The Record

Our farmers and ranchers are vital to our economy. Last year, we engaged with Bashas’ leadership to address food deserts on the Nation, where only 13 grocery stores serve our communities. We explored ways for local farmers and ranchers to supply their stores. Bashas’ hosted its first grocery vendor summit, bringing 50 local businesses, grocers, producers, and suppliers.

In February, we hired Dr. David Manuelito from Tohatchi as the Nation’s first permanent veterinarian in over two years, filling a critical gap.

We partnered with Diné College and the USDA to revive the wool and mohair purchasing event. We offered a $0.70 per pound incentive. Over four days, 641 producers brought nearly 150,000 pounds, earning $118,000.

We will also put $110 million from the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund Program into fencing and training projects in 2025.

We reinstated the equine reward program to address the overpopulation of feral horses, which now exceeds 80,000.

The N35 Sweetwater Highway construction is nearing 80% completion and paving is set to begin in March.

For 2025, Navajo DOT announced that it will prioritize $144.6 million in road plans including: contracting 9 road construction projects at 9 sites – Newcomb, Toadlena, Wheatfields Lake, Blue Canyon, Many Farms, Alamo, Tuba City, Greasewood Cornfields-Burnside and Red Valley. For 2025, Navajo DOT announced that it will prioritize $144.6 million in road plans including: contracting 9 road construction projects at 9 sites – Newcomb, Toadlena, Wheatfields Lake, Blue Canyon, Many Farms, Alamo, Tuba City, Greasewood Cornfields-Burnside and Red Valley.

For 2025, Navajo DOT announced that it will prioritize $144.6 million in road plans including: contracting 9 road construction projects at 9 sites – Newcomb, Toadlena, Wheatfields Lake, Blue Canyon, Many Farms, Alamo, Tuba City, Greasewood Cornfields-Burnside and Red Valley.

For 2025, Navajo DOT announced that it will prioritize $144.6 million in road plans including: contracting 9 road construction projects at 9 sites – Newcomb, Toadlena, Wheatfields Lake, Blue Canyon, Many Farms, Alamo, Tuba City, Greasewood Cornfields-Burnside and Red Valley.

I am happy to report we finalized the site for the new Gallup Indian Medical Center in Gamerco, invested $8.1 million in the Chinle Airstrip to improve emergency transportation, and we are broke ground on a $200 million Echo Cliffs Healthcare Center in Bodaway-Gap, in Western Navajo. This new facility will bring medical services closer to our people and have a $1 billion economic impact.

We are actively working to pave the way for durable roads that reduce travel times and improve safety. Our Navajo Washington Office secured $2 million in congressional earmarks for road construction in the Navajo Mountain and Oljato chapters, which was included in the draft FY25 Budget, which we expect Congress to pass in the coming months.

For 2025, Navajo DOT announced that it will prioritize $144.6 million in road plans including: contracting 9 road construction projects at 9 sites – Newcomb, Toadlena, Wheatfields Lake, Blue Canyon, Many Farms, Alamo, Tuba City, Greasewood Cornfields-Burnside and Red Valley.

For 2025, Navajo DOT announced that it will prioritize $144.6 million in road plans including: contracting 9 road construction projects at 9 sites – Newcomb, Toadlena, Wheatfields Lake, Blue Canyon, Many Farms, Alamo, Tuba City, Greasewood Cornfields-Burnside and Red Valley.

For 2025, Navajo DOT announced that it will prioritize $144.6 million in road plans including: contracting 9 road construction projects at 9 sites – Newcomb, Toadlena, Wheatfields Lake, Blue Canyon, Many Farms, Alamo, Tuba City, Greasewood Cornfields-Burnside and Red Valley.

In addition, Navajo DOT will be applying for bridge construction funding for 71 bridges across Navajo. Beyond 2025, the estimate FHWA road construction projects for 2026 is $146,750,000.00.

We are actively working to pave the way for durable roads that reduce travel times and improve safety. Our Navajo Washington Office secured $2 million in congressional earmarks for road construction in the Navajo Mountain and Oljato chapters, which was included in the draft FY25 Budget, which we expect Congress to pass in the coming months.

For 2025, Navajo DOT announced that it will prioritize $144.6 million in road plans including: contracting 9 road construction projects at 9 sites – Newcomb, Toadlena, Wheatfields Lake, Blue Canyon, Many Farms, Alamo, Tuba City, Greasewood Cornfields-Burnside and Red Valley. For 2025, Navajo DOT announced that it will prioritize $144.6 million in road plans including: contracting 9 road construction projects at 9 sites – Newcomb, Toadlena, Wheatfields Lake, Blue Canyon, Many Farms, Alamo, Tuba City, Greasewood Cornfields-Burnside and Red Valley.

For 2025, Navajo DOT announced that it will prioritize $144.6 million in road plans including: contracting 9 road construction projects at 9 sites – Newcomb, Toadlena, Wheatfields Lake, Blue Canyon, Many Farms, Alamo, Tuba City, Greasewood Cornfields-Burnside and Red Valley.

For 2025, Navajo DOT announced that it will prioritize $144.6 million in road plans including: contracting 9 road construction projects at 9 sites – Newcomb, Toadlena, Wheatfields Lake, Blue Canyon, Many Farms, Alamo, Tuba City, Greasewood Cornfields-Burnside and Red Valley.

In 2025, NNBBO will secure at least $200 million in BEAD funding from Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah. Over $3 million has been allocated to Diné College and Navajo Technical University to support students with essential connectivity for academic success

Additionally, $528,000 will be invested to connect more than 50 chapter locations using Low Earth Orbit satellite technology.

In 2024, our Navajo Broadband Office developed a “Broadband Infrastructure Expansion Plan” to construct 78 new towers and extend 1,526 miles of fiber network, aiming to serve 35,000 homes at an estimated cost of $271 million. ARPA funds also enabled upgrades to 33 sites with 4G capabilities across the Nation.

