Probe: OnSat contract an oversight nightmare

Copyright © 2009
Gallup Independent
By Kathy Helms
Diné Bureau

WINDOW ROCK — The OnSat Network Communications Inc. “Master Agreement”, combined with multiple modifications of its contract with the Navajo Nation, made oversight a nightmare and limited the Nation’s ability to contest services or seek refunds, according to a report from a Washington law firm.

Garvey Shubert Barer was retained in 2008 to assist the Navajo Attorney General’s Office in responding to an inquiry by Universal Service Administrative Co., regarding the Nation’s 2007-2008 E-rate filings. The law firm’s role was expanded on July 23, 2008, to include a broader view of the Nation’s participation and to respond to Universal Service Administrative Co.’s concerns.

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