FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) — Unions that represent Navajo workers in northwestern New Mexico say the tribal members are being passed over for jobs at a local power plant in violation of tribal labor laws.
The coal-fired Four Corners Power Plant is undergoing a massive overhaul of its equipment to add pollution controls. The work requires the plant”s operator, Arizona Public Service Co., to hire contractors to employ nearly 1,500 people.
The utility leases the land from the Navajo Nation. APS says its contractors are required to hire qualified Navajos before considering other applicants.
Chris Frank, a Navajo man who lives in Red Mesa, says he believes a number of contractors are running afoul of the law.
Navajo Nation spokesman Mihio Manus says the tribe is looking into the matter.
