Tinian Officials Question Allocation of Federal Funds Amid Equipment Shortages

Concerns over funding allocation for Tinian's Fish and Wildlife Department took center stage during a recent government meeting, highlighting a significant disparity in federal assistance. The discussion revealed that Tinian received only $100,000 of a $250,000 federal allocation, with the bulk of the funds—$150,000—designated for Saipan.

The director of the Fish and Wildlife Department expressed frustration over the unequal distribution of resources, questioning why Tinian, which is actively engaged in patrolling and managing local wildlife, was not granted a fair share of the funding. "We're doing the job here in Tinian," he stated, emphasizing the need for adequate equipment and vehicles to support their operations.

The director pointed out that Tinian has been operating with just one vehicle since 2016, which is insufficient for the demands of the department. He noted that while Saipan is set to purchase a vehicle for Tinian from the allocated funds, the overall situation remains concerning. "The bulk of the money stops on Saipan," he remarked, calling for a reassessment of how federal funds are distributed to ensure that Tinian's needs are met.

This discussion underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Tinian in securing necessary resources for wildlife management and raises questions about the effectiveness of federal assistance in addressing local needs. As the meeting concluded, the director's call for equitable funding remains a pressing issue for the community, with hopes for a more balanced approach in future allocations.