DPW director testifies about utility relocation

by Nick Delgado

Guam - Department of Public Works director Andy Leon Guerrero appeared before lawmakers earlier today to testify on Bill 490 that seeks to address utility relocation costs.  While the director was encouraged that attention is being paid to encroachment issues, he urged lawmakers to carefully consider the negative consequences and the impacts to the General Fund.

"The DPW urges this committee to take the time to develop a more comprehensive approach to encroachment legislation that addresses both intended and unintended consequences and addresses all manners of encroachment to include utilities," he explained.

The intent of the legislation was to utilize federal funds to reimburse costs for utility relocation, but with today's testimony lawmakers may go back and see if they can address the issue through DPW's rules and regulations.