJN-134-92, as amended NNLC Ruled of Procedure 7. September 29, 2020 at by the Naabik’íyáti’k’íyáti’ NNLC & program will 9am Committee. The purpose of continue to pr the Navajo Utah Commission eserve substantial rights of Section Four: Total number of is to provide policy and all employees and employers in program/ administrative staff administrative guidance to the accordance to Navajo Law and vacancies: development, implementation Closure of NNLC cases None and operation of the Navajo heard by current sitting NNLC Section Five: Summary of Utah Office of the Navajo members Section Three: clientele Served: Nation. To develop and Issues/Recommendation(s): maintain efficient governmental NNLC lacks one (1) NNC Forty three (43) services to the Navajo people Health, Education and Section Six: Resources residing on the Utah portion of Human Services Committee produced and/or published the Navajo Nation and/or the duly appointment and within target quarter (maps, establishment of B.I.A. Agency;

44 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 45 to facilitate the establishment Commission prepared a the renewal of contract for of B.I.A., I.H.S. and other funding application seeking the Utah legislative lobbyist, federal offices in the Utah $90,000 from the FY20 strengthen consultation with portion of the Navajo Nation. non-chapter Utah Navajo Utah chapters, implement early Pursuant to NABIAP-21-15, Revitalization Fund (NRF) to start of lobbying activities, and Navajo Utah Commission to capitalize preliminary planning relationship building Utah’s provide efficient governmental for the Montezuma Creek Post new governor. services for 7 chapters in Utah Office Replacement Project. Contact Person: region of Navajo Nation. Section Two: Goals for 4th Clarence Rockwell, Executive Section One: Quarter in FY2020 Director Accomplishments from 4th 1. Submit funding NAVAJO UTAH Quarter applications & provide funding COMMISSION Navajo Utah Commission presentation at the October Post Office Box 570 continues to work with the NN 20th Utah Navajo Revitalization Montezuma Creek, Utah Human Rights Commission Fund (NRF) capital projects 84534 Telephone: 435-651- and San Juan County, Utah funding allocation meeting 3508 in making preparations for in support of the Naatsis’Aan Fax: 435-651-3511 the 2020 General election, emergency Operation Center [email protected] including polling places, Project and the Montezuma Purpose of Office: election satellite offices, Creek Post Office Project. election personnel training, 2. Complete procurement The Intergovernmental acquisition of PPE’s, and activities and initiate Relations committee (IGR) of increase of satellite offices at construction of two Utah the Navajo Utah Commission four more chapter locations. Olene Walker Housing Loan in 1992 pursuant to Resolution The Navajo Utah Fund Housing Projects at two no. IGRJN-134-92. The Commission collaborated Utah chapters. Navajo Utah Commission’s with the NN Human Rights 3. Work with the Navajo plan of operation was Commission, Rural Utah Nation Department of amended by the Navajo Project, NN Census Office, Justice (DOJ) on seeking Nation Naabik’íyáti’k’iyati’ NTUA, and Utah chapter to renegotiation and improvement Committee on April 16, 2015, plan, organize, and conduct of the off-reservation hunting & including recognition of the 2020 Census Fairs to assist fishing Cooperative Agreement Naabik’íyáti’k’iyati’ Committee Navajo citizens process with the state of Utah. as oversight of the Navajo 2020 Census self-respond 4. Work with Office of the Utah Commission. The questionnaires to address Speaker and Naabik’íyáti’k’iyati’ purpose of the Navajo Utah the Navajo Nation’s low self- Committee State Task Commission is to provide response rate. Force in seeking renewal of policy and administrative The Navajo Utah Utah Lobbyist contract and guidance to the development, Commission prepared funding identification of legislative implementation and operation application seeking $144,900 priorities for 2020 Utah of the Navajo Utah Office from the FY20 non-chapter Legislature. of the Navajo Nation. To Utah Navajo Revitalization develop and maintain efficient Section Three: Issues/ Fund (NRF) for the Naatsis’Aan governmental services to Recommendations Chapter Emergency the Navajo people residing Operations Center Project. The Navajo Utah on the Utah portion of the The Navajo Utah Commission is recommending Navajo Nation and/or the

