GOVERNOR Ralph DLG Torres on Friday re-nominated Warren F. Villagomez of Tinian to the Marianas Visitors Authority board of directors.
Villagomez, who also chairs the Governor’s Covid-19 Task Force, expressed his sincerest gratitude to the governor for his trust and confidence. He also thanked the rest of the MVA board for their support and good working relationship during his first term on the board.
In a letter, the governor told Villagomez that “I am pleased to re-nominate you to serve on the Marianas Visitors Authority Board of Directors to represent the Second Senatorial District.”
“I am fully aware of the important work before the Board,” the governor said, “and I am confident that you will continue to devote your time and efforts to fostering a sustainable tourism industry.”
Villagomez’s reappointment requires the consent of the Senate. If confirmed, he will serve another four-year term.
In his letter, the governor also noted that Public Law 11-15 prohibits a government employee from serving as a board member of the MVA. He said this places an undue burden as it limits the pool of otherwise qualified potential appointees from Tinian.
“Accordingly, I am hereby waiving such restriction as authorized by 1 CMC §2901,” he added.
Also pursuant to the law, the governor said, Villagomez is “immediately required to file a statement of financial interests with the Public Auditor.”
In his letter to Senate President Jude U. Hofschneider, the governor said he respectfully requests the Senate’s favorable action on the appointment, saying that MVA “plays a very important role in the development of the Commonwealth, and I have every confidence that Mr. Villagomez will continue to devote his time and efforts in the best interest of all our people. I am confident that his membership on this important board is critical and his appointment will ensure consistency and continuity in fulfilling the goals and objectives of the Marianas Visitors Authority.”
Warren Villagomez
