The administration proposed budget figures that do not include the government’s share of contributions to the Retirement Fund or its share of utility bills, further compromising the financial integrity of these two already financially troubled agencies, and adding to the taxpayer burden by increasing the cost of power that residential and business consumers have to pay. But the administration is apparently oblivious to the downturn in the economy, still adding to the government rolls, the deficit and taxpayer liabilities, all without regard to the consequences.
Not a single agency of this bloated government has cut personnel numbers. The agencies have not invested in upgrades from manual to electronic processes to make operations more efficient, quicker and more reliable.
Some lawmakers are making arguments for a balanced budget and credit should go to Senator Frica for recognizing that current revenue and expenditure figures don’t compute. The rest of the CNMI’s elected officials should now acknowledge that cuts in personnel should be made to keep the government afloat. The executive branch, moreover, must be prohibited from hiring nonessential employees even on a temporary basis.
Right now, the CNMI has one industry — tourism — and it languishes, along with the retail outlets that feed off it, from a lack of new ideas. The chamber of commerce appears to be in hibernation. It provides the Legislature and the administration with comments on legislation and keeps its membership informed of what is not happening in the business community, but it is not providing any leadership on key issues affecting the private sector.
It could be argued that government agencies and leading private sector groups, like people, maintain a holding pattern until the elements are manifest and their input will be valued. It could be that things are so bad no one wants to do anything that will make matters worse — though it is hard to imagine what that could be.
Next year holds no promise as the financial condition of the U.S. is expected to worsen, bringing more bad news for the commonwealth which also has to deal with stricter federal immigration rules.
And what is the administration’s response to this worsening crisis? Sue the feds and extend an emergency declaration.
For some good news
WE turn to the recent successes of the students’ thespian productions, music and ballet performances, the efforts of private organizations like the CHC Volunteers, the Red Cross, Karidat and many others who work to enhance the quality of life in this community.
As individuals we can add to their contributions by volunteering our time, funds or other resources. The economy may be dying. But we can always keep the community spirit alive.
