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CDA holds off decision on Micro Games funding
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Posted on Aug 22 2005
The Commonwealth Development Authority cannot make a decision earlier than Thursday on a $5.8-million funding request for the CNMI’s hosting of the 2006 Micronesian Games.
CDA chair Tom Glenn Quitugua said yesterday that the request by Community and Cultural Affairs Secretary Juan L. Babauta had been referred to the CDA board’s finance committee. The panel is now reviewing the funding request and will report to the full board on Thursday.
“We’re aware of DCCA’s deadline—that they wanted a response by [Monday}. But the earliest time I can convene the board is on Thursday,” Quitugua said. “We’re genuinely looking at the proposal. But we would also like to review it thoroughly and be safe.”
Babauta, in a letter sent to CDA last week, said he would like to receive CDA’s response by Monday, Aug. 22, 2005. The 2006 Micronesian Games Committee has given the CNMI until this date to confirm its commitment to hosting next year’s games.
While the administration has already announced his intent for the CNMI to host the competition, a funding source for the construction projects needed to improve local sports facilities has yet to be identified.
Secretary Babauta estimated that the needed infrastructure projects would cost a total of $5.8 million.
The proposed projects include construction of a new Olympic-size swimming pool and tennis courts at the Oleai Sports Complex, renovation of the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium, installation of additional lighting at the Olympic-standard Oleai track and field, renovation of Kan Pacific swimming pool, construction of grandstands at the three Oleai Sports Complex fields, and construction of toilet and shower facilities.
“The purpose of these renovations is [to] prioritize enhanced facilities for the CNMI community as a whole, while also increasing business activity in the CNMI through the attraction of regional and international sporting events,” Babauta told CDA.
The event is expected to bring about 1,500 to 1,700 athletes, coaches and officials to the CNMI on June 23 to July 7, 2006.
