How Joint Management of the Fena Valley Reservoir Furthers the Cooperative Endeavour Towards Self-Determination of the People of Guam [Article]

Abstract

The Fena Valley Reservoir and Wastewater Treatment Plant is one of the remaining utility systems in Guam wholly owned and managed by the Navy. The Navy maintains these systems to support its military installations, while selling treated water to the local government. The transfer to the local government stands to demonstrate an ongoing cooperative relationship to bring Guam closer to self-determination. However, principal obstacles include: (1) lack of guidance from Congress for utility systems transfers in overseas territories; (2) Guam’s struggles to meet current and growing demand and resolve environmental challenges; and (3) balancing the United States’ interests in promoting self-determination and military priorities. There should be a transfer of ownership and management of Fena for three reasons: (1) the transfer is consistent with the Department of Defense’s congressional authorization for utility privatization; (2) the “One Guam Initiative” between Guam and the Navy allows for improvement and integration of utility systems to meet the growing civilian population and military buildup; and (3) the transfer is a unique opportunity for the United States to demonstrate its commitment to promoting the wellbeing of those that have not yet attained a full measure of self-government.