FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) — Window Rock judge has issued a permanent injunction against a Tribal Council resolution that placed Navajo President Joe Shirley Jr. on leave, saying lawmakers acted outside of their authority in passing it. The judge's decision is subject to appeal in the Navajo Nation Supreme Court. Lawmakers voted 48-22 to place Shirley on leave, pending an investigation into allegations of ethical, civil or criminal involvement.
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Michael Spanier has been appointed as secretary of the Aging and Long-Term Services Department. Spanier had served as the department's acting secretary since October. Before that, he served as deputy secretary of the department and as director of Adult Protective Services. Spanier will be nominated to the state Senate for confirmation during the upcoming legislative session.
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Intera Inc. will assess abandoned uranium mine sites on federal and private lands throughout New Mexico. The state wants to clean up the sites because of renewed interest in uranium exploration. The assessment will cover sites that were part of a uranium mining boom before regulations required reclamation and cleanup.
JEMEZ PUEBLO, N.M. (AP) — Jemez Pueblo officials say it could take several months to get the funds from a federal grant meant to study the geothermal energy potential beneath its rural reservation in northern New Mexico. A Department of Energy spokeswoman says it expects to award the money soon but before any funds are given, it has to confirm the project and negotiate a contract.