Navajo Small Business Credit Initiative (NSBCI) We secured $26 million in NSBCI funding in 2024 from the U.S. Treasury. We’re working with Change Labs to disburse the first $7 million in loans to small businesses and nonprofits next month. This program will deploy nearly $89 million over the next 10 years.

ARPA Small Business Artisan Relief This year we relaunched the ARPA Small Business Artisan Relief program, which brought more than $6.34 million in essential funding to 541 Navajo businesses. Awards ranged from $5,000-$60,000. This helped sustain many of our small businesses and preserved our traditional cultural arts.

Business Lease Abatements and Settlements To address the ongoing economic impacts of COVID-19, DED provided over $1M in lease abatements to support 10 struggling businesses. This relief preserved jobs and maintained the business. 15 others were guided in resetting their financial and operational foundations for growth and long-term sustainability.

Every dollar of rent paid to the Navajo Nation from NNGE’s lease with the Navajo Nation will benefit the Diné Relocatee Fund.

Tax Revenues: Building A Stronger Navajo Nation Our Navajo Tax Commission generated $140.7 million in tax revenue for the Navajo Nation—26% above projections, marking one of the highest annual collections in the Commission’s history. Much of this success is due to tourism. The Hotel Occupancy Tax alone exceeded initial estimates by 173%. This growth reflects my administration’s efforts to rebuild the economy, attract visitors, and showcase the beauty of our Navajo Nation.

Finally, this year we will be working with the Controller to develop an ambitious plan to borrow $1 billion of our own money to invest into our communities and to stimulate our economy. We have to start investing in ourselves. Finally, this year we will be working with the Controller to develop an ambitious plan to borrow $1 billion of our own money to invest into our communities and to stimulate our economy. We have to start investing in ourselves.

The Horseshoe Bend Resort is expected to create 3,000 jobs and bring $14 million annually to the Navajo Nation. Construction of this $800 million resort begins this year, with full buildout by 2029. In 2024, a 421-acre resort lease was signed to enable this transformative project.

The Shonto Hotel, opening in February 2025, is projected to generate $250,000 in annual revenue and create 30 jobs. The Nation invested $17 million in this project. I am happy to see we are close to completion.

Last year we successfully acquired Goulding’s Lodge, projected to generate $7 million in annual revenue starting February 2025. This project has already created more than 300 jobs for our people

The Shiprock Pinnacle Hotel will create 40 jobs and bring in $250,000 in annual tax revenue. Initially launched eight years ago, administration started construction in October. my This $22M project is set for completion in Spring 2026.

In 2024, we acquired Horseman’s Lodge, located in Flagstaff for use by our Gaming Enterprise. Navajo Gaming will install a limited number of gaming machines and reopen the restaurant. This project will bring 100 new jobs.

Tourism: Navajo Parks and Recreation Admission to tribal parks and museums was up almost 30%. We had over 1.9 million visitors to the Navajo Tribal Parks last year – an increase from 1.5 million visitors in 2023 – with a majority of visitors going to Lake Powell Tribal Park. Together, Navajo parks and the museum generated $15.5 million in revenue.

The Nation was awarded $5.55 million from the USDA Local Food Purchase Assistance Plus Program. This will fund food packages prepared by NAPI and include traditional foods such as potatoes, beans, and flour.

By way of the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, we have been able to help our farmers, ranchers and agriculturists. Our Livestock Management Program supported 570 ranchers during the ongoing drought.

Our Farm and Garden Incentive Program benefitted 523 farmers by providing financial incentives for the production of food and crops in an effort to promote food sovereignty.

As a result of an established relationship with New Mexico leadership, I was able to elevate the priority of the Highway 264 repaving project and move forward the Highway 491 bridge repairs. The road between Tse Bonito and Ya-Ta-Hey is now almost fully repaved. Thank you to Governor Lujan Grisham and your Transportation Secretary Ricky Serna for allowing us to use your millings to help fix our dirt roads.

CAPITAL PROJECTS We have queued up 80 NM projects totaling $47 million to begin in the spring, this includes water, powerlines, maintenance of water wells, heavy equipment purchases, maintenance to educational and veterans’ buildings, and improvements to warehouses.

We secured a $20 million grant under the USDOT RAISE program. That will reconstruct and improve approximately 7 miles of N-15, stretching from Sunrise Springs, Ariz., to Cornfields, Ariz.

Construction begins this month to pave 5.8 miles on N35 in Sweet Water, a $21.5 million project. It is on schedule and set for completion by November.

As part of this, we constructed 13.2 miles of middle-mile fiber allowing connections to 600 homes in Ramah, N.M.

We are now upgrading 40 towers to increase 4G capacity on Navajo. This will benefit 26,554 cell phone users and 10,752 homes over 6,444 square miles. Some communities will gain access to 5G through this initiative by 2024.

Navajo is at the forefront of tackling the digital divide in Indian Country. We recognize the critical importance of internet access in healthcare, public safety, economic development, and education. In my first year, I launched the “Navajo Nation Digital Equity Initiative” which aims to bring 5G coverage to all chapters by 2030. It focuses on populated areas, cultural sites, businesses, and public facilities. A broadband czar was appointed to oversee a comprehensive broadband plan that will leverage ARPA funds and other grants to build telecommunications infrastructure, enhance cybersecurity, and advance 9-1-1 services

Seven million dollars has been committed to Change Labs to implement two loan programs for Navajo small businesses.

Using ARPA dollars, DED will relaunch the ARPA Economic Relief Hardship Program this month with grant options for Navajo-owned companies and sole proprietors like sheepherders and weavers.

Last week, the Nation was approved for $89 million under the U.S. Department of Treasury’s State Small Business Credit Initiative. This will provide assistance to small business owners and tribal governments over a 10-year period. The first $30 million is slated for release early this year.

At the former NGS site, we entered a business site lease with Zenni Homes to convert several buildings into warehouse space to manufacture fabricated modular homes. Over 110 Navajo workers now work at this site. Our goal is for Zenni Homes to restore the 800 jobs lost with the NGS closure.

For the first time in 20 years, we updated the Navajo Business Opportunity Act and the Navajo Nation Procurement Act. Now the government and businesses will operate more efficiently.

