Guerrero issues stern warning against frequent absentees

Rota — Commonwealth Utilities Corporation Board Chair Jesus T. Guerrero yesterday warned board members against absenteeism during scheduled meetings, saying they will be subject to removal if they commit three absences in a row.

Aside from him, only three other board directors were present during a meeting held at the Rota Health Center cafeteria — Frank T. Flores, Zania M. Fleming and Laura I. Manglona who is from Rota.

Edward Sablan excused himself from the meeting, while Rosario M. Elameto called up that she would not be able to attend. This was her second nonappearance since she was voted out as chairperson last March.

Former director Benjamin Sablan’s term ended last April, leaving the board with just six members.

Under the law and CUC’s by-laws, a written notice must be given to the chair before or at the time that the meeting is about to begin. Telephone calls are not accepted.

With three absences in a row, regardless of the reason, a member can be removed and can no longer serve the board.

According to Mr. Guerrero, it is the responsibility of each member to be at each meeting. All seven members of CUC board are appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Senate.

“There is a lot of work, which our team humbly accepts on behalf of our customers and communities. This is basically a volunteer position,” he told the board.

Asked whether Ms. Elameto could face ouster if she chooses not to attend a scheduled May 25 meeting on Saipan, Mr. Guerrero hinted that she could have one more chance as the forthcoming session is just a continuation of yesterday’s discussion.

“All I know is that she’s off-island attending her son’s graduation,” he added. Ms. Elameto could not be reached for comment.

The former CUC chair was at the center of a board infighting that raged after she helped push for the collapse of the 80-megawatt power project last January. The move angered lawmakers and led to enactment of a law that reinstated the original plan.

With her ouster last March during a surprise election, Ms. Elameto threatened to bring the matter to court on grounds that the board’s action was unconstitutional and a violation of CUC’s laws.

The government-owned utility corporation normally holds its annual election of officers each July. (Benhur C. Saladores)