Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero and Lt. Gov. Josh Tenorio expressed dissatisfaction Monday with the Missile Defense Agency’s Record of Decision (ROD) on the Enhanced Integrated Air and Missile Defense (EIAMD) system for Guam. The system, designed to defend the island from evolving regional threats, was finalized in the agency’s Environmental Impact Statement, which assessed land use, environmental, cultural and community concerns.
Leon Guerrero said while she appreciates the MDA’s engagement, she believes the agency failed to adequately address the cumulative impacts raised by the administration during the review process. “As Governor of Guam, I disagree with the decision not to convene the Economic Adjustment Committee at this time,” she said, adding that the committee is vital to coordinating federal responses to local economic and infrastructure burdens tied to national defense missions.
Tenorio echoed those concerns, emphasizing the need for respect toward Guam’s communities, environment and cultural heritage. He said while the MDA pledged to uphold agreements and collaborate with local agencies, broader military buildup impacts must also be considered. “This can best be addressed through the convening of the EAC,” Tenorio said.
According to the MDA, the Record of Decision was jointly issued by the agency and the U.S. Army to construct, deploy, and maintain the EIAMD system on Guam, fulfilling a congressional mandate for a persistent 360-degree layered defense against rapidly evolving regional missile threats. The U.S. Air Force, Navy and Federal Aviation Administration also participated in the Environmental Impact Statement process. The agencies said mitigation measures will be implemented to minimize environmental impacts. The ROD is available on the MDA website, the University of Guam’s Robert F. Kennedy Library, and the Nieves M. Flores Memorial Library.