46 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION establishment of B.I.A. Agency; The Navajo Utah the completion of the to facilitate the establishment Commission staff participated 2020 Census self-respond of B.I.A., I.H.S. and other in the quarterly Utah Tribal questionnaires at the following federal offices in the Utah Leaders (UTL) teleconference chapter locations: portion of the Navajo Nation. meeting hosted by the Utah • Aneth - 19 Summary of Significant Division of lndian Affairs • Red Mesa - 26 Accomplishments in the (UDIA) on August 6th to • Monument Valley - 23 Fourth Quarter of Fiscal Year discuss tribal issues and • Naatsis’aan - 47 2020: Accomplishments concerns with state agencies • Mexican Water - 0 (due to and activities for the Navajo and representatives from the lack of chapter facility) Utah Commission during Governor’s Office. The important factor is the period of July 01, 2020 The Navajo Utah that the effort placed special through September 30, 2020 Commission conducted a emphasis on the seriousness are enumerated below. The special meeting with the and urgency of participating in Navajo Nation’s Public Health Navajo Nation Office of the the 2020 Census. Emergency Declaration and Census and the Navajo Nation The Navajo Utah ensuing executive orders Human Rights Commission to Commission Office initiated impacted work productivity address the Navajo Nation’s construction of two single- and performance measures low self-response rate family housing units with considerably during the 4th regarding the 2020 Census delivery of construction quarter. and potential negative impact material and construction The Navajo Utah for Navajo citizens in San labor commitment during Commission (NUC) consist Juan County, Utah, relative to July with funding acquired of 8 members, including 3 legislative redistricting. from the Utah Olene Walker Council delegates and 5 The Navajo Utah Housing Loan Fund (OWHLF) chapter presidents with service Commission, NN Human and the Utah Navajo coinciding with term in office Rights Commission, Rural Utah Revitalization Fund (NRF). The . NUC conducts 12 regular Project, NN Census Office, procurement process for two meetings on the 2nd Tuesdays and NTUA conducted a series additional housing projects in of each month , serves 7 of teleconference strategy Dennehotso and Aneth also chapters, and is supported by sessions to organize 2020 initiated at the end of the 4th an administrative unit of three. Census Fairs at 5 chapter Quarter. The Navajo Utah locations, including NN Health The Navajo Utah Commission conducted three Operations Command Center Commission and the Navajo telecommunications meetings approval, acquisition of Wi- Nation Human Rights during the 4th Qua rter, Fi hotspots, acquisition of Commission continue to work including July 1411\ August 11 PPEs, community awareness with San Juan County, Utah th, and August 25th (special radio announcements, and to comply with a settlement meeting). The regular identification of workers/ agreement involving the September meeting was volunteers to assist Navajo Navajo Nation and San Juan canceled due to conflicting citizens in processing 2020 County regarding preparations schedules at the end of the Census self-response for the 2020 general election fiscal year. The Navajo Utah questionnaires. including three polling places, Commission enacted 06 The 2020 Census Fairs three election satellite offices resolutions during the 4th for Utah chapters achieved , election personnel training, Quarter. moderate success with and possible addition of four

46 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 47 additional satellite offices at and the Naatsis’aan Chapter including public notices, four chapters (pending Navajo Renovation Emergency plexiglass shields, section-off Nation HCOC approval). Operations Center Project. workstations, control of traffic, The Navajo Utah The Navajo Utah acquisition and distribution of Commission enacted Commission prepared a PPEs and sanitizers for staff, Resolution No. NUCAUG funding application seeking visitors, and NUC chapters. -826-20 requesting the NN $144,900 from the Utah Navajo President and Navajo DOJ Revitalization Fund to finance to renegotiate and improve the construction and addition the 2001 Cooperative of an Emergency Agreement with the state of Operations Center for the Utah regarding off-reservation isolated Naatsis’aan Chapter NAVAJO-HOPI LAND hunting and fishing in the best to accommodate emergency interest of Navajo hunters. operations. COMMISSION The Navajo Utah The Navajo Utah Honorable Otto Tso, Commission enacted Commission prepared a Chairman Resolution No. funding application seeking [email protected] NUCAUG-827-20 requesting $90,000 from the Utah Navajo (928) 871-6380 the National Park Service , Revitalization Fund (NRF) CD-68-89, 2 N.N.C. §§ 851- Bureau of Recla mat io n, BIA , Board to plan and design a 857. The purpose for Navajo- and the Navajo Nation to seek new post office in Montezuma Hopi Land Commission’s extension of the Quadrilateral Creek in collaboration with establishment is to advocate, Agreement after a series of the Utah Division of Facility monitor, collect, update meetings with Utah chapters Construction & Management information on any and all and Navajo Nation entities (DFCM). Navajo-Hopi disputed land regarding subject matter. The Navajo Utah and relocation services and The Navajo Utah Commission continue to work expenses through the ONHIR Commission staff participated with San Juan County, the for the affected Navajo in numerous teleconference BIA roads department, and people. The Navajo-Hopi Land meetings in support of Utah the Navajo Nation Division Commission is responsible for chapter issues with state, of Transportation to enhance monitoring the land selection county , and tribal entities Intergovernmental Agreements and land exchange provisions during the Navajo Nation’ s and funding collaboration to of Public Law 96-305 for the telecommuting work phase maintain secondary roads for individual interest of Navajo and continuing with the the benefit of Utah chapters. members affected in the phased reintegration phase The Navajo Utah disputed land locations in since mid-August. Commission converted to addition to relocation expenses The Navajo Utah telecommunication meetings and services. Commission is a member of and telecommuting work project management teams pursuant to Navajo Nation Section One: for several Utah chapters and public health executive orders, Accomplishments--- 1st continued in making progress closed office building to public Quarter FY 2020 with the Aneth Chapter access until Phased Integration NHLC continues to monitor Warehouse and Bus Bay was authorized in August , the annual funding allocation Project, the Red Mesa Chapter equipped building with CDC to ONHIR. NHLC is pursuing Administration Building Project, guidelines safety measures, reallocation of the $15 Million that was initially in the ONHIR

