AIMELIIK, Palau – Governor Browny Simer on Thursday delivered Aimeliik State’s annual state report to the Legislature, Council of Chiefs, and citizens, outlining achievements from the past five years, current projects, and future plans.
Simer reported on ongoing and completed infrastructure projects, including the near completion of the Ngerkeai road extension to the Compact Road. He said only 1,600 feet of the road remain, with completion expected in July. He emphasized this work as part of the state’s master plan.
He highlighted continued improvements at Kamosang dock, building on efforts by previous administrations, and thanked the Legislature for approving $25,000 for an Environmental Assessment (EA) of Mongami Park, which includes plans to connect Okerduul to Mongami dock, dredging, and installing water and power lines.
Simer also outlined other accomplishments:
- Bai Rekeai improvements
- Rehabilitation of the old waste site in Imul hamlet
- Construction of a market venue at Ngerderar
- Completion of a design for a new state building, estimated at $1.2 million, for which he is seeking national government assistance
- Completion of the Tebadel water system, costing over $200,000
- Power and water system upgrades in Elechui, including a $118,000 grant secured with the state delegate to connect power to the water system and transition to island power
- Simer said the state is working to transfer the Elechui water system to the Palau Public Utilities Corporation (PPUC), pending finalization of land use rights. Solar lights have also been installed in Elechui.
In Ngchemiangel, the governor reported improvements to the dock and installation of lights. The Taoch ra Ngermeloched project is ready to begin after the EA and permit approvals. In Medorm, the state improved the parking lot, dredged the Taoch, and is seeking permits for extension work.
Completed projects include the Ngerderar market, Imul solid waste improvements, and public works in Nekken. Simer said boundary disputes with Koror have been resolved, while discussions with Ngatpang remain pending.
He also highlighted ongoing efforts such as:
- Developing Aimeliik’s master plan with MAFE GEF6 funding
Work on the Ngarmeduu Conservation Area - Tebadel subdivision development, including a $668,000 road project and efforts to secure water connections to Ngerderar
- A memorandum of understanding with the Palau Housing Authority for 19 houses
- A legislative-approved $150,000 investment fund to remain untouched for 10 years
Simer said the state has requested national government assistance for paving all interstate roads, returning part of Nekken to Aimeliik for housing and farming, and building a new water dam from the Continental water source to the community.
He noted the state’s financial standing, with approximately $2 million in funds, including $1.4 million in reserves and $1.7 million in the operating account.
Simer also acknowledged challenges, particularly the shortage of local workers, leading the state to hire workers from the Philippines, Bangladesh, and China.
The governor thanked the national and foreign partners for their contributions, including:
- $10,000 from MAFE GEF6 for Ngerchebal
- $83,000 from Taiwan for state tourism projects
- A USDA grant for mapping historical sites, including terraces
“Our government is strong,” Simer said. “Let us all—delegates and everyone—work together to strengthen our state.”
Speaker Lucio Obakerbau closed the session, emphasizing accountability and transparency. He reminded citizens that the state’s Constitution, amended in 2023, requires an annual state report every May. “It’s important that the people of Aimeliik know what is happening in their state,” Obakerbau said. “Let us all work together, supporting the governor, to support our state.”