by Sabrina Salas Matanane

Guam - It appears Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo has backed off from her initial plans of including HR4402 as an amendment to the proposed FY2015 National Defense Authorization Act. HR4402 proposes designating a Surface Danger Zone over the National Wildlife Refuge at Ritidian in anticipation of a proposed Live Fire Training Range Complex at Northwest Field for the Marine Corps.

Over the last several days original landowners of Ritidian properties have been outraged about Bordallo's introduction of HR4402 without their knowledge or input. Local leaders such as Speaker Judi Won Pat also asked that she withdraw the measure until after public meetings ont the draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement scheduled for later this month.

The House Armed Services Committee held a markup hearing on the proposed FY15 NDAA. According to Bordallo she decided not to offer HR4402 as amendment. “After speaking with Governor Calvo, members of the Legislature, and the Ritidian original landowners, I agree that our community should have the opportunity to discuss this issue and other concerns regarding the build-up during the public meetings on the SEIS. I look forward to the upcoming hearings, and I will continue to work with our local leaders and all stakeholders as we move forward in this process.”

She encourages the community to provide their feedback and concerns during the comment period for the Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement on May 17, 19, and 20.