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Guam PUC delays action on Port Authority tariff petition after public opposition and governor request
Summary
The Guam Public Utilities Commission voted unanimously Jan. 29 to delay action on PAG docket 2503, a petition from the Port Authority of Guam to adjust Terra Freight charges, after hearing letters from the governor, testimony from industry groups and a Port presentation citing a consultant report. The PUC said it will await further filings or an amended docket.
The Guam Public Utilities Commission on Jan. 29 agreed to delay consideration of PAG docket number 2503, a petition by the Port Authority of Guam to adjust Terra Freight tariff charges, after receiving public testimony, letters (including one from the governor) and a Port presentation that cited a PUC consultant’s 74‑page report.
Rory, Port Authority general manager, told commissioners the petition is a narrow adjustment to the average charge‑out rate rather than an overall tariff raise and asked the commission to rely on internal finance work and the consultant report. "The impact is, 1 tenth of, a penny for quid and $60 per container," Rory said, describing the Port’s estimate of per‑unit effects. He also described the petition as an effort to "correct a structural imbalance" in how the tariff has been administered.
Commissioner Brooks asked whether the Port Authority board planned to modify or withdraw its docket in light of negative testimony and the governor's request to hold implementation. Rory said open‑government rules limit off‑agenda board meetings and that he and the board chair have publicly shared the governor’s letter; he noted the board previously passed a resolution supporting the adjustment and that any petitioner may amend a docket.
After discussion, the chair moved to "take" (delay) further action on the docket; Joe seconded. The commission voted in favor and the chair announced the motion carried unanimously. The transcript records the motion and unanimous approval; an exact vote count is not specified.
Why it matters: The tariff petition would change how certain Port labor and charge rates are billed to carriers and, depending on implementation, could affect shipping costs passed down the supply chain. The Port argues the change would make billing more predictable and cited past bond and throughput thresholds that it says affected earlier revenue projections. Opponents submitted testimony and letters urging caution and, in at least one case, asked the PUC to hold the matter.
Next steps: The PUC indicated it will await any amended filing or further information; Rory and Port representatives said they will provide requested materials. The Port Authority board could also choose to amend or withdraw the petition before the PUC resumes consideration.
