NAVAJO COUNCIL CONTINUES DEBATING PEOPLE’S REFERENDUM.
DELEGATE NEZ
We approved alternative form of government and when ordinance being developed, that was explained line by line, but authority given to nine council members and that was questioned. They asked how put checks and balances into place.
So chapter said keep old 25 quorum in place four times a year, in case nine-member makes decision that chapter disagrees with. The nine-member council cannot over-ride chapter/general assembly. Doesn’t mean returns to full vote.
Delegate Tsosie’s view of Supreme Court being eeeyah. There were a few of us Delegates that wanted to challenge Council vote on annual budget and the challenge was going to be brot by Delegate Tsosie but he didn’t.
And u, Delegate Tsosie, said that referendum on reducing Council shud nt be over-ruled.
Government Development had convention and they are voice of the people.
This legislation is start to empower people. We ned to change concept – what can you do for yourself. This gives opportunity to involve themselves at highest level.
People’s Convention had resolution by Government Development Commission. I’m losing support cuz bring up Government Development Commission. We need to hold them accountable. We vote in Commission members.
Appreciate suport from DElegate Shepherd.
Clarification: some saying didn’t need to do but this proposed law has been laying dormant for years and it took a long time to get thru legislative process. But this opportunity to allow people to make changes to law and be part of government.
DELEGATE WALTER PHELPS
I have one question for legislative counsel, the date of implementation is for election 2012, noticed other resolutions where Naabi changed date but others list 2012 date.
ACTING CHIEF LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL MARIANA KAHN
It can be amended cuz not section of code.
DELEGATE NEZ
Timeline, once approved, then election administration must hold referendum so ask language be “next special election”. But 60 days after President signs then that’s when referendum must occur.
DELEGATE PHELPS
Motion to Delegate Nov. 6, 2012 chapter elections and insert “for next Special Elections.”
SECOND DELEGATE SHEPHERD
DELEGATE TSOSIE
My concern is special elections have low turnout of voters. If really want to hear what people are saying and number of votes, it has to be during regular election. Special elections usually draw 5-10 percent. I don’t support amendment.
VOTE ON PHELPS AMENDMENT AT 2:35 PM
6 IN FAVOR, 11 OPPOSED
