EPA document 89-1 states that the position of Malae is very important as it is responsible for all operations at CUC, including its compliance with the two federal stipulated orders.
EPA said the early process will “avoid any gap in leadership at this critical time for CUC.”
On Aug. 19, Malae announced his plan to again run for governor of American Samoa in 2012.
CUC said his departure is still six months away and Malae remains fully committed to the utilities agency.
Malae has yet to turn in a resignation letter or application for a leave of absence, CUC said.
“He will work with his management team to ensure a smooth transition, and there are no immediate plans for his replacement, in part because this is a new development, and in part because he remains in place for many months to come,” CUC told EPA.
Over the next six months, CUC added, Malae plans to continue to build a solid leadership component at the utilities agency.
He will work not only for continuity’s sake, but also to provide flexibility in any future replacement, CUC said.
“CUC understands that this issue is of paramount importance, and intends to be discussing its plans with EPA as they are formulated,” CUC said.
