The Palau Environment Quality Protection Board (EQPB) requests additional funding amid the military buildup that resulted in the agency’s increase in workload.
In a letter to President Siurangel Whipps Jr., EQPB is asking for an additional $97,150 to purchase pieces of equipment that will ensure that office equipment is updated to continue their work.
EQPB chair Florenco Yamada in his letter said that despite EQPB having an “all-time low,” budget for several years, the agency has continued their work “tirelessly.”
“Despite our efforts, the continuous and steady increase in demand for additional EQPB services that are not funded under the current budget allocation is affecting services, staffing, and operations,” the letter stated.
‘With the addition of major responsibilities such as the military buildup the office needs additional support for the ongoing work.” Yamada’s letter added.
He further added that EQPB is understaffed as well and that 80 percent of its budget is for the employee’s wages.