Within the center of the Nation, the community of Pinon lies within the boundaries of Central Navajo Agency. Pinon is a community that is constantly growing every day.
On Friday, August 15, I met with Pinon chapter officials and community members. This meeting was held at Pinon High School, where we focused our discussions on public safety concerns, Navajo Route 8031, senior centers, and housing.
Navajo Route 8031 was a big topic of concern among chapter officials and vocal community members. With inflation costs rising, Daryl Bradley, principal civil engineer with the Navajo Department of Transportation, broke down the costs and explained the process of how cultural resources can delay projects.
Chapter officials recommended other solutions, such as paving parts of the nearly 16-mile road; however, Council Delegate Germaine Simonson explained that it’s safer to have access properly excavated with the correct soils to ensure this road lasts and is preserved for a long time. NDOT reported improvements to Navajo Route 8031 will be completed by next summer.
One of the biggest concerns was public safety for this rural community, geographically spat in the middle of the Navajo Nation. With recurring violence and bootlegging, the chapter asked for recommendations on how to address these concerns.
Mike Henderson, division director for the Navajo Division of Public Safety, and Deputy Police Chief Leonard Williams shared that there is a need for a housing station for Navajo police officers to respond to these incidents promptly. The community has three police officers.
It was recommended that Pinon repurpose the vacant Pinon Dormitory under the Pinion Unified School District, which is another project that will need assistance for proper maintenance. Another solution is to work with the Hopi Tribe to use its old police facilities.
With senior centers, chapter officials shared that after the demolition process, they need funding and assistance to clean up the remaining debris. NDOH is actively working with the Division of Community Development on the community’s new senior center.
Although there were many items on the agenda, at least half of the items were discussed. A detailed briefing document will be provided to the chapter as a follow up.
As Navajo Nation President, I will do my best to ensure that our nation’s community needs are being addressed and action is taken to move forward with current and future projects.
-Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren
