Weekly Edition | April 24^th | By: NP-staff

Council Delegate present Legislative acheivements, April 26-Navajo Post

Phoenix, Ariz. – Navajo Council Delegate Walter Phelps and Water rights commissioners brought their community outreach to the Valley for some urban input, the event was held at the Phoenix Indian Center late Thursday, April 26.

With over 30 people, Mr. Phelps and his staff had refreshments and a PowerPoint skit for his district. “My district is one of the best places on the Navajo Nation” said Mr. Phelps as the crowd laughed.

The powerpoint showed some legislative initiatives, with $41 million UUFB- Mr. Phelps said President Shelly would like to keep $20 million and other funding will go out to local Chapters, grazing/farm boards, head start, and transportation.

Mr. Phelps also said they are working with Arizona Department of Public Safety to complete their background investigation on all Navajo positions that are sensitive in nature, creating a transparent and early detection program of those tribal positions.

Navajo Water Rights Commissioner Mannheimer presented an overview of the Settlement, but made it clear it wasn’t a forum and basically said it was a ‘courtesy report for city folks’ – they also had calendars for the audience.

Water commissioners strongly emphasized the Navajo Nation must confirm ‘our rights’ in the settlement agreement or let the State Courts decide for us, in accordance with federal laws, which the Navajo people will not get much out of.

The Shelly Administration held similar forums on the Navajo reservation, on April 5^th Navajo leaders meant with Sen. John McCain and Jon Kyl to discuss the Navajo-Hopi Little Colorado River Water Rights Settlement of 2012 sponsored by both Senators.