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SEDC launches tourist safety initiative
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Posted on Feb 12 2001
The CNMI Strategic Economic Development Council has announced the launching of a private sector initiative aimed at enhancing the safety of island visitors, as well as the areas and businesses they frequent.
The non-profit organization known as SAFE — Safe and Friendly Environment — will raise money for projects to address tourist safety concerns on island. Participation will be open to all interested businesses once the group is formally incorporated.
At a meeting of SEDC last Feb. 8, SAFE received a $10,000 donation in seed money from DFS Galleria to begin its work.
Incorporating officers include DFS Galleria President Marian Aldan-Pierce as the organization’s president, Aqua Resort General Manager Mark Murai as vice president, and David Burger of Burger & Comer as treasurer.
SEDC also elected a new chairman to replace outgoing president and DFS Region President Scott Bowman, who has served as chairman since SEDC’s inception in 1999.
DFS’ Group Vice President Joe Camacho, former resident of Saipan and former DFS Saipan Controller has been chosen to head the Council.
Other SEDC officers remain the same: Development Authority Chair John S. Tenorio as vice president, Ms. Aldan-Pierce as secretary, and Burger as treasurer.
It was also reported that in line with SEDC’s goal to attract new investors to the CNMI, CDA has recently completed the development of qualifying certificate (QC) regulations, which define the guidelines for investment incentives.
According to House Speaker Benigno Fitial and CDA Executive Director Mary Lou Ada, several large investors have already expressed interest in the certificate. Final adoption of the regulations is targeted for next month.
