25th Navajo Nation Council

06/23/2026

25th Navajo Nation Council discusses energy development, drought response, public health, and chapter priorities

MONTEZUMA CREEK, Utah — On Saturday, members of the 25th Navajo Nation Council joined the Northern Navajo Agency Council (NNAC) at Whitehorse High School alongside chapter officials, Navajo Nation leaders, and community members to discuss issues affecting communities across the Northern Navajo Agency. Discussions focused on energy development, water infrastructure, drought preparedness, public health, budget priorities, and strengthening the role of local chapters in decision-making.

Speaker Crystalyne Curley provided a legislative update on recent Council actions related to transportation infrastructure funding, drought response efforts, water resource planning, broadband expansion, and matters anticipated for a future special session. She also addressed questions regarding efforts to secure resources for communities facing ongoing drought and infrastructure challenges.

Council Delegate Rickie Nez reported on proposed legislation concerning rights-of-way approvals for energy development projects. He explained that the measure would reaffirm the authority of the Resources and Development Committee over rights-of-way matters involving energy infrastructure while maintaining consistency with existing Navajo Nation laws. Nez also emphasized the importance of energy revenues to the Navajo Nation economy.

Council Delegate Eugenia Charles-Newton highlighted the importance of transparency, public engagement, and ongoing communication between Navajo Nation leadership and local communities. She encouraged chapter officials to remain actively involved in policy discussions and legislative matters affecting their communities.

Council Delegate Amber Kanazbah Crotty raised questions regarding healthcare access and public health outreach in rural communities. During presentations from healthcare researchers, she sought additional information on vaccination availability and autism-related services, emphasizing the need for culturally responsive care and early intervention programs for Navajo families.

Council Delegate Curtis Yanito discussed budget priorities, chapter operations, and infrastructure needs. He stressed the importance of providing chapters with practical funding solutions and ensuring communities have the resources needed to address water shortages, road maintenance, agricultural operations, and community development projects.

Delegates also received reports from healthcare and research professionals on adult pneumonia surveillance, infectious disease monitoring, and autism assessment initiatives serving Diné families. Presenters shared information on ongoing efforts to improve health outcomes and expand access to specialized services across the Navajo Nation.

Chapter officials voiced concerns regarding drought conditions, windmill maintenance, livestock water access, community water systems, and the need for additional support for local infrastructure projects. Discussions underscored a shared commitment to strengthening collaboration, improving service delivery, and ensuring local voices continue to guide Navajo Nation decision-making.

The Northern Navajo Agency Council reaffirmed its commitment to advancing chapter priorities, supporting responsible development, and advocating for resources that improve the quality of life for communities throughout the Northern Navajo Agency.

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06/23/2026

Budget and Finance Committee Special Meeting
Date: Tuesday, June 23, 2026 at 10 a.m.
Location: Budget and Finance Committee Conference Room
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06/22/2026

LIVESTREAM: Resources & Development Committee Regular Meeting

📄 Resources & Development Committee
📅 Date: June 22, 2026 @ 10 AM
📍 Location: Red Mesa Chapter House, 155 Red Mesa Rd (Red Mesa, Arizona)

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06/22/2026

LIVESTREAM: Budget & Finance Committee Public Hearing

📄 Budget & Finance Committee
📅 Date: June 22, 2026 @ 10 AM
📍 Location: Casamero Lake Chapter, 1037 County Road 19 (Prewitt, NM)

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06/22/2026

LIVESTREAM: Law & Order Committee Regular Meeting

📄 Law & Order Committee
📅 Date: June 22, 2026 @ 10 AM
📍 Location: Navajo Technical University (Crownpoint, NM)

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06/21/2026

25th Navajo Nation Council honors all fathers on Father’s Day

On Father’s Day, the 25th Navajo Nation Council extends its gratitude to all fathers and father figures who have prioritized the health, wellness, and security of their families while helping guide and strengthen family foundations across the Navajo Nation.

