Dear Governor Palacios:
WE write on behalf of Kånnai Komunidat – Payúúr Toulap to express our heartfelt gratitude for your leadership and decision to sign Senate Bill 23-37, SD1, HD, entitled, “To mandate the Commonwealth Utilities Corporation to change power, water and wastewater rate for the Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation rate to commercial rate; and all other purposes” into law. Your commitment to advancing the well-being of our community is deeply appreciated, and this legislation is a testament to your dedication to the people of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
This measure promises significant benefits for CHCC and the broader community. By reducing utility costs, the law alleviates a substantial financial burden, enabling CHCC to allocate more of its resources to critical services such as medical equipment procurement, facility upgrades, and the recruitment of healthcare professionals. This will enhance the quality of care and strengthen the foundation of healthcare infrastructure in the CNMI. Moreover, with improved financial flexibility, CHCC will be better positioned to address public health challenges, respond effectively to emergencies, and expand preventative care initiatives. This is a transformative step forward that will positively impact the health and well-being of all residents while fostering operational efficiency and long-term sustainability within CHCC.
Your decision also underscores the government’s dedication to equitable resource distribution, ensuring that essential services like healthcare are not hindered by disproportionate utility costs. Additionally, this opens the door for CHCC to explore sustainable infrastructure investments, promoting environmental stewardship while reducing operational expenses.
By enacting this legislation, you have demonstrated a deep understanding of the critical issues facing our community. Your decisive action inspires confidence in the continued growth and prosperity of the CNMI, and your leadership sets a strong example of governance for the benefit of all.
Once again, thank you for your unwavering commitment to our islands. If there is any way we or others in the community can assist in supporting the implementation of this law, please do not hesitate to reach out.
CANDICE MUNA
Chair
ALEXANDRA C. VILLAGOMEZ
Secretary
ANALEE C. VILLAGOMEZ
Member
Kånnai Komunidat – Payúúr Toulap
