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Gov reconstitutes Zoning Board and appoints new members

Gov. Lolo Matalasi Moliga has reconstitute the Zoning Board of American Samoa with nine new members. Each board member serves a two-year term, and may be reappointed to the board, whose members are not subject to Fono confirmation.

 

Local law states in part that that the Zoning Board consists of nine members, all of whom shall be U.S. nationals or citizens. Further the governor appoints four members; the district governor of each district shall each appoint one member while the Senate President and House Speaker each appoints one member.

 

The newly reconstituted board now consists: Marie Lafaele, Lawrence French, Filifa’atali Mike Fuiava Sr., Kuki Avegalio, Sen. Alo Faauuga, Rep. Maugaoali’i Sipa Anoa’i, Faauifono Vaitautolu (for Manu’a District), Maria Brown Vaa-Igafo (for Eastern District) and Toilolo Eteuni (for Western District).

 

In accordance with provisions of the statute, the governor has also appointed Taafua Taafua Jr. of Public Works; Tafua Faau Seumanutafa, who is in Zoning Administration in the Commerce Department; and Thomas Taylor, the assistant zoning administrator in DOC as professional staff to the board.

 

In his memo announcing the new board, the governor said the board has many significant responsibilities, including assuring that economic development is encouraged by enlarging the opportunities for private sector investment and facilitating government services by providing for the orderly extension of utilities, roads and other services.

 

Furthermore, they are to promote public health, safety and welfare by preventing unreasonable congestion and concentration of population; protect the unique character of American Samoa and the right of all residents to have a planned and attractive environment; and to provide and  preserve space for a growing population.

 

Samoa News understands DOC has some business license applications pending that require submission to the board for approval.