GENERAL GOVERNMENT The enactment of the Guam Elective Governor Bill, the increase of funding authorization under the Rehabilitation Act, the authorization of a $5 million appropriation for economic development, and the reorganization of the executive branch by creating four new departments highlighted fiscal year 1969. The Elective Governor Act, signed by President Johnson late last year, ushers in a new political era on Guam. For the first time since the establishment of civil government 19 years ago, the local electorate is given the right to choose by popular ballot their Gov• ernor and Lieutenant Governor. Previously, the territory's chief executive has been appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. In November of 1970, Guam will achieve a long-standing aspirationthat of having full self-governmentfor on this date, the first gubernatorial election will be held. The Elected Governor Act limits any one Governor from serving more than two consecutive 4-year terms. Among other things, it also calls for the appointment of a U.S. Comptroller for Guam. Named for this post was Floyd W. Fagg, a long-time career Federal employee who was scheduled to begin operation of his office by July 1969. The U.S. Congress also enacted a measure increasing by $30 million, from $45 to $75 million, the authorization of funds under the Guam Rehabilitation Act. This action provided a big boost to the territory's rehabilita-
tion program which began shortly after the island suffered extensive destruc• tion by Typhoon Karen in November 1962. Since then Congress has appropriated approximately $43 million of the original $45 million authorization in loans and grants. To date, 36 projects have been completed ~nd still many others have yet to be accomplished. The island's economic development also received a boost when Congress enacted a law authprizing the appropriation of $5 million to accelerate the economic growth of the territory. A portion of this amount has been earmarked for agricultural development projects and the establishment of industrial parks. At the request of the administration, the Guam Legislature approved several measures relative to reorganizing the executive branch. As a result, four new departments were created while twoexisting ones were revamped and part of their functions transferred to the entities. To effect a more efficient operation, the former Department of Labor and Personnel was reorganized into the Department of Labor and the Pepartment of Administration. All aspects of labor management functions, including the Guam Employment Service, were assumed by the new Labor department. The new Administration department now handles all personnel and administrative functions as well as management, finance, and accounting.
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