When we think of our fathers, we think of hardworking individuals who build roads, work construction jobs, care for livestock, haul wood, and serve in professions such as engineering, healthcare, and public service. We honor their dedication and recognize their tireless efforts to provide for and support their families.

Today, we remember our brothers, fathers, uncles, and grandfathers. We also recognize the men who have embraced the responsibilities of fatherhood by raising and caring for children as their own, offering guidance, support, and love.

Among the most important qualities our fathers have shown us are their willingness to listen, share wisdom and knowledge, and provide stability and security for their children and families. For these gifts, we are deeply grateful.

As we celebrate Father’s Day, we encourage everyone across the Navajo Nation to spend time with their fathers, uncles, and grandfathers. Let them know that their years of kindness, sacrifice, and strength have helped shape generations of children who have gone on to become technicians, soldiers, engineers, coaches, counselors, teachers, and leaders who contribute to the future of the Navajo Nation.

Today, we thank our fathers for believing in our success, motivating us to become better individuals, and demonstrating through their example that hard work is a pathway to opportunity and achievement.

Ahe’hee

06/19/2026

Missing and Murdered Diné Relatives Task Force receives public safety update and human trafficking prevention presentation

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. – During a recent Missing and Murdered Diné Relatives (MMDR) Task Force meeting, members received updates from the Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety (DPS) and nonprofit Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT), reinforcing the task force’s commitment to public safety, support for families of missing loved ones, and partnerships to prevent human trafficking.

"Our work continues to focus on strengthening collaboration across every level of government and with our community partners because families deserve a coordinated response when a loved one goes missing," said MMDR Task Force Chair Amber Kanazbah Crotty.

Acting Division Director Dr. Dolores Greyeyes reaffirmed the Division of Public Safety’s commitment to supporting the MMDR initiative and highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen public safety operations and missing persons investigations.

Greyeyes reported on the transition of the Navajo Nation Missing Persons Unit from the Navajo Police Department to the Department of Criminal Investigation. The move is intended to strengthen investigations by centralizing missing persons cases under dedicated investigators while creating additional career pathways for law enforcement personnel specializing in criminal investigations.

Division leadership also discussed efforts to improve interagency coordination, modernize missing persons response procedures, and strengthen public communication. The division is establishing a centralized Public Safety Media Relations team to coordinate information across the Navajo Police Department, Emergency Medical Services, and the Navajo Nation Fire Department.

The initiative is expected to provide more consistent public updates on missing persons investigations, emergency response efforts, recruitment initiatives, and other public safety matters.

Task force members also discussed improving data sharing between the Division of Public Safety and the Missing and Murdered Diné Relatives Data Institute being developed through Navajo Technical University. The collaboration will strengthen research, improve coordination among agencies, and support informed decision-making while maintaining privacy protections and legal safeguards for sensitive investigative information.

Public Safety officials highlighted efforts to strengthen missing persons investigations through technology upgrades, officer training, enhanced alert systems, and continued collaboration with federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement agencies.

Additional updates included drug interdiction operations targeting fentanyl and other illegal substances, as well as continued public education on Amber, Silver, and Turquoise Alert activation procedures.

The task force also received a presentation from Truckers Against Trafficking, a national nonprofit organization that trains transportation professionals to recognize and report suspected human trafficking.

Lexi Higgins, Director of Industry Engagement, explained how truck drivers, bus operators, delivery drivers, school transportation employees, and other transportation professionals often serve as early observers of trafficking activity because of where they work and travel.

The presentation highlighted the connection between transportation systems and human trafficking, noting that many survivors report encountering buses, truck stops, rest areas, hotels, and other transportation facilities during recruitment or exploitation.

Higgins emphasized that human trafficking affects communities of every size and that Native communities face unique vulnerabilities due to longstanding systemic challenges.

Truckers Against Trafficking also introduced its Youth on Transportation initiative, which provides educational resources for youth, caregivers, schools, and transportation providers to recognize warning signs of trafficking and safely report suspicious activity.

