Yesterday, Rep. Eli Crane (R-AZ) visited the Yavapai-Apache Nation with Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Billy Kirkland to discuss recent developments and strengthen partnerships.

This was Assistant Secretary Kirkland’s first trip since his Senate confirmation, and Rep. Crane was honored to join him in recognition of Native American History Month.

The visit featured a guided caravan tour of key Nation sites in the Middle Verde District of the Reservation. Stops included newly acquired lands off Cherry Creek Road, the construction site of the Middle Verde Wastewater Treatment Plant, and the New Tunlii housing development.

Following the tour, Rep. Crane and Assistant Secretary Kirkland delivered remarks and attended a reception with newly elected Yavapai-Apache Nation Chairman Buddy Rocha Jr., Vice Chair Charlie Baca IV, and members of the council. Rep. Crane reaffirmed his commitment on core issues, including the Nation’s pending water settlement with the federal government.

“It was an honor to have Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Billy Kirkland visit rural Arizona yesterday on his first trip since being confirmed by the U.S. Senate,” said Rep. Crane. “We had a productive visit to the Yavapai-Apache Nation, and we appreciate Chairman Buddy Rocha Jr. for his warm hospitality. I look forward to continuing our great partnership and delivering meaningful results for the Nation.”