Chinle Chapter moving forward with ARPA projects
WINDOW ROCK – Chinle Chapter President Rosanna Jumbo-Fitch said, “There’s no fine line we’re trying to pass through,” regarding the many projects the chapter is leading.
“We (want) to make sure our people have a good understanding that we are in compliance,” Jumbo-Fitch told the Navajo Times.
During a Budget and Finance Committee meeting in March, the Chinle Chapter gave a report regarding their ARPA subrecipient agreements, which Jumbo-Fitch presented. However, it felt like the committee had no opportunity to answer any questions or concerns when the chapter’s respective delegate had doubts.
Setting the record straight
Despite the hindering claims, Chinle Chapter continues to move forward with 14 ARPA projects, which, at Rosanna Jumbo-Fitch’s discretion, are all accounted for between many parties, such as the Department of Justice, the Division of Community Development, the Division of Economic Development, the Capital Projects Management Department, the American Rescue Plan Act, the Fiscal Recovery Fund, and others.
Jumbo-Fitch shared that despite meeting monthly with the respective parties, the Chinle Chapter still compiles reports due every month along with project invoices.
Regarding ARPA, Jumbo-Fitch said the Chinle Chapter hires many people with the motivation and drive to work and help the community with projects.
“In our Summer Youth Programs, we have a lot of students apply and work a few hours throughout the summer,” she added.
A few come from the Navajo Department of Self Reliance, where these avid individuals’ skills are needed. The chapter also has an internal AmeriCorps program of professional workers who perform carpentry, administration, and general labor.
“We cover a variety of workers, not just general chapter employees,” said Jumbo-Fitch.
She emphasized that chapters should not discriminate for “out-sourcing” and should provide opportunities for all members to guarantee these projects are being completed.
A few local communities that Jumbo-Fitch says the chapter out-source in areas like Lukachukai, Tsaile, Many Farms, and Cottonwood.
“Everybody is welcome to work with the chapter if they want if they have the motivation and drive,” she added.
Read the full story in the May 9 edition of the Navajo Times.
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