Legislature approves additional $15 Million for Champi response

Governor Lou Leon Guerrero's bill to provide an additional $15 million for severe weather emergency preparedness, response and relief ahead of Tropical Storm Champi was unanimously passed by the 38th Guam Legislature during a special session Friday.

With the passage of the bill, the governor said the total funding level for Champi preparation and response is $27 million. The governor’s bill passed with 14 votes and one excused absence.

“I appreciate the 38th Guam Legislature’s prompt consideration and passage of legislation providing funding,” she said. “I want to thank Speaker Frank Blas and the entire legislative body for acting swiftly to make sure our government has the ways and means to take care of our people.”

In response to the impending storm, the Government of Guam has mobilized. Lt. Gov. Josh Tenorio highlighted that “thousands of government employees, members of our families, neighbors, and friends are answering the call to help our island prepare for what is forecast to be dangerous weather event.”

With Condition of Readiness 2 established and a state of emergency declared, Adelup said GovGuam workers are focused on mitigating the anticipated impacts from Champi.

“This includes clearing debris from flood-prone areas, preparing and hardening power and water infrastructure, preparing schools that will be used as shelters during and after the storm,” Adelup said. “This workforce includes village mayors and their staff, and agency Response Activity Coordinators reporting to the Office of Homeland Security and Civil Defense. They too are essential front-line partners in the ‘all hands-on deck' effort.”

Federal Emergency Management Agency partners are on island and are actively involved.

“In addition to personnel already on the ground, an elite action team is expected to arrive tonight followed by other personnel as needed in the days ahead,” Adelup said.

The state of emergency declaration remains in effect for 90 days unless extended.

As part of the declaration, emergency procurement and emergency expenses are authorized for the rental of heavy equipment, debris removal, nursing and medical support services at the Northern and Southern Region Community Health Centers, typhoon shelter operations conducted by the Guam Department of Education, temporary lodging for displaced residents and the procurement of other necessary supplies, materials, goods and services related to this emergency, according to the declaration.

This storm watch update is brought to you by Senatorial candidates Clynt Ridgell, "Let's Grow Guam Together," Sabrina Salas Matanane, "Bri the Difference," and Chief Energy Partners, "Your Power. Your Terms. Your Lifestyle." Special thanks to sponsors: Donna Quinata, "Driven to Serve," Burger King and MacTech Guam.

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