DED completed amendments to the Nation’s 2008 Business Site Lease Administrative and Management Plan in November to speed up the process and eliminate duplicate steps, which will go before Council for approval.

To date, we have encumbered and obligated 57% of our ARPA award and with Council’s support we will have a plan in the coming weeks to ensure that we maximize the use of these dollars.

These projects created nearly 40 temporary Navajo jobs. NTUA has made great strides and has connected more than 400 homes to electricity and completed 88 solar connections.

In October, I signed into law a resolution to purchase Goulding’s Monument Valley Lodge. This project is expected to bring in $7.3 million in revenue and will keep 280 local jobs.

I am continuing to prioritize the Navajo language. I established Diné Bizaad Teachers Day on October 18 to celebrate our language and educators. But this is just the beginning.

Fostering Youth Development The opening of the Crownpoint Youth Center in Sept. 2024 marks a milestone for youth engagement, offering programs for personal development and recreation.

Investing in Academic Infrastructure and Opportunities We approved $5 million in funding to expand Utah State University’s academic facility in Monument Valley. Groundbreaking ceremonies were also held at Tohatchi High School, Crystal Boarding School, and Many Farms Lobo School demonstrating our focus on providing safe, modern learning environments.

We also helped fund a $10 million dormitory at Navajo Prep for a 13,724-square-foot facility which will house 32 students this school year.

Meanwhile, the Tuba City Youth Complex is in progress and Chinle has withdrawn 30 acres for its complex.

Investing in Academic Infrastructure and Opportunities We approved $5 million in funding to expand Utah State University’s academic facility in Monument Valley. Groundbreaking ceremonies were also held at Tohatchi High School, Crystal Boarding School, and Many Farms Lobo School demonstrating our focus on providing safe, modern learning environments.

Meanwhile, the Tuba City Youth Complex is in progress and Chinle has withdrawn 30 acres for its complex.

Investing in Academic Infrastructure and Opportunities We approved $5 million in funding to expand Utah State University’s academic facility in Monument Valley. Groundbreaking ceremonies were also held at Tohatchi High School, Crystal Boarding School, and Many Farms Lobo School demonstrating our focus on providing safe, modern learning environments.

Investing in Academic Infrastructure and Opportunities We approved $5 million in funding to expand Utah State University’s academic facility in Monument Valley. Groundbreaking ceremonies were also held at Tohatchi High School, Crystal Boarding School, and Many Farms Lobo School demonstrating our focus on providing safe, modern learning environments.

Bridging Connectivity for Schools and Libraries With funding from the FCC’s E-Rate program, we connected 16 Chapter houses and 11 Head Start programs to a fiber internet connection. Our crews are working hard with Sacred Wind Communications and our Land Department to install the technologies necessary to ensure our students succeed.

We will work with SWC & NNLD to ensure 27 additional chapters and 11 Head Starts have fiber construction completed by June 2025.

Enhancing Early Childhood Education In March, we successfully converted 163 Head StartPreschool slots into Early Head Start-Toddler slots, expanding access to quality education for our youngest learners. These efforts were complemented by the $24.2 million secured in September to replace playground equipment at 16 childcare centers.

I renewed an agreement with the University of Arizona’s college of law to increase the number of Navajo attorneys. I signed the Nation’s first MOU for veterinary medicine to increase the number of veterinarians available to our communities.

In the coming weeks, we will sign an MOU with ASU School of Social Work which will include two additional social services programs.

Additionally, thanks to our Navajo Washington Office, we prevented the reversion of more than $9 million in workforce development funding. This money now benefits our people who are seeking jobs within the trades.

Senior centers play a vital role in supporting our elders. We’ve made progress in opening new centers and renovating existing ones. The Tselani/Cottonwood Senior Center, a $3.27 million, 4,000-square-foot facility, opened on June 28, 2024, serving 380+ community members.

the Ganado Senior/Veteran Center continues operations.

Renovations funded by NM House Bill 308 in Tohajilee, Baca Prewitt, Ramah, Chichiltah, and Crownpoint are set to finish by 2025.

By mid-2025, we aim to expand nutrition programs, launch a senior-youth mentorship program, and create virtual activities for seniors with mobility challenges.

We secured two contractors and begin making $4.1 million in upgrades at Chinle, Fort Defiance and Shiprock. Going into 2025, we will spend an additional $12 million on ADA projects.

In 2025, we plan on supporting projects at the Tuba City Senior Center and Gadii’ahi Complex

Nationwide, $184 million in Sihasin Funds supports senior center projects, with $148 million funding 87 projects. The Department of Health assessed 15 major construction projects and completed renovations on 64 centers

Renovations funded by NM House Bill 308 in Tohajilee, Baca Prewitt, Ramah, Chichiltah, and Crownpoint are set to finish by 2025.

Renovations funded by NM House Bill 308 in Tohajilee, Baca Prewitt, Ramah, Chichiltah, and Crownpoint are set to finish by 2025.

Our Facilities Maintenance Department was allocated $16 million four years ago to make Navajo government facilities compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

We secured two contractors and begin making $4.1 million in upgrades at Chinle, Fort Defiance and Shiprock. Going into 2025, we will spend an additional $12 million on ADA projects.

In January 2024, the Pueblo Pintado Senior Center began serving 81 seniors daily

Renovations funded by NM House Bill 308 in Tohajilee, Baca Prewitt, Ramah, Chichiltah, and Crownpoint are set to finish by 2025.

Renovations funded by NM House Bill 308 in Tohajilee, Baca Prewitt, Ramah, Chichiltah, and Crownpoint are set to finish by 2025.

We secured two contractors and begin making $4.1 million in upgrades at Chinle, Fort Defiance and Shiprock. Going into 2025, we will spend an additional $12 million on ADA projects.

In 2025, we plan on supporting projects at the Tuba City Senior Center and Gadii’ahi Complex

To honor and care for our elders, we allocated $5 million to refurbish senior centers across Navajo Nation. Pueblo Pintado will open its new senior center soon.

