WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — The 25th Navajo Nation Council approved Legislation 0135-24, committing approximately $148 million from the Síhasin Fund to improve senior centers across the Navajo Nation, on Oct. 24. This historic legislation aims to enhance elder care by renovating existing facilities, ensuring ADA compliance, and constructing new centers to meet the needs of Navajo elders.
The legislation was sponsored by Delegate Danny Simpson and co-sponsored by Council Delegates Amber Kanazbah Crotty, Crystalyne Curley, Norman M. Begay, Casey Allen Johnson, Carl R. Slater, and Lester C. Yazzie.
“This legislation is not just about renovating buildings; it’s about respecting our elders and ensuring they have safe, welcoming spaces to receive services and engage with their communities,” Simpson said. “It represents a comprehensive commitment to improve the quality of life for our elders, addressing both immediate needs and long-term infrastructure goals.”
During the Council session, two major amendments were introduced. The first amendment replaced the original project scope with a comprehensive breakdown of anticipated costs and upgrades at each senior center. This was designed to enhance transparency and ensure equitable distribution of funds. The second amendment allowed unspent funds to remain available until Fiscal Year 2027, providing flexibility for project completion and addressing potential delays in construction and compliance.
Crotty emphasized the importance of the amendments.
“This funding isn’t just a financial commitment; it’s an investment in honoring our elders’ contributions and ensuring their safety and dignity," she said. "Our centers must be more than functional; they should foster community, health, and wellness for our elders.”
The approved funding will target upgrades at over 85 senior centers, focusing on Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant restrooms, improved kitchen facilities, enhanced HVAC systems, and safer, more accessible environments. Initial renovations will begin at the Crownpoint Senior Center, which will receive $450,000 for ADA-compliant restroom upgrades.
The Division of Community Development, in collaboration with the Division of Aging and Long-Term Care Support, will manage the implementation of the projects. The Council mandated regular progress reports to ensure accountability and effective use of funds, with plans to hire additional project managers and consultants to expedite construction and renovations.
“This legislation reaffirms our commitment to elder care, setting a precedent for long-term investment in community infrastructure,” Slater said “We will work diligently to ensure that these improvements are completed promptly and efficiently, meeting the needs of our elders.”
The allocated funds will be available immediately, allowing for the swift initiation of renovation plans. The Council has called for ongoing professional assessments to ensure precise implementation, adequate resource distribution, and timely completion of the projects.
“This initiative is a testament to our dedication to improving the well-being of Navajo elders,” Simpson said. “Our work now is to ensure that this funding is used effectively, bringing meaningful change to our communities.”
Legislation 0135-24 passed with majority support from the Council, receiving 16 votes in favor and 2 opposed. Once the resolution is certified and delivered to the Office of the President and Vice President, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren will have up to ten calendar days to consider the resolution.
