Tanya Lewis, Chairwoman of the Yavapai Apache Nation, presented on the Nation’s long-negotiated water rights settlement, accompanied by attorney Susan Montgomery. Negotiations date back to 1972 and aim to secure water for the tribe while protecting the Verde River.
The agreement would resolve claims under the Gila River Adjudication case and provide long-term water certainty for the Nation and surrounding communities. Water would be imported from the C.C. Cragin (Blue Ridge) Reservoir via a 60-mile pipeline, with a new treatment plant on the reservation. Local communities in the Verde Valley would have five years to opt in for up to 1,600 acre-feet of water.
Montgomery emphasized that allocations for Payson and northern Gila County remain untouched since the Nation’s share would come from Salt River Project’s portion of the reservoir, water that otherwise flows downstream into Phoenix storage.
Lewis stressed both the practical and cultural benefits of maintaining instream flows in the Verde River. “As long as the river flows, life will be good,” said elder Mary Sai.
Supervisor Woody Cline voiced concern about increased draws from C.C. Cragin but expressed respect for the Nation’s traditions. “It’s not just about water. It’s about culture, family, faith, and ancestral connections,” added Chair Steve Christensen.
The board approved letters of support to Arizona’s congressional delegation, urging Congress to finalize the settlement.
The Board approved a $48,500 contract with Baker Tilly US LLP to audit the Treasurer’s Office against new standards in the Uniform Accounting Manual for Arizona County Treasurers (UMACT).
Treasurer Monica Wohlforth emphasized the independent review would ensure compliance and prevent issues seen elsewhere. “This is going to certify that none of the stuff we’ve seen happen elsewhere could happen here,” she said.
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