48 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION budget. Of interest are Commission of the Navajo regarding the Certification for plans to close the operation, Nation Council changed its Benefits. assumption of existing regular meetings to the first NHLC continuously receives programs and litigations. and third Thursday of each update reports and technical On September 17, 2020, month beginning at 7:00 A.M. support from the Navajo Hopi NHLC Chairman Otto Tso, Resolution NHLCAU-8-2020 Land Commission Office. Navajo Nation Council The Navajo-Hopi Land NHLC supports Division Speaker Seth Damon and Commission approved the of Community Development Navajo Nation President request to extend the Navajo in presenting a finalized Jonathan Nez participated in a Rehabilitation Trust Fund and Home Inspection Report that meeting with U.S. Senator Tom Former Bennett Freeze Area was conducted by Indian Udall (NM) to discuss ONHIR Escrow Fund Housing Projects Affiliates, Inc. The report will funding. according to approved list be instrumental as support NHLC adopted Resolution to September 30, 2022. This documents for future housing NHLCS-10-20 supporting the action will allow chapters to development and renovation Bureau of Indian Affairs-Navajo complete unfinished projects legislations. Region on Integrated Resource to benefit Navajo families NHLC was apprised of the Management Plan. The NHLC and communities affected by budget development for the will continue to be involved in the Navajo and Hopi Land commission’s FY 2021 funding decisions with respect to the Settlement Act, As Amended. plan. National Environmental Policy Resolution NHLCAU-9-2020. NHLC Chairman Otto Tso Act, P.L. 91-190, as well as the NHLC continuously received reevaluated the Consultant’s American Indian Agricultural updated reports from Greg fees, conferred with NDOJ Resource Management Act Smith, consultant, on the and moved the payment (AIARMA) P.L. 103-177 and the technical amendments that processing forward. National Historic Preservation the Commission is pushing NHLC Chairman Otto Tso Act (NHPA) P.L. 89-665 in the towards congressional coordinated with NDOJ on Former Bennett Freeze Area. introduction. Mr. Smith also various attorney/client issues Supporting Navajo County provided consistent updates relating to Navajo Hopi Land Supervisor Jesse Thompson’s on national issues pertinent to Settlement Act. request, the NHLC adopted the NHLC’s area of oversight. NHLC Chairman Otto Tso Resolution NHLCJY-7-2020 NHLC received litigation participated in several Navajo to support and approve the update from the Navajo Nation Nation Standing Committee Navajo County to Utilize Department of Justice. meetings to sponsor $58,103 of the Grant Funds NHLC received continuous legislations or provide input from the MOA, DOC 006806- reports from Mr. Robert Black, on issues that are within the CO12217 to purchase a Executive Director, NHLCO, areas of the NHLC oversight used motor grader for road on the activities of the Navajo responsibilities. improvements in Dilkon THAW Recovery Plan in the Section Two: Goals for First Chapter within Navajo Navajo Partitioned Land and Quarter FY2021 County and approved the Former Bennett Freeze Area. remaining balance of $68,305 NHLC will continue to support Introduction of to purchase and deliver gravel the project. Congressional bills on and/or to purchase critical NHLC continues to monitor ONHIR funding and technical road maintenance equipment. the 9th Circuit Court rulings on amendments. The Navajo-Hopi Land the appeals filed by relocatees To clearly define the needs of the Navajo families and

