Senators prioritize establishment of much-Needed GFD Tumon Rescue Base

Senators are pushing to establish a much-needed Guam Fire Department Rescue Base in Tumon.

Bill 274, introduced by senators Shawn Gumataotao, Sabrina Salas Matanane, Tina Rose Muña-Barnes, Jesse Lujan, and Christopher Dueñas, would authorize GFD to move forward with building a rescue base at Matapang Beach Park.

The legislation would prioritize a portion of GFD's unexpended prior years’ appropriations to fund the project.

During a January oversight hearing, officials reported between $3 and $4 million in unexpended funds as of September 30, 2025 — with lawmakers identifying those unallocated funds as a possible funding source.

Supporters say the measure is the result of years of collaboration between public safety, tourism, and finance leaders — and builds on efforts to strengthen emergency response infrastructure islandwide.

Senator Gumataotao says GFD and the Guam Visitors Bureau have worked for eight years to establish a permanent emergency response presence in the tourist district.

If approved, the bill would help turn that long-standing effort into reality.