Teno prods parties to seek a compromise

Despite brewing conflict over naming of the streets on Saipan, Gov. Pedro P. Tenorio has decided to keep his hands off the controversial issue to let the local delegation seek compromise on whether Chamorro or Carolinian names should be used.

But he prodded the commission tasked to study recommendations on the street naming project to consider the proposal from the Carolinian community which has been the bone of contention in the ongoing debate among Saipan lawmakers.

“The commission should look into that. The Carolinians should also be involved in the commission,” he told reporters.

Stressing the significance of the project, Tenorio expressed hope that a compromise would be reached between opposing parties, which must be discussed in a joint meeting.

He said putting names on the streets would help public safety authorities and other government agencies respond immediately to emergency situations as it would easily identify the location.

“It’s very difficult for the public safety to find a location in the village. It’s been a problem even when you call 911. Sometimes, it takes them time to locate the residents of so and so because of the fact that there is no street name and no number of the house,” Tenorio added.

“I don’t see why make a big thing out of it. All they have to do (is to) get together and agree as to the naming of the streets because it’s very important that we have to complete it now,” he explained.

Last week, the Saipan and Northern Islands Legislative Delegation failed to resolve differences on the long-stalled project of the Office of the Mayor as members fought over whether Chamorro or Carolinian names will be used for the plan after a six-month review by the commission.

Some legislators, led by Rep. Melvin Faisao, have accused local officials of ignoring the recommendation from the Carolinian community as the plan waiting for approval by the delegation is the same proposal that came under fire last December.

The commission, created by the municipal government, is expected to go back to the drawing board to consider their input, according to Mayor Jose C. Sablan.

“I would like to see that they expedite that,” Tenorio said. “For me, they should just get together and come up with recommendations and suggestions and it could be done easily.”