To enhance mobility and access to essential services, we’ve introduced 13 new vehicles for New Mexico senior centers.

I call upon the Navajo Nation Council to help me to develop a strategic $500 million investment in the Nation’s infrastructure, modeled after the U.S. bipartisan infrastructure law. We need to upgrade and expand facilities for early childhood and senior programs. We need to enhance education, elderly care, and social services. Such an initiative promises to modernize our community services and significantly boost the wellbeing of our people, ensuring a stronger, more prosperous Navajo Nation.

Shortly after, we celebrated the listing of the Lukachukai Mountain Mining District on the Superfund National Priorities List, which opens federal funding for long-overdue cleanup in a mining-affected area.

Addressing the illegal transportation of uranium, I signed a legislation that requires an agreement before transporting uranium on through the reservation. As President, I will advocate for federal regulations that align with tribal laws, ensuring no radioactive materials cross Diné lands without our knowledge.

In 2024, one of Navajo EPAs key achievement was the swift removal of asbestos at the Navajo Forest Products Industries site in September 2024.

In 2024, NECA and IHS connected 258 homes to water and wastewater systems while another 850 has been improved across Navajo.

Other construction began on three wastewater treatment plants in Kayenta, Chinle, and Shiprock, and launched nine major water projects, including the Aneth Water Treatment Arsenic Removal System, a water loading station, and two deep-water wells in Chilchinbeto and Tsaile.

Other construction began on three wastewater treatment plants in Kayenta, Chinle, and Shiprock, and launched nine major water projects, including the Aneth Water Treatment Arsenic Removal System, a water loading station, and two deep-water wells in Chilchinbeto and Tsaile.

NTUA also extended waterlines and septic systems to 109 families, installed 29 water cisterns and septic systems, replaced the Dilkon Waterline Booster Station and placed Lower Greasewood Water Treatment Plant in service.

Two transformative projects broke ground The Beacon Bisti Water Project, a $7 million initiative will bring clean water to over 6,800 residents in 8 communities with a 46-mile pipeline, part of the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project.

SOVEREIGNTY Our Navajo Department of Justice works hard in the courts to protect our interests. We won the Clark v. Haaland case in the 10th Circuit in November of 2024 protecting the Nation’s sovereignty and affirming our water rights. The Nation continues to fight to protect Bears Ears, where an appellate case is pending in the 10th Circuit.

Ensuring every Navajo family has access to clean, reliable water is one of my top priorities. We introduced two major water rights bills last year, the Northeastern Arizona Indian Water Rights Settlement Act and the Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act, in Congress. While no Indian Water Rights bills advanced, we will reintroduce both this year and continue pushing to safeguard the resources our communities rely on.

Other construction began on three wastewater treatment plants in Kayenta, Chinle, and Shiprock, and launched nine major water projects, including the Aneth Water Treatment Arsenic Removal System, a water loading station, and two deep-water wells in Chilchinbeto and Tsaile.

Other construction began on three wastewater treatment plants in Kayenta, Chinle, and Shiprock, and launched nine major water projects, including the Aneth Water Treatment Arsenic Removal System, a water loading station, and two deep-water wells in Chilchinbeto and Tsaile.

NTUA also extended waterlines and septic systems to 109 families, installed 29 water cisterns and septic systems, replaced the Dilkon Waterline Booster Station and placed Lower Greasewood Water Treatment Plant in service.

In 2025, NTUA will continue to bring water infrastructure to 575 more homes.

Two transformative projects broke ground The Tohajilee Waterline Project, a $20 million effort to build a 7.5-mile pipeline connecting Tohajilee’s 1,600 residents to Albuquerque’s water system, replacing a failing well system this year

We’ve been working hard to ensure projects that have already been approved are completed. Yesterday, Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner Camille Toutin announced an additional $120 million to support the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project, benefiting 43 Eastern Navajo Nation Chapters. My thanks to Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernandez for her continued support and advocacy & other congressional champions who fight for Navajo.

Other construction began on three wastewater treatment plants in Kayenta, Chinle, and Shiprock, and launched nine major water projects, including the Aneth Water Treatment Arsenic Removal System, a water loading station, and two deep-water wells in Chilchinbeto and Tsaile.

Other construction began on three wastewater treatment plants in Kayenta, Chinle, and Shiprock, and launched nine major water projects, including the Aneth Water Treatment Arsenic Removal System, a water loading station, and two deep-water wells in Chilchinbeto and Tsaile.

NTUA also extended waterlines and septic systems to 109 families, installed 29 water cisterns and septic systems, replaced the Dilkon Waterline Booster Station and placed Lower Greasewood Water Treatment Plant in service.NTUA also extended waterlines and septic systems to 109 families, installed 29 water cisterns and septic systems, replaced the Dilkon Waterline Booster Station and placed Lower Greasewood Water Treatment Plant in service.

Our Department of Water Resources repaired 754 windmills in 2024, supporting ranchers and farmers, and constructed 26 miles of water pipelines—up 37% from the previous year. In 2025, DWR will repair 700 more windmills and double pipeline construction to 53 miles.

My Administration achieved what couldn’t be achieved over the last two administrations – obtaining a letter from the DOI to participate in the California Air Resources Board Cap-and-Trade Program. This program focuses on reducing carbon emissions, allowing for the quantification, verification, and sale of offset credits to generate revenue for the Nation and improve management of the Navajo Commercial Forest. This is expected to bring in millions of dollars in revenue annually.

This includes funding an Alamo Chapter water well, which began construction in 2023, and the Smith Lake Water Treatment project. DNR is managing sub recipient agreements with NTUA for numerous water lines, wastewater treatment plants, and other water system upgrades.

NAVAJO GALLUP WATER SUPPLY We’ve had important developments in water rights negotiations. We’ve advanced the Navajo Gallup Water Supply Project Amendments Act. That’s a bipartisan bill introduced by New Mexico Senator Lujan to complete the Project, an estimated cost of $2.1 billion. This project will serve 43 chapters and a future population of some 250,000 in New Mexico once it passes Congress and is signed by the U.S. President. This amendment authorizes water delivery through the Navajo Gallup Water Supply Project to Navajo communities in Utah as well, as part of the implementation of the Navajo Utah Water Rights Settlement Act.

