The former House member, in an interview, said he has been exploring various ideas on how the mayor’s office can contribute to the island’s economy.
He said his “profound passion” for Chamorro and Carolinian cultures provided him with some ideas.
Since tourism is the island’s only industry, local culture and arts should be promoted to bring in more visitors, Taman said.
He plans to establish a cultural performing arts center on island.
He will explore possible funding sources and encourage community organizations to help operate the center.
Annual events similar to the Flame Tree Arts Festival and the Taste of the Marianas should be held more frequently once the cultural and arts center is in place, he said.
He believes this will give tourists more reasons to come back to Saipan every year.
According to Taman, the mayor’s office can work with the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs the Marianas Visitors Authority in promoting Chamorro and Carolinian culture and arts.
Raising more awareness about the island’s Chamorro and Carolinian heritage should add to the value of the island as a tourist destination, he said.
