Yavapai News

Today, the House of Representatives approved H.R.837, a bill proposed by Representative Eli Crane from Arizona. This legislation will allow Gila County to establish a veterans center on 232 acres in Young, Arizona. The facility will be the first of its kind in northern Arizona, aiming to support rural veterans and their families.

The federal government controls large portions of land in the Western United States, which can limit states' abilities to manage and utilize these areas. The transfer of ownership to Gila County is intended to preserve the property's history while providing housing for families, meeting spaces, resource rooms, ceremonial grounds for veterans, and outdoor recreational facilities.

"This veterans center is so crucial for rural veterans in northern Arizona who selflessly served our nation. I’m grateful to see my colleagues in the House recognize the significance of this land transfer," said Rep. Crane. "This was the first piece of legislation I introduced and is a testament to the significance of northern Arizona’s veterans."

House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman expressed his support: "America’s veterans and their families have sacrificed so much to defend our freedom, and Congress must do everything in its power to provide our servicemembers with proper care and opportunities."

Representative Paul Gosar and former Representative Tom O’Halleran contributed to this bipartisan initiative during the 117th Congress. Senator Mark Kelly has been leading efforts related to this matter in the Senate.

Gila County Supervisor Woody Cline testified about the potential benefits that the center would bring for local veterans and their families. In discussion with Supervisor Cline about the project’s goals, Rep. Crane stated: "One of the things I love so much about this project is that you’re not coming here... asking the federal government for any money."

Supervisor Woody Cline emphasized: "This site will only be one of two sites in Arizona... It means everything to these folks," highlighting its importance for both local communities and neighboring regions like Payson and White Mountain Apache Tribe.