SHE SAID

Our economy is so closely tied to Asia, it’s important that we be fully informed about the trends and forecasts so we can prepare for the future. More importantly, we should use this slowdown to do what we can at home. We need to look at ways to create more attractions and build greater value as a tourist destination, trim whatever fat we have in government, and become better businesses.

I would like to see our community take on the following projects: (1) revitalization of Garapan and cleanup of prostitution, (2) more promotion of the unique strengths of our three direct airline access, (4) beautification and protection of the environment, (5) improving our educational system in ways that will better prepare our young people for good paying jobs in the private sector, (6) a joint effort by our business community and elected leaders to update our Alien Worker’s Act to make it fair to all and appropriate to these economic times.

Regardless of whether we have FTZ’s (Free Trade Zones) — and I would like to see that happen –– the threat of a federal takeover of our immigration, minimum wage and trade advantages absolutely affects our ability to attract new investment.

Any business interested in the CNMI will have to look at the possibility of major changes in our system and the risks such changes could bring. While we should always look to local sources first, investors must have assurance that they can hire the skilled people they need.

Also, we cannot have a raise in the minimum wage of over 100 percent, as some pending federal legislation would call for. When you raise wages in a recession, you force businesses to do more with less and this creates layoffs. We must focus on creating a more stable business climate. This means continuing to fight for local control over these privileges that were given to the CNMI under our Covenant. They’re here for a reason: to give us the opportunity for economic development because our tiny, unique islands cannot make it with policies designed for a country of over 250 million people half a world away.

I’m an optimist and I believe we can become prosperous once again, but we should not expect to get there easily and we should not expect a boom like we had in the late 80’s when we were “discovered” by Japanese investors. Again, let’s use this time to become better employers, a more mature tourist destination and a better community as a whole. My family, my employees and I are committed to being survivors and to doing what we can to help our islands’ economy improve. That’s precisely why I’m running for Chamber president.