A decision on the proposed FY 2017 budget for ASG is expected tomorrow.
The big question is whether the Fono will add on to the original budget of $378.4. Million, $2 million which the administration says is needed for a local match for a $7.7 million grant from the US Department of Transportation.
On the final day of the joint budget hearings yesterday Co Chairman, Senator Laolagi Savali Vaeao acknowledged the leaders and members of both houses for their patience in reviewing and deliberating the budget.
He asked that they give the joint committee and the Legislative Financial Officer yesterday and today to finalize the figures and come up with a final proposal to present to them.
What the governor is seeking , to increase the budget at such a late stage does not have precedence.
Lolo himself calls it an “unorthodox action” but says the grant for relocation of the fuel tanks would open up other funding for airport improvements.
He said that it would be irresponsible if they fail to take advantage of the unexpected financial support from the federal government .
$2 million is needed as a match for the $7.7 million grant and the administration identifies additional revenues to be collected from use of the customs scanners to raise the local match.
It’s not clear why this additional revenue was not foreseen when the FY2017 budget was compiled.
The administrative measure was introduced in both chambers of the Fono yesterday.
