July 29, 2026 9:42 pm
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ
July 29, 2026 9:42 pm
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ
The Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT) has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the CPUC Broadband Deployment Phase I Project, a major infrastructure initiative aimed at expanding reliable, high-capacity internet service for Tribal communities and surrounding areas. Through this public bid process, CRIT is seeking qualified contractors to furnish, install, splice, and test outside plant fiber-optic infrastructure that will form the foundation of an expanded broadband network. The project will support improved connectivity along key regional corridors near the Reservation, including areas within San Bernardino and Riverside Counties and surrounding communities such as Blythe, Earp, and Parker Dam. This investment represents an important step toward strengthening digital access, supporting economic development, enhancing education and telehealth opportunities, and ensuring long-term technological resilience for CRIT members and neighboring communities. Proposals will be evaluated based on cost, qualifications, construction schedule, and Indian Preference in accordance with Tribal procurement policy.
Follow the links below for bidding information and specs.
Appendix B_CRIT CPUC_Phase 1_Contractor Bid Sheet_02.23.2026
Appendix C_CRIT CPUC_Phase I_Project Specifications_Sealed_02.23.2026
Follow the link below for the propsed amended code
2026 Amended and Restated Gaming Code_Public Hearing
Follow the link below to download an application.
CRIT Tribal Board Vacancies Application 2026
The Colorado River Indian Tribes Tribal Council has made a historic decision to protect the lifeblood of their Reservation. On November 6, 2025, the Council unanimously approved Resolution No. R-375-25, which proclaims the personhood status of the Colorado River under tribal law.
This resolution acknowledges the Colorado River as a living entity whose health and well-being are intrinsically linked to the well-being of the Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT) members. The Tribes’ deep-rooted connection to the river spans centuries, providing cultural identity, spiritual strength, food systems, and economic stability that continue to shape their community life today.
The resolution emphasizes the central role the river has played in defining the identity of the CRIT. It highlights that CRIT’s ancestors have preserved and protected these lands since before the establishment of the Colorado River Indian Reservation in 1865.
The Council underscores the crucial role the river plays in sustaining traditional practices, wildlife, and agriculture, including the federal irrigation systems authorized as early as 1867. Today, the Colorado River Indian Irrigation Project stands as a cornerstone of the tribal economy.
The resolution underscores significant legal milestones that acknowledged CRIT’s water rights. In the landmark 1964 and 2006 Arizona v. California U.S. Supreme Court decisions, the Tribes secured 719,248 acre-feet of water annually, ensuring their access to the river for generations to come.
By granting personhood to the River, the Tribal Council reaffirmed its sovereign duty to honor and protect it. This status mandates that the River’s well-being must be a priority in governance and decision-making moving forward.
As part of the resolution, the Attorney General and their staff will develop legal safeguards and propose updates to the CRIT Water Code and other relevant regulations. These updates may include the potential designation of the river as a protected cultural landscape.
Council members recognized that protecting the river is not merely a legal obligation but a continuation of cultural beliefs passed down through generations.
Through this declaration, CRIT demonstrates its unwavering commitment to stewardship. The resolution concludes with a resolute message: the Colorado River is, and will always remain, a vital entity deserving of respect, care, and protection for all future generations.
Article Written by CRIT Media Reporter Ariana Romero
News Update November 12, 2025
Negotiations over the future of the Colorado River have reached a standstill after all seven basin states failed to meet a key federal deadline. Reports from 12News and 8NewsNow confirm that the states were unable to agree on a new water-sharing plan, leaving the situation unresolved as the river continues to decline.
High Country News explains that the biggest disagreements involve how much each state should give up in the future. The upper Basin states want fewer mandatory reductions, while the Lower Basin states, including Arizona, say they have already taken the deepest cuts and cannot continue to absorb the majority of the impacts.
With no agreement in place, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has asked the Trump administration to intervene. She stated that Arizona has made significant sacrifices and cannot carry the weight of the reductions while other states refuse to commit to measurable cuts. If the states cannot reach a plan soon, the federal government may create one for them.
For the Colorado River Indian Tribes, the outcome of these negotiations has major importance. CRIT holds valuable senior water rights and relies on a stable and fair management plan to ensure long-term security for the community and the region.
For more information, you can read the news articles with the links below.
High Country News
https://www.hcn.org/articles/why-colorado-river-negotiations-are-so-difficult/
12 News
/wednesday-is-deadline-for-7-state-including-arizona-to-negotiate-the-colorado-river
The CRIT SDP-Recreation Program brought together families, athletes, and community members for a day of friendly competition and patriotic celebration—on July first.
The day began with a high-energy Youth 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament inside Irataba Hall. Athletes from ages 10–17 laced up and hit the hardwood, competing for medals, bragging rights, and the roar of the crowd.
CRIT’s July 4th celebration and BBQ took place at Manataba Park. The day was organized by Jaymee Li Moore with help from CRIT Maintenance.
Speakers included CRIT Chairwoman Amelia Flores along with Tribal Councilmembers Anisa Patch, and Tommy Drennan. They provided information about proposed Personhood Status for the Colorado River and they received input and opinions from tribal members.
Pastor Jackson Short served as emcee delivering an opening prayer and announcing raffles and giveaways.
Ndnjoe Parker Moore served beverages, Carrie Burns ran the popcorn stand, and Debbie Pettigrew with the EDNT & 4-H members served the delicious food cooked by the CRIT Fire Department.
Elders were assisted by CRIT Royalty and CRIT Wildland Fire.
Power has been restored to most if not all impacted residents. If you are still without power call BIA electric at 928-669-7119. If you need assistance call CRIT dispatch at 928-669-1277 or 911 if it’s an emergency.
These lessons can save lives. On June 24, 2025, a CPR certification class was hosted by the CRIT Education Development & Training (ED&T) Department.
The training took place at the CRIT Fire Department and was led by Assistant Fire Chief Robert Esquerra and Captain David Corona.
The students—participants in the ED&T Summer Youth Program—started off watching and instructional CPR video, then practiced hands-on chest compressions and rescue techniques using CPR manikins.
Students such as Leo Scott Jr. and Renzo Tahbo gave it their all, practicing compressions with focus and determination. Meanwhile, Kayle Drennan carefully listened for signs of life, showing just how seriously these students took the training.
