SAWMILL, Ariz. – In the quiet mountain town of Sawmill, community leaders are dreaming of an Intergenerational Learning Facility where Diné elders and children can come together to share stories, language, and culture.
For Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren, this vision reflects the kind of grassroots creativity he wants to see across the Nation.
On Tuesday, Aug. 26, President Nygren, his cabinet, Apache County officials, and Indian Health Services staff visited the chapter to listen and learn directly from residents. The gathering centered on the future of Sawmill and how the Navajo Nation can support projects that strengthen families and local infrastructure.
Larry Foster, CLUPC President for Sawmill Chapter, reminded leaders that Sawmill still has one of its greatest resources: land. “We got land available. We can work with you,” Foster said, pointing to the potential for economic growth in a chapter first established in the 1920s with a timber economy.
Chapter officials outlined priorities such as land for a permanent regional landfill, a road maintenance yard with the Navajo Department of Transportation, a 30-acre cemetery for veterans and families, and even welcoming the idea of a Navajo Police Academy as well as rehabilitation center for those suffering from substances.
Meanwhile, elders remain a focus.
While awaiting a new senior center, the chapter plans to dedicate $50,000 to keep services in its current space before breaking ground on the intergenerational facility.
Infrastructure remains one of the toughest challenges. Residents rely on rugged White Clay and Blue Canyon Roads that demand four-wheel drive, and the community continues to struggle with illegal dumping. Chapter leaders asked for lasting support from the Navajo Division of Community Development and Navajo Sanitation.
“My team will outline everything we talked about today,” President Nygren said. “Sawmill’s leadership has a creative vision, and as Navajos, we must use our $7 billion in investments to bring community projects to life.”
