Gov. approves cuts to 2 Navajo projects

SANTA FE (AP) - Gov. Bill Richardson has cut state contributions to two Navajo Nation projects in San Juan County to help close New Mexico's $650 million budget shortfall.

The New Mexico Association of Counties said the axed projects include a development of waste water treatment in Beclabito and improvement for a damaged road in Naschitti.

Both were partially funded by the state. Cutting the projects from a funding transfer bill approved by the Legislature during the October special session will save the state $200,000.

State Rep. Ray Begaye said the cuts do not make sense. He said members of the Beclabito Chapter came to him pleading that money for the waste water project was badly needed.

No other San Juan County projects were affected by Richardson's line-by-line cuts enacted Nov. 12.

Information from: The Daily Times