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Teno OKs funding for new Garapan koban
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Posted on Apr 24 2001
A temporary koban in the Garapan district is soon to rise with the recent passage of a bill appropriating some $105,000 for the safety enforcement project.
The new law signed by Governor Pedro P. Tenorio last week also earmarks funds for the pavement and construction of a parking lot and restrooms at Obyan Beach.
The funding appropriation will be derived from the annual local license fee for poker machines under Saipan Local Law 11-22. The new legislation is now dubbed as Saipan Local Law 12-15.
In inscribing his stamp of approval, Mr. Tenorio said the new law would pave the road for the enhancement of the island’s beauty as well as contribute to the safety of the community and visitors.
The measure to install a new koban is expected to fortify safety enforcement at Saipan’s tourist commercial zone .
Its proponent, Rep. Heinz Hofschneider had recommended that the Legislature appropriate a sum of $35,000 collected from the annual local license fee for poker machines under the existing local law for the undertaking.
The legislation offers the use of the poker machine collection fees without fiscal year limitation.
The Secretary of Public Works has been designated to act as the expenditure authority for the funds appropriated under the act.
According to Mr. Hofschneider, the audit powers granted to the federal auditors and the Public Auditor pursuant to the Planning and Budget Act of 1983, as amended shall apply to this act.
Further, the Secretary of Finance shall establish separate accounting for the Capital Improvement Project covered under the act.
Since threatening incidents ranging from theft, robbery, prostitution, and other crimes have started taking its toll at the Western Garapan district, Commonwealth leaders have beefed up efforts to prevent its further spread.
Reinforced police visibility in the Garapan area has come to be a necessity, especially with recent reports of illegal activities enterprised by certain groups and individuals at the business district.
