The Navajo-Hopi Land Commission received an update Thursday on ongoing efforts to address housing, infrastructure, grazing management and unresolved relocation matters affecting Navajo families impacted by the Navajo-Hopi Land Settlement Act.
Commission Chair Otto Tso emphasized the need for continued federal accountability as discussions move forward over the future of the federal relocation program and a memorandum of understanding governing its transition.
Tso said communication with federal officials and the Navajo Nation Washington Office will be critical as the Navajo Nation seeks clarity on outstanding federal responsibilities.
“From our side, we have to make sure that the federal government completes its responsibilities that are laid out within the terms of the Settlement Act. We look forward to continuing those discussions and getting an update from the Navajo Nation Washington Office,” Tso said.
Navajo-Hopi Land Commission Office Executive Director Sarah Slim reported that the office continues to serve communities throughout the Former Bennett Freeze Area, Navajo Partitioned Lands, Hopi Partitioned Lands, New Lands and other areas affected by relocation.
The office is also coordinating with federal and Navajo Nation entities as responsibilities associated with the relocation program undergo a transition. Slim said the office continues to advocate for stronger accountability, coordination and long-term planning to address infrastructure, housing, land management and governmental service needs.
Tso said federal officials continue to discuss the transition and indicated that additional dialogue with the Navajo Nation is expected regarding the memorandum of understanding and the future of the relocation program.
Housing Initiative Reviewed
The Commission also reviewed an American Rescue Plan Act-funded modular housing initiative.
Slim reported that the Navajo-Hopi Land Commission Office received approximately $15.5 million for housing-related efforts, including $14 million designated for housing in the Former Bennett Freeze Area and Navajo Partitioned Lands.
More than 90 homes have been delivered in those areas, with additional homes pending as the project moves toward closeout.
Commission Vice Chair Casey Allen Johnson raised concerns about ensuring fairness and transparency in the selection of housing recipients. He requested detailed information about the homes, beneficiaries and delivery dates as the Commission evaluates how housing resources have been distributed among families affected by relocation.
Slim said the housing program followed eligibility criteria established under the legislation and that the Commission Office maintains records regarding the families served. She also acknowledged the continuing demand for housing in affected communities.
Infrastructure and Grazing Management
The update also addressed deteriorating water infrastructure and windmills in New Lands, long-term grazing and range management, homesite lease processing and coordination among Navajo Nation departments and federal agencies.
Slim recommended developing a comprehensive management strategy that establishes clearer responsibilities among the Navajo-Hopi Land Commission Office, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Navajo Nation Department of Agriculture, Navajo Nation Water Resources, chapters, grazing permit holders and other appropriate agencies.
The strategy would be intended to improve coordination and establish clearer lines of responsibility for infrastructure, land management and services in communities affected by the land settlement and relocation process.
The Navajo-Hopi Land Commission voted 7-0 to accept the Navajo-Hopi Land Commission Office report, with seven commissioners voting in favor and none opposed.
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