CNMI government prepares to downsize

CNMI Gov. Arnold Palacios and Lt. Gov. David Apatang are expected to make some major cuts to government operations.

In a memo sent to all department and agency heads this week, Palacios wrote, "Upon entering office, it has been identified that our government's current financial resources may not be sufficient to support the current size of our operations."

The governor said he is taking all necessary steps to responsibly use the funds that are left for essential public services.

"A comprehensive assessment of all programs and services is needed to ensure their sustainability due to funding constraints," he added. Departments and agencies are expected to conduct their own review to determine essential services. That includes providing 60 days notice of termination by Jan. 27 for all ARPA-funded Excepted Service Contracts.

"All personnel deemed essential must identify alternative funding sources, outside of local resources, for their continued employment, along with justifications as to why their positions should be retained," he said.