Dam blamed for First Nation’s financial woes
Nisichawayisihk Cree Nation in million-dollar debt

The Nisichawayisihk Cree Nation (NCN, formerly known as Nelson House) is in financial trouble. Indian Affairs has ordered the First Nation to get control of its finances, which show a deficit of millions.

Community members who fought the deal with Manitoba Hydro to build the $1 billion, 200-megawatt Wuskwatim dam blame the project for the band’s financial problems, saying their worst fears are coming true.

Chief Jim Moore says the problem began before he was elected in August—overspending to the tune of $1.2 million on Wuskwatim preparation. Moore recently approved a 25 percent pay cut for himself and the council.

The deal struck with Manitoba Hydro—the first of its kind in Manitoba—will see the band become part owners of the dam. NCN will invest $28 million plus a $56 million loan from Manitoba Hydro in return for a 33 percent share in the dam. Manitoba Hydro officials say the band doesn’t have to come up with any more money until the project is complete in 2011.

“We shouldn’t have put any money from the community into this project because of the condition of our community right now,” said Carol Koblinski, who has opposed the Wuskwatim deal from the start. “We’re so far into debt right now, for [Manitoba Hydro] to keep taking is really affecting the community and its members.”

Although no profits are guaranteed, band officials have estimated that the Nation could receive annual profits of $1–$3 million in 2010, and up to $15–20 million by 2062.

Navajo citizens win against proposed coal plant
New Mexico legislative committee allows tax credit bills to die

In the final hours of the 2007 New Mexico legislative session, two bills died in committee. The bills would have given an $85 million tax credit to the Navajo Nation to begin construction of a coal plant.

A group of Navajo families known as the Doo’da Desert Rock Coalition were successful in holding the bill up in committee. "This is a great victory. The door has been opened, and now the Navajo people can work as a unified nation to find common ground on sustainable economic development,” said Vangee Nez, a member of the Doo’da group. “We cannot deny our sovereign duty to protect the land for short term gains; instead we must take our place as stewards of Dine-tah.”

The controversy started in late 2006 when construction of the site began without community input. While the plan would have given several hundred jobs to the community, the people living in the area feared another major polluter in their neighborhood.

“We have been led to believe that we have to choose between economic development and our cultural identity,” said Alfred Bennett, member of the coalition. “But in this challenge we have the opportunity to provide solutions to a changing world that honors our people and traditions.”

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