Incoming president Russell Begaye blasted proposed developers of the so-called Grand Canyon Escalade project, saying the Navajo people were not consulted about plans to build a tram and commercial resort that could threaten the environment and sacred sites.
Begaye, who is to succeed Navajo Nation President Ben Shelley today, remains uncommitted to the project at the confluence of the Colorado and Little Colorado rivers.
Former president Albert Hale, who now is a business partner in the proposed development, claims that economic development will help the people. Much of the area was part of the Bennett Freeze, which kept people from building homes, or improving the land, for 50 years. When the freeze was lifted by President Barack Obama in 2009, the Navajo Nation made no efforts to help people repatriate the area.
Begaye disagrees with Hale.
Lynette Willie, Begaye’s communications director, said Begaye thinks more conversation is needed.
“He doesn’t think the Confluence Partners are doing what the people want, it’s important to listen to the Navajo people about development,” she said. “They know what’s best for them.”
The Arizona Daily Sun published a story this week that contends the debate over the project will “heat up” as a result of this. Story: http://azdailysun.com/news/local/confluence-clash-set-to-heat-up/article_c5fc302f-3eae-5a87-b288-6405eb06a50f.html