THE most critical factor holding up the economic recovery of the CNMI today is the instrument landing system for Tinian. We were led to believe that a firm deal had been signed with the Federal Aviation Authority for the installation of a system this year. Now I hear there is no deal.
Would you please look into this and get us a definitive status report on system? We have a brand new runway, but it is only being used by Cessna’s when it should be receiving jets.
We have a brand new terminal building, complete with a TSA system, all gathering dust.
No matter what the ILS costs, it is nickels and dimes compared to the revenue it will generate for the general fund. It will produce immediate revenues with the landing fees on aircraft arriving from China. As quickly as those jet-loads of guests arrive they will be paying hotel room occupancy tax, all of which goes to the general fund; not to Tinian but to the CNMI general fund on Saipan.
Furthermore, as quickly as the FAA signs a firm contract, the construction of the two new hotel-casino complexes, including the first golf course for Tinian, will begin. The cost of construction alone, including labor permits, taxes on imported construction materials and port fees will generate millions for the general fund. We need that system. We needed it yesterday, but we certainly need it now going into this year’s budget debates. Which agency will have to go because there are no funds? The ILS on Tinian could resolve this problem.
Keeping in mind that 90 percent of the general fund appropriations go to Saipan, the House and Senate Committees on Economic Development should be on top of this issue. Perhaps they might investigate the delays.

DON A. FARRELL
Marpo Heights, Tinian