Legislature on the hunt for ASEDA funding to finish Fono building

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Legislative leaders are actively pursuing an additional $50,000 from the American Samoa Economic Development Authority (ASEDA) to bring the Fono building project to its much-anticipated completion.

In January 2024, a comprehensive report presented to the Senate revealed that a substantial $26.4 million had already been invested in the project, illustrating the commitment to its development. At that time, the project had experienced eight change orders, along with a series of time extensions, reflecting the complexities and challenges that had arisen throughout the construction process.

In a formal letter dated August 12, 2023 which received the endorsement of Senate President Tuaolo Manai Fruean and Speaker Savali Talavou, the legislative leaders officially confirmed their request for additional funding.

The letter, which was obtained by Samoa News, was addressed to the Chairman of the ASEDA Board Magalei Logoviʻi Magalei. 

In their communication, the Fono leaders articulated a clear need for ASEDA to allocate $50,000 to the Fono account. This funding would be instrumental in procuring several essential items that are still required to finalize and enhance the functionality of the Fono building project, ensuring it meets the needs of the community it is designed to serve.

“These items — though relatively minor in cost — are essential to ensuring the facility is fully functional and ready for legislative operations.”

According to the letter, the available balance of ASEDA funds for the Fono project is over $100,000. 

“Currently, ASEDA has $124,383.77 balance available for the Fono Project. There are two outstanding change orders that have yet to be routed: CO's for $53,062.52 for Paramount and $110,200.00 for Lively for a total of $163,262.52. The Difference is $38,878.75.

“As the project nears completion, this allocation will enable us to address additional needs such as furnishings, signage, and equipment not covered under the primary construction contract. Timely access to these funds will help us avoid delays and ensure the building is properly outfitted for its intended use,” stated the letter. 

The Fono leaders acknowledged the assistance of ASEDA in advancing this important initiative. “Upon allocation, we will ensure all expenditures are documented and reconciled in accordance with ASEDA's fiscal procedures,” the letter reads. 

The new Fono building is currently slated to officially open in early October.