In his inaugural address, he pointed out that “new business opportunities are virtually non-existent, casino tax revenues are decreasing every year, and local scholarships and medical assistance have been suspended as the municipal government is drowning in debt.”
“This is the situation I have inherited and this is the situation I will address head on without hesitation, apprehension or fear,” he said.
He believes that many of the problems in Tinian will be resolved quickly while others may not be resolved. “I will not promise solutions that are unattainable.”
Dela Cruz said throughout his term he will work tirelessly to better the welfare and the standard of living of his constituents.
He said he won last November because of the people’s desire for change.
In order to make real change, he said, they have to acknowledge the very root of the problem — the people’s attitude toward government employment and services.
“We need to shift away from an attitude of entitlement to an attitude of service and volunteerism,” he said.
Tinian’s limited resources must be allocated and used efficiently, he added, while priorities and timeliness will be established and met.
Dela Cruz at the same time encouraged government officials and the community to live within their means and prioritize services to those who need them the most.
The need to make a long-term plan for the island’s future is important not only for the next election period, he said
“We have the ability to create immediate and impactful change as long as we have the fortitude and right attitude,” he added,
Tinian’s most valuable asset is its people, Dela Cruz said, and this is why he wants his administration to be community driven and shaped by the people.
“I will turn to the people of Tinian to guide me through this administration to help me establish the most effective policies and programs,” he added.
For years, he said, the departments have been providing service at sub-standard levels, which is no longer acceptable.
The mayor said he will make each department accountable for the services they provide and demand that they practice prudent fiscal management.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Gov. Benigno R. Fitial, Lt. Gov. Eloy Inos, Congressman Gregorio C. Sablan as well as other CNMI and Tinian officials.
