'It’s time to elect leaders who will drive real change for Guam'

By Catherine Castro

As we approach another election season, it’s important to reflect on the issues that directly impact our daily lives and future. From the high cost of living to the inefficiency of our public services, Guam faces significant challenges requiring bold and decisive action. Our island needs senators who will not just speak about change but have a track record of delivering meaningful results. It’s time to elect leaders committed to reforming our government, revitalizing our economy, and improving the quality of life for all Guamanians.

Reducing the Cost of Government: At $1.3 billion, Guam’s government budget is disproportionately large for a population of only 150,000 people. With more than 13,000 government employees, the size of our public workforce is staggering. We need senators who understand that trimming the fat is essential to reducing the cost of operating the government. Streamlining operations, eliminating redundant departments, and embracing automation are necessary steps to achieve a leaner, more efficient government. Leaders committed to reducing the size of our government and cutting waste will ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and effectively.

Improving Government Efficiency: Outsourcing non-essential government functions has proven successful in many parts of the world, leading to cost savings and improved services. Whether it’s managing utilities, maintenance, or other government-run services, the private sector often provides these functions more efficiently. Voters must demand that candidates advocate for outsourcing where appropriate, reducing the government’s footprint while enhancing service delivery.

Lowering the Cost of Living and Doing Business on Guam: The high cost of living and doing business in Guam is a well-known problem. Residents and businesses alike are burdened by high taxes, inflated utility costs, and skyrocketing prices on goods and services. We need leaders who are serious about reducing the financial strain on our communities. Senators who push for tax cuts, reduced regulatory burdens, and economic policies that foster competition and innovation will be critical in making Guam more affordable for both individuals and businesses.

Addressing Drugs, Homelessness, and Healthcare Shortages: Guam’s drug problem and the increasing number of homeless individuals are urgent social crises. Elected officials must take a proactive approach to addressing these issues through comprehensive drug rehabilitation programs, mental health services, and affordable housing initiatives. In addition, the shortage of healthcare professionals is contributing to a decline in the quality of healthcare. Senators must advocate for incentives to attract and retain healthcare workers, ensuring that our hospitals and clinics are staffed with the professionals we need to care for our community.

Reviving our Tourism Industry: Tourism has been a lifeline for Guam’s economy. The pandemic changed the world and greatly impacted visitor arrivals to our island as well as contributed to business closures and loss of a skilled workforce. Our senators, industry leaders, and stakeholders must come together in collaboration to implement effective solutions. We need bold strategies to diversify tourism, improve infrastructure, and promote Guam as a competitive and attractive destination.

Guam Memorial Hospital and Housing Crisis: Throwing more money into Guam Memorial Hospital without addressing its inefficiencies is not a sustainable solution. GMH has been plagued by poor management, inadequate facilities, and underperformance for years. Candidates must propose comprehensive reforms to GMH’s operations—looking at public-private partnerships or management reforms that improve patient care while controlling costs.

Housing is another pressing issue. The rising cost of housing and lack of available inventory is pushing many local families out of the market. Solutions must include increasing the supply of affordable housing, incentivizing homebuilders, and ensuring land-use policies promote sustainable development. Senators who prioritize these initiatives will be key to ensuring that Guam residents can afford to own homes on their own island.

Reforming Education and Considering a Voucher System:  Our public schools are deteriorating, and despite an increasing education budget, student enrollment has dropped from 34,000 to 24,000. Guam’s education system is long overdue for reform. Some senators are already advocating for innovative approaches, such as introducing a voucher system, which has been successful in many locations. This would allow parents to choose the best educational opportunities for their children while putting pressure on public schools to improve their performance. Outsourcing certain functions within the school system, such as transportation and food services, could also lead to more efficient operations.

The Power of Your Vote: In every election, voters have the power to shape Guam’s future. The challenges we face will not disappear without strong leadership and decisive action. We need senators who have shown they are willing to tackle the tough issues and make the hard decisions that will benefit the island long-term. By electing officials committed to reform, we can reduce the cost of living, cut taxes, revitalize tourism, address homelessness and drugs, and ensure better healthcare, schools, and public services.

This election, let’s vote for senators who will reduce the size of government, improve its efficiency, and lower the burden on residents and businesses alike. Let’s elect leaders who will fight for the real issues that matter to us. The future of Guam depends on it.

Catherine Castro is the President of the Guam Chamber of Commerce. For additional information, contact the Guam Chamber of Commerce at 671-472-6311/8001 or email info@GuamChamber.com.gu.

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