NECA WATERLINES The Navajo Engineering and Construction Authority has made significant progress to complete more than 72 miles of water lines impacting residents in Leupp, Dilkon, Dennehosto and Houck.

This includes funding an Alamo Chapter water well, which began construction in 2023, and the Smith Lake Water Treatment project. DNR is managing sub recipient agreements with NTUA for numerous water lines, wastewater treatment plants, and other water system upgrades.

ARIZONA WATER RIGHTS SETTLEMENT Our attorneys have continued to work diligently to secure an Arizona Water Rights Settlement – a process that has been in negotiations since the 1970s. We expect proposed legislation to go before the Navajo Nation Council in February before U.S. Congressional authorization. It is time to get this done. As time goes by, there is less and less water on the table to negotiate. This remains one of my highest priorities.

NECA WATERLINES The Navajo Engineering and Construction Authority has made significant progress to complete more than 72 miles of water lines impacting residents in Leupp, Dilkon, Dennehosto and Houck.

Our Division of Natural Resources has encumbered nearly $100 million for the planning, design and construction of water projects.

Navajo EPA is laying the groundwork for additional water projects for 2024, including the approval of ARPA requests to fund waterline connections, residential septic systems, community lagoons, drinking water treatment structures and wastewater treatment plants.

NECA WATERLINES The Navajo Engineering and Construction Authority has made significant progress to complete more than 72 miles of water lines impacting residents in Leupp, Dilkon, Dennehosto and Houck.

NECA WATERLINES The Navajo Engineering and Construction Authority has made significant progress to complete more than 72 miles of water lines impacting residents in Leupp, Dilkon, Dennehosto and Houck.

Our Department of Personnel Management also launched our online application portal in September 2024, simplifying the job application process. Last year, 2,992 job vacancies were posted, 7,557 applications were received, and 753 positions were filled. Since the launch of the online portal, 2,355 applications were submitted, enabling hiring programs to be completed within five days.

FEDERAL ENGAGEMENT During my administration, we strengthened relationships with federal leaders, including Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su. I joined her here in Tuba City as she announced $13 million for job training, among others.

Our Department of Information Technology also used $6 million in ARPA funds to strengthen the Nation’s cybersecurity, safeguarding approximately 5,000 users.

I testified five times to Congress this past year on veterans’ affairs, infrastructure, water rights, investing in sustainable infrastructure, and advocated for the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project Amendments Act.

We have taken steps to modernize our government, streamline hiring processes, and improve efficiency The new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system is now being implemented to streamline finance, procurement and human resources.

Today I will sign an Executive Order directing that all written government documents include at least one word or phrase in Diné Bizaad and that investments be made for non-Diné Bizaad speaking Navajo Nation staff to learn our language.

Responding to the wishes of the silent majority who clearly expressed the need for the government to resume operations, I took steps to reopen chapters and restore government services.

The people have faced significant hardships which is why they elected me to provide consistent and efficient access to the services they depend on. My team is working to strengthen Title 26 to empower our chapters and enhance their ability to provide government services to our people. My team has a goal of 43 chapters to recertify their community land use plans. I have empowered LGA-certified chapters to become sub-grant recipients to enable them to implement ARPA project.

I vetoed legislation that would have allowed for virtual quorum and voting at chapter meetings. I am happy to see the local governments, including the Agency Councils and chapters, work together to override this veto. That demonstrates that the needs of the people are being addressed. This decision was made to ensure that all members of our community, particularly our elders, remain an integral part of the decision-making process at the local level. I am committed to create a framework where local voices lead the way in governance and where the Navajo Nation can flourish under the guidance and wisdom of its people.

In my first 100 days to reopen the government: My staff worked to reopen 15 childcare centers and expanded hours to run from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m. I lifted the COVID mask restrictions. I worked to reopen the almost 110 Chapter Houses that closed during the pandemic. I ended remote work so programs can better serve you face-to-face.

Our behavioral health and mental services team delivered 1,198 clinical services to clients last year and engaged 33,419 participants in meaningful outreach to address mental health awareness and early intervention. They also provided traditional services to nearly 500 clients, offering smudging, prayers, and cultural education.

In 2025, DOH will launch two new treatment facilities, one in a rural chapter and another in an urban area. The Navajo Treatment Center for Children and Their Families Program provides outpatient mental health therapy to 9,214, an increase from 2023.

We’ve also completed renovations for 6 homes in Shiprock, Rock Point, Lukachukai, Pinon, and Dilkon through the BIA HIP program— doubling last year’s efforts—and delivered 7 manufactured homes using ARPA funds, with 10 more in progress.

22 homes in Thoreau and 7 in Naschitti will soon receive power with grant funds. A powerline expansion in Indian Wells will meet residential and commercial needs, and projects in Dilkon and Greasewood will connect 39 more households.

We’ve also completed renovations for 6 homes in Shiprock, Rock Point, Lukachukai, Pinon, and Dilkon through the BIA HIP program— doubling last year’s efforts—and delivered 7 manufactured homes using ARPA funds, with 10 more in progress.

22 homes in Thoreau and 7 in Naschitti will soon receive power with grant funds. A powerline expansion in Indian Wells will meet residential and commercial needs, and projects in Dilkon and Greasewood will connect 39 more households.

We have completed 6 new homes and have another $10.8 million allocated for 84 homes in the Former Bennett Freeze Area, Navajo Partitioned Lands, and relocatee areas like Nahat’a Dziil. These threebedroom homes average $128,323.

We’ve also completed renovations for 6 homes in Shiprock, Rock Point, Lukachukai, Pinon, and Dilkon through the BIA HIP program— doubling last year’s efforts—and delivered 7 manufactured homes using ARPA funds, with 10 more in progress.

22 homes in Thoreau and 7 in Naschitti will soon receive power with grant funds. A powerline expansion in Indian Wells will meet residential and commercial needs, and projects in Dilkon and Greasewood will connect 39 more households.

