Wednesday, July 24, 2024/// DYCA PIO
Colonia, Yap— The Committee on Finance of the Eleventh Legislature of the State of Yap held a public hearing on Yap State’s 2025 fiscal year comprehensive budget, specifically for the Department of Public Works and Transportation on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at 10:00 am in the Legislature Chamber. Witnesses included Speaker Nicholas Figirlaarwon, Chairman of Finance Pius Talimeisei, Vice Chairman of Finance Ann-Marie Laamar, Chairman of the Committee on Resources, Education & Development John Mafel, legislative staff, Director of Public Works and Transportation and staff.
For Public Works & Transportation (PW&T), the initial budget proposal of The initial budget proposal was $3,563,117 while the Executive Budget Review Committee (EBRC) recommended $3,171,771. The discussions covered the proposed budget with the Legislature recommending some changes and the Finance Committee raising questions about specific issues such as the airport waiting area being expanded within the budget. Key discussion points in the public hearing included the introduction of staff by the Director, highlighting an increase in the budget compared to the previous year due to EBRC recommendations. Justifications were provided for including a consultant in the budget to assist with scheduling and the Japanese plan and development. Plans for airport and seaport security, waste management, and the transition of the new director were also discussed. Clarifications were sought regarding staff salaries, overtime policies for inspectors and engineers, and the necessity of a $20,000 request for engineering overtime due to increased workload. The DPW&T anticipated eight additional projects on top of their usual workload. There was a discussion on working with the Office of Planning and Budget if airport fees exceeded expectations and the addition of three positions for safety on the ground in the outer islands. It was noted that there was no prior consultation with personnel regarding the budget, and some job descriptions did not align with job titles. Clarifications were made on the collection and allocation of user fees. Discussions also included the calibration and certification of concrete cylinders for public use and income. Issues of housing for engineers and janitorial services were discussed, with recommendations to review contract obligations to avoid liabilities. Plans to expand the baggage claim area and the status of proposals were mentioned, with emphasis on timely funding. Allocations for asphalt and diesel gas for road repairs in Colonia, Maap, and Tagareng were discussed, along with the utilization of revenue from health and education provisions. The state of fixed assets and network setup costs were reviewed, with concerns about system reliability. The impact of weather on construction schedules and the need for supplementary budgets were noted. The budget review ensured clarity for all parties and addressed concerns and comments from both sides.
(For more information, please contact Yap State Legislature at (691) 350-2400 or Department of Public Works and Transportation at (691) 350-2175. Thank you.)
Comments