There was no mention of the cost of the Fono’s guest house during the dedication of the building today.
A host of government leaders joined the Fono at the dedication ceremony which followed the closing of the last House and Senate sessions for the 34th Legislature.
Governor Lolo Moliga and Lt. Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga, a few cabinet members and the majority of Senators and House Representatives were present.
The contractor, Paramount Builders, was represented by owner Papali’i Lauli’i.
The invocation was conducted by Fagali’i’s CCCAS Rev. Fa’alili Otineru and hymns were sung by Fono employees.
Governor Lolo was thankful for the Fono leaders’ patience as the administration was trying to find funding to carry out the Fono fale renovation.
Governor Lolo took note of criticism of the project from some people but said these complaints will not stop government leaders from doing what needs to be done.
KHJ News received complaints from owners of construction companies who said that the Fono job was not bid out and Paramount Builders was handpicked for the project.
According to Governor Lolo, fixing the Fono guest house was a necessary and critical project.
He commented that the new look of the building is a reflection of the improved standard of leadership within the Fono and also a reflection of the government of the people of Tutuila and Manu’a.
Lolo said while the building may have a western look on the outside the contractor was able to maintain the traditional appearance and design of the old Fale Samoa in the interior of the building.
Senate President Gaoteote Palaie told the gathering that the old Fale Samoa was leaking badly and many parts of the building were rotten.
Referring to the fale as a “halfcaste,” Gaoteote told senators and representatives if one of them does not return in the new legislature at least they can count the new fale as their contribution to lifting the standard of the Fono for future leaders.
The Fono presented sua and envelopes to the guests including the pastor, governor, lt governor, the judiciary, Secretary of Samoan Affairs and Congresswoman Aumua Amata.
Funding of $700,000 is listed in the FY2017 Special Programs Budget for the Fale Samoa project.
