Senate committee holds public hearing on Sixto K. Gisomar nomination to lead Department of Public Lands

The Senate Standing Committee on Executive Appointments and Government Investigations held a public hearing in Rota on May 27, 2025, on the nomination of Sixto K. Gisomar to serve as secretary of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Department of Public Lands (DPL). The session included an introduction by the governor’s representative, public testimony in support of the nominee from municipal officials and advisory boards, and questions from senators about homestead permits, infrastructure and pending revocations.

The nominee’s supporters said Gisomar’s prior experience in government and work with local communities recommended him for the post. Agnes Titano, representing the Office of the Governor, introduced the nomination and said, “I am pleased to introduce the nomination of Mister Sixto K. Gisomar to serve as the secretary for the Department of Public Lands.” Several municipal and advisory officials who testified in Rota and in written submissions told the committee they back the appointment.

Why it matters: The Department of Public Lands oversees homestead and agricultural permits that affect residents across Rota, Tinian and Saipan. Senators pressed Gisomar on long‑standing delays tied to infrastructure requirements, revocations of village homestead permits, and management of property subject to military leasebacks — issues that residents said directly affect land access, housing and livelihoods.

Background and nominee’s priorities Sixto K. Gisomar told the committee he previously served as a senator and has held cabinet posts, and he framed his priorities as increasing transparency and expanding homestead access while honoring the trust obligations to “the people of Northern Mariana descent.” He listed several items he has been working on since returning to…