The MMDR Task Force remains committed to advancing prevention efforts, strengthening investigations, and ensuring families receive the support they deserve while continuing the work to bring missing relaives home.

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06/19/2026

25th Navajo Nation Council recognizes Juneteenth and celebrates the enduring pursuit of equality

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — On June 19, the 25th Navajo Nation Council joins in observing Juneteenth, a federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, while honoring the resilience, achievements, and enduring contributions of the African American community throughout the nation's history.

"On behalf of the 25th Navajo Nation Council, we stand in solidarity with our African American relatives on Juneteenth," said Speaker Crystalyne Curley. "We recognize the generational trauma both our peoples have endured due to colonization and systemic oppression. Today, we honor the strength and resilience of the African American community and reaffirm our shared commitment to justice, healing, and unity."

Juneteenth traces its origins to June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the freedom of enslaved African Americans, more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. The day became a lasting symbol of liberation and the ongoing pursuit of civil rights and equality.

Later that year, the ratification of the 13th Amendment formally abolished slavery in the United States. Juneteenth remains both a celebration of freedom and a reminder of the work that continues to ensure equal opportunity, dignity, and justice for all people.

As the nation observes Juneteenth, the 25th Navajo Nation Council encourages reflection on the importance of freedom, respect, and mutual understanding, while recognizing the rich history, culture, and lasting contributions of African Americans.

06/19/2026

Budget and Finance Committee continues investigatory hearing with testimony from Indigenous Design Studio + Architecture

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — On Wednesday, the Budget and Finance Committee (BFC) continued its public investigatory hearing with testimony from Tamarah Begay, founder and principal architect of Indigenous Design Studio + Architecture (IDSA).

The hearing examined housing contracts involving ZenniHome and the use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. BFC members questioned Begay about procurement procedures, contract management, financial oversight, and compliance with federal ARPA requirements.

Begay provided sworn testimony regarding IDSA's business relationship with ZenniHome, administration of work orders, project oversight, communications with Navajo Nation officials, and actions taken after concerns emerged about the project's performance.

"Our responsibility throughout this investigatory hearing is to ensure the Navajo people receive a full, fair, and transparent accounting of what occurred," said Budget and Finance Committee Vice Chair Carl R. Slater. "Responsible leadership requires us to follow the facts wherever they lead, ask difficult questions, and strengthen the safeguards that protect public funds."

Delegate Amber Kanazbah Crotty focused on the procurement timeline and “Work Order Four.” She examined IDSA's selection after not participating in the first three work orders, and she reviewed contract protections, including insurance, bonding, indemnification provisions, and opportunities to strengthen future oversight.

Begay testified that IDSA served as the prime contractor for Work Order Four, a $50 million contract to design, manufacture, deliver, and install 160 modular homes.

The subcontract was under the home design-build and construction contract. The two separate contracts and two separate procurement actions and timelines were then later entered into a subcontract with ZenniHome through IDSA in January 2025. Under that agreement, $22 million was transferred to ZenniHome for manufacturing and delivery.

Delegate Cherilyn Yazzie questioned Begay about IDSA's oversight after the initial payment, including project reporting, documentation provided by ZenniHome, the timeline of compliance concerns, and communications with the Division of Community Development (DCD).

Begay testified that IDSA managed the project through biweekly meetings, regular progress updates, and monthly reports to DCD. She said DCD reported concerns to her about unallowable contract costs in April 2025 after DCD reported a site visit to the ZenniHome manufacturing facility.

According to Begay, IDSA immediately requested accounting records and supporting documentation. ZenniHome initially provided 450 invoices, though she later testified that the company stated the invoices were inaccurate and never submitted revised records despite repeated requests.

Vice Chair Slater questioned the contract structure between IDSA and ZenniHome, including substantial advance payments made before housing units were delivered. He focused on whether contract safeguards adequately protected public funds and whether sufficient documentation supported expenditures and compliance.

Begay testified that IDSA learned in October 2025 that ZenniHome had ceased operations. She said only 18 partially completed modular homes had been produced, and the remaining project funds could not be accounted for.

