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Lawmakers OK bill requiring DPL to consult mayors on lands issues
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Posted on Jun 01 2008
The Legislature has passed a bill requiring the Department of Public Lands to consult the mayors before taking any action on public lands in the respective islands.
The House of Representatives voted unanimously on Thursday to approve the bill, which was previously passed by the Senate. The measure now heads to the governor for his signature.
Under the proposed legislation, DPL must give the respective mayors a 20-day review and comment period before taking final action on lease, homestead, or any other decision concerning the use of public lands in the Commonwealth.
The bill, sponsored by Sen. Henry San Nicolas, is designed to ensure that “due consideration [is given] to the position of each of the municipalities of Saipan, Rota, Tinian and Aguiguan, and the Northern Islands with respect to proposed action affecting public lands in the respective municipality.”
Public Lands Secretary John S. Del Rosario has opposed the proposal. He has said this step is redundant, as the DPL advisory board already includes municipal representative appointed by the respective mayors with the consent of the municipal councils.
“Redundancy is one of the main culprits in misunderstandings, confusion, and inefficiency within our government. Let’s not add to it,” Del Rosario has commented on the bill.
But the House Committee on Natural Resources, which reviewed the bill, maintained that the proposal was necessary. “It is the committee’s estimation that any matter regarding the disposition of public lands [is] worthy of lengthy deliberation,” said the committee.
