Guam Community College Requests $606K Increase Amid Manpower Development Fund Cut

In a session marked by critical discussions on budget allocations, the 38th Guam Legislature convened on August 17, 2025, to deliberate on the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. The spotlight was on Guam Community College (GCC), a key educational institution, as lawmakers examined its funding requests and the implications for local workforce development.

Director Guerrero presented the budget for GCC, highlighting that the only increase in funding—approximately $606,000—was earmarked for retirement adjustments and increments. This modest rise reflects GCC's historical trend of minimal budget increases, raising questions about the institution's capacity to meet growing educational demands.

Senator Chilal raised concerns regarding a significant decrease in the manpower development fund for GCC's apprenticeship program, which saw a reduction of $131,558 from the previous year. This decline was attributed to lower-than-expected collections in the fund, as reported by the Department of Labor. Despite anticipated stability in military contracts, the number of H-2B worker visa applications remained stagnant, suggesting a disconnect between projected economic activity and actual workforce availability.

As the discussion unfolded, it became clear that the challenges facing GCC are emblematic of broader issues within Guam's educational and labor sectors. The lack of growth in visa applications, despite military contracts potentially increasing, points to a complex interplay of factors affecting workforce development.

The session concluded with no amendments proposed for GCC's budget, leaving the institution's financial future uncertain as it prepares to navigate the upcoming fiscal year with limited resources. As the legislature moves forward, the implications of these budgetary decisions will resonate throughout the community, impacting both education and employment opportunities in Guam.