With the failure of Proposition 419 to pass on the Nov. 6 ballot by 156 votes, Navajo County Manager Glenn Kephart updated the Board of Supervisors at the meeting on Nov. 13, saying, “The results of the election means that we need to redefine the services of the county and the way we provide them. We are embarking on a difficult period but we are a dedicated team and we will be successful.”
While no specifics were given at this time, Kephart did say that the county would need to think strategically at how services are provided. “Our teams are already lean and we can only do so much. We will need to find new ways and work collaboratively to find the best solutions. We will work with our communities and partners while being compassionate and understanding. This is a stressful time.”
Supervisor Jesse Thompson weighed in, saying, “Yes, we fell short, but let’s keep our heads up high. We are Navajo County and can deal with the challenges ahead through collaboration.”
Thompson went on to question what more could have been done. “It would have been beneficial for this to pass. I feel like I fell short some place. Maybe good recommendations on how to move ahead will come from our citizens.”
Vice Chairwoman Dawnafe Whitesinger said, “Thank you for everyone who went to the polls and exercised their right to vote. With the voting down of Proposition 419, we have challenges ahead. I know my colleagues and those that work at Navajo County: challenges are not something we shy away from. I don’t know how this will impact us but I do know that through hard work we can make it. The community made the decision that we can do this without the tax money.”
Whitesinger did note her concern over discussions of mismanagement of funds by citizens. “We have tried to be very transparent with the efforts that we make on behalf of the county. We work hard to understand the finances and serve based on the oath we have made.”
Kephart also took a moment to thank Election Director Rayleen Richards, Recorder Doris Clark and their teams who made sure the votes were counted even over a holiday weekend.
Supervisor Lee Jack, Sr., shared that the Navajo Nation is still working vigilantly to find a buyer for the Navajo Generating Station. “We are keeping our fingers crossed,” said Jack. “We did have two buyers who expressed interest, but then they backed out. We are looking at a new buyer right now.”
