By Moneth G. Deposa
Variety News Staff

SAIPAN Mayor Juan B. Tudela says he should have control over the Tanapag social hall because, under the law, his office has the sole authority to operate all social halls on the island.
“The new facility was never turned over to my office,” Borja said in his letter to Vice Speaker Justo S. Quitugua, D-Saipan, last week.
The mayor said he received information that the hall is being managed by some members of the parish council.
He added that there have been fees collected for the use of the facility during funerals and other activities.
The facility, he added, has incurred utility bills that no one wants to pay.
“The utility bills for the facility…now total $18,032,” Tudela said, adding that due to a lack of funding he has no choice but to have the facility’s power disconnected.
This, he said, may “disturb” some members of the Tanapag community.
Quitugua, who represents Precinct 4, which includes Tanapag, said he agrees with Tudela.
“It should be under the direct control of the mayor…we will coordinate with the parish council and the community there and find out who has the keys,” Quitugua said.
The Legislature will not easily be able to find funding to pay for the social hall’s utility bills.
“We will recommend to the mayor some actions that will help raise the needed amount,” he said.