Tenorio, Torres discuss financial aid with OEA

[B]WASHINGTON, D.C.[/B]—CNMI Resident Representative Pete A. Tenorio and Rep. Ralph DLG. Torres recently met with Patrick J. O’Brien, director of the Office of Economic Adjustment in Washington, to discuss financial assistance and grant program possibilities for the Northern Marianas in anticipation of the military buildup on Guam and use of Tinian.

The Office of Economic Adjustment under the Department of Defense is the primary source for assisting communities affected by base realignments, closures, expansions, and other Defense program changes. OEA offers various technical and financial assistance to affected communities by identifying resources and needs and assists in financial analysis and capital markets planning and organization. OEA is also responsible in assisting and coordinating the resources and involvement of other Federal Agencies through the Defense Economic Adjustment Program.

Also from OEA, Sacramento regional staff Gary Kuwabara and Anthony Gallegos were present to discuss the scope of the Department of Defense plans and involvement of the Northern Marianas as a major training and exercise location on Tinian. With over 16,100 acres of leased area known as Military Lease Area, the Department of Defense is focusing on the viability of Tinian.

“Currently the CNMI is not eligible to receive assistance from OEA, but an amendment has been made to H.R. 5658, the Duncan Hunter National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009, by Congresswoman Madaleine Bordallo of Guam that would extend the assistance programs of the Office of Economic Adjustment to the CNMI. The bill has passed the House of Representatives and is expected to be passed by the Senate in September. The Congress annually approves a Defense Authorization bill,” explained Tenorio.

Tenorio and Torres were most encouraged of their meeting with O’Brien. In anticipation of the extension of OEA programs to the CNMI, OEA had detailed one of its professional staff, Gary Kuwabara, several months ago to meet with officials of the CNMI to discuss the potential impact to the Commonwealth with respect to the planned military buildup on Guam and the role that OEA will play in mobilizing resources for studies and projects.

During the meeting Tenorio and Torres also recommended and urged OEA to seriously consider the island of Rota in its scope of plans for the NMI as a future venue for rest-and-relaxation of military personnel anywhere in Asia, especially Guam. Its close proximity to Guam and the island’s rich history of the Marianas culture and tradition, the friendly and warm ambiance of its people, make Rota an ideal and perfect destination for rest and relaxation.

“I look forward to sharing this good news with the people of Tinian and Rota and to meet with both the Tinian and Rota Mayors and legislative delegation to discuss how OEA can help them,” said Tenorio.

“This meeting was important to ensure policy makers in Washington are completely aware of what is happening both in federal legislation, but also on the grant eligibility for OEA grants can go a long way in preparing Tinian and Rota to take advantage of the relocation of the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Force to Guam,” Tenorio added. [B][I](PR)[/I][/B]