Hearing set to discuss Kayenta Township's business site leasing

By Brian Hassler
Staff Writer

KAYENTA — The Economic Development Committee has scheduled a hearing today to discuss the Kayenta Township's business site leasing practices, which has drawn complaints from area businesses.

"There are some business entrepreneurs not satisfied with the leasing process. We're going out on behalf of the EDC." said Lawrence Platero, chairman of the committee.

Local business owners in Kayenta have claimed they've been treated unfairly. The township has responded that these owners haven't paid their taxes.

The township has also undergone changes in its managerial positions.

To address these allegations, a hearing is scheduled to take place at the Monument Valley High School today and Thursday.

"There are some folks that are dissatisfied with what's going on and we've invited everyone to come in," said Platero. "We want to hold it in a neutral place so that everyone can speak freely. There are a few people that have voiced their concerns with how the township is running,"

Once completed, the committee will present a report and its recommendations to the Navajo Nation Council. The citizens of Kayenta or the officers of the township will be responsible for implementing the recommendations, if any.

"The people have to look at the fact that since (the township) has its authority to run its own, the people in the township are the governing body, just as in any municipality like Gallup," said Platero. "If the mayor of Gallup makes a decision that is wrong, the people do something and it's the same in Kayenta. If the people aren't satisfied with how the township is running, there's a process for them to do something about it. I'm sure there's lawyers available to show them the procedure and show them what they need to do to file complaints or petitions."

The EDC will also discuss its decision to request a tribal audit money given to the township by the Navajo Nation.

The hearing began this morning at 9 a.m. and runs until 4 p.m. at Monument Valley High School, with the same hours scheduled for Thursday as well. The public is invited to attend on both days.

"The township is there for the people and when you have a township not there for the public, it creates a problem there," said Platero.

— Brian Hassler is The Independent's Four Corners reporter based in Shiprock. Contact him at (505) 360-7862 or via email at brianhassler@hotmail.com