HERE AT NAVAJO COUNCIL SPRING SESSION DAY 1. BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS MADE THEIR REPORT AND NOW COUNCIL DELEGATES COMMENTING ON AND ASKING QUESTIONS ON BIA REPORT.

DELEGATE KATHERINE BENALLY
resources and development committee is concerned about BIA approving fiber optic right-of-way going through Navajo land. That BIA action is illegal. And any leasing needs to go through Navajo Nation and comply with Navajo Energy Policy.

NAVAJO AREA BIA DIRECTOR SHARON PINTO
The oil and gas leasing occurred between Navajo allottees and oil and gas companies. in some cases, one owner and for others, there are more than 100. And on the issue of Energy Policy, I have asked for copy. I met with Navajo Oil and Gas about their opportunities with oil and gas activities in Eastern Navajo. There are a number of allotments that are open.

Hopi Telecommunications has worked on upgrading telecommunications lines from Holbrook which includes BIA school for upgrading internet services for students and communities. Project involves ARA funding. I clearly agree with you on Crossng Permit and talked with Navajo Department of Justice, Navajo Land Office about Crossing Permit and Right-of-Way. I informed Hopi that Crossing Permit still needs right-of-way from Navajo via Resources and Development Committee.

The discussion on BIA Western Agency Superintendent and that situation created when there was change in Navajo Area BIA administration. There is need for Western Agency BIA superintendent but how do I do with budget constraints. There are a number of vacanies in regions because of buy-outs and will have about 30 vacancies, including directorships, road maintenance, positions in Realty too. If not superintendent then administrative officer.

CALL FOR VOTE ON BIA REPORT at 3:44 p.m.
17 in favor, 0 opposed