Begay said IDSA attempted to work with the Navajo Nation Department of Justice (NDOJ) to recover the missing funds and complete the project, including proposing joint legal action against ZenniHome. She testified that those efforts were unsuccessful after the NDOJ advised IDSA not to pursue litigation. IDSA later filed its own legal action seeking the appointment of a receiver to recover assets and investigate the missing funds.

Testimony and bank records presented during the hearing identified at least five related ZenniHome entities that filed for bankruptcy together in Delaware, along with a sixth affiliated entity.

BFC members raised concerns that the corporate structure may have obscured the movement of $22 million in ARPA funds, facilitated coordinated bankruptcy filings, and allowed assets purchased with public funds to be transferred to entities owned by Bob Worsley.

Questions regarding a payment of $659k made to Jorge A. (George) Cordova shortly after Zenni Homes received approximately $22 million in ARPA funds in January 2025 from IDSA.

According to IDSA attorney Jake Curtis, who reviewed Zenni Homes' bank records, the payment was issued within three days of the federal funds being received, and no invoices, contracts, scope of work, or other supporting documentation were presented during the hearing to explain the purpose of the payment or the services provided.

Witness testimony also indicated that Cordova represented himself as being affiliated with both the Navajo Nation and ZenniHome, prompting additional questions from committee members regarding his role and the nature of the payment.

The Budget and Finance Committee continues to review testimony, contracts, procurement records, financial transactions, and other evidence related to the Navajo Nation's ARPA-funded housing projects.

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06/18/2026

Speaker Curley highlights Navajo voting rights at Navajo Voters Coalition Conference

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — On Thursday, Speaker Crystalyne Curley addressed the Navajo Voters Coalition Conference, emphasizing the importance of protecting voting rights, increasing voter participation, and ensuring Navajo voices remain represented at every level of government.

Speaker Curley expressed appreciation for the years of work carried out by the Navajo Voters Coalition and encouraged community leaders, youth, and chapter officials to continue its mission of civic engagement and voter education.

"We have to protect the Navajo vote," said Speaker Curley. "Our voices must be heard, our votes must count, and we have to continue carrying this work forward with new voices, new ideas, and new generations of voters."

During her remarks, Speaker Curley highlighted the influence Navajo voters have had in tribal, county, state, and federal elections, noting that close races have often been decided by Native voter turnout. She encouraged Navajo citizens to remain engaged in every election and continue advocating for issues important to the Navajo people, including health care, education, water rights, and economic development.

Speaker Curley also discussed ongoing challenges to tribal voting rights, including legislative proposals and voting requirements that can create barriers for Native voters. She noted the Navajo Nation Council's efforts to oppose measures that could limit access to the ballot and emphasized the importance of safeguarding voting rights for future generations.

She also highlighted the establishment of state caucuses within the Navajo Nation Council, which bring delegates together to address legislation affecting Navajo citizens in Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah. According to Speaker Curley, these efforts have helped oppose measures that threaten Native voting rights and strengthen coordination on issues affecting Navajo voters.

Speaker Curley called on community members to organize locally, assist elders with transportation to polling locations, expand voter education efforts, and encourage participation in upcoming elections.

"Every election matters," said Speaker Curley. "We need to continue educating voters, supporting our communities, and making sure our people get to the polls so that our voices continue to shape the future of the Navajo Nation."

The conference featured addresses by NVC Conference Coordinator LeNora Fulton, representatives from the Arizona Citizens Clean Elections Commission, Veterans Commander and Fort Defiance Chapter President Tom M. White, Navajo Department of Justice Assistant Attorney General Lorenzo Curley, and Chris Deschene.

Deschene called for greater youth engagement to help protect Navajo voting rights and encouraged Navajo voters to advocate for issues important to their communities.

The 25th Navajo Nation Council thanks the Navajo Voters Coalition for its years of service and dedication to supporting voter participation and election education across the Navajo Nation.

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