by Sabrina Salas Matanane

Guam - Ahead of tonight's hearing with the Guam Fire Department on the Governor's spending cuts bill, Vice Speaker BJ Cruz issued an open letter to firefighters.

"Hafa Adai Firefighter's

Nearly five months ago, I asked Governor Calvo to save what turns out to be $1.6 million by consolidating the government's contracts for telephones and internet connections. I did this because every dollar we save as a government is a dollar we don't have to take from you and your family. Though my suggestion went unanswered, a Republican Senator now suggests that these same savings offset what the Governor's bill would have taken from you. The problem is, this Senator is still short by $1.7 million and I don't want those savings to come from you.

It doesn't matter which party gets the credit, who gets the headlines, or cuts the ribbons—what matters is that we are on your side.

By now some of you might be hearing that Governor Calvo may remove, at least part, of the cuts he proposed to your benefits and pay based on these savings; I really hope that's true. This is why I've asked him to amend the bill he sent down before it moves forward. Whether it's from the Calvo administration or the Legislature, I know you've had enough of politicians making promises they don't keep. That is why you and I need to see his language in writing.

I have attached both my letters regarding these funds that were sent to the Governor and General Services Agency, I'm also attaching the Spending Cuts Task Force Report that was approved by the Governor.

Lastly, If you can, come to the hearing tonight and remind our people that we must protect you-- because your job is to protect us. See you tonight at 5:30 p.m.

Thank you for all your hard work,

~ BJ".