WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — The 25th Navajo Nation Council’s Resources and Development Committee addressed significant updates within the Navajo Nation Capital Improvement Plan and progress on broadband expansion projects funded through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, along with detailed updates on legislative actions affecting local communities in a meeting May 13.
Acting Division Director of the Division of Community Development, Arbin Mitchell, presented an update on the future trajectory and status of the Navajo Nation Capital Improvement Plan. Mitchell emphasized the importance of starting with a small amount of funding for planning and design before jumping into construction to ensure the facilities meet community needs effectively.
“These facilities are supposed to be utilized at least 80% of the time, and yet many are just sitting there with little to no activities going on,” RDC Chair Brenda Jesus said, highlighting the need for strategic planning to maximize the utilization of community facilities.
The RDC also heard a critical report from the Navajo Nation Oil & Gas Company concerning the Running Horse Pipeline. Vice-President of Midstream Joseph Robertson alongside Community Relations Liaison Sharon Topaha discussed the importance of damage prevention and the ongoing “Call 811 Before You Dig” training initiatives. This program is pivotal for ensuring the safety and integrity of underground utilities, significantly reducing the risk of damage.
Council Delegate Shawna Ann Claw talked about the last-minute notice of the recent Shiprock oil spill which prompted the RDC to investigate the matter.
“RDC has a work session with the Law and Order Committee and I believe these are issues we can work with them on,” Claw said. “I would like to be a sponsor of the legislation for the 811 Program.”
In a critical legislative update, the committee unanimously passed Legislation #0098-24, which implements crucial modifications to the Cornfields Chapter’s project under CAP-35-18, Exhibit D, Project No. 123. This legislation revises the project type to “Plan, Design, Construction, and Equipment” and adjusts the Project Year Funding to “Year 3” with an allocation of $250,000. This strategic enhancement is designed to significantly boost the infrastructure and development capabilities of the Cornfields Chapter.
“We are grateful to all stakeholders who presented today, for their relentless dedication and support in propelling these essential projects forward,” concluded Chair Jesus.
Staff Reports
