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Brownsfield project in Marpi
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Posted on Apr 19 2009
We have been working closely with EPA Region 9’s Mr. Arora Pankaj on the ongoing Brownsfield ordnance removal project in Marpi as we do have serious concerns on the how this project is being carried out. We can all agree and support the importance of removing unexploded ordnance around our island but we disagree on the fast-tracked nature of the project. The intensity and mass destruction of our natural land is beyond comprehension and I have stated that there is a difference between being granted federal funding for the project by EPA and how the project is actually carried out.
We thank Mr. Dave Hodges and Mr. Arora Pankaj of EPA Region 9 San Francisco for responding to this serious matter. EPA responding is a sign that our concerns are valid. It is important our people and our community are made aware of what is going on in our surroundings and that public hearing must be stretched out 30 to 60 days instead of one or two days. As in the case of this Brownsfield project, only one individual attended the public hearing back in 2007. The people of the Commonwealth should be given the time and the courtesy to get involved in discussions, dialogs before any major project takes place so that our concerns and inputs are addressed. Something that most government agencies and elected leaders fail to understand is the importance of public involvement.
We look forward to meeting with Mr. Arora Pankaj of EPA first week of May 2009. If anyone is interested in participating in such discussions with Mr. Arora Pankaj, we can be reached at 256-8652 or send e-mail to taotaotanopres@gmail.com.
[B]Gregorio Cruz Jr.[/B] [I]Taotao Tano CNMI Inc.[/I]
