by Sabrina Salas Matanane

Guam - Governor Eddie Baza Calvo made a special announcement during his 3rd State of the Island Address. He said he had the distinct honor of being the first Governor in 23 years to say that the "deficit is gone".

The governor said it wasn't rocket science or a miracle but that his administration was able to eliminate the $500 million dollar deficit the way any family pays its bills by holding the line on spending, tightening our belts and instituting a 15 percent reserve. He added good management practices led to a reduction in the biggest expense of the General Fund which of course is personnel.

The governor did however ask senators to understand that better cash flow doesn't mean the era of austerity is over. It only means that we are on the right path. Directly addressing senators he implored them to not pass any new mandates that would require funding unless it is absolutely necessary. Calvo added that the way forward is through support for our existing fiscal policies. He said we don't need to burden our people with new taxes . We just need to continue holding the line on spending, and refraining from new mandates.

Immediately after the address the Democratic Party of Guam issued the following statement: "Tonight Governor Calvo claimed our short-term deficit is gone. What he fails to mention is that under his leadership, the debt your children will owe has grown by more than $300 Million."