WINDOW ROCK, AZ – The 24th Navajo Nation Council approved Legislation No. 0066-22 authorizing $7.65 million from the Síhasin Fund to construct the Chiłchinbeto Multi-Purpose Building during a recent Special Session.
Sponsored by Council Delegate Nathaniel Brown, the proposed 11,496 sq. ft. building will house a museum gallery, gift shop, meeting spaces, and display of the two famous Chiłchinbeto Navajo rugs. Around 81.52 acres of land were withdrawn by the chapter for its economic development ventures.
“The last building that was constructed in Chiłchinbeto was in 1953, almost 70 years ago,” said Council Delegate Nathaniel Brown. “This multi-purpose building will be an economic hub and will bring our devastated community back together during this pandemic to bring hope and healing. I appreciate my colleagues of the Navajo Nation Council for utilizing the people’s money to make this dream a reality. It is an honor to have pushed this legislation for approval to benefit future generations.”
“This multi-purpose building is one step closer to being a reality for the Western Agency,” said Speaker Seth Damon. “The Navajo Nation welcomes thousands of tourists annually who visit the Kayenta and Chinle region, and they are eager to view the famous Chiłchinbeto Navajo rugs. We commend Honorable Nathaniel Brown for his steadfast leadership and all the stakeholders involved in moving this project forward. The Navajo Nation Council urges President Nez to sign this economic development project into law.”
In 2018, the Navajo Nation Council approved $300,000 for the project, and the chapter expended the funds on the planning and design of the project. The Síhasin Fund will be reimbursed the $7.65 million from state or federal sources, including Congressional appropriations under the American Rescue Plan Act or other COVID-19-related relief.
Legislation No. 0066-22 was certified by Speaker Damon and was delivered to President Jonathan Nez for final approval or veto within 10 days.
