, Tinian Mayor Edwin Aldan said the state of the island is united. Thomas Manglona reports.

The state of Tinian is united. In his new year's address, Tinian Mayor Edwin Aldan checked off major milestones for the island. That includes their COVID-response.

"The people of Tinian have done a remarkable job in terms of vaccinations," he said. "Since the recent publication of the 2020 census data, Tinian's vaccination rate indicates that we have reached over 90% of the total population."

A blow to the tourism industry and reliance on federal funds also left their mark.

"With the ARPA funds that were given to the Tinian municipality, I was able to bring back the employees who were initially furloughed due to the decrease in revenue stream and more importantly create more jobs to hire individuals that will, in turn, boost Tinian's economy," Aldan said.

That boost comes with the completion of a slaughterhouse.

"We were able to complete the slaughterhouse...that will promote USDA grass-fed beef with hopes that it will eventually become a sustainable industry," the mayor said.

A booming military industry also gained ground with an initial $160 million Department of Defense plan for a divert airfield.

"Many of you are worried, but talks are still ongoing for the proposed live-fire training on Tinian and the Northern Islands," Aldan said. "I want you to know that we remain strong in our stance to prohibit the use of live fire in our region. After many years of negotiating with DOD, we have come to a point of mutual understanding and respect for one another."

The mayor also placed focus on renewable energy, waste management, and decentralization to cut the red tape for Tinian to act quicker on decisions about its future.

"There is only one team here: team Tinian," he said. "This island belongs to us and so let's continue working together."