Our Division of Community Development is building 360 modular homes using $55.1 million in ARPA funds. CHID expects to produce an additional 272 homes in 2025.

22 homes in Thoreau and 7 in Naschitti will soon receive power with grant funds. A powerline expansion in Indian Wells will meet residential and commercial needs, and projects in Dilkon and Greasewood will connect 39 more households.

We saw a 70% improvement in homesite lease approvals last year. In 2024, we approved about 1,200 homesite leases – this is an increase from 700 in 2023.

We are also working hard to ensure every household in our Nation has access to electricity. In 2024, NTUA provided electric service to a total of 813 families and built nearly 58 miles of powerlines under the Light Up Navajo initiative. We expect even more progress in 2025, with plans to build or upgrade seven substations and to make new investments in solar off-grid systems.

We’ve also completed renovations for 6 homes in Shiprock, Rock Point, Lukachukai, Pinon, and Dilkon through the BIA HIP program— doubling last year’s efforts—and delivered 7 manufactured homes using ARPA funds, with 10 more in progress.

We’ve also completed renovations for 6 homes in Shiprock, Rock Point, Lukachukai, Pinon, and Dilkon through the BIA HIP program— doubling last year’s efforts—and delivered 7 manufactured homes using ARPA funds, with 10 more in progress.

22 homes in Thoreau and 7 in Naschitti will soon receive power with grant funds. A powerline expansion in Indian Wells will meet residential and commercial needs, and projects in Dilkon and Greasewood will connect 39 more households.

The BIA HIP program will spend $12.5 million of annual and ARPA funds to build 104 homes and renovate five. We received 870 applications this year, showing the urgent need for housing

We also closed out a HUD grant for the Aneth Scattered Powerline Project, serving 13 homes. A major federal award with local matching funds will bring power to 114 households across eight communities, adding 51 miles of new electrical lines.

Ensuring Indoor Bathrooms for Our Elders and Families In partnership with the DCD and NECA 12) work orders have been issued to construct 449 bathroom additions for families in need. Of these, 321 are in progress. As of December 2024, 251 bathroom additions are under construction, 128 bathroom additions are fully completed—an impressive increase from just 27 completed projects by the second quarter of FY2024.

The Tuba City Regional Corporation Hospital also began construction in February with another 48 employee homes currently under construction.

Our WIC program served 12,000 families and distributed $4 million in benefits. They also provided breastfeeding support to 2,000 Navajo mothers through workshops and one-on-one counseling.

In 2024, our Department for Child Care & Development (DCCD) provided over $470,000 in subsidy payments allowing the parents of 567 children to go to school or work. DCCD also invested nearly $9.5 million in direct services to lay the groundwork for even more families to access quality childcare services.

I am happy to report we finalized the site for the new Gallup Indian Medical Center in Gamerco, invested $8.1 million in the Chinle Airstrip to improve emergency transportation, and we are broke ground on a $200 million Echo Cliffs Healthcare Center in Bodaway-Gap, in Western Navajo. This new facility will bring medical services closer to our people and have a $1 billion economic impact.

Our Community Health Representative Program conducted nearly 25,000 vital sign checks and served 11,000 individuals across 110 chapters. In 2025, the CHR program will establish telehealth support hubs to reach even more patients across the Nation

The Division of Self Reliance provided almost $13 million in assistance to over 21,000 families including 13,000 adults and nearly 42,000 children.

I am happy to report we finalized the site for the new Gallup Indian Medical Center in Gamerco, invested $8.1 million in the Chinle Airstrip to improve emergency transportation, and we are broke ground on a $200 million Echo Cliffs Healthcare Center in Bodaway-Gap, in Western Navajo. This new facility will bring medical services closer to our people and have a $1 billion economic impact.

Our Department of Health distributed over 29,000 food packages to community members, including items like blue corn and Navajo tea. In 2025 we expect to feed 5,000 more people than last year.

Last year, the Special Diabetes Program hosted 1,200 diabetes prevention workshops, engaging 8,000 Navajo participants. They enrolled 1,500 individuals in physical activity programs. Next year, we hope to develop mobile health units and travel to those who need us the most.

The Division of Self Reliance provided almost $13 million in assistance to over 21,000 families including 13,000 adults and nearly 42,000 children. The department served over 7,000 clients, including over 6,000 children and 1,000 adults, and responded to 2,600 reports of abuse or neglect involving children and elders. We also provided financial assistance to our families with the most need paying: • $1 million in 2024 in Low Income Home Energy Assistance • $1.25 million in school clothing • $1.2 million in Burial Assistance • $434,700 in Community Service Block Grants

In 2024, the Department of Health treated 2,000 individuals for opioid use disorder across 15 chapters. We are also focused on prevention with opioid recovery peer support groups and regular community education workshops.

The Diné Action Plan has also been revitalized for holistic care. Our health department has successfully opened new wellness centers in Crownpoint and Tuba City and is on track to launch additional centers in Shiprock and Kayenta.

The Diné Action Plan has also been revitalized for holistic care. Our health department has successfully opened new wellness centers in Crownpoint and Tuba City and is on track to launch additional centers in Shiprock and Kayenta.

The Diné Action Plan has also been revitalized for holistic care. Our health department has successfully opened new wellness centers in Crownpoint and Tuba City and is on track to launch additional centers in Shiprock and Kayenta.

The opening of the 1st ever Sober Living Center on Navajo in Chinle offers substance abuse treatment. Upcoming ARPA projects will reopen the Shiprock behavioral health center and establish new detox and residential treatment centers in Tuba City and Crownpoint.

The Diné Action Plan has also been revitalized for holistic care. Our health department has successfully opened new wellness centers in Crownpoint and Tuba City and is on track to launch additional centers in Shiprock and Kayenta.

Significant progress was made in the health and wellness of our communities through Operation Rainbow Bridge. ORB has tackled healthcare fraud, helped more than 187 Navajos, who have been connected to legitimate treatment centers or transported back to their families.