48 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION NAVAJO NATION | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | SPEAKER’S REPORT | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | 49 communities affected by the Legislation will be introduced A determination will be relocation. to resolve the limit of 10-sheep made on the Division of Public Dine’ Policy was approved unit in NPL. Safety’s use of the Sander’s to manage the Rehabilitation Jeddito projects will be clinic as a police substation. Trust Fund. Funds will to be added to priority lists; one is NHLC will follow up on the identified and approved to the waterline project. OPVP plans to construct the implement policy. Housing reports will be Navajo Code Talker Museum Three more leadership requested for from NHA on and public safety/judicial meeting will be scheduled homes purchased, delivered complex on lands acquired to hear from chapters on the and set up, including a close through Navajo Hopi Land challenges and issues as a out report. Settlement Act. result of relocation. NHLC will recommend NHLC will continue to A housing policy will be congressional field hearing to monitor the Nahata Dziil drafted to address the housing address the ongoing needs of Bashas’ and other business needs in the impacted areas, Navajo relocatees, relocation lease agreement. funding sources and eligibility communities and residents NHLC will meet with Navajo requirements. Including the of the Former Bennett Freeze Nation Attorney General number of Homes to be Area. Doreen McPaul and Acting built per quarter, funding, NHLC will address the Deputy Attorney General location, and power & water deselection and selection of Kimberly Dutcher on land, infrastructure needed. land of lands in NM and over- business site leases, services A determination will be selection of lands in AZ. areas and public laws related made on the NPL housing More information will be to the Navajo Hopi Indian Land assessment study once the acquired on the $60 Million Settlement and other related complete report is provided loan and a plan will be issues. by the Division of Community developed accordingly. Plans are ongoing for Development and the Navajo The Paragon Ranch project NHLC’s collaboration with Hopi Land Commission Office. development will continue to Greg Smith, consultant, on Partnerships will be be monitored. implementing the strategic established with other entities Development in the areas advocacy plan on the technical to build homes in the impacted identified as priority areas amendments and a lobbying areas. will be revisited. Including schedule in the nation’s NHLC will collaborate with associated federal regulations. capital with key congressional the Office of the Controller to Other options will be members, intergovernmental develop a real-time accounting explored regarding the transfer affairs and others system to track Rehabilitation of Padres Mesa Demonstration NHLC will schedule a Trust Fund Balance. And, Ranch to continue operations meeting with Congressman reallocate the unused balance beyond the closure of ONHIR. O’Halleran’s regarding the of the RTF funds to priority NHLC will continue to technical amendments, public projects. Close out reports will advocate and support efforts hearing, Navajo relocatees, be completed. Thereafter, a to keep ONHIR operating until Former Bennett Freeze Area determination will be made on it fully meets its obligations to and the COVID legislation. what impacted areas RTF funds the relocated Navajo families 4. Section Three: will be used, FBFA, housing Develop a plan to fully Issue(s)/Recommendation(s) assessment, staffing, burnouts, rehabilitate the Former Bennett etc. Freeze Area. Certain properties acquired through the Navajo Hopi Land

50 | FALL SESSION, OCTOBER 20, 2020 | SPEAKER’S REPORT | 24TH NAVAJO NATION COUNCIL | LEGISLATIVE BRANCH | NAVAJO NATION Settlement Act are delinquent on the property taxes payments because the account from which the taxes are paid is depleted. One due to not getting the tax bill Rights-of way for roads that transverse the Navajo and Hopi lands are difficult to obtain due to disputes related to land status, processes and funding. Home repair and renovation are challenging at times due to land situations, meeting qualification as beneficiaries and funding requirements Jeddito is asking for $25,000 for roads, NHLC will determine if it can cost match. Impacted chapters are experiencing operation issues, mainly chapter government in turmoil; thereby impacted communities are stymied in making improvement decisions. NTUA does not update infrastructure unless funding comes with the project. NTUA say fees collected is for outages only. An infrastructure plan must be developed with NTUA’s expertise. Requests for housing funding at the congressional level, on behalf of impacted chapters, is usually met with questions on NHA’s unexpended funding. That issues must be resolved. FBFA compact agreement does not apply to areas outside of the 1934 agreement, yet it is being used for such.

Navajo Nation Office of the Speaker P.O. BOX 3390 WINDOW ROCK, AZ 86515 PHONE:(928) 871-7160 FAX: (928) 871-7255