WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. – Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren is going to complete 347 projects worth $141 million from New Mexico’s Capital Outlay funds.
These projects will improve basic living conditions for many Diné people, especially in rural areas where electricity and other services are still needed.
So far, only $5.1 million of the $141 million has been expended, and that needs to change, President Nygren said.
On Tuesday, Sept. 17, executive staff from the Office of the President and Vice President, Controller Sean McCabe, and the Division of Community Development held a meeting with New Mexico Indian Affairs Secretary Josett Monette and Senior Tribal Advisor James Mountain to prioritize community projects that need completion.
Most of the funding comes from New Mexico’s general fund or tax bonds. The New Mexico Legislature authorizes these funds for tribes and the governor either approves or line-item vetoes capital outlay projects. The Indian Affairs Department notifies tribes of any funding awards.
One example of how the money is being used is Naschitti Chapter, which has four projects funded by the capital outlay funds. These projects include $75,000 for electrical upgrades and $100,000 for an HVAC installation for its chapter facility, $500,000 for planning a multipurpose building, and $750,000 for power lines. Since Naschitti Chapter is LGA-certified, it can work directly with New Mexico to secure funds.
The chapter, however, has not completed these projects in its entirety.
“It is important to make sure the Nation is on the same page about priorities so we can focus on key areas,” Monette said.
President Nygren will lead Secretary Monette and Mountain on a tour of capital outlay projects in New Mexico chapters in the coming weeks.
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