Each commissioner gets from $50,000 to $75,000 a year.
The delegation earlier said the appointments should be delayed due to lack of funds.
“However, we feel that these two will perform an important task for the people of Tinian as they will participate in the investigation and issuance of licenses for our casino industry,” said Hofschneider, R-Tinian.
He noted that Tinian has three new casino investors — Bridge Capital, Marianas Resort Development Corp., and Neo Gold Wings.
Last week, the municipal council confirmed the nominations of former Sen. Ike Quichocho and Michael San Nicolas, the mayor’s son, as the two new gaming commissioners.
According to Hofschneider, “the mayor apparently has found enough funds to justify the appointments. The money will come from the revenues that we’re collecting from the casino.”
He cannot provide details, but said that “it’s up to the mayor” who is “answerable” to his constituents.
Tonight, a public hearing for MRDC has been scheduled by the Coastal Resources Management Office on Tinian.
“This is an indication that we are moving forward and we need to invest in that direction,” Hofschneider said, “Yes, our economy has been depressed but I have to admit that we need to do something and be creative to fight the challenge.”
Due to the declining revenue collection from the island’s only casino, the Tinian Dynasty, the salaries of the municipal employees were earlier reduced so they can be retained.
The mayor said his office has also cut its expenditures on supplies, fuel and travel.
