For Immediate Release:
February 17, 2026
Commission passes resolution opposing liquor application.
St. Michaels, Navajo Nation (ARIZ) – The Navajo Nation Human Rights Commission (“Commission”), passed resolution NNHRCFEB-02-2026: Opposing the Application of the Sale of Liquor by Chieftain Mobil located in Chambers, Arizona and Urging the Apache County Board of Supervisors to do the Same; and the Arizona State Liquor Board to Deny the Application. The resolution passed 3-0 vote, during the February regular meeting. The Commission further urges the Arizona State Liquor Board to deny the application to sell liquor by Chieftain Mobil and owner Mr. Sanjay M. Patel in Chambers, AZ.
The Commission and surrounding communities have previously opposed liquor establishments in the region, most notably in Sanders, AZ. During the 10-year closure of the liquor establishments, Ole Red Barn and Lees liquor, there has been positive growth within the community. Local community members are concerned if the approval of the liquor license takes place, it will reignite negative impacts on the community.
The Commission stated the targeted placement of liquor outlets near Navajo communities constitutes a deliberate attempt to profit from the populations that have historically suffered from disproportionate alcohol-related harm. Commissioner Vice Chair, Dr. Henry Fowler led the statements that such targeting raises concerns regarding human rights violations and racial discriminating, as it perpetuates cycle of harm and marginalization for Navajo and Native people.
The Commission calls Apache County Board of Supervisors to also oppose the liquor license at their upcoming meeting on March 3, 2026, at Board of Supervisors Meeting Room, County Annex Building, 75 West Cleveland Street, St. Johns, Arizona at 8:30 AM. The Commission is encouraging the public who oppose the liquor license to attend the public meeting and submit any verbal or written statements to the Board of Supervisors.
According to A.R.S. § 4-201(E), any natural person residing or owning property within a one-mile radius of the proposed location may file a written protest with the director on a form prescribed by the director not later than fifteen calendar days after action by the local governing body or sixty days after the filing of the application, whichever is sooner. If you are a member of the public and reside in the one-mile radius you would need to fill out a Public Protest form and submit to protest@azliquor.gov. The Commission further encourages similar opposing statements to be mailed to Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses & Control 800 W. Washington, 5th Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85007. Currently there is no pending hearing with Arizona Liquor Board on the pending application.
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