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BECQ seconds call for EIS extension
The Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality is reiterating Gov. Eloy S. Inos’ call to be given more time to review documents for military training on Tinian and Pagan.
Inos has asked the U.S. military to extend from June 3 the comment period for the draft environmental impact statement for live-fire training on Tinian and Pagan. Inos has asked for a six-month extension.
Asked if he would reiterate Inos’ call for more time, BECQ administrator Frank Rabauliman said, “Absolutely.”
“We are operating as if we don’t have any extension of the deadline. But we are really hoping to be granted additional time to review the EIS,” BECQ Frank Rabauliman told Saipan Tribune
On the bureau’s side, Rabauliman said they have no less than 10 people working on the draft impact statement. He said those involved are working on their different areas of expertise.
He said after a meeting in late April with the governor, the bureau formed a timeline of review.
Rabauliman said they should have technical reviews ready for the BECQ’s federal consistency specialist today or the latest on Monday.
He would then collate these findings before he submits them to Lt. Gov. Ralph DLG. Torres on May 20.
The U.S. military is reportedly close on its decision the EIS extension.
Joint Region Marianas told Saipan Tribune that Rear Adm. Bolivar and Marianas Forces Pacific executive director Craig Whelden would be accompanying the Deputy Commander of U.S. Pacific Command to Saipan this Thursday. They will first meet with the administration in the morning before making themselves available to media.