Efforts to protect Navajo women and girls from violence have ramped up, with substantial resources allocated to the crisis. Investments include $3.2 million to expand the Gentle Ironhawk Shelter, the construction of two new domestic violence shelters, and the transition of the Northern TREE House Shelter to Navajo Nation control.

Related to electricity, the Division of Natural Resources spearheaded efforts to complete a $950,000 six-mile power line extension project from Teec Nos Pos to the Four Corners Monument allowing Navajo families along the route to connect to electricity.

This year, a key success was the upholding of the Indian Child Welfare Act in Haaland v. Brackeen. This ensures the protection of Navajo children’s rights in foster care and adoption cases. We’ve updated agreements to verify ICWA eligibility sooner in custody cases, expanded our Arizona legal team to facilitate earlier intervention, and amendments are underway for our Children’s Code to further strengthen our ICWA framework.

Through the CHID Block Grant Program, our Community Development office completed a 13-mile electrical line extension project in Dilkon, a $1.1 million project to benefit 23 households.

My Washington Office has led the charge to ensure that our Navajo uranium workers receive the compensation they deserve. Last month, we received upsetting news that the RECA Amendments were removed from the National Defense Authorization Act. I immediately responded and issued a joint statement with Speaker Curley to condemn this action. My Washington Office will continue to advocate for our Diné workers who have been impacted by the uranium industry.

DCD completed an 11-mile electrical line extension in Greasewood Springs, a $1 million project to deliver electricity to 16 households since June.

HOUSING Last year, I launched the “1,000 Home Initiative” with one goal in mind – to get homes built for our people. This initiative cast a wide net and welcomed anyone who aspired to build homes for our people, and included representatives from every facet of our community – school districts, hospitals, elderly care providers, private citizens, tribal programs, and our tribal enterprises like NTUA and NHA. Our goal was to target the specific challenges preventing them from building homes in the private and public sector. Homes or housing renovations that we identified to be fast-tracked and built during my administration include: 200 homes for families by DCD.100 housing units for low-income families by DCD.A 60-unit apartment-style complex by NHA.A 25-unit multi-family apartment complex by the Navajo Townsite Community Development Corporation. 30 employee housing units by NTUA. 26 employee housing units by DGS. 16 transitional living homes by the DOH. 56 home improvement projects by the NHLC. 30 employee housing units for Window Rock Unified School District; and 35 employee housing units for Chinle Unified School District.We will continue to add to this list to meet our goal of 1,000 homes built or renovated during my administration.

BATHROOM ADDITIONS In addition to homes, many Navajo families will soon have access to basic plumbing, and to sanitary, accessible bathrooms in their homes. In October, I signed a $150 million contract to have NECA build more than 1,500 bathroom additions with water and sewer, a project spearheaded by DCD using ARPA funds. So far, 19 have been completed and 35 new additions are under construction.

Addressing the needs of people with disabilities, we’ve embarked on a $13.3 million initiative to ensure ADA compliance in 164 tribal buildings. The project prioritizes making our facilities more accessible and safer. Completion is expected by March 2024, and has already begun in seven locations within the Chinle Agency.

Addressing the needs of people with disabilities, we’ve embarked on a $13.3 million initiative to ensure ADA compliance in 164 tribal buildings. The project prioritizes making our facilities more accessible and safer. Completion is expected by March 2024, and has already begun in seven locations within the Chinle Agency.

The opening of the 1st ever Sober Living Center on Navajo in Chinle offers substance abuse treatment. Upcoming ARPA projects will reopen the Shiprock behavioral health center and establish new detox and residential treatment centers in Tuba City and Crownpoint.

The opening of the 1st ever Sober Living Center on Navajo in Chinle offers substance abuse treatment. Upcoming ARPA projects will reopen the Shiprock behavioral health center and establish new detox and residential treatment centers in Tuba City and Crownpoint.

The opening of the 1st ever Sober Living Center on Navajo in Chinle offers substance abuse treatment. Upcoming ARPA projects will reopen the Shiprock behavioral health center and establish new detox and residential treatment centers in Tuba City and Crownpoint.

To combat rising criminal activity, Navajo Police established a Northern Area Field Office in an unused Aneth Chapter facility, expanding police presence and allowing for patrol and emergency response.

Police officer recruitment remains a significant challenge for our Nation. The number of officers has decreased from 201 to 178 across our seven districts. Although 19 new recruits graduated in 2024, it is still insufficient to meet the safety needs of our communities. My administration urges more young people to consider careers in law enforcement, including those who may not pursue full police training but can serve as citizen police officers.

Cross-Commission Agreements We have taken steps to help eliminate jurisdictional gaps by establishing strong partnerships with surrounding law enforcement agencies. We have seven (7) agreements in place with agencies including Apache County, McKinley County, Socorro County, among others. We completed negotiations with the Hopi Tribe and Navajo County, and actively working on agreements with Arizona DPS, Coconino County, and the City of Gallup.

I am happy to announce construction will begin this summer on a new animal control facility in Crownpoint, to be completed in 2026 and increasing our capacity to manage animal control in Eastern Agency.

A new Eastern Field Office was created at the Dzil Nahoodilii (DZ) NPD Substation near Nageezi, NM. This initiative marks the first phase of District 8 police operations, which will be fully staffed with commanders, officers, administrative support by the end of FY 2025.

In 2024, our Department of Emergency Management secured $275,000 in FEMA reimbursements for local chapter houses. DEM also provided emergency resources to 17 chapters across our lands, assisting over 40,000 people.

Safety in Schools Navajo DEM, partnering with American Red Cross and the School Safety Task Force, offers a School Safety-Emergency Preparedness course for students K-12. This free course teaches vital preparedness skills for home fires and local hazards.

Having participated in the Nation-wide opioid litigation, the Nation has received over $80.7 million in compensation, and we expect an additional $84.7 million over the next few years.

Plans are underway to establish a Navajo Regional Training Center in Page, which will support fire, corrections, police, and EMS programs, enhancing professional development opportunities for our law enforcement.

