Washington, DC – Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio continued his federal mission in the nation’s capital this week with a high-level meeting with Patrick O’Brien, Director of the Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation (OLDCC), to formally launch planning for an Economic Adjustment Committee (EAC) for Guam. This marks a decisive step in elevating Guam’s concerns nationally and ensuring that federal partners address defense-related impacts with coordinated interagency support.
Discussions centered on establishing a framework for a comprehensive federal response reflecting the expanding defense activities on Guam. Lt. Governor Tenorio and Director O’Brien highlighted the critical need for synchronized data collection and shared analysis across agencies to fully understand pressures on utilities, transportation, public health, housing, education, emergency response, workforce, and Guam’s broader social and economic landscape.
Lt. Governor Tenorio reaffirmed Guam’s commitment to working with federal partners for clear, accurate, and deeply informed decision-making. “This is about securing a future where strong national defense is matched by strong and resilient civilian systems. Our island deserves nothing less,” Tenorio said.
Both officials stressed that a unified approach to data and planning will help federal partners see Guam’s priorities in context, enabling strategies and investments that are responsive, coordinated, and long-term. This meeting builds on ongoing dialogue between the Government of Guam and the Department of Defense, which acknowledged Guam’s concerns and signaled support to advance an interagency EAC framework. The Government of Guam will continue close coordination with OLDCC and federal counterparts to ensure that federal actions align with Guam’s strategic importance and local needs.
“Guam’s role in safeguarding our nation brings responsibilities that touch every part of our daily life. Our engagement with OLDCC and pursuit of an Economic Adjustment Committee process are rooted in one goal: bringing federal agencies together to strengthen the infrastructure and wellbeing of the people who call Guam home.”
During this federal mission, Lt. Governor Tenorio also joined the National Lieutenant Governors Association Winter Meeting in the U.S. Virgin Islands, engaging with national leaders on security, public health, education innovation, federal program delivery, and strategic planning.
He met with U.S. Virgin Islands Governor Albert Bryan Jr. to explore territorial collaboration on an integrated electronic health records system that could modernize patient care and enhance cross-jurisdictional health services. Both leaders expressed interest in advancing a shared territorial framework.
Further updates will be provided as coordination efforts continue. (PR)
