Sen. Shelly V. Calvo convened an oversight hearing Wednesday to examine a draft agreement governing historic preservation reviews tied to U.S. military activities, calling for greater clarity, transparency and cooperation.
The hearing focused on the Draft 2025 Programmatic Agreement between Joint Region Marianas and the Guam State Historic Preservation Office. Officials said the proposed agreement is intended to strengthen structure, consistency and predictability in reviewing Department of Defense undertakings, building on a 2008 agreement.
The review follows the introduction of Resolution 144-38, which calls for withdrawal of the 2025 draft. During the hearing, SHPO officials said that if the draft is withdrawn, operations would continue under the 2008 agreement.
Lawmakers raised concerns about unclear language, gaps in transparency provisions and the absence of key operational safeguards. SHPO’s historic preservation officer, Patrick Lujan, said the agency is open to further review and invited senators to submit specific concerns for additional analysis and clarification.
Lujan also addressed transparency questions, pointing to the current public comment process as evidence of openness. He added he has the authority to sign the agreement but remains receptive to continued dialogue with lawmakers.
Calvo emphasized the broader cultural impact of the agreement, saying it affects “the stories, places, and heritage that define who we are.”
She called for a balanced approach, adding that development and preservation require “thoughtful balance, shared responsibility, and a commitment to working together.”
The committee will continue reviewing testimony and plans to issue recommendations aimed at ensuring the final agreement reflects transparency, collaboration and cultural preservation priorities.