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Lawmakers question role and funding for Historic Restoration and Redevelopment Authority
Summary
The Committee reviewed a $443,589 FY2026 appropriation for the Guam Historic Restoration and Redevelopment Authority (HRRA). Some senators questioned the agency’s purpose and whether it needs additional funding and statutory actions to implement master plans.
The committee reviewed a general‑fund appropriation of $443,589 for the Guam Historic Restoration and Redevelopment Authority (HRRA) for FY2026 and heard senators disagree about the authority’s progress, purpose and funding needs.
Mister Guerrero told the committee the appropriation out of the general fund for HRRA is $443,589 and that no other funding sources were reflected in the presentation. Senator Parkinson said he was not opposed to the agency but remained unclear on what HRRA does and whether the legislature should accept a master plan or otherwise define the agency’s role. "I am not against this agency, but I'm just trying to figure out, you know, do we need it?" Parkinson said.
Senator Cowell defended the authority’s mission, saying HRRA’s work in heritage, culture and tourism is important and that progress has been made under the current director. Cowell said funding shortfalls—not lack of mandate—limited HRRA’s ability to move projects forward and urged colleagues to support the appropriation, even at status quo levels.
Why it matters: the discussion highlighted a recurring budget question about HRRA’s capacity to implement master plans and the tension between funding constraints and cultural‑heritage priorities. The committee recorded requests for further legislative review and for clearer documentation about HRRA’s master plan status.
The transcript shows discussion and no recorded vote on altering the appropriation during the hearing.