Elevating Fire Protection Under Strong Leadership I have worked to strengthen fire and rescue services. In 2017, only 8 officials served our vast lands; by 2023, this number increased to 20, and 6 more were added in 2024, totaling 26. Each addition safeguards our people and communities. I also acknowledge our 23 dedicated Navajo Scouts who are bravely assisting the efforts in Los Angeles County. We pray for their safe return after supporting our relatives in Southern California.

This year, we brought on 2 additional animal control officers, expanding our team to a total of 9. These officers travel more than 400 miles daily to cover vast areas of our Nation. Our three (3) operating animal control centers— located in Fort Defiance, Shiprock, and Tuba City—are critical resources for addressing animalrelated issues across the Navajo Nation.

We have made progress in improving law enforcement facilities and expanding police presence across the Nation. On October 24 and December 11, we replaced the outdated detention centers in Window Rock and Shiprock with modern 60-by-100-foot modular facilities, addressing the health and safety concerns for both inmates and staff, and replacing structures originally built in the 1950s.

We have made progress in improving law enforcement facilities and expanding police presence across the Nation. On October 24 and December 11, we replaced the outdated detention centers in Window Rock and Shiprock with modern 60-by-100-foot modular facilities, addressing the health and safety concerns for both inmates and staff, and replacing structures originally built in the 1950s.

HIGH-TECH LAW ENFORCEMENT VEHICLES Public Safety will also purchase 120 new law enforcement vehicles with geospatial technology allowing police officers to complete reports on-site and serve a larger area.

E-911 I recently signed a $6.2 million contract in partnership with our Public Safety office to begin to fulfill a 20-year dream to bring E911 digital communication to the Nation. The system uses NextGen 9-1-1 technology, a digital internet protocol that replaces analog 9-1-1 and uses geospatial data to locate the call so that help can be dispatched quickly. This will make us the first tribal nation and the first entity in the Four Corners to have a consolidated primary public safety answering point.

LAW ENFORCEMENT RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION We are working to improve the recruitment and retention of our law enforcement officers.

The Navajo Washington Office is talking to the U.S. Congress to pass the Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act, which allows tribal law enforcement officers acting under an authorized contract or compact as a federal law enforcement to receive benefits from the federal government.

FIRSTNET My administration saved 30 FirstNet towers at risk of falling through. FirstNet is the only network built for first responders allowing them to respond to emergencies using fast, reliable communication. Currently, there are more than 147 sites.

DETENTION FACILITIES For more than three years, Window Rock and Shiprock struggled to find a place to detain arrestees because of closed detention facilities forcing our officers to drive detainees to Kayenta or Crownpoint. To solve this, our Department of Corrections secured $3.6 million in ARPA funds to purchase 2 mobile detention centers that have been placed in Window Rock and Shiprock. We are waiting for waterline, sewer lines, and electricity connections to become fully operational.

To support Urban Diné relatives, our Navajo divisions and programs is working to secure the purchase of a medical facility in Phoenix to offer services to Navajo citizens living in the metro area. The goal is to have the facility accredited, fully staffed, and operational, providing comprehensive services by 2026.

HOMEOWNERS ASSISTANCE For our urban relatives, we formed the $55.4 million Navajo Homeowner Assistance Fund. This has prevented 17 Navajo families from losing their homes to foreclosure. We are just getting started. We have more than 200 applications pending, 96 of which have been approved

Housing Assistance Fund Using the Housing Assistance Fund, we identified $4.2 million to provide critical housing support for 75 Navajo veterans in 2025. These funds will go directly toward improving housing conditions, offering much-needed security and stability to veterans.

The Fort Defiance Agency VA secured a grant to fund traditional healing ceremonies, reconnecting veterans with practices central to our Diné identity.

This year, our Navajo VA partnered with the Northern Arizona Veterans Administration Health Care System to reopen veteran clinics at IHS hospitals in Chinle and Kayenta, prioritizing mental health care.

The Navajo VA delivered. Over $20,000 in burial assistance to honor veterans and their families. $15,000 for honor guard details to commemorate their service. $4.1 million of the $5.7 million Veterans Trust Fund directly supported veterans, surviving spouses, and Gold Star Mothers, and helped over 80 veterans secure disability compensation, providing monthly benefits of $4,000–$5,000 based on individual needs

ARPA Housing The Navajo Veterans Administration has fully encumbered its $50 million ARPA allocation for new housing construction, prioritizing our veterans with the most need. We were able to take contracts to build 50 homes at an outrageous price and renegotiate them to provide us with a total of 170 homes. And with those contracts in place, we are seeing some real progress. We built 13 homes and renovated three. We held four key-turning ceremonies, and we will soon connect utilities for the rest of the homes. An additional 22 homes are under construction, and one renovation is in progress. To honor our Navajo Code Talkers, we remodeled the home of the late Navajo Code Talker John Kinsel last year, ensuring his contributions are never forgotten.

This year, our Navajo VA partnered with the Northern Arizona Veterans Administration Health Care System to reopen veteran clinics at IHS hospitals in Chinle and Kayenta, prioritizing mental health care.

The Navajo Veterans Administration has diligently responded to 151 housing requests from veterans. The allocation of $50 million from the ARPA funds presents a chance for numerous veterans and their families to get homes. To date, the Veterans Trust Funds have funded the construction of 114 homes, with a total investment of $26.5 million. An additional 80 homes will be financed through the $50 million provided ARPA. We are prepared to start the construction of 30 homes, funded by $4 million from NAHASDA. 10 homes started construction in 2023. We have plans to begin building another 25 in April.

To further support our veterans, we have employed 9 accredited veterans’ officers who are dedicated to processing an increased number of benefit claims. We also established a benefits center within the Chinle clinic to enhance the accessibility of services for our veterans.

I have established a subrecipient agreement with the Southwest Indian Foundation to facilitate the construction of 20 homes, ranging from one to three bedrooms, at affordable prices.

To further support our veterans, we have employed 9 accredited veterans’ officers who are dedicated to processing an increased number of benefit claims. We also established a benefits center within the Chinle clinic to enhance the accessibility of services for our veterans.