But he said the governor has yet to decide whether to support MPLT’s decision to purchase private land for its building and long-term investment plan.
“It is not entirely clear which option would be more prudent, less risky, and more optimal over the long term because we have not yet seen any meaningful financial analysis comparing the risk-reward ratio or the cost-benefit analysis,” Reyes said in an e-mail.
On Tuesday, Variety ran a story titled “Administration Supports MPLT Land Purchase” based on an earlier interview with Reyes.
Yesterday, Reyes said the governor had not yet evaluated thoroughly MPLT’s financial transaction.
“We do not know for sure yet which argument is stronger, what the pros and cons are, or what the benefits and costs are, or the opportunity costs for that matter. We reserve judgment until all of this is made clear,” he said.
Last June, the MPLT board adopted a resolution appropriating $700,000 for the purchase of a 4,000 sq.m. private lot on Capital Hill at $68 per sq. m.
Two indigenous groups have questioned the propriety of using MPLT funds on a deal benefiting private individuals.
MPLT funds are for the people of NMI descent, the groups said.
The Office of Public Auditor has offered MPLT public land for its use.
