The local non-profit organization Saipan Cares for Animals (SCA) has recently announced that they plan on closing down their animal shelter within the next week due to a decision made by the CNMI Zoning Board. While the Commonwealth Zoning Board did inform SCA of the need to halt their current operations by January 31, 2022, they have not mandated SCA to vacate the premises.
Governor Ralph DLG. Torres on Monday issued the following statement on the issue.
“SCA, and the many volunteers that encompass the organization, provide an essential service to our community. I have heard many stories about the numerous families that SCA has helped, and I know that they have been instrumental in saving countless lives amongst Saipan’s animal population. I am committed to helping find a viable solution for SCA as they are currently the only organization that provides medical care for animals in the CNMI.”
“I am grateful that the Commonwealth Zoning Board has been willing to work with Saipan Cares for Animals over the past few years and has granted the organization with several accommodations. I have been informed that, after having previously granted two prior extension requests, the Zoning Board has decided to deny a third request due to repeated unresolved issues regarding SCA’s current premises. As it stands, under the present Zoning regulations, Saipan Cares for Animals must find a healthier, more sustainable, long-term home to conduct their services.”
“Furthermore, I understand that SCA has managed to secure a new location for its operations, however, the site is currently inoperable at this time. In the meantime, I have scheduled for a meeting with the Zoning Board this afternoon along with its Administrator to assess their underlying concerns and to seek avenues to resolve them while ensuring that all applicable laws and regulations are abided by. I also have a meeting scheduled with SCA tomorrow to discuss their plans moving forward and how we can better assist in serving our animal population and providing safer living environments and means of attaining adequate care.”
“It is heartwarming to see the outpouring of support for Saipan Cares for Animals as a result of all they have done for our community, and I join in support of their cause. I want to assure all those concerned that we are looking at a variety of solutions for SCA including fostering collaboration with existing government agencies to support their relocation to a permanent facility and providing the necessary resources for them to thrive. We will continue to ensure that Saipan Cares for Animals receives their full share of the American Rescue Plan Act non-profit organization funding granted to them in the amount of $300,000, as well as any additional support they may need.”
“Lastly, I take this opportunity to thank the hardworking individuals who have dedicated their time and services in support of this worthy and much needed cause in our Commonwealth, most especially Beth Pliscou and her hardworking staff.”
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