Business group presses 18 senatorial candidates for answers

Democrat and Republican candidates for senator answered questions about taxes, potential new industries for the island and public safety concerns from members of Guam's largest business group during a Wednesday forum.

As Super Typhoon Yutu was approaching, 12 candidates had to cancel at the last minute but 18 went on to address members of the Guam Chamber of Commerce and answer their questions.

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Only three candidates raised their hands when asked whether they support a part-time Legislature.

Many raised their hands when asked whether they support lowering the business privilege tax from 5 percent to 4 percent, legalizing recreational cannabis and the military buildup.

Ensuring laws are enforced

Sen. Joe San Agustin, chairman of education and taxation, said the Department of Revenue and Taxation needs a stronger executive team and upgraded technology, when asked how else can the government address revenue leaks.

Newcomer Jack Hattig said people can count on him to ensure that the Guam Highway Fund from liquid fuel taxes that motorists pay get to fixing roads, and not used for other purposes. Acting Speaker Therese Terlaje said Guam has existing good laws and lawmakers have to do more oversight to ensure they are enforced.

Casino gaming and use of cannabis

James Moylan said if elected senator, he would work on amending the Dave Santos Act by raising the threshold from $50,000 to $250,000 so that more small businesses can receive exemption from paying business privilege tax on the first $40,000 of their income.

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Amanda Blas said legalizing casino gaming should be brought before voters, and not left with only the 15 senators to decide. Former Sen. Tina Muna Barnes said she's running again to makes sure that laws enacted several years back would be fully implemented including the bed-and-breakfast and medical cannabis laws.

In response to a question, Clynt Ridgell said he would support online sales tax but only on products that are already available locally. He said he supports legalizing safe adult use of cannabis.

Recycling business and LGBT tourism

Kelly Marsh said Guam could benefit from a recycling business, while Sen. Telena Nelson said further research should be done before converting business privilege tax to sales tax.

If elected senator, Lasia Casil said she will work with the Guam Visitors Bureau in developing an LGBT tourism market that could generate some $125 million a year in new revenue.

Sen. Mary Torres and Celestin Babauta said government processes need to be more responsive and sensible to those wanting to set up businesses, while former Sen. Adolpho Palacios said he would work with the Guam Economic Development Authority in improving consumer confidence in government.

Local skilled labor and public safety

Sen. Régine Biscoe Lee talked about the need to further develop local skilled labor, while Sabina Perez said she's for right-sizing the government.

Harold Cruz said Guam could gain from enticing more businesses from China including those that manufacture electric cars and buses. He said Guam should do more to demand reimbursement from the federal government for hosting migrants from the Freely Associated States.

Ken Joe Ada became emotional when asked how he'd address public safety concerns. Ada cited an incident involving illegal drugs that placed his mother in harm's way.

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Reporter Haidee Eugenio covers Guam's Catholic church issues, government, business and more. Follow her on Twitter @haidee_eugenio. Follow Pacific Daily News on Facebook/GuamPDN and Instagram @guampdn.