Manny Gregory T. Castro
SENATOR Manny Gregory T. Castro, one of the two authors of Senate Bill 24-23 to suspend the zoning law, said it will give the Commonwealth time to assess the people’s concerns regarding “inefficiencies” in the implementation of zoning rules.
Sen. Corina L. Magofna co-authored S.B. 24-23, which, Castro said, “is currently under review in the Legislature, with further discussions and hearings to follow.”
In a statement to Variety, Castro emphasized the need for a “thoughtful re-evaluation of the zoning system to ensure it is responsive to the needs of the community, while fostering sustainable growth and economic development.”
“The zoning law, particularly on Saipan, has seen many positive changes over the years, but there have also been significant concerns regarding the implementation and inefficiencies within the system. This bill aims to give us the time needed to assess these concerns thoroughly and make necessary improvements that will benefit everyone,” Castro said.
The bill aims to address ongoing concerns about the effectiveness of the current zoning law and to provide an opportunity for a comprehensive evaluation of the Commonwealth’s land use and zoning policies, Castro reiterated.
He said that over the years, both the Commonwealth Zoning Code and the Saipan Zoning Law have faced significant challenges in terms of administration and implementation.
Castro said these issues have led to inefficiencies, delays, and frustrations among businesses, developers, and residents seeking to navigate the zoning approval process.
“The zoning laws are important tools for managing growth, but it is essential that they work effectively and fairly for all stakeholders. This bill will allow us to take a step back, reassess, and ensure that we have a zoning system that is both efficient and conducive to long-term development in the Northern Mariana Islands,” Castro said.
S.B. 24-23 proposes to suspend Public 6-32 or the Zoning Code of the CNMI and Saipan Local Law 8-7 or the Saipan Zoning Law of 2013, for five years, and provides for the transition and transfer of the zoning administration employees,
Zoning Board Chair Henry S. Hofschneider said the bill will be included on the agenda of their meeting today, Thursday, at 2 p.m. in Joeten-Kiyu Public Library’s conference room.
