President Shelly calls for unity among leaders

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. - Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly called for the Navajo leaders to set aside differences and work together during his State of the Navajo Nation address

"As leaders let's honor and respect each other. We can debate issues and disagree. We'll always face opposition, but we must work for the betterment of the people and the Nation," he said as he closed his speech.

President Shelly also called for a Legislative and Executive Branch Summit to focus on the needs of the people.

"I propose a Legislative and Executive Branch Summit to discuss growth, and how we can make government more responsive in meeting the needs of the people," the President said.

After his speech, the President faced multiple rounds of questions from Council Delegates regarding several issues from chapter funding to the status of Navajo Head Start.

Though the President answered all the questions asked, the President extended an open invitation to the Delegates for future meetings.

"My door is open," President Shelly said.

President Shelly also announced that he would have a series of town hall meetings in the Utah area to discuss the Navajo Utah Trust Fund and to gain insight to Utah Navajo wants.

"I want my marching orders to come from them," he said.

President Shelly also announced a new policy that he plans to unveil during the Navajo Nation Council's Spring Session.

The President plans to bring forth the Navajo Nation Energy Policy, which would create an Energy Office within the Navajo Nation.

The office would regulate renewable and nonrenewable energy development and distribution.

"We are the first sovereign nation with a developed Energy Policy, which will reflect today's technologies," President Shelly said.

Also, the President announced a working solution that was recently put in place to create a safer environment for residents and travelers along Hwy. 550 in northwest New Mexico.

President Shelly also spoke about the opening of the Northern Edge Casino in Upper Fruitland.

"This business venture brought 374 new jobs to the Four Corners region," the President stated.

The President added the Twin Arrows Casino and Resort is scheduled to open in 2013. Twin Arrows is near Flagstaff and would be the Navajo Nation's fourth gaming enterprise.

Shelly also reminded the Council of a shared vision of unity.

"It's important that we keep our commitment to the work ahead and where we all want to be, a strong, confident nation," the President said.