San Nicolas not seeking re-election

Tinian Mayor Joey P. San Nicolas announced on Saturday that he will not be seeking re-election as mayor in the upcoming 2018 general election.

Instead, San Nicolas plans to support Rep. Edwin P. Aldan’s (R-Tinian) bid for mayor. Aldan is currently a Tinian representative at the Legislature.

“As much as I would love to continue serving Tinian as mayor, it is important that I take this time to focus on my health and my family. For those reasons, I will not be seeking another term,” said San Nicolas.

He counts among his accomplishments settling the $1.3-million federal levy against the Tinian municipality, breaking ground and completing infrastructure projects on the island, from the water tank to the new departure terminal at the Tinian International Airport, continuing with municipal public employment, and the continued delivery of programs and services to the community despite the closure of the Tinian Dynasty Hotel and Casino.

“I am proud to say that I have completed most of the list on my project priority list and but I realize that there is so much more to be done to revitalize Tinian’s economy,” he said.

He pointed out that welcoming the first international flight on Tinian last week lays the foundation and the pathway to inviting investment opportunities to help grow the Tinian economy.

“Despite what seemed to have been insurmountable challenges, we have persevered, and we have kept Tinian moving forward,” he said.

He said he sought the mayoral seat three years ago as he wanted to make a difference. He also felt it important for those of us who have had the privilege of attaining a college degree to return home and give back through public service.

“It is my belief that each and every one of us has a moral obligation to our community, to give back and contribute to improving the lives of our people,” he added.

He assured Tinian, though, that despite his decision to not seek re-election, his commitment to serving the people of Tinian “remains unwavering.”

“We can disagree about which path to take to better the lives of our people but I’m sure that there is no disagreement on our source of inspiration —the love for our people and our beloved Tinian. My love, commitment, and passion for our island remains steadfast. In this last year, I will dedicate all my abilities to continue building on the progress we have made, continue finding ways to grow our economy but more importantly, finding ways to keep Tinian moving forward for our people!

“The progress we have made would not have been possible without the combined efforts of the Tinian leadership. Our collective efforts and united front to champion Tinian causes has been instrumental to my administration’s ability to complete projects and to bring to Tinian resources to ensure the continued delivery of essential programs and services. [Rep.] Edwin P. Aldan has led the charge in many fronts of this effort. There is no doubting his love and commitment for the people of Tinian. More important, however, is his willingness and ability to set aside his personal politics for the sake of the people in his service to Tinian. [Rep.] Aldan has announced his bid for mayor of Tinian and it is with pride that I endorse his bid for the 2018 mayoral race.”