David M. Apatang
GOVERNOR David M. Apatang on Tuesday approved House Local Bill 24-5, which amends the Saipan Zoning Law to clearly define automobile sales and service businesses in relation to certain zoning districts.
Authored by Rep. John Paul Sablan and unanimously passed by the Saipan and Northern Islands Legislative Delegation last week, H.L.B. 24-5 is now Saipan Local Law 24-6.
For clarity, H.L.B. 24-5 defines “automobile sales and service” as an establishment engaged in the marketing, direct or indirect sales, and servicing of new and used automobiles, including light trucks and motorcycles. Typical activities include vehicle sales, manufacturer recall work, diagnostics, maintenance (e.g., tune-ups and oil changes), mechanical repairs, parts replacement, paint work, body work, glass work, washing, detailing, and warranty repair work.
The bill states that this definition is necessary to ensure consistency in regulation and facilitate smoother operations for businesses engaged in such activities. A clear definition, it adds, will help zoning officials and stakeholders apply the law more effectively.
The governor also approved H.L.B. 24-19, which appropriates $260,670 in developers’ infrastructure tax for the paving of Halle Place Road in Precinct 1.
Authored by Rep. Roman C. Benavente and co-sponsored by his fellow Precinct 1 House members — Vice Speaker Diego Vincent F. Camacho, Minority Leader Roy Ada, Rep. Vincent “Kobre” Aldan, Rep. Joseph A. Flores, and Rep. Raymond U. Palacios — the measure was also unanimously approved by the Saipan delegation last week.
