Some 104 acres in Mangilao have now been identified for the Governor’s new hospital and medical complex. 

The Guam Housing and Urban Renewal Authority Deputy Director Fernando Esteves revealed to senators they are already in the process of purchasing an additional 14.2 acres for $1.2 million from “the Perez family.” 

“So it is just pending court approval to authorize the sale. But the money has been obligated through a promissory note agreement consistent with ARP,” said Esteves. 

As reported, GHURA has a loan agreement with the Governor for some $12 million American Rescue Plan funds for the land acquisitions. 

They already purchased 48 acres of land from the Camacho family.

Some 42 acres condemned through eminent domain are still pending in court awaiting a judges decision after land owners filed a complaint. 

This all as the Attorney General wants the courts to stop the land takings, invalidate the loans and prohibit the governor from using the ARP funds without the legislature’s approval.

“We of course did our due diligence and ensured that we crossed our t’s and dotted our i’s to make sure. So I say again, zero worry,” said Esteves. 

“I know, but what if the federal court says that you didn’t cross the t’s or dot the i’s, then Mr. Esteves you’re incorrect in having zero concern and you lose,” said Senator Barnett. 

 “I’ll resign,” said Esteves. 

Lt. Governor Josh Tenorio also told KUAM the administration can’t wait for court actions to decide how they’re going to utilize the federal funds. 

“I really do think that we’re going to need the legislature’s help to make sure that we make the investments and the infrastructure in Mangilao for the hospital to be done in time. Otherwise, we’re going to be losing more than $100 million that the governor secured for the people of Guam to offset the cost of the investments to the hospital,” said Tenorio. 

Still, senators are apprehensive as the total price tag for the hospital and medical complex remain unclear. 

“How much total are we looking at for the construction of the hospital? Some are saying $1 billion, some are saying $2 billion,” said Sen. Sabrina Salas Matanane.

“I don’t know where the $2 billion came from,” said Melanie Mendiola, Guam Economic Development Authority Administrator. 

“To me, that’s really important– what is it going to cost the people of Guam. And it seems like we don’t have a definitive answer based on the fact that we don’t have a site. Is that correct,” asked Sen. Sabina Perez.

“That is correct,” Mendiola responded. 

Despite that, Mendiola gives this warning to the legislature.

“We all know what the military buildup is doing to the price of construction. I can only foresee this situation continuing to be challenging. We continue to rise to the challenge but the longer we delay, the more expensive it becomes,” added. Mendiola.