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Keep Marpi unspoiled
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Posted on Apr 03 2009
First, I firmly believe the residents of Saipan are the only ones who should decide the proper use of their own land. I felt the need to comment after reading the letter from Jesse Torres about the use of the land in Marpi, but I offer these comments only as the views of a visitor of recent years.
When I think of Saipan (and that is often) Marpi is an important part of that image. The quiet, unspoiled view from the cliffs, the surf pounding the rocky coast, and Bird Island are among the most vivid images of Saipan that come to mind. I’m sure many others who have visited Saipan feel the same.
When I read about a new hotel going up in the Marpi area, I wonder why it is needed when the visitor numbers and hotel occupancy have declined and so many hotel rooms sit empty. Is there land available for homesteads in other areas that are already under development? Please carefully consider the best long-term use of the beautiful Marpi area for the people of Saipan, not just a quick solution in difficult times. This area is unique in the Marianas—Guam, Tinian, and Rota don’t have anything quite like it. Keep it like it is for future generations.
[I][B]Gary Boothe[/B] Brandon, South